Donate - PSAR Food Drive

Posted by Communications on Nov 7, 2025 10:00:00 AM

blogbanner_2025 PSAR Food Drive (1)

Help Feed Local Families During the Government Shutdown


Donate non-perishable food at any PSAR Service Center. PSAR will deliver all items to the San Diego Food Bank.

The ongoing government shutdown is disrupting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), leaving many children and families without reliable access to food. To support our neighbors and help fill the gap, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® (PSAR) is hosting a food drive to benefit programs like the San Diego Food Bank’s Food 4 Kids Backpack Program. This program provides weekend meals for children who depend on school meal programs for daily nutrition.

PSAR is collecting non-perishable food items that will be delivered directly to the San Diego Food Bank. Donations can be dropped off between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on business days at any PSAR Service Center.

Drop-Off Locations

Chula Vista Service Center
880 Canarios Court, Chula Vista, CA 91910
El Cajon Service Center
1150 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021
Clairemont Service Center
4340 Genesee Avenue, Suite 203, San Diego, CA 92117
Directions: Located just north of Balboa Avenue near Clairemont Square, on the second floor above the Bank of America. Enter the shared parking lot from Genesee Avenue and use the exterior staircase or elevator to Suite 203.

 

What To Bring

  • Canned meats, soups, and beans
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Pasta and rice
  • Cereal and oatmeal
  • Granola bars and other shelf-stable snacks
  • Shelf-stable milk and juice boxes

Collection will continue until SNAP services are restored and fully funded again.

 

Why REALTORS® Are Involved

REALTORS® help families find homes and are committed to strengthening the communities they serve. Ensuring that children have enough to eat is a simple and impactful way to support local families during a difficult time.

 

Prefer To Give Online

PSAR is awaiting a direct donation link from the San Diego Food Bank. In the meantime, you can donate through the Food Bank’s website at sandiegofoodbank.org.

 

Questions

Email support@psar.org or call 619-421-7811.

Together, we can help ensure no child in our community goes hungry.

Topics: Announcements, Events, Leadership

PSAR MEMBERS presented with C.A.R. Honorary Member-for-Life

Posted by Rick Griffin on Nov 6, 2025 9:56:44 AM

California Association of REALTORS®            Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS®

Honorary Member-for-Life


PSAR is proud to recognize 36 members who have been honored as Honorary Members for Life by both the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® and the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.).

These distinguished members have each demonstrated over 25 years of dedication, integrity, and professionalism in real estate and have reached the age of 75 or older.

The 36 members include:

Violeta Barcas Greg Hall Hector Padilla
Rodger Barwick Young Hall Kathie Pelletier
Elba Beas Rick Hoffman Alfredo Perez
Rita Blackwood Jose King Sang Pham
Bob Carlseen Bonnie Kipperman Andrew Pheasant
Kenneth Colwell Christopher Lewis Pat Russiano
Mitchell Compton Randy Lipsey, Sr. Marilyn Schweer
Joseph Garzanelli Carlos Lopez Robert Smith
Lorenza Gastelum Manuel Lopez Carol Snyder
Alberto Gonzalez Mark Mendillo Gary Stous
Barbara Hahn Dale Nicholas Martin Weinstein
Paul Hahn Josefina Ortiz Gail Wilson

Congratulations to our honored members for their long-term commitment to excellence and their outstanding service to clients and the community.

As part of this recognition, the 2025 group of new honorary members will receive a waiver of PSAR and C.A.R. dues beginning in 2026. This waiver will continue for as long as they remain eligible REALTOR® members or until retirement from the profession.

Members who believe they may qualify for this honor are encouraged to contact PSAR. Please ensure your correct birthdate is entered in your membership record. An accurate birthdate is the trigger used to identify future receipients.

Applications are available on the C.A.R.website and using THIS FORM

For additional information, send an email to hmfl@car.org.

_______________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower Realtors.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County. 

Topics: Education, Brokers/Managers, Leadership, Government Affairs, Market Information, Industry

Good Neighbor: Michelle Hickin believes in giving back - and acts on it!

Posted by Communications on Aug 19, 2025 8:12:32 AM

Michelle HickinMichelle Hickin has spent years pouring time and energy into causes that make a real impact.

Her commitment to giving back is rooted in personal experience - after her family received support during a difficult time, she made it a priority to pay it forward and teach her son the same. Every role she takes on reflects her belief in building a stronger, more connected community.

For over eight years, she’s supported the Princess Project, a Michelle Hickin Volunteering 7grassroots non-profit that collects and distributes prom dresses to high school students. She has also hosted dress drives, volunteered at giveaways, and supported the Teen Ambassador Program, which builds leadership skills and self-confidence in local teens.

She and her son, Brayden, also volunteer with Paws 4 Thought, a local dog rescue that operates entirely through in-home fosters. For the past two years, they’ve helped at adoption events across the county - setting up pens, walking and socializing dogs, and cleaning up - while aiding rescues from Tijuana, China, and local shelters.

Through the Volunteer Collective at Mission Federal Credit Union, she has taken part in food packing at the Food Bank, beach cleanups, relief work for flood victims, the Food 4Kids Backpack Program, and projects with the San Diego Rescue Mission as well as the aforementioned  Princess Project.

Michelle Hickin Volunteering 5Her leadership skills are also on display in professional circles. With the Women’s Council of Realtors, she has served for 13 years as a Committee Chair and Membership Director, promoting women in business and leadership positions. She also volunteers with the California Escrow Association. participating on the education and membership committees, recruiting members and sharing her industry knowledge.

     Michelle Hickin Volunteering 6   Michelle Hickin Volunteering 3

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

PSAR Announces Its 2026/27 Board of Directors and Officers

Posted by PSAR Communication on Jun 27, 2025 11:01:14 PM

2026 President-Elect
Jim O'Donnell

11


2026 Secretary / Treasurer
Michael Dullea

Michael Dullea


The Election Winners for the 2026/2027 Director Term

Jaimie Kurtz
Jaimie Kurtz

Alma CooganAlma Coogan

Monica Greenwood
Monica Greenwood

Jim Long
Jim Long

Mike ShenkmanMike Shenkman

 

The 2025 Board of Directors and Officers will remain and serve PSAR until December 31st, 2025.

Your Board of Directors Team for 2026

Claudia Zaker, 2026 President

Jim O'Donnell, 2026 President-Elect

Michael Dullea, 2026 Secretary-Treasurer

Yvonne Cromer, Immediate Past President

Mike Anderson, 2025/2026 Director

Robert Cromer, 2025/2026 Director

David Fletes, 2025/2026 Director

Valerie Gardner, 2025/2026 Director

Oscar Vega, 2025/2026 Director

Jamie Kurtz, 2026/2027 Director

Alma Coogan, 2026/2027 Director

Monica Greenwood, 2026/2027 Director

Jim Long, 2026/2027 Director

Mike Shenkman, 2026/2027 Director

Phana Par, 2025/2026 Affiliate Director

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

Thank you to those who were nominated to lead PSAR. Great things are expected from the elected candidates and those serving on PSAR's committee leadership roster.

Topics: Leadership

Good Neighbor: Kenny Patrick – A Voice for the Community

Posted by Communications on Jun 3, 2025 9:08:43 AM

Kenny PatrickKenny Patrick has spent most of their life in San Diego and can't imagine living and thriving anywhere else. Driven by a deep-rooted sense of community, Kenny engages in various ways to give back. Connection to community, paired with a commitment to service, has earned Kenny the right to be known as a standout Good Neighbor Award finalist for the first quarter of 2025. Kenny’s involvement knows few bounds and stretches across organizations and neighborhoods, always striving to make life better for others.

When the Youth Assistance Coalition was launched (YACSD.org is an organization supporting homeless youth in San Diego), Kenny was among the first to step in. Through volunteering, donating personally, and procuring outside donations, Kenny helped extend vital services to an underserved and vulnerable population. In the iconic Normal Heights neighborhood (where Kenny lives), you'll find Kenny being of service as a board member on the Normal Heights Community Planning Group, working to ensure that local voices are represented. This commitment evolved into the role of Chairperson of the (not yet open) Normal Heights Community Garden. You'll often find Kenny walking door-to-door, sharing important community information with residents who can’t always attend meetings. Kenny is also a board member with a preschool called Includ(Ed) - serving non-neurotypical and neurotypical children. Growing IncludEdSD.org into a self-sustaining preschool is one of the most rewarding and challenging things Kenny will ever do.

Kenny Patrick is more than a neighbor - you'll experience Kenny as a connector, an advocate, and a steady presence in civic spaces that shape the future of San Diego communities. Employing thoughtful local leadership skills ensures that diverse perspectives are placed squarely in front of elected San Diego officials. Vulnerable community members of San Diego will always have a voice because of Kenny and many others with similar passions for civic equity. By modeling inclusive, proactive involvement, Kenny reminds us that being a good neighbor means showing up, speaking out, and helping everyone feel like they belong.

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Good Neighbor: Amy Saflar - A leader of Community and Heritage

Posted by Communications on Jun 2, 2025 11:16:09 AM

The Alpine Woman’s Club stands as a cornerstone of Alpine's community spirit, dedicated to fostering social, civic, educational, and cultural advancement. At its heart beats the Historic Town Hall, a cherished symbol of heritage and unity, meticulously preserved through the tireless efforts of volunteers like Amy Saflar.

Good Neighbor Amy SaflarSince 2012, Amy Saflar has been at the forefront of the Alpine Woman’s Club's mission, serving as Grant Administrator and Secretary with unwavering dedication. Her pivotal role has not only expanded the club’s membership and fundraising prowess but has also raised over $140,000 in vital funds. Amy’s commitment extends far beyond administrative duties; she actively participates in fundraisers, monthly activities, and chairs luncheons, all while spearheading initiatives that have significantly bolstered the club's impact in the community.

Amy’s influence transcends financial contributions; she embodies the spirit of community through her generosity and hands-on support. From providing cash donations to supplying food for events and donating household goods, Amy's contributions have ensured the success of numerous endeavors, including the Annual High Tea and Attic Treasures Sale.

Amy Saflar7Central to Amy's impact is her proficiency in securing crucial funding through grant writing initiatives. Her strategic approach has facilitated essential maintenance of the Historic Town Hall and enabled necessary upgrades to ensure accessibility and aesthetic appeal for all visitors.

Beyond her organizational prowess, Amy's inclusive leadership has fostered a culture of engagement within the club, encouraging diversity and community involvement. Her efforts have strengthened the bonds among members and preserved the Historic Town Hall as a vital hub for community gatherings and celebrations.

Amy Saflar's steadfast commitment to the Alpine Woman’s Club and the preservation of the Historic Town Hall exemplifies the power of individual initiative in enhancing community life. Her contributions ensure that Alpine remains a place where heritage thrives and community spirit flourishes.

Amy Saflar and the Alpine Woman's Club

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Good Neighbor: Doreen Smith – Champion for Senior Dogs at Frosted Faces Foundation

Posted by Communications on May 29, 2025 8:59:07 AM

Doreen Smith

 

Doreen Smith has made it her mission to ensure that senior dogs are not forgotten. As a dedicated volunteer for Frosted Faces Foundation (FFF), a nonprofit organization that provides loving homes and comprehensive veterinary care for aging pets, Doreen’s compassion has become a lifeline for many dogs in need. Her ongoing commitment has earned her a well-deserved place as one of the first-quarter Good Neighbor Award finalists.

Frosted Faces Foundation relies on community support to carry out its mission, and Doreen’s involvement touches nearly every part of the organization. She regularly volunteers her time atDoreen Smith 4 events and open houses, fosters and adopts senior dogs - five so far - and contributes both funds and supplies to help meet the foundation’s needs. Doreen also uses her voice to spread awareness, promoting FFF’s cause on social media, sponsoring their local chamber membership, and encouraging others to get involved. Thanks to her efforts, more volunteers have stepped forward, and more people in the community now understand the critical need to support senior pets.

Doreen Smith 5Doreen’s dedication to Frosted Faces Foundation has had a lasting impact on both the organization and the dogs it serves. Her generosity, advocacy, and hands-on support exemplify what it means to be a good neighbor. Through her work, Doreen has helped ensure that many senior dogs find comfort, care, and companionship in their golden years, showing that it’s never too late for a second chance at love.

 

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Here is the Board Slate of Nominees for 2026/2027

Posted by PSAR Communication on May 23, 2025 10:00:00 AM

blogbanner_PSAR_Election_Slate_2026
The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® Nominating Committee and the Board of Directors respectfully submit the following slate for the 2026/2027 Officers and Directors Annual Election. Elections will begin electronically on June 20th and end on June 27th at 5 p.m..

