Did you know MKB has a CAT?  No, it isn't the four-legged kind of cat that might prefer a nap to getting involved. This CAT stands for MKB's Community Action Team. The purpose of this team is to coordinate and support our REALTORS' volunteer efforts in and around the beautiful Roanoke Valley.

MKB's 2023 was jam-packed with volunteer efforts, in particular surrounding our "50 For 50" Campaign. The goal of this Campaign was to encourage every MKB REALTOR to support our community with 50 or more hours of community service. Our CAT brainstormed ideas, worked with local organizations to understand needs, developed plans for the support, organized volunteers, and provided a tremendous outpouring of giving back in '23!

Some of the events our CAT coordinated in 2023 included:

• American Red Cross Blood Drive – blood drive to meet a critical national shortage
• Home Builders Association Vendor Event – available for patron needs
• Sleep in Heavenly Peace – made beds for children who do not have beds in which to sleep
• Blue Ridge Marathon – supported a hydration stop for runners and cheered runners toward their goal
• Angels of Assisi – sponsored the annual Bow Wow Brunch Fundraiser to help local animals in need
  
• Habitat for Humanity - hosted car show/field day that included food, activities and a "Honk for Habitat" event to raise money and awareness for the organization
• TAP Clothing Drive – secured donations of business attire from our MKB REALTORS for those in need of job interview clothing
• Local Colors – MKB booth at the multicultural event to connect with the community regarding housing opportunities, lenders, etc.
• Rescue Mission – prepared and served food for those in need
• Renovation Alliance – provided many necessary home repairs for a local couple needing assistance
• Petal it Forward – spread joy by passing out over 7,000 free flower bouquets, two at a time - one to keep and one to share
• Feeding SWVA – sorted food and prepared feeding kits for seniors
• West End Center – reading with children
• Toys for Tots – purchased and collected toys for many children in our area

If you have a giving spirit, volunteers are needed everywhere!  You may get more out of helping others than you think.  So … reach out and give a helping hand!