The Fraser Valley real estate community is proud to recognize Chris Shields of Macdonald Realty as the 2026 John Armeneau Professional of the Year. Named in honour of the late John Armeneau, a veteran member of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board, the award recognizes a Fraser Valley REALTOR® who demonstrates an outstanding commitment to professionalism, leadership, and service to the community.

For more than 20 years, Chris has contributed to organized real estate through leadership and a strong commitment to professionalism. A long-serving Director of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board and Chair of multiple committees, he has championed high standards within the profession. He has also mentored hundreds of new REALTORS® and helped to set the tone for professionalism early in their careers.

For Chris, real estate is ultimately about people, a philosophy reflected in his community involvement and his support of the Fraser Valley REALTORS® Charitable Foundation. During the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser for the Sources Foundation, he was among the event’s top fundraisers, rallying friends and colleagues with enthusiasm and creativity.

“It is an absolute honour and privilege to be included among the ranks of John Armeneau recipients who have come before me,” said Chris Shields, Chair of the BC Real Estate Association. “I can’t express how humbling it is to be recognized this way. At the same time, it inspires me to continue to grow and contribute to our profession and community.”

Chris Shields exemplifies the spirit of the John Armeneau Award through professionalism, leadership, and a deep commitment to service. On behalf of the Fraser Valley REALTOR® community, congratulations, Chris, on this well-deserved honour!

We are heartbroken by the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the entire community as they navigate an unimaginable loss.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board joins CREA, BCREA, REALTORS Care® and real estate boards across the province, in a fundraising campaign to support the Canadian Red Cross Tumbler Ridge Tragedy Appeal. Funds raised will assist affected individuals and families on the road to healing.

We encourage members who are able to consider making tax-receipt-eligible donations through the REALTORS Care® page and to help share this initiative within your networks.

The REALTOR® community has a long history of uniting in times of crisis—today we stand together in solidarity with Tumbler Ridge and offer heartfelt support during this difficult time.

The Fraser Valley REALTORS^® Charitable Foundation (FVRCF) is proud to announce a landmark achievement as it celebrates the disbursement of $373,000 in grants to 29 charitable organizations across the Fraser Valley — bringing the Foundation’s total giving to over $1 million in just three years.

“At-risk youth deserve every chance to thrive, and the charities we are supporting this year are helping make that possible,” said David Herman, Chair of the FVRCF. “Reaching the one-million-dollar milestone so quickly is a remarkable achievement and reflects the generosity and commitment of Fraser Valley REALTORS^®. We are honoured to support organizations creating real, lasting change for young people.”

This year’s grants continue the Foundation’s commitment to empowering vulnerable and marginalized young people across the Fraser Valley by supporting programs focused on education, mentorship, mental health care, and essential life-skills development. Recipient organizations were selected for their demonstrated impact on youth experiencing poverty, mental health challenges, instability, and limited access to opportunities that help shape healthy futures.

The selected charities provide mentorship, educational assistance, counselling, emergency supports, and inclusive activities that help youth build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging. [see 2025 recipients below]

“Support from the Fraser Valley Realtors Charitable Foundation doesn’t just fund a program at Mackie’s Place — it restores hope,” said Tresha Iype, Executive Director of Mackie’s Place. “It tells vulnerable young people: ‘You matter. Your future matters. And we believe in you.’ When a young person understands that, everything shifts. Doors they never imagined begin to open, and the trajectory of a life — and often a generation — changes for the better.”

“Fraser Valley REALTORS^® have always been deeply connected to the communities we serve, and the Foundation is a powerful expression of that commitment,” said Tore Jacobsen, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “Our members’ ongoing support makes it possible for the Foundation to respond to the needs of local youth in meaningful and timely ways. We’re incredibly proud of the impact this collective effort is having across the region.”

