Realtor® Chrissy Hartley: Building Homes for Heroes
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. – At a recent event for Building Homes for Heroes, a charity dedicated to providing housing solutions for veterans, Chrissy Hartley, a Realtor and property manager for Dream Team Realty in Fort Walton Beach, shared a poignant story of a Gold Star widow whose life was transformed through the organization’s efforts.
This widow, who had just married before her husband’s deployment, was devastated by her loss. When she applied for a home through Building Homes for Heroes, the organization not only provided a modified living space for her blended family but also offered hope, healing, and a new beginning.
Hartley has dedicated the past eight years to this cause, becoming a force behind its local efforts. As a member of the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors® (ECAR), she has played an instrumental role in raising funds and awareness for veterans in need. In 2024, Florida Realtors recognized Hartley as its Humanitarian of the Year for her efforts.
Initially, the charity was merely a small part of ECAR’s outreach. “It was very lackluster,” Chrissy recalls. “I wasn’t okay with this; $3,000 is just not enough for me.”
Determined to make a difference, she took on the challenge of revitalizing the charity’s fundraising efforts. Chrissy spearheaded the transition from a volleyball tournament to a bowling tournament, understanding that a more inclusive environment could boost participation and donations. “I turned it into a bowling tournament,” she explains. “Bowling opens it up to all skill levels and ensures that weather won’t deter us.”
What began as a modest fundraiser has evolved into a significant annual event, raising over $38,000 this year alone. The funds raised directly support the building and modification of homes for veterans. Notably, Hartley’s fundraising efforts are doubled through anonymous donations, amplifying the impact of every dollar contributed.
As chair of the Building Homes for Heroes Committee, Hartley remains deeply engaged in raising awareness about the needs of veterans.
“It’s crucial for people to understand there is a need out there,” she emphasizes. “Not everyone can drop dollars, but there are many hands-on ways to give back.” Her advocacy has sparked greater community involvement, encouraging local businesses and individuals to contribute their time and resources.
Beyond her work with Building Homes for Heroes, Hartley is involved with Food for Thought, a charity that provides meals to students in need, and she serves as the PTO president at her children’s school. Her belief in giving back is deeply rooted in her upbringing, inspired by a mother who instilled the importance of community service.
“Realtors have a unique reach in the community,” she says. “We can connect with anyone and everyone. It’s a way to meet people and serve, helping first-time buyers and veterans realize their dreams of homeownership.” This commitment to community service is not just about raising funds; it’s about building connections and fostering relationships that make a lasting difference.
Florida Realtors® serves as the voice for real estate in Florida. It provides programs, services, continuing education, research, and legislative representation to 238,000 members in 50 boards/associations. Florida Realtors® Newsroom website is available at floridarealtors.org/newsroom.