On Wednesday morning, the amazing realtor community of Grand County came together to raise over $6,100 for Mountain Family Center (MFC) in their 6th annual Shop Off.

In preparation for the annual Shop Off, realtor offices from across the county raise funds to supply a budget that is used to buy groceries for MFC. During the event, they have 7 minutes to shop the aisles of City Market in Granby and purchase a variety of things from a list of supplies and food that MFC needs. The realtor offices participate in a number of contests that include a costume contest, which is voted on by City Market employees; a contest for most spent on groceries during the 7 minutes; and, they compete to see which office raised the most money for MFC. There are a number of prizes, but the most coveted of all is a mini leg lamp from ‘A Christmas Story’ which is given to the realtor office that raises the most money each year.

The Shop Off was started 6 years ago by realtor Tina Shearon, of RE/MAX Peak to Peak. The event gave realtors the opportunity to give back to the community. The event has grown and evolved over the years into a beloved tradition for MFC. Helen Sedlar, executive director of MFC, stated, “This event helps keep our pantry shelves stocked during mud season, when they are dwindling due to the lack of can food drives”.

There are many wonderful community members and businesses that help make the Shop Off possible. Mountain Movers LLC generously takes the donations from the event at City Market to MFC. The Grand County Board Realtors is also a crucial player, as they facilitate the Shop Off every year. Erin Jeziorski, of Real Estate of Winter Park, is chair of the Board of Realtors and was the coordinator for this year’s Shop Off.

“This event is a great way to help MFC, and an amazing way for realtors to give back to the community,” said Monica Anderson, realtor for RE/MAX Peak to Peak and former chair of the Board of Realtors.

Seven teams participated in this year’s Shop Off. Representing RE/MAX Peak To Peak, RE/MAX Red, Keller Williams Realty, Mountain Family Center, Real Estate of Winter Park, Changes Thrift Store, and Grand County Board of Realtors, the 7 teams raised a total of $6,127 for the event, and, they purchased $3,891 in groceries to help line the shelves at MFC. Funds raised but not used on groceries during the event go directly into MFC’s food pantry budget where they will be spent on MFC’s food deliveries from Food Bank of the Rockies.

Carrie Flynn and Skylar Marshall of Real Estate of Winter Park raised the most money, coming in at $2,000; Abbie Williams and Angie Rindels of Changes Thrift Store managed to buy the most groceries, at $859; and, RE/MAX Peak To Peak won for best costumes, dressed as a turkey and butcher.

Real Estate of Winter Park won for representation, taking home the coveted leg lamp. Founded in 2008, their office has been participating since the very first Shop Off. Realtor Janene Johnson said, “We are excited to once again have the leg lamp, and will be proudly displaying it in our office. Everyone had a blast and looks forward to the event next year”.

MFC can always use more help and community support. All donations of time, food and funds are greatly appreciated. MFC is open Monday – Thursday from 9 am – 3 pm, and Fridays from 9 am – noon. To find out more about MFC, visit: mountainfamilycenter.org.