Minnesota Chapter of Institute of Real Estate Management Earns Top Ranking for 2008
Minnesota Chapter No. 45 of the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM®), one of 90 IREM chapters worldwide, received high honors in IREM’s Chapter Star Recognition Program for three consecutive years, earning 5-Star status in 2008.
The Chapter Star Recognition Program recognizes IREM chapters for providing valuable member services and programs. The program awards points for specific activities based on criteria that define effective, successful chapters; some activities are required, others are elective. Then, based on total points earned, chapters can achieve One, Two, Three, Four, or Five Star Status.
One category of activities, titled “Supportive Administrative Structure,” allows a chapter to earn points for administration activities such as those The Harrington Company provides. The points awarded in this department reflect the recognition of the national organization and local chapter of the importance of having professionals, like those at the Harrington Company, assist and guide the chapter in providing member services and a meaningful member experience.
The chapter was recognized for a variety of initiatives it undertook in 2008 including:
• Sponsoring 20+ real estate students and young professionals with financial assistance and mentoring opportunities throughout the year.
• Supporting continuing real estate education through chapter-sponsored IREM courses and regular luncheon programs.
• Participating in community service programs, like serving dinner monthly at People Serving People, one of the largest emergency shelters in Minnesota.
• Collaborating with Hearts & Hammers to provide exterior improvements to restore the character of a home (as well as conduct small carpentry and landscaping projects) for a local woman with limited mobility due to complications from a surgery.
• Celebrating and recognizing IREM's 75th Anniversary at various events throughout the year, including IREM Young Professional (IYP) networking events, the annual golf outing, the September luncheon program and year-end Member Party.
• Providing leadership training in support of chapter and industry-wide goals.
Commenting on the group’s recognition as a Five Star Chapter, 2008 President Lynne I. Wyffels, CPM®, of The Shelard Group, Inc. in Eden Prairie, Minn., stated: “Chapter 45 is blessed with dedicated members and Friends that provide the backbone to continued Chapter success year after year. This is the third year in a row since the Star Program has been implemented at the National level that Chapter 45 has been recognized for such great commitment to the profession. Each and every person is significant to the Chapter’s success.”
Minnesota Chapter No. 45, with a current membership totaling over 350, was founded in 1961. The chapter’s longevity and success derives largely from enthusiastic member participation, close alliances with related professional groups and government agencies, and strong involvement in the community.
To learn more about the Institute of Real Estate Management and its chapter network, call (800) 837-0706, ext. 4650 (outside the U.S. call (312) 329-6000) or visit www.irem.org.