Ohio REALTORS launches 'Daffodils Across Ohio' project!
By Scott Williams, Ohio REALTORS Chief Executive Officer
Longtime member Jim Camp, of North Canton, called recently and proposed a rather remarkable service project -- "Daffodils Across Ohio." He thought all REALTORS throughout our great state could benefit from participating.
For those of you who know Jim…the fact that he was willing to share a successful project for the greater good is not a surprise. It’s built into his DNA which is why he was our 2020 recipient of our prestigious Mary L. Pollock Lifetime Achievement Award which honors a REALTOR who performs the hard, necessary work to move the organization forward without seeking the accolade or spotlight.
Jim, who is a partner and principal broker at Cutler Real Estate, proposed a community service project that could make a lasting, meaningful impression. I’ll share Jim’s words:
“In thinking about a way to remember the lives of the thousands of people who died from COVID-19 and their families, as well as honor the sacrifices and efforts of hospital workers, first responders, health care workers and government officials at every level, I remembered words that Gov. DeWine shared at his inaugural.
“The Governor’s father reminded his children in the fall, knowing that he was dying of cancer, not to forget to plant daffodil bulbs, realizing he would not be alive to see them bloom in the spring.”
Jim being Jim he approached us because he thought Ohio’s REALTOR community would be able to beautify every corner of the state. We’re pleased to take him up on his gracious offer and are have just launched an initiative that will allow our more than 36,000 members the opportunity to purchase bulbs from Boyert’s Greenhouse, an Ohio-based nursery.
In short, we’re making bags of 50 yellow, high quality reproducing bulbs for only $32.99 (which includes tax and shipping). What great gifts for your clients and customers – a lasting tribute that will continually beautify our communities.
More from Jim:
“The daffodils should be planted in groups of 10 to 15 so REALTORS can decide how to divide their order.
“Daffodils can be given to families or friends whose loved ones were COVID-19 victims. Fifty to 100 or more could be planted at parks, hospitals, police and fire stations, and government buildings to serve as an annual reminder to those who lost their lives and those who sacrificed are not forgotten.
“The result…Ohio REALTORS not only led the way out of the pandemic-fueled recession but are leading the way in remembering those who died and honoring the ‘Heroes of the Pandemic.’”
My heartfelt thanks to Jim for his willingness to bring this remarkable community service project to our attention and share it with his Ohio REALTOR family. It’s a perfect example of what makes this profession so special -- amazing people doing exceptional things for the betterment of our communities.
