News from the Chicago Chapter

People and Businesses Recognized for Contributions Made to Help Overcome Pandemic Challenges at IREM Chicago Virtual Awards of Excellence

More than 100 Participated in Online Event April 22

CHICAGO – Acts of generosity, resourcefulness, commitment, and dedication by individuals and companies in the months following the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 were recognized during the IREM Chicago Awards of Excellence, a virtual event held the afternoon of April 22.

IREM Chicago members, Industry Partners and guests gathered via zoom for a two-hour presentation that featured the acknowledgement ceremony, announcement of raffle prize winners, a craft cocktail demonstration, and networking through online breakout rooms. More than 100 participated in the event, which included live and recorded segments.

Steve Schimmel, CPM®, IREM Chicago 2021 President, welcomed participants and thanked the many sponsors for their support and the work of the organizing committee.

“I am so happy to be here tonight and proud that we are able to get together, no matter how,” he noted. Steve also introduced special guest Barry Blanton, CPM®, the 2021 IREM national President-Elect who joined from his home in Seattle. Barry commended members for their dedication and service on behalf of tenants and staff over the past year and pointed out the value of the IREM network during the challenges brought on by the pandemic.

Recognition of excellence was given to the following:

1. Participants in the IREM Foundation Fun Run: A total of 60 took part in the November event, which raised $1,000 for the Foundation.

2. Kurstie Butcher, ARM®, Draper and Kramer: In her work, Kurstie exemplified the traits and qualities consistent with the Accredited Residential Manager certification.

3. Tasha Rush, ARM®, Greenleaf Apartments: As property manager, Tasha partnered with DuPage Township to bring COVID-19 vaccines to more than 300 senior residents.

4. Kelli Stuart, CPM®, of 1350 N. Lake Short Dr.: Kelli incorporated a wide range of safety protocols for the more than 740 residents of the Gold Coast high-rise apartment property.

5. First Services Residential, AMO®:  The company developed a robust operation plan and communication guide ahead of the governor’s first stay at home order and introduced the COVID-19 Property Operations Resource Guidebook onoperational directions.

6. USA Fire Protection: Outreach over the past year included the Habitat for Humanity women’s build, securing and delivering meals to local hospital staff at the peak of the pandemic, the design, engineering and materials for the new fire sprinkler system at the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels, and sponsorship in the 5K Fun Run.

7. Christina Vera Hunt, of Habitat Company:Cristina and her team worked to ensure residents of senior affordable housing properties were educated and had access to the COVID-19 vaccine. To date, nearly 550 residents from several senior affordable housing properties have received the vaccine.

Along with Steve, these IREM Chicago leaders participated in the event:

During the mixology demonstration, bartender Juliette Campos guided participants on preparing a BBQ Old Fashioned cocktail and responded to questions presented by participants.