When REALTORS® come together, we have the power to make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors and the communities we serve. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 70% of REALTORS® across the country engage in community service each month, and this same spirit motivates all our efforts at the Association. In the aftermath of the May tornadoes, it is now more important than ever to get involved with the community and show support. To highlight the impact of local volunteer efforts, Tracy Pulley, the 2025 chairperson of the Community Engagement Committee, shares her perspective on the importance of giving back.
Please share a little background on your Real Estate career. How long have you been involved in Real Estate? How did you get your start or become interested in the industry?
I’ve been involved in real estate for 20 years and have worked as a licensed agent for the past 7. My journey began when I married into a family deeply rooted in real estate. My husband and I started flipping homes back in 2005, which sparked a passion for transforming properties and creating value. Once our children were in school, I felt the need to contribute to the world in a new way, beyond motherhood. Real estate offered the perfect opportunity to do that, combining my love for people, homes, and meaningful work.
Why did you want to become involved in the committee, and how long have you been a part of it?
Service has always been a core part of who I am—I genuinely love contributing to others and making a difference. Joining the Community Engagement Committee gave me a meaningful way to do that through the Association. I originally got involved after my managing broker encouraged me to explore committee work, believing I had something valuable to offer. When I discovered this committee and its mission, it immediately resonated with me.
After my first year of serving, I got a call from the association president, who also happened to be my managing broker, and was “voluntold” to step into the role of committee Vice-chair. I gladly accepted, and it’s been both a pleasure and an honor to serve the St. Louis community in this capacity.
How has being part of the committee shaped your experience with the association?
Before joining the committee, I wasn’t actively involved with the association, though I was always interested. Being part of the Community Engagement Committee opened my eyes to the incredible impact we can make locally, and it inspired me to get even more involved. I now plan to join additional committees in the coming year to continue serving and contributing in meaningful ways. My experience also led to an invitation to apply for the Leadership Academy, which I was honored to join. That opportunity helped me form lasting connections and friendships within the association, and it’s already paving the way for exciting future collaborations.
What projects or initiatives have you done with the committee that you enjoyed the most and have felt the most impactful to you?
Two of the most impactful projects I’ve been part of are the Veterans Community Project and Rebuild Day. As someone who has invested in and worked on hands-on projects, I truly enjoy rolling up my sleeves and getting involved in a tangible way. Helping build tiny homes for veterans who’ve served our country is incredibly humbling. While I haven’t served in the military myself, it gives me a meaningful way to connect with those who have—and to show appreciation for their sacrifice by helping provide a safe and stable place to call home.
Rebuild Day is another favorite. It gives us the chance to assist homeowners, often long-time residents, who want to remain in their homes but need help to do so safely. Supporting them in preserving their homes and independence is powerful. St. Louis has some incredible people who just need a helping hand, and I feel grateful to be part of a group that gets to provide that support directly through service.
What kind of things does the committee have planned for the rest of the year?
One of our main goals is to expand our reach and involve more members of the association, even those who aren’t officially part of the committee. We’re working on creating smaller, accessible opportunities for people to contribute without a big time commitment. By bringing more of our committee’s initiatives directly to the broader association, we hope to foster greater involvement, increase awareness of our mission, and show just how easy it is to make a meaningful impact.
Would you recommend the Community Engagement committee to those looking to get engaged with the association? How can new members get involved with you guys?
Absolutely! I genuinely love being part of the Community Engagement Committee. It’s a great starting point for anyone looking to get involved. Signing up is simple—just watch for the association’s open enrollment period in the summer. Beyond that, stay connected with colleagues in your brokerage or friends who are already involved in committees. We often hear about volunteer opportunities throughout the year where local organizations need an extra hand. While our committee can't always cover every need, spreading the word and encouraging fellow REALTORS® to step up really makes a difference. It not only helps the community but also strengthens our presence as professionals who care about St. Louis.
Whether you have an hour or a whole afternoon, every act of service helps! Consider getting involved with a local organization or charity you’re passionate about, and make sure your email preferences are updated to stay in the loop with Association volunteer opportunities.
