Emily Merkley, association executive, Cache-Rich Association of REALTORS®

The idea of the “perfect neighborhood” creates images of long-paved roads lined with trees, carefree children riding their bikes through the streets, and neighbors warmly greeting each other by name. To some it may seem like a dream from the past, when in reality these neighborhoods exist throughout the nation, especially in Cache Valley.

This warm camaraderie and sense of belonging is built on the backs of homeowners who care deeply for the overall well-being of their neighbors and friends. High levels of homeownership within communities provide many social benefits to individuals and families, and provide opportunities for citizens to build long-term, lasting relationships.

“In addition to investing in a home, you also invest in the surrounding community when purchasing that home,” said Cindy Cummings of Jette Youngblood Realty. “With a vested interest in their immediate neighborhood, people come together and foster relationships that help strengthen the communities in which they live.”

The value of homeownership is a priority to REALTORS® and the policy makers they support because through its citizens, these solid relationships shape social control and promote values that strengthen the core of a community. Where homeownership is strong, great and lasting relationships promote involvement in volunteer and service opportunities, higher participation in neighborhood groups, and encourage interaction among neighbors, which contributes to the success of the community.

Fore more information on homeownership and available homes, contact your local Cache Valley REALTOR®.

Little Lambs Donation Drive During Parade of Homes

The Cache-Rich Association of REALTORS® has selected Little Lambs Foundation for Kids as their Charity Partnership for 2016. In conjunction with the Cache Valley Parade of Homes, which will take place throughout the valley Sept. 8-10 and 15-17, your local REALTORS® will hold a donation drive to collect items needed to further their cause. Donation bins will be placed in each of the seven Parade Homes. Help us support Little Lambs by donating items for the list below!

Donation items for comfort kits (all items must be new and unwrapped):

  • Combs and hairbrushes
  • Snacks (individually wrapped)
  • Sippy cups and bottles
  • Diapers and wipes
  • Blankets

Little Lambs Foundation for Kids is a nonprofit organization that provides comfort for children ages 0-17 years old who are transitioning into foster care, shelters, or who have experienced traumatic events. Little Lambs provides transitional bags (comfort kits) that are often the only belongings a child has, and are a tangible way to send these children a message of love and worth.