On November 5, members of Charlotte's real estate community and related industries gathered at Carmel Country Club for the annual Homeowners Impact Fund (HIF) benefit. The evening centered on a cause that extends beyond our industry: supporting neighbors experiencing homelessness.
We are proud to share that this year's event raised more than $232,000 for local charities providing essential services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The generosity behind that number speaks to the commitment of the many people and businesses working to address housing insecurity in our community.
The evening featured a live auction, exclusive raffle opportunities, and stories from local partners whose work is making a difference throughout Charlotte. It was also an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends while supporting a cause that touches so many lives.
Vicky Mitchener, founder of both Dickens Mitchener and the Homeowners Impact Fund, has always believed in using the success of the real estate industry to help others.
"Starting the Homeowners Impact Fund has given me a way to pay forward our industry successes, not as competitors, but as colleagues and friends, and make a positive change in our community. In an industry built around homes, we have a unique opportunity, and I believe a responsibility, to help those who don't have housing."
For Vicky, seeing the event come together year after year is especially meaningful. "The annual HIF event is a wonderful reminder of just how many people and businesses contribute to our industry and what we can accomplish when we come together."
That collaboration allows HIF to support organizations already doing important work across Charlotte. As Aubrey Grier, Dickens Mitchener's Vice President of Public and Agent Affairs and a member of the Homeowners Impact Fund Board of Directors, explains: "Charlotte has wonderful charities already established that are addressing homelessness. Our concept of collective giving lets homeowners and anyone in the real estate industries pool our money together to donate larger portions to these charities to make a bigger impact."
Through these contributions, local nonprofits can continue providing essential resources and helping individuals and families work toward greater stability.
There's also exciting momentum beyond this year's benefit. Wells Fargo announced a $25,000 seed contribution to help establish a Homeowners Impact Fund presence in Austin, Texas, creating an opportunity to bring this model of collective giving to another community.
While the annual benefit is a major part of HIF's efforts, there are opportunities to support the cause throughout the year. Those who were unable to attend, or who would like to contribute, can make a secure donation through the Homeowners Impact Fund's donation page.
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and helped make this year's benefit such a success. We are grateful to be part of a community that cares deeply about making Charlotte a better place to call home.
