YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Youngstown Columbiana Association of Realtors will host a fair housing continuing education class and networking event, supported by a $3,000 Fair Housing Grant from the National Association of Realtors.
The class is intended to promote fair housing education and community development in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties and will be held from 1-4:15 p.m. Oct. 28 at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Austintown.
“Realtors know that fair housing is foundational to a healthy real estate market and strong communities. Education and training play a critical role in upholding housing laws, addressing bias and ensuring that all qualified buyers and renters are treated with dignity and fairness,” said Teresa Berick, 2026 YCAR president. “By leveraging this grant, YCAR is investing in the knowledge, tools and partnership needed to advance fair housing principles in the community.”
Following the class, the YCAR Young Professionals Network will host a Halloween-themed speed-networking event from 5-7 p.m. to help bridge the gap between real estate agents and local businesses.
“Initiatives like our YPN Halloween speed-networking and fair housing event reflect a Realtor’s role beyond the transaction,” said Joy Batley, 2026 YCAR president-elect. “By investing in education, accountability and advocacy efforts, we help to ensure housing access to all and to strengthen confidence in the real estate profession.”
The $3,000 grant award was made through the National Association of Realtors’ Community Development Advocacy program, which empowers Realtor associations to strengthen their communities through effective advocacy, partnerships and on-the-ground initiatives.