The Greater Metropolitan Association of Realtors® (GMAR), a local trade group representing over 8,400 Realtors® across metro Detroit, recently awarded The Good Neighbors Garden with a placemaking grant of $850.

“It’s often said, ‘Realtors® sell communities, not just homes or properties,’ and at GMAR, we believe that to be true. When buyers come to Realtors® in search of their new homes, one of the first things they consider about where to look is sometimes largely based on if there‘s a sense of community,” said James Iodice, President of GMAR.

“The Good Neighbors Garden project in Ferndale is a great example of community partners coming together. We are grateful to GMAR for its willingness to help see this project come to fruition. They will provide the funding for materials, and friends of the garden will construct phase II of a perimeter fence,” said Anita Rubin, a GMAR Realtor® member.

“GMAR’s Placemaking Grants are really unique because they help foster an environment where collaboration, from the bottom-up, can create vibrant gathering places,” said Vickey Livernois, Chief Executive Officer of GMAR. “Ferndale has worked diligently to be an attractive community for buyers who are looking for a place to belong. This effort is an ideal placemaking project for us because it’s creative and helps instill a greater sense of place amongst Ferndale residents.”

To find out more information on the program or to apply for a grant, visit www.gmaronline.com/placemaking.