RASM Commercial Real Estate Alliance Raises $27,491 at Annual Golf Tournament

SARASOTA, Fla. (November 19, 2024) – The Commercial Real Estate Alliance (CREA) of the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) raised an impressive $27,491 during its annual golf tournament, held on October 28, 2024. This signature event brought together industry professionals and community supporters for a day of fun and philanthropy at the beautiful Sara Bay Country Club.

“The success of this tournament goes beyond the golf course—it’s about coming together to make a real difference,” said Ben Bakker, 2024 CREA President and Broker Associate at NDC Commercial Real Estate. “I’m deeply grateful to everyone who made this possible.”

In keeping with CREA's commitment to making a difference, the funds raised were divided equally between two impactful causes:

The RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation

The RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation was created to amplify the giving spirit of local REALTORS® and their partners. By awarding grants to local nonprofits, scholarships to deserving students, and financial support to its members, the RRCF addresses pressing community needs and invests in the future of Sarasota and Manatee counties.

In 2024, the RRCF awarded over $68,000 in grants to various charitable initiatives, $44,000 in scholarships, and over $167,000 to RASM members and members of the community for hurricane disaster relief. This fund is sustained through fundraising events like the CREA Golf Tournament and generous donations from RASM members and supporters. Contributions to the fund can be made at www.MyRASM.com/donate.

Help to Home

Help to Home, a nonprofit based in Manatee County, is dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness by empowering families and individuals on their journey to stable, permanent housing. Through strong collaboration with community partners, the organization provides financial assistance, advocacy, and critical resources to those in need. Help to Home also emphasizes long-term success by offering financial literacy education and guidance on adopting positive lifestyle changes, helping participants work toward the ultimate goal of homeownership. With a 90% success rate, the Help to Home program stands as a testament to its transformative impact.

“Being selected as a beneficiary by CREA means so much to our organization,” said Rod Urban, President of Help to Home. “This contribution will directly impact families and children, giving them the resources and guidance they need to achieve lasting stability.”

The CREA Annual Golf Tournament has long been a cornerstone of the Alliance’s philanthropic efforts, showcasing the local commercial real estate sector’s dedication to giving back. This year’s milestone reflects a shared vision of empowering lives through education, housing stability, and community support.

For more information about CREA, the REALTORS® Charitable Fund, or Help to Home, visit www.MyRASM.com.

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About REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee
The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) is the largest real estate trade association in Sarasota and Manatee counties, serving over 9,000 members. RASM provides technology, training, networking and business support to members, and supports a healthy real estate market by upholding high professional and ethical standards through a Code of Ethics, ongoing education and certification programs. As the advocate for the real estate brokerage industry, RASM is the Voice for Real Estate® in the Sarasota/Manatee region. For more information, call (941) 952-3400 or visit www.myrasm.com.

Check presentation at November CREA Member Meeting
Pictured Left to Right: Ben Bakker, Rod Urban, Barbara Williams

Help to Home President, Rod Urban, speaking at CREA Member Meeting