REALTORS® in the Community: Faith Steller

Volunteering in the community can be a great way for REALTORS® to network, but for many, this is just one small perk of giving back. For those like REALTOR® Faith Steller, being involved in the Lansing community comes from a deep love of the place she has called home her entire life.

Steller, an agent with RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals, said volunteering was a big part of her family’s history.

“It all started with my grandfather, who moved to Grand Ledge in the 60s and opened up a photography studio,” she said. “He loved being a part of the community and dressed up as Uncle Sam in the holiday parade. My mother was also constantly looking for ways to help. She took me to volunteer at the very first Common Ground Music Festival, and I have been volunteering ever since.”

Steller grew up close to Old Town and is particularly supportive of the area. