A December fundraising event by the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS® Young Professionals Network (MORe YPN) boosted the association’s 2018 donations for local homeless families.

The MORe YPN’s 5th Annual Ugly Sweater Holiday Party and Fundraiser amassed $2,430 for the Bridge Communities, a local nonprofit organization that provides mentoring, housing and supportive services to homeless DuPage County families. The organization provides free transitional housing to 131 homeless families in the county each year. When added to the proceeds of MORe YPN’s member appreciation picnic and t-shirt sales, the association’s annual donations to Bridge Communities reached $3,196.

“Beyond the day-to-day business of the REALTOR®, particularly the young professional, there is another core character that makes them stand out in the crowd,” said Mainstreet YPN Committee Chair Megan Beechen. “It’s their heart to help, give back, and invest in every essence of homeownership. What greater cause is there to provide our support to than a charity whose focus is on the homeless?

“This was a great opportunity to unite our network and affiliate members for a cause we can all feel proud to support,” said Vice-Chair David Bovyn. “We want to thank all of our attendees who, in the spirit of things, not only impressed us with their extremely tacky, audacious attire, they completely wowed us with their kindness and generosity in giving back to Bridge Communities.” This year, the network was recognized as NAR’s 2018 Young Professionals Network of the Year in the large network category.

With nearly 18,000 members, Mainstreet is led by: President Michael Gobber, President-elect Brian Kwilosz, Treasurer Linda Dressler, Immediate Past President Karen Irace and CEO John Gormley.

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