RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation Gives Back to Community, Helps Members in Crisis

SARASOTA, Fla. (December 16, 2020) – The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) is pleased to announce the formation of the RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (RRCF). The new Foundation will provide a tax-deductible method for members and others to contribute to the Association’s charitable endeavors in support of the Sarasota and Manatee communities.

The RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation consolidates RASM’s longstanding scholarship and community giving programs for greater impact and provides a way for REALTOR® members to help other members in financial difficulty.

The Foundation provides funding for individuals and not-for-profit organizations in the Sarasota and Manatee area that enhance the quality of life in the community. This includes but is not limited to:

• Scholarships for higher education for members of RASM, their immediate family, and local students;
• Charitable organizations related to housing or real estate;
• Financial support for Association members in crisis.

According to RASM’s CEO and RRCF Executive Director, Jeff Arakelian, “The new Foundation will provide focus for RASM’s longstanding involvement in charitable organizations, including those tackling affordable housing, fighting homelessness and providing emergency shelter in the event of natural disaster.” In recent years, RASM members have hosted fundraisers to support local charities like Habitat for Humanity, Heroes Welcome Home, Harvest House, and the Everyday Blessings Springboard Program.

In addition, the Foundation will allow members to help other members. RASM President David Clapp adds, “We have never had a way to rally our members together to financially help other members who have a special need. They have always had to look to outside organizations for support. The Foundation can assist members through the generosity of RASM members.” Clapp cites examples such as family financial need resulting from the death of a REALTOR®, an emergency medical procedure or a hurricane. “It’s REALTORS® helping REALTORS® as well as coming to the aid of the community.”

RASM encourages donations to the Foundation as part of family year-end giving for 2020.

To donate, anyone can contribute by writing a check to RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation and mailing to 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232. To learn more, visit myrasm.com/foundation or contact Jeff Arakelian at foundation@myrasm.com.