Realtors give Easter bunny an assist

The Easter bunny recently got some help from members of the Avery-Watauga Association of Realtors (AWAR) as residents of local adult care facilities received Easter baskets filled with goodies, along with refreshments and music.

Association members Sandy Byrum and Mary Jones of The Sterling Company co-chair the group’s community action committee.

Laurie Phillips, executive officer for the association, said several Realtor offices drew names, filled baskets, and got them ready to be delivered, bringing some spring cheer to local residents.

Directors of Sugar Mountain Assisted Living in Avery County and Mountain Care in Watauga County work with the association so residents receive a fun basket each Easter.

The holiday project is just one of the community efforts of the Association of Realtors. They also coordinate the distribution of Christmas gifts to these same nursing homes; college scholarships to local students, and food and donations to deserving organizations in the community.

This year, the association gave a total of $11,500 to the Hunger Coalition, Resort Area Ministries in Avery County (RAM), WAMY Community Action Inc. in Avery County, the American Red Cross and OASIS (Opposing Abuse with Services, Information and Shelter). The group also donated Kmart gift cards to those at the Hospitality House, Boone’s homeless shelter.

Those interested in helping with this and other community efforts may contact the Association of Realtors at (828) 262-5437. It is composed of members in Watauga and Avery counties and the surrounding area who maintain a marketplace where buyers and sellers can safely transfer property under the guidance of a professional. More information is available at www.awaronline.org.