The pulse of any organization can be measured by the involvement and commitment of its volunteer members. To strengthen our professional organization and keep the Oak Park Area Association of REALTORS® a dynamic force, we often rely on our members’ talents, energy, and ideas.  

Please indicate below which committee(s) you are willing to bring your talent, energy, and ideas to, should the need arise.  A brief description of each committee’s purpose is provided for your reference.  Every effort will be made to assign you to your chosen committee(s).  

The Awards / Nominating Taskforce identifies OPAAR Members who have the expertise and characteristics required of board candidates and OPAAR members who have made extraordinary commitments to improving the quality of life in their communities through volunteer work and charitable contributions with our Good Neighbor Awards.  The taskforce reviews and evaluates nominations for the OPAAR annual REALTOR® of the Year Award.  Identifies one person each year who stands out above all others, committed to excellence, and has made significant contributions to the real estate profession.   Service on the Awards / NominatingTaskforce is by appointment.  

The Diversity and Inclusion Committee promotes and supports a diverse and welcoming community with housing choices and opportunities free from housing discrimination. Assures that policies and practices relating to housing and inclusiveness are woven into all Association activity.  May assist brokerage companies to better understand sensitive topics. Promotes programming to help members to confront unknown biases and implement business practices that prioritize diversity in the workplace.                                                                                          
This committee meets bi-monthly.

The Government Affairs / RPAC Taskforce educates and encourages Membership to be involved in the political process at the local, state, and national level.  Interacts with elected officials, lobbying for real estate issues within the communities we represent.  Advocates for public policy benefitting homeowners and REALTORS®. Communicates the value of RPAC and coordinates the Association’s annual RPAC fundraising activities. Members meet annually with area legislators at the Capital Conference in Springfield.

The Member Outreach Committee promotes the benefits of membership in OPAAR to current and prospective members.  Recruits new Affiliate Members.  Updates member benefits brochures.  Increases member awareness and participation in Association activities.

The Professional Standards Committee meets as needed by Illinois REALTORS® for hearings or complaints filed and forwarded by the Grievance Committee or by members of the public.  Committee members must attend a one-day Illinois REALTORS®  training seminar, held annually, to keep up current on changes to the Standards of Practices in the NAR Code of Ethics.  Members must also sign-up to serve on the Illinois REALTORS® Professional Standards Committee.

The Public Relations/Consumer Outreach Committee develops and promotes a positive image of the REALTOR® brand and boosts the value of using an OPAAR REALTOR® member.  Encourages Member participation in activities to better the communities we represent.  Emphasizes to the public that OPAAR is a reliable source for real estate information and an advocate for homeowners.Notify the public through newspaper articles of our interactions are with local municipalities, and our “Calls to Action” initiatives. Creates social media outreach strategies.

The Special Events Committee plans and organizes networking events for members including Business After Hours events, Holiday Party, Installation event, Affiliate events, etc., with the goal of bringing together the membership for networking and socializing.

The Special Programs Committee is charged with creating and curating programs and tools that will educate and enhance our members’ knowledge.  (Examples of special programs hosted: Condominium Forum w/the Village of OP, REALTOR Safety Program, the Social Media Seminar, and HUD REO workshop.)  Works with Association Staff to procure designation courses for OPAAR Members.