Gallo Realty Embraces Sussex County Habitat for Humanity

Last Wednesday, a large group of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gallo Realty agents and staff members strapped on tool belts and participated in a Sussex County Habitat for Humanity “Build Day”. Located in Ingram Village in Ellendale, Delaware, the mission of the day was to help build two homes and participate in a dedication of a new home at the day’s’ end.  What began on that chilly morning became much more than a day of construction or a welcome respite from sitting behind a desk.  The Gallo group worked together in teams, learned skills that had never been attempted before, and witnessed a grateful young family moving into their new home. They ended the day feeling very good, not just about what they accomplished, but about the wonderful community in which they live and work.

For twenty-plus REALTORS to get together for a day, and NOT talk about contracts, inspections, or appraisals was a feat in itself.  Andrew Ratner, VP of BHHS Gallo Realty couldn’t have been more satisfied with the day: “Everyone focused on the task at hand. We all overcame some fears of tackling a new job and we came to appreciated all that is involved in the homebuilding process a bit more!   We were all very helpful to each other, and we truly enjoyed each others company . . . it was one of the best team-building exercises that we have ever had.  Additionally, working with the team from Habitat and AmeriCorps made us truly appreciate the volunteers that consistently put their time and effort into a project that benefit others.  They were not just there for the day . . . these good people dedicating their lives to helping others in their community.” Ratner added.

During the Build Day, one Gallo group worked outside, constructing walls and installing the entire sub-floor for one home. Another group worked in an adjacent home, painting walls, trim and ceilings, and installing hardwood floors.  Several Gallo team members participated in a home dedication to a very happy family at the end of the day and Andrew Ratner was asked to recite and present a framed prayer to the grateful family.  It was a very touching ceremony, which brought tears to the eyes of many. Sussex County Habitat and their branches throughout the world truly improve and enrich the lives of so many.

BHHS Gallo is planning another Gallo Build Day in early May 2017, and encourages other local firms to consider volunteering as well.  Prior to the Build Day, the Gallo Gives Foundation also donated $2,500.00 to Sussex County Habitat for Humanity.   Barbara Ward, Volunteer Coordinator for Sussex Habitat noted, “In rallying their sales team for a day of on site construction, the team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gallo Realty once again demonstrated their heart for Habitat for Humanity, and their commitment to improving housing and communities throughout Sussex County.”

Sussex County Habitat For Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian organization. To learn more or find out how you can help, visit www.sussexcountyhabitat.org.  The quote on their home page sums up their mission and goals: “We are dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness and to making adequate, affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action. Our ministry was founded on the conviction that every man, woman, and child should have a simple, decent place to live in dignity and safety. Building hope in our community begins with you – by picking up a hammer or giving in other ways.”

About BHHS Gallo Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gallo Realty is an award-winning, full-service real estate firm that has been serving the resort region since 1979.  The firm has three main offices, located in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach, with two satellite locations in the Lewes area.  The company is independently owned and operated. Visit www.GoToGallo.com for details.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, based in Irvine, CA, is a brand-new real estate brokerage network built for a new era in residential real estate. The network, among the few organizations entrusted to use the world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway name, brings to the real estate market a definitive mark of trust, integrity, stability and longevity. Visit www.berkshirehathawayhs.com for details.

About HSF Affiliates LLC

HSF Affiliates LLC, based in Irvine, CA is a joint venture of which HomeServices of America, Inc., the nations second-largest, full-service residential brokerage firm, is a majority owner. HomeServices of America is an affiliate of world-renowned Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

Check presentation pic:

Pictured l-r: Gallo Gives Committee member Norm Price, Sussex Habitat’s Executive Director Kevin Gilmore, Gallo Gives Committee members Tricia Ratner and Alyssa Bishop, Sussex Habitat’s Volunteer Program’s Coordinator Barbara Ward and Gallo Give’s Committee Member David Plivelich.