July 31. More than 120 area Realtors and representatives from community organizations gathered for the Canopy Housing Foundation’s annual Grants Celebration to recognize the dedication and work of 19 non-profit organizations with $55,000 in funding.

The Smithville Community Coalition has been awarded $3,000 to be utilized for Homeownership Financial Education classes for potential homeowners and will assist five individuals.

Organizations with missions that closely align with the Foundation, are able to apply annually for grants; however, each grantee must be supported by a letter of recommendation from an active Realtor. Debbie Monroe and Abigail Jennings from Lake Norman Realty provided a recommendation letter for the Smithville Community Coalition.

The Smithville Community Coalition’s mission is to create and execute a neighborhood-led, comprehensive Historic Smithville revitalization plan that serves residents’ needs, restores the community’s vibrance, supports an abundant and equitable life for all, and expands affordable and workforce housing in the town of Cornelius.

The grant round this year experienced tremendous growth with the requests totaling well in excess of $122,000.

The Foundation also awarded $24,500 to seven area Habitats for Humanity through the Habitat Support Program, which began in 2007 to help assist Habitats with their mission.

Canopy Housing Foundation serves as the charitable arm of Canopy Realtor Association and is dedicated to creating a community where all housing needs are met. The Foundation and its core of Realtor volunteers work toward this goal through funding, education, advocacy and leadership programs that are focused on fair and affordable housing and workforce-housing initiatives.

Canopy Housing Foundation’s Community Grants Program was launched in 2009 and awards funds to nonprofits in Mecklenburg, Iredell and Haywood Counties that work to address housing issues.