The Spokane Association of REALTORS® is pleased to announce the re-opening earlier this week of the children’s clubhouse at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital – a free service for children whose family members are hospitalized or attending appointments on the Sacred Heart campus. The re-opening is made possible by members of our Association who have stepped up to volunteer their time to facilitate this wonderful clubhouse resource.

Over the many years of my real estate experience – whether in the practice or teaching – the ongoing concern of my peers has been how to create a bond between the community and our Association. In anticipation of my year of service as 2010 Spokane Association of REALTORS® President, I formed a preliminary task force. We nicknamed ourselves the SOS task force – Serving our Spokane. Meeting several times over several months, there were lengthy discussions about who we are and how can we demonstrate “the heart” of REALTORS®. Our goal was to choose a project in which the REALTOR® name would be recognized. Furthermore, we wanted to make a difference!

The idea of re-opening The Clubhouse at the Children’s Hospital at Sacred Heart was first presented and it struck a chord with each task force member. Volunteer hours – we could do that! With our membership of approximately 1,700 REALTORS®, we knew it was a project we could tackle. REALTORS® are each volunteering several hours a month to make a difference in our community.

The Clubhouse had recently been closed. The slowing economy created challenges in all areas of our region. The program had been welcomed by the community, and considered successful by doctors, nurses and staff. Siblings of sick children could stop in for games and activities, making them feel special. The Clubhouse gave children something to do while parents and doctors tended to the sick family member. It was a blessing for everyone. It was a great loss when it was no longer available.

Our task force discussed how everyone has the right to decide how they volunteer in our community. Many of our members serve in a variety of ways; schools, churches and charities. However, we wanted to encourage anyone with a heart for the children to be a part of The Clubhouse project. The joy and satisfaction of giving can reap huge rewards. Stories of compassion and growth will surely be heartwarming as this legacy project unfolds.

Our 2010 Association theme is “REALTORS® Serving our Community with Heart.” We’re making it happen. The Clubhouse re-opened on June 15! Thanks to all Spokane REALTORS®, affiliate members and family members who are volunteering. I conclude with a quote from William Penn, “I expect to pass through this life but once. If, therefore, there can be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, for I shall not return this way again.”

Linda Miller can be reached at President@SpokaneRealtor.com.