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A Colorful Cause

By Cindy Hodnett
HomePlace Writer

There have been quite a few "red" campaigns in recent years, including a high-profile effort started by U2's lead singer, Bono. However, Keller Williams Realty of Winston-Salem created its own interpretation of "red" philanthropy in 2007 when the company held its first Red Bash to benefit Hospice.

"Red is actually the signature color for Keller Williams, so we decided to start an annual Red Bash," said Keller Williams agent Mary Kay Rath. "Our company strongly supports three organizations — Cure, which is an international charity that helps children in Third World countries, United Way and Hospice. We decided that a Red Bash would be a good way to raise money for Hospice, and we recently presented Hospice with a check for $1,350."

Rath said that agents at Keller Williams Realty decided to support Hospice after team members began comparing their experiences with local nonprofits.

"In chatting with the agents, we learned that every family has been touched by Hospice in some way," Rath said. "Hospice not only supports the patient; it also takes care of the family of the patient. The more we talked about it, the more we realized that Hospice was a cause near and dear to our hearts."

In addition to a reverse raffle with a grand prize of $5,000, the Red Bash activities included food and beverages, and an inspired talent show. Rath's husband, Dan, a former television sportscaster, donned a tuxedo and briefly returned to the public spotlight as master of ceremonies, and the Raths' daughter, Katie, won the talent competition with her version of Feels Like Home.

"The entertainment during the talent show was wonderful," MaryKay said. "Everyone who bought a ticket could cast a vote for their favorite performer, and we had a lot of singing, an amazing Elvis impersonator and a dance act that was hysterical. There is a lot of incredible talent at our company, and it just goes to show you that you never know what kind of talent you work with every day."

Planning is already under way for the 2008 Red Bash, and the organizers at Keller Williams hope to significantly expand the event.

"It was our first year, so we learned a lot about what works and what doesn't," Rath said. "In 2008, we're planning the bash for the end of September, and we hope to include the public in some way so we can raise even more money for Hospice."

Rath said that the philanthropic endeavors at Keller Williams Realty are an important part of the company's success in the community.

"Our motto if you will is 'To build careers worth having, businesses worth owning and lives worth living,' and that really comes together when we reach out and serve the community," she said. "I think that's what makes Keller Williams different."

For more information on Keller Williams Realty, call 336-231-8200.