On Common Ground - Winter 2016: Healthy Communities

R E A LT O R S ® Take Action
Making Smart Growth Happen

“REALTORS® live, work and volunteer in their communities and take immense pride in working to improve them,” Ruth Link the CEO of the Missoula Organization of REALTORS® recently commented about a local playground project. But Ruth’s comments illustrate a core value of REALTORS® everywhere — concerned and active business leaders taking action and doing all they can to make their communities the best possible places to live.

REALTOR® Associations in Greenwood, South Carolina;
Missoula, Montana; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and Wilming-
ton, North Carolina are actively promoting movement
in their communities. Organizations in each city have
used NAR Placemaking Micro-Grants to encourage
healthy living and facilitate physical fitness in a variety
of ways. The results are parks and green spaces that
provide a variety of fitness options and healthy living
choices for users of all ages and abilities. These efforts
are truly improving local communities.

REALTORS® Trail in Greenwood, South Carolina

The Greenwood Association of REALTORS® has taken the lead in helping convert 54 acres of prime, but under-utilized, green space near the city’s heart into the Grace Street Park. When completed, the park — located around an artesian well that was the city’s original water source — will feature walking trails, a dog park, pavilions, playgrounds and even a water feature.