The Columbus REALTORS® Foundation (CRF) is the charitable arm of the 9,500+ members of the Columbus REALTORS® and central Ohio real estate community.
Its mission is to support real estate-related programs and qualified entities whose goals are to improve the overall real estate environment in central Ohio.
Formed in 1991 as a donor-advised fund, the CRF now operates as its own nonprofit public charity, investing over $600,000 in the community since 2008, emerging as one of the strongest local REALTOR® Foundations in the country.
As strong advocates of affordable housing in healthy communities, the CRF and its donors seek to be an influential partner for local nonprofit and government housing entities. See below for more on our Community Grants program.
The Columbus REALTORS® Foundation is a non-profit, public charity corporation, recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS internal revenue code. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law, less the value of any goods or services received in return for the donation. The Foundation will send you a gift receipt of any eligible tax-deductible amount; donors are advised to consult legal or tax counsel concerning their own tax situation. EIN: 46-4401521
C – Community Grants – Funding for local nonprofit projects providing real impact in the central Ohio community. Applying organizations must have 501(c)(3) exemption (or qualified fiscal agent). Community grants recipients. Annual deadline: May 31, 2025. Application.
A – Emergency Aid (Benevolence Fund) – The CRF provides emergency assistance for Columbus REALTORS® members and their families. Applications are confidential and accepted anytime.
R – REALTOR® Care Day – The annual day of service for Columbus REALTORS® members. Local area realty associations are eligible for up to $500 in matching funds for a service project in their area. More info.
E – Educational Scholarships – Dedicated to investing in tomorrow’s REALTOR® leaders today, funding is available for pursuing 2-year and 4-year degrees, residential pre-licensing, broker licensing, and other programs related to the field of real estate. Two funding cycles annually. More info.
S – Service – We owe our success to our volunteers. Over 120+ members volunteer hundreds of hours annually!
Charitable organizations across central Ohio have received funding from the Columbus REALTORS® Foundation for projects that help the homeless, repair the homes of low-income families, and much more.
Applying organizations must have 501(c)(3) exemption (or qualified fiscal agent).
Click here to see some of our past recipients.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: MAY 31, 2025 @ 11:59 PM
Questions? Contact Stefani Wasmer
The CRF can help you build your legacy through a variety of strategic planned giving vehicles that provide significant tax advantages, including bequests, charitable annuities, life insurance gifts, remainder trusts, and other gifts of assets.
In-kind gifts of real estate, stock, bonds, auto, etc. may also be gifted; the CRF can receive practically any asset of value in a simplified way. With a 20+ year history of strong fiscal management, donors can be assured that their legacy is in great hands.
Planned funds are invested and overseen by the Foundation Board of Trustees and its financial advisors and may be earmarked for a particular program of interest or used to provide long-term program support. The Foundation will work closely with you to ensure the vision you have for your gift is realized.
For more information regarding planned giving opportunities or ways to give, contact staff.
Comprised of REALTOR® leaders and elected annually, Board of Trustee members oversee the Columbus REALTORS® Foundation and its programs' distribution, budget, and investments.
2025 Trustees: Jill Fergus (Chair), Michael Jones (Treasurer), Courtney Chapman (Secretary), Krysta Denner, Holly Lockett, Stephanie Masterson, Bob McCarthy, Jesse Shkolnik, Ian Thickstun, Sue Van Woerkom, Blair Bishop, Chris Harrington, Susie Pattison, Vanessa Simmons