This winter, brokers from the local commercial real estate industry will unite and compete in raising money to help at risk children in Arizona. Brokers for Kids is a year-long fundraising effort, hosted by the Scottsdale 20/30, involving teams created by Valley commercial real estate market. The effort culminates with the Brokers for Kids annual event which will be held this year on Friday, February 15, 2013 at Tempe Beach Park at Tempe Town Lake.

Throughout the year, brokers along with other industry professionals raise money through various fundraising efforts for Boys Hope Girls Hope. Boys Hope Girls Hope is non-profit that provides scholarships to underprivileged kids in both community-based and residency-based programs, ensuring a good education and a start towards a college education.

“It’s truly an amazing charity that helps academically capable and motivated children in need to meet their full potential,” said Brokers for Kids Chariman Ben Hawkins. “We help these children succeed by providing value-centered family-like homes, better opportunities and education through college.”

Last year, Brokers for Kids raised more than $242,000 for Boys Hope Girls Hope. Their goal is to raise $300,000 in 2013. A percentage of the fundraising dollars is also donated to the charity of choice of the Broker’s Cup winner.

On February 15, the coveted Broker’s Cup is awarded to the top fundraising team. The teams will also participate in the Olympiad Championship, a fun day of games and spirited competitions at Tempe Town Lake. They will compete in a quarterback challenge, volleyball, basketball, baggo, and bocce games. Sponsorship opportunities are available for this day-long event.

The Scottsdale 20-30 partnered with Valley Toyota Dealers and is raffling a 2013 vehicle to drive fundraising efforts leading up to the event. Raffle tickets are now on sale and the drawing for the Toyota will occur during the Olympiad on February 15 which is open to the public.

“Every dollar counts and without the tremendous support of the commercial real estate community, this event would never have become what it is today,” said Hawkins.

For more information on Brokers for Kids, the Scottsdale 20/30 organization, sponsorship opportunities or to purchase raffles tickets, visit www.scottsdale2030.org/brokersforkids.html