Fraser Valley REALTORS® have once again demonstrated the power of community compassion as this year’s REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive comes to a close. Thanks to the generosity of Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) members and their clients, this year’s drive collected more than 900 bags of blankets, coats, and warm winter clothing, providing comfort and support to an estimated 9,000 people across the region.

Now in its 31st year, the Blanket Drive continues to be one of the Fraser Valley’s most impactful annual acts of community giving. FVREB volunteers from Abbotsford to North Delta gave their time, resources, and energy to collect, sort, and deliver essential winter items, all in the name of helping neighbours weather the cold months ahead.

“Every blanket, coat, and warm item donated through the REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive meets an immediate and essential need in our community,” said Adam Beardwood, Director at Cyrus Centre Abbotsford. “These contributions allow us to extend care, offer compassion, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who rely on our support.”

This year’s theme, “Warmth That Lasts,” was felt in every aspect of the drive. Each donated coat, blanket, or pair of gloves represents comfort, dignity, and a reminder to those struggling that their community sees and cares for them.

“The REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive continues to make a meaningful impact on the people we serve,” said Janet Brown, Director of Communications at Surrey Urban Mission. “Every donated item we receive helps individuals stay safe through the cold months, while supporting the most vulnerable and marginalized in our community. This is the warmth that lasts; a sense of being seen, supported, and valued during life’s most difficult moments.”

The Blanket Drive also served as a reminder of what strong community connections can achieve. Across the region, brokerages welcomed donations from clients, local residents, and partner organizations.

“In a year when many families are feeling the strain of rising costs, the need in our communities has never been greater,” said Tore Jacobsen, Chair of the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. “I’m incredibly proud of our members, who continue to show up with generosity, empathy, and service. Their dedication makes a real and lasting difference for thousands of people across the Fraser Valley.”

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board extends heartfelt thanks to every donor, volunteer, and participating brokerage for helping share Warmth That Lasts. Their continued commitment ensures that vulnerable individuals and families receive the essential items, and the kindness they need to face the winter season.

Mark your calendars and dust off your clubs! The annual FVREB golf tournament is back this September.

More than just a round of golf, this tournament is an opportunity to make a real difference. All net proceeds will directly benefit local programs and services that empower and support at-risk youth in the Fraser Valley, helping to build brighter futures in our communities.

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
• Location: Northview Golf & Country Club, Surrey
• Shotgun Start: 1:00 p.m.
• Cost: $295 per person

Registration includes:

• Lunch before tee-off
• A delicious buffet dinner to wrap up the day
• Power cart and access to the driving range
• Golfer gift
• Exciting prizes, on-course games, and fun surprises

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or simply looking to enjoy a great day with colleagues and friends, this event is the perfect blend of networking, relaxation, and giving back to those who need it most.

Spaces fill up quickly, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this meaningful and memorable day. Gather your team, grab your clubs, and join us in making a difference — one swing at a time. And a big congratulations to Becky Zhou PREC who was our early bird winner and picked up three new lockboxes!

Register today by contacting Darcie Rosenberg and help support the future of our youth in the Fraser Valley!

Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 5, and plan to attend one of the most exciting Board events of the year! Join us for the 2024 FVREB Golf Tournament, set against the lush and picturesque backdrop of the renowned Hazelmere Golf Course. is now open.

The FVREB and its charitable arm, the Fraser Valley REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (FVRCF), are partnering once again to host the tournament, which raised a record total of $35,000 last year! Proceeds supported charities whose mission is to provide life-changing programs in support of at-risk youth.

Event Details

• Day and Date: Thursday, September 5, 2024
• Venue: Hazelmere Golf Course
• 18150 8th Ave., Surrey, BC
• Shotgun Start: 1:00 p.m.
• Registration Fee: $295 plus tax per person

Registration includes green fee, shared power cart, BBQ burger lunch, and BBQ steak dinner. All levels of golfers are welcome.

