The National Association of Realtors(R), underscoring its mission to make home ownership viable for all Americans, made a $1 million contribution to the Washington, D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation. The presentation, made at the U.S. Capitol today, emphasized the conclusion of Black History Month. Pat Vredevoogd Combs, NAR president, was joined at the check presentation ceremony on Capitol Hill by Congressmen James Clyburn (D-S.C.) and John Lewis (D-Ga.), as well as Harry E. Johnson, Sr., president of the MLK National Memorial Foundation.

"NAR is an outspoken advocate for fair housing, an ally in the fight against predatory lending practices, and an organization that prides itself on building communities," said Combs. "We are proud to be a part of the effort to build a permanent home to honor Dr. King on our National Mall." NAR led industry efforts in 1988 to get important amendments made to enhance fair housing laws in the Fair Housing Act. In addition, NAR expanded and implemented fair housing education requirements for its members and has continued to educate Realtors(R) on the importance of inclusive housing practices and the promotion of minority homeownership through a unique training program, At Home with Diversity.

To further remove barriers to minority homeownership and focus public attention on this vital issue, NAR, along with a group of minority real estate organizations, implemented the HOPE (Home Ownership Participation for Everyone) Awards to recognize outstanding projects and programs that increase minority homeownership, revitalize communities and expand affordable housing opportunities. "We see our contribution to Dr. King's memorial as a natural extension of our ongoing efforts and commitment," said Combs.

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