Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1440849
28 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • Stories of Strength - One Year Stronger It's About Helping People WRITTEN BY EMILY FREEHLING Coldwell Banker Elite Since 1980, Coldwell Banker Elite's team of expe- rienced Realtors has helped countless families buy and sell houses. But built into the culture at this family-owned Fredericksburg business is an understanding that ensuring those houses become beloved homes requires a commitment to work for the betterment of the entire community. "The idea of giving back is built into our nature, and there are so many different areas that our agents are involved in," said Kevin Breen, Coldwell Banker Elite Broker Owner. "I walk into our offices and I'm usually tripping over boxes of food for a food drive or something else an agent is working on in the community—there is always something going on." Nearly two years into a pandemic that has created many new needs in the Fredericksburg community, Breen and his team say the desire to strengthen the community through service is as strong as ever. Coldwell Banker Elite agents are thankful for opportunities to give back "Each day those outside of our company see our agents and staff helping their clients buy, sell, rent or lease home, land and com- mercial space. What often goes unseen is the deep connection we have within our community. Those associated with Coldwell Banker Elite are standing outside of depart- ment stores collecting school items for children who need them, volunteering at the SPCA to help care for future companion pets, volunteering to clean up area parks, collecting food for the food bank and gifts for families who otherwise wouldn't have a Christmas and so much more. The staff and agents serve in leadership roles and on the boards of directors for countless non-profit organizations in our area. The list of giving and volunteering is extensive. This is the manifestation of a culture of servanthood and giving back to the com- munity so that those who are struggling with food insecurity, housing and basic life essentials can know a better life." --Matthew Rathbun, Executive Vice President, Coldwell Banker Elite Matthew Rathbun