Register and Make a Difference
This tournament isn’t just about golf — it’s impacting community and being a part of real and lasting positive change. So, start perfecting your swings and get ready to “putt” yourself out there (See what we did there?) for a day of golf, fundraising, networking, door prizes, awards dinner, and FUN!

Space is limited. Secure your spot on the course by registering here. We look forward to seeing you on the links!

Sponsorship Opportunities Are Available
Promote your business and support FVRCF at the same time. Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available.

SURREY, BC – The REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive will combine its traditional collection and distribution of warm clothes and blankets this year with an online fundraiser for partner charities.

The REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive will run from November 14 to 21, 2023.

The 29-year-old campaign is a partnership among the Lower Mainland’s three real estate boards, the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB), and the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB).

The public can drop donations off at one of these 100 plus participating real estate offices. Realtor volunteers then sort and deliver the donations to charities and organizations in the same area in which they were collected.

Since the Blanket Drive began, the program has helped more than 450,000 people in our communities keep warm and dry.

Items we’re looking for:

• blankets, sleeping bags
• warm clothing – coats, jeans, pants, sweaters
• scarves, gloves, mitts, hats
• socks (new)
• underwear (new)

If you don’t have any clothing waiting for a perfect match, you can donate financially to our partner charities through the REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive online fundraiser.

Each year, more than 18,000 Realtors in the region work with their clients and a network of charitable organizations in Lower Mainland communities to collect and distribute blankets and lightly used clothing to help more than 35,000 residents stay warm during the winter months.

To learn more visit www.blanketdrive.ca.

Get ready to tee off! After a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, we are thrilled to bring back the much-awaited FVREB Golf Tournament on Thursday, September 7.

What’s new this year?

• New location

The tournament will take place at the Hazelmere Golf Course in Surrey. This lush championship-length course has earned a place among the finest golf courses in BC.

• Tournament fundraiser

For the first time, the FVREB and its charitable arm, the Fraser Valley REALTORS® Charitable Foundation (FVRCF), are teaming up to host the tournament. Net proceeds will assist the FVRCF in supporting charities that help improve the lives of at-risk youth.

John Barbisan, Chair of the FVRCF Board of Directors, said, “Your support of the FVREB Golf Tournament will help advance the mission of the Fraser Valley REALTORS® Charitable Foundation. By participating as a golfer or through sponsorship, you are helping to ensure that the Fraser Valley is a safe and inspiring place where marginalized and vulnerable youth have safe, healthy and stable places to live, learn and work.”

• Register online

Along with raising funds, the FVREB and the FVRCF hope the tournament will bring the community together for a fun-filled day of golf, good food, and networking opportunities. The cost is $250 + tax per golfer or $1,000 for a team of four and it includes green fee, shared power cart, BBQ burger lunch, and BBQ steak dinner.

The golf tournament features numerous player activities, including a hole-in-one contest, putting contest, door prizes, silent auction, and awards dinner. Shotgun start is at 1:00 pm.

All levels of golfers are welcome. To register, go to the 2023 FVREB Golf Tournament website.

Sponsorship opportunities
Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available such as swag bag sponsor, lunch sponsor, contest sponsor, and hole sponsors. Sponsoring the 2023 FVREB Golf Tournament is an easy and powerful way to promote your business while supporting the cause of the FVRCF. Besides inclusion in all print and digital promotional materials, your business/organization will gain extensive exposure at the tournament and will be featured across social media channels.

For more information, please contact Darcie Rosenberg at darcie@fvreb.bc.ca or (604) 930-7604.

SURREY, BC – The REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive will combine its traditional collection and distribution of warm clothes and blankets this year with an online fundraiser for partner charities.

The REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive will run from November 14 to 21, 2022.

The 28-year-old campaign is a partnership among the Lower Mainland’s three real estate boards, the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB), and the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB).

The public can drop donations off at one of these 100 plus participating real estate offices. Realtor volunteers then sort and deliver the donations to charities and organizations in the same area in which they were collected.

