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MAR Foundation Trustee Spotlight – Leah Drury Tags: AnnouncementsCommunity

How long have you been a Realtor® and a member of MAR? What prompted your decision to become a Realtor®?

I have been a Realtor® and member of MAR for since 2010. I was a stay-at-home mom for a couple years, and I wanted a career change from my previous corporate world for something more flexible. I wanted to help people at a pivotal time in their life while bringing a service mindset to the transaction. 

What do you enjoy most about being a Realtor?  

It is such an honor and privilege to help people with what can be an overwhelming process, and the rollercoaster of emotions that goes along with it. For most folks, this is the largest transaction they’ll ever make. I get to be there to help them navigate the buying/selling process, and craft a plan that fits their needs. I have a service approach with the best interest of the client, and want to make sure clients feel supported and empowered. 

Why did you get involved in the MAR Foundation? 

I previously worked in the nonprofit world with a Bachelors in Urban Studies… so l have a longstanding interest in how housing influences people’s communities and lives. The fabric of our community is very important to me, and I believe everyone wins when everyone is lifted up. I wanted to give back to the association and with my previous work, it was a perfect fit!

I’m passionate about what we can do to increase Realtor® commitment to improving the health of communities by doing what we can to combat homelessness. 

What is an accomplishment or favorite memory of your time on the Board of Trustees? (Alternate question: What are you most looking forward to for the Foundation in 2022?)

I’m most proud of the trustees for shifting our giving plan to be able to give larger gifts over a three-year span. Shifting the giving to help organizations do more with more, and the consistency helps make more of an impact over time. This means greater impact in our communities.

Why is it important for people to give to the Foundation? 

We all do better when we all do better. It’s a commitment to protecting property values for all people by being part of the solution. We want to build communities who care and have housing for all people. Our goal is to lift up our communities.

What is a goal you have for your term on the Trustees?  

My goal is to increase Realtor® awareness of the foundation to increase giving, and to introduce/include additional focus on expanding homeownership for underserved communities… especially areas that have been previously redlined, which created barriers and inequities. We want to expand homeownership opportunities for traditionally underserved communities.