A while back in 2023, I had several properties for sale in several different small towns, so I decided to do something for them in return for the kind support of my business. I want to use my work to do good things for people, so I thought it would make sense to donate a portion of my earned commission from closed sales and give back to the community in which the property was sold. It’s important for me to help keep these communities thriving and growing. There are so many factors that tend to reduce the products and services offered. It is increasingly hard to keep small businesses going. Seeing doors closing is harmful. It reduces the reasons for keeping our young people here or encouraging outside people to move here. We need our small businesses. It’s hard for them to compete with big box stores. I continue to encourage people to shop small and support local businesses. If we don’t have people staying or moving here, our schools will continue to consolidate, causing some to close. These trends will eventually make these towns die out, resulting in low real estate prices along with a lower quality of life. There are some factors, such as e-commerce shopping, that are hurting our businesses. Another factor is the reduction in the number of small family-owned farms. I know we can’t go back to how things used to be. We must adapt and change with the world. Traditional values and strong work ethics are a few things I personally don’t want to let go of. That’s how it all began here. Agriculture is South Dakota’s stronghold.
To help retain and encourage growth in these smaller communities, the donations I have committed to are earmarked for the development corporations and other non-profit organizations that are essential to the overall health and well-being of a community. Taking care of people is my priority. I want to do my part to help, even if some may think it’s small. Volume is the best way to build on that. The more sales, the more donations will add up. I’m glad I started this journey. It seems to help and gives encouragement. These donations will continue in perpetuity until I decide to close my real estate sales business. Since I started this campaign in the summer of 2023, over $5,000 of donations have been distributed to local communities. I am so grateful for the kind support of so many. I want to continue serving people the best I can. It has been 12 years since I first obtained my license to sell real estate. This is an incredible journey that I plan to continue and grow. Come and join me. Real estate is more than a business; it’s a life-changing adventure.
