FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LI Realtors Spread Sunshine To Children In Need

May 2008 - West Babylon, NY - The weather may have been damp and cold however that didn’t stop over 50 Realtors® to help economically disadvantaged children on Long Island.  The Long Island Board of Realtors® (LIBOR) joined forces with Rebuilding Together LI and HGTV to refurbish the Hagedorn Community Center playground to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for disadvantaged children and families. 

This unique project was selected as part of Change the World - Start at Home, a community revitalization and environmental cause effort launched by HGTV in partnership with Rebuilding Together, National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Natural Resources Defense Council. The campaign focuses on revitalizing communities across the country and helping consumers make smart choices within their homes and daily lives.  Realtors generously supported this unique effort by donating their time and facilitating logistics to enable the work to be completed.  Martin Viette Nurseries donated plantings to beautify the playground and Jim Kelly, Principal Manager and Chief Executive Officer of JVKellyGroup, Inc. provided lunch for all volunteers.

The Hagedorn Community Center was originally built in 1929 as a public school.  Until the 1960's the school was segregated, serving a predominantly African American population.  Eventually the building was closed and re-opened as a community center helping "at risk" youngsters in Manhasset/Great Neck achieve success by providing support for children and their families.  Activities include a Head Start program, after school and family support programs, teen youth council and AA meetings. 

LIBOR’s participation is one of many community initiatives from the organization's "We're More Than Realtors" campaign.  The campaign showcases the support Realtors provide to communities and not-for-profit organizations.  "Community service is one way that we, as Realtors® can make a significant difference within our neighborhoods," explained Mohsen Zandieh, LIBOR 2008 President.  “We were thrilled to spearhead this effort and do our part to make our communities extraordinary places to live and work," added Joe Sinnona, Co-Chairperson of LIBOR's PR Committee.

Rebuilding Together LI is dedicated to restoring homes of economically disadvantaged homeowners so they may continue to live in comfort with dignity and independence.  According to Sol Goldstein, President, "LIBOR enables us to continue to help people in need and further our mission."

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Press Release Contact:
Christina DeFalco
Public Relations and Communications Specialist
631-661-4800 Ext. 358

LIBOR is a non-profit trade association consisting of more than 20,500 real estate professionals. LIBOR is the largest local Realtor® Board in the Country with ten Chapters that cover the North Shore, South Shore and Central areas of Nassau, Suffolk and Queens Counties.