“With cold temperatures and increased precipitation forecast for November, our partner charities expect blankets and warm clothing to be in high demand across the region,” said Daniel John, Chair, REBGV. “With the addition of our online fundraiser, people have different options to support this year’s campaign and lend a helping hand to those most in need within our communities.”

“Of the many charitable efforts our members take part in, the annual Blanket Drive is among the most rewarding,” said Sandra Benz, President of FVREB. “Each year, this simple yet essential act of providing blankets, clothing and other donations brings out vast numbers of volunteers who use their networks to bring warmth and comfort to our most vulnerable neighbours across the region.”

Since the Blanket Drive began, the program has helped more than 450,000 people in our communities keep warm and dry.

Items we’re looking for:

• blankets, sleeping bags
• warm clothing – coats, jeans, pants, sweaters
• scarves, gloves, mitts, hats
• socks (new)
• underwear (new)

Each year, more than 18,000 Realtors in the region work with their clients and a network of charitable organizations in Lower Mainland communities to collect and distribute blankets and lightly used clothing to help more than 35,000 residents stay warm during the winter months.

Help spread the word about the REALTORS Care® Blanket Charity Drive! Visit www.facebook.com/BlanketDrive for shareable social media posts and other content.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Real Estate Boards are professional associations representing more than 18,000 REALTORS® who live and work in the Lower Mainland from Whistler to Abbotsford. The Boards provide a variety of member services, including the Multiple Listing Service®. For more information on real estate, statistics, and buying or selling a home, contact a local REALTOR® or visit www.rebgv.org or www.fvreb.bc.ca.

Contact

Craig Munn
VP, Communication and Events
Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver
604-730-3146
cmunn@rebgv.org
www.rebgv.org

Lilian Choi
Manager, Communications
604-930-7656
Fraser Valley Real Estate Board
lilian.choi@fvreb.bc.ca
www.fvreb.bc.ca

The Lower Mainland’s largest and longest running blanket drive is set to kick off on Monday, November 15, and will run until November 22!

The REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive will combine its traditional collection and distribution of warm clothes and blankets with an online fundraiser for our partner charities due to lighter restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 27-year-old blanket drive campaign is a partnership among the Lower Mainland’s three real estate boards, the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB), and the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB).

In a traditional year, the more than 18,000 Realtors in the region would work with their clients and a network of charitable organizations in every Lower Mainland community to collect and distribute blankets and lightly used clothing to help more than 35,000 residents stay warm during the winter months.

The easing of some pandemic restrictions has prompted organizers to safely resume the campaign, as well as continue with the successful online fundraising effort first held in 2020.

“Although some COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, the pandemic continues to adversely affect our partner charities,” said Taylor Biggar, Chair, REBGV. “With the success of our online fundraiser last year, we’re holding both a blanket drive and financial drive in 2021 to help meet these dual needs of the charities.”

“The effects of the pandemic continue to impact those in our communities who are most vulnerable, and the Blanket Drive gives us all opportunities to do our part to help fulfill a great need,” Larry Anderson, FVREB President said. “Our members and volunteers take personal pride in being part of a collective effort, knowing their donations make a real and human impact in the community.”

Help spread the word about the REALTORS Care® Blanket Charity Drive! Visit www.facebook.com/BlanketDrive for a list of donation drop-off locations across the region and to find shareable social media posts and other content.

The Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Real Estate Boards are professional associations representing more than 18,000 REALTORS® who live and work in the Lower Mainland from Whistler to Abbotsford. The Boards provide a variety of member services, including the Multiple Listing Service®. For more information on real estate, statistics, and buying or selling a home, contact a local REALTOR® or visit www.rebgv.org or www.fvreb.bc.ca.

Contact

Craig Munn
Director, Communication
Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver
604-730-3146
www.rebgv.org

Lilian Choi
Senior Communications Advisor
604-930-7656
Fraser Valley Real Estate Board
604-930-7657
www.fvreb.bc.ca