By Jannea Wilson, Associate Broker with EXIT Realty Horizons in Las Cruces, NM
In New Mexico, there has been a staggering 48% increase in the number of homeless children over the past year. This rise can be attributed to soaring economic pressures, including housing costs, utilities, and food prices, along with the scarcity of affordable housing options. As a result, these children are facing immense challenges and finding it difficult to envision a hopeful future. This is why I chose this charity, to stand by them and contribute to the creation of a brighter tomorrow.
Karl Ngoye’s Community Impact Fund is a campaign created through the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico to support the needs of homeless or near homeless children directly. This campaign holds deep personal significance for me due to several compelling reasons. Service to others has always been a cornerstone of my life. As both a nurse and as associate broker, I’ve dedicated myself to assisting and uplifting those in need. My roles in these professions have only strengthened my resolve to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Being a part of the EXIT Realty family has further reinforced this commitment, as I’ve witnessed firsthand the invaluable assistance and support we provide to those facing adversity.
The Igniting Futures through ZUMBA charitable fundraising campaign culminated in a successful ZUMBA event on June 12th, 2024. We had six enthusiastic volunteers for ZUMBA instruction, free facility use, a donated sound system, videographer services, and manpower for setup and collections. Each ZUMBA instructor was full of life and energy, with well thought out music. They put together individual routines as well as group instruction, showcasing their unique styles and characters through various music and routines. They provided an hour and 45 minutes of instruction, making the event enjoyable and engaging despite the physical challenge for those of us not in shape. The Grapevine facility where the event was held also provided an open cantina for everyone to relax, eat and drink after the event.
The funds raised will provide the children of Dona Ana County with clothing, nutrition, school supplies, housing needs, and mental health support. A portion of the proceeds will be held in Karl Ngoye Community Impact Fun as an endowment, ensuring that programs and initiatives for children and their families are supported in perpetuity.
A portion of every transaction fee received by EXIT Realty Corp. International is applied to its charitable fund. Through the Spirit of EXIT Charitable Program, EXIT offices and associates can raise money for local, approved, registered charities and apply to EXIT’s head office to have those funds matched from the company’s pool of funds. Jannea and her team of professionals hoped to raise $5,000, which EXIT’s head office was proud to match, however they exceeded that goal and raised $6,225 for a total donation of $11,225 to Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico.
“We are grateful for the incredible work of EXIT Realty and the impact you are making on Southern New Mexico. Your support of this fund also had the potential to inspire others to know that each person has the power within them to make a difference,” said Diana O’Brien, Director of Impact & Outreach, Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico.
