Through My Lens

by Doreen Spagnuolo, LIBOR CEO

A Year of Progress and Innovation

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, progress, and advocacy have been the cornerstones of the Long Island Board of REALTORS® (LIBOR) journey in 2023. As we reflect on the past year, we take pride in the significant milestones we've achieved, further solidifying our position as leaders in the real estate industry.

Advocating for Fair Housing

LIBOR's commitment to advocating for its members and real estate consumers is evident through several significant achievements. Our comprehensive Fair Housing Month program included informative panel discussions and impactful campaigns, all aimed at educating our members, the public, and elected officials about Fair Housing laws. Through these initiatives, we have actively contributed to promoting fairness and inclusivity in housing.

Home For All of Us Website

In line with our commitment to Fair Housing education and inclusivity, LIBOR launched the "Home For All of Us" website. This dedicated platform serves as a valuable resource for both consumers and members, offering insights into Fair Housing laws and promoting a culture of equal housing opportunities.

Engaging with Public Officials

LIBOR has been actively engaging with local officials and community leaders to advocate for initiatives that increase housing inventory and ensure fairness in housing accessibility. Our dedication to fostering positive changes in the housing market has led us to collaborate with key stakeholders and participate in important discussions that impact our members and the broader community.

Member Success

LIBOR remains unwavering in its commitment to the success of its members. In 2023, we took significant steps to empower our members to thrive in the ever-changing real estate landscape. In our pursuit of member success, LIBOR continued to be a valuable source of essential resources and educational offerings. We aimed to equip members with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the intricate and ever-changing housing market confidently. From informative resources to comprehensive educational programs, we strived to be a dependable partner in our members' professional journeys.

Empowering Local Networking

LIBOR recognized the paramount significance of local networking and responded by introducing "LIBOR Locals" to replace traditional chapter networking events. This innovative approach democratized networking, ensuring its relevance and accessibility across counties.

Empowering Through Leadership Development

In 2023, LIBOR placed a strong emphasis on member empowerment, particularly through leadership development. We recognized the pivotal role that effective leadership plays in navigating the ever-evolving real estate landscape. As a result, we launched initiatives, such as LIBOR’s Leadership Academy, designed to cultivate leadership skills and inspire our members to take on leadership roles within the organization and the industry.

Committee Restructuring for Enhanced Engagement

To further enhance member engagement and involvement, we embarked on a journey of committee restructuring. This reevaluation and reorganization of our committees aimed to ensure that members have more opportunities to actively participate and contribute their expertise. It also facilitated a more streamlined and efficient committee structure. We've made committee information readily available to our members, and we've opened committee applications year-round, ensuring that every member has the opportunity to actively contribute to our organization.

Global Business Expansion

Our Global Business Council achieved noteworthy recognition and expanded its global reach. Through collaborations with international organizations and the hosting of global real estate summits, we have provided our members with invaluable opportunities to explore and excel in the global real estate arena.

Organizational Excellence

LIBOR's dedication to organizational excellence was evident in its strategic planning efforts, transparent processes, and improved training for volunteers and committee members. By empowering committees to do more meaningful work and fostering diverse representation, LIBOR aimed to continuously enhance its services.

Facility Planning

Discussions about the future of LIBOR's facilities and the integration of technology have been initiated. We recognize the importance of creating spaces that meet the evolving needs of our members and staff, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of innovation.

As we look back on these achievements, I want to express my sincere gratitude for the privilege of serving as your CEO. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024 and beyond, and I am committed to continuing our journey of progress, advocacy, and success together. Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to LIBOR's mission.