As we enter into the heart of the holiday season and we are surrounded by reminders of the spirit of giving, we should not forget what that implies; namely, that there are so many in need.

At Intero, we have always strived to create a different kind of real estate company – a company that focused on more than corporate profits and selling houses, one that endeavors to create an atmosphere that allows its people to continuously grow personally and professionally.

A center point of that philosophy is the Intero Foundation. We understand the universal law that you “must give in order to receive.” And by that we mean contributing to our communities. One of our core values is commitment, and we therefore take great pride in belonging to a company in which everyone is encouraged to donate to the Intero Foundation. We earn our living by serving our community and this gives us an opportunity to give back to them.

As a company and as individuals participation in the Intero Foundation allows us all to serve the communities we live and work in. It also serves as a foundation of leadership. Empowered by Intero agents and employees, the Intero Foundation has given over $1.9 million in grants to nonprofit organizations that support children in need. In 2011 alone, over $200,000 was granted to organizations benefitting children in need.

Another center point of the “must give in order to receive” philosophy is Intero’s business partner, Cause Insurance Services. Cause Insurance Services, LLC is the first ’cause-driven’ insurance brokerage firm in the United States. Based in San Francisco, California, they are focused on providing a broad range of insurance products and services to the consumer and commercial marketplace. They work with the country’s leading insurance carriers to deliver the world’s first cause-driven insurance platform. Their clients are provided with the best insurance at competitive pricing, and, at the same time, giving to the charity of their choice. 20% of their commissions earned are forwarded to the client’s charity, in the client’s name.

In partnership with their charity sponsors, clients and ambassadors, their mission is to ‘change the world one policy at a time.’ The Company believes their pioneering approach will provide a new source of annual giving for the clients of Cause Insurance Services and the charities that they support. This will create a unique platform upon which to build a stronger community.

Cause Insurance Services as well as Intero and its agents have always believed in the importance of giving back to communities in which we serve, and 2011 was a perfect example of ‘paying it forward.’

In his book The Other Side of Leadership, Eugene B. Hacker writes, “The true leader serves. Serves people. Serves their best interests, and in doing so will not always be popular, may not always impress. But because true leaders are motivated by loving concern, than a desire for personal glory, they are willing to pay the price.”

As we give without expecting to receive – be amazed how the universe will reward your generosity.