President-Elect
Jim O'Donnell

Secretary / Treasurer
Michael Dullea

Directors (Vote for 5 Two-Year Seats)
Alma Coogan
Monica Greenwood
Jaimie Kurtz Prowse
Jim Long
Mike Shenkman
Abraham Vargas
___________________________________________

Elections will begin on the morning of June 20th and end on June 27th at 5 p.m.

 

Topics: Leadership

Congratulations to 2024 Good Neighbor Award winner: Jexsi Grey

Posted by Communications on May 16, 2025 4:26:35 PM

Good Neighbor Jexsi GreyAfter serving in the U.S. Air Force in a role focused on nuclear weapons, Jexsi Grey faced a difficult return to civilian life, which led to two years of homelessness, living in hotel rooms and his car. This period of adversity deeply sensitized him to the struggles faced by unhoused individuals. With support from local nonprofits, Jexsi regained stability, sparking a profound commitment to give back to his community. Today, he stands as a dedicated housing advocate and collaborator within regional and statewide organizations, focusing on housing equity, homelessness solutions, and tenant empowerment.

Good Neighbor Jexsi Grey HumbleAs a Board Member and Community Collaborator at Humble Design, Jexsi provides strategic direction and governance oversight. His efforts include board recruitment, member onboarding, performance evaluations, and aligning national and local strategies. He actively engages in fundraising and expanding community partnerships to bolster program sustainability. Additionally, in his role as Landlord Liaison for the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative (Townspeople), Jexsi leads initiatives to secure shared housing opportunities by cultivating relationships with landlords and property owners. He facilitates tenant move-ins, matches roommates, resolves landlord-tenant issues, and provides education on fair housing and rental best practices. Jexsi maintains a comprehensive database of available units to streamline placement and reduce housing barriers for vulnerable populations.

jexsi Grey homelessnessJexsi's volunteer work with Humble Design San Diego has been transformative, converting empty spaces into fully furnished, personalized homes for those transitioning out of homelessness. His advisory board membership, informed by his personal experience, ensures each home restores dignity and promotes emotional well-being. His contributions have significantly contributed to the program's success, evidenced by a remarkable 98% housing retention rate. His role in the Shared Housing Palooza campaign, which aimed to house 75 individuals through shared housing solutions, was pivotal. Through strategic engagement and advocacy, Jexsi helped surpass expectations, with 69 people securing housing—a 92% achievement of the campaign's goal. His dedication to humanizing the experience of homelessness and forging partnerships has strengthened San Diego's capacity to provide sustainable housing solutions, showcasing the impact of compassionate advocacy and innovative thinking.
jexsi Grey Panel-1

 

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

2026 PSAR/CAR Board of Directors annual nominations process has begun!

Posted by PSAR Communication on Apr 4, 2025 9:00:00 AM

PSAR Board of Directors Nominating Period
PSAR Board of Directors & CAR Director 2026 / 2027 Nominations

What is the ideal profile of an Officer or Director?

  • An experienced agent or broker manager who will represent PSAR's members.
  • Has specific skills that will help our organization be more relevant in today's marketplace
  • A desire to “give back” to the REALTOR® community 
  • Has the ability to guide others in developing their leadership capabilities
  • A community volunteer who inspires others to contribute their time as well
  • A strong belief in PSAR and the willingness to contribute to its greater success

As a PSAR director, you will have the opportunity to work with influential and highly capable industry and community leaders. Board members are the face of the organization and are industry leaders as well.  Our Board members expand their network, grow in professional stature, and influence initiatives that empower REALTORS®.  Join an elite team of real estate leaders and be a difference-maker in your Association.

Becoming an Officer or Director.

PSAR's Nominating Committee is seeking nominees for:

  • President-Elect
  • Secretary/Treasurer
  • Director (There are 5 Director positions available)

    Deadline for Submission of Nomination: April 30th (5 PM). Send the nomination forms to ceo@psar.org

 

______________________________________________________________

 

Are you interested in becoming a Director of the California Association of REALTORS® representing PSAR in 2026?

  • Are you active in the Real Estate industry?
  • Are you a successful agent, manager, or Broker/Owner?
  • Are you active in residential resale, commercial sales, or property management?
  • Have you served at least one year on a PSAR committee?

    This is an opportunity to leverage your knowledge and experience to make a difference!

    Deadline for Submission of nomination: April 30th (5 PM). Send the nomination forms to ceo@psar.org

 

Topics: Leadership