Illinois REALTORS® Local Governmental Affairs Director Neeley Erickson has been chosen for the Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s 40 Under 40 class for 2022.

“It is a great honor to receive this special award. I’m beyond thankful to those who nominated me, especially REALTORS® and affiliate members,” said Erickson. “I attribute my success to the accomplishments and outreach we’ve achieved together and will certainly continue to make you proud.”

The Rockford Chamber’s program highlights individuals who are “compelling, interesting and doers.” Forty Under 40 honorees are people who have distinguished themselves in their professional field or organization, are engaged citizens, and provide leadership by volunteering their time and talents to community groups and causes.”

Erickson joined Illinois REALTORS® in late 2018 as a local governmental affairs director, serving as a liaison between REALTOR® members and local government leaders. She advocates to protect the rights of private property owners, educates government officials about the real estate market, she helps to influence public policy, and applies for grants.

One example of Erickson helping local REALTORS® have a positive impact on their community involved the Rockford Park District adding an accessible deck and planting trees on the lake beach in Levings Park. She helped the Rockford Area REALTORS® secure a $5,000 NAR Placemaking Grant for the project, and the funds were used to pay for deck installation, trees, electrical lighting, tables and chairs. Read more.

“I make the time to improve our community for present and future residents,” she says. “I make community outreach my first priority.”

She volunteers for the Northern Illinois Food Bank, the Family Peace Center and Habitat for Humanity. Prior to joining Illinois REALTORS®, Erickson worked as a legislative aide to State Rep. Joe Sosnowski and served on the Poplar Grove Village Board of Trustees.