KELOWNA, B.C. – September 8th, 2023. British Columbians across the province have watched in recent weeks as raging fires have spread throughout the province and the Northwest Territories, posing a significant threat to many communities, and forcing people to evacuate their homes. The speed at which the fires spread, and the level of destruction left in their paths has left BC communities devastated.

The Association of Interior REALTORS® is dedicated to supporting over 2,600 REALTOR® members who work and live in the Interior of BC, many of whom were directly impacted by these wildfires, and some who even lost their homes.

One such member is a volunteer firefighter who has lost their home while selflessly fighting to save others. The Association is proud to be representing these members and all Interior REALTORS® across our regions – from Revelstoke to Kamloops, through all of the Okanagan, Kootenays and up to South Peace River regions – who have stepped up to help these communities in various ways. Some by opening their homes to evacuees, while others through volunteering with local community organizations and donations.

Our beloved communities are hurting, the Association, along with our REALTOR® members, are committed to lending our support. To assist, we are diverting our September member dues to wildfire relief efforts, with the Association matching the amount. The over $500,000 will be split equally between the Salvation Army and the Canadian Red Cross to support BC communities that have been impacted by wildfires this year.

“We know that this does not even come close to what relief is needed, but we hope that this contribution will provide some much-needed support to all the communities impacted by these wildfires and the many lives of those living in them who require assistance at this heartbreaking time,” says Association President Chelsea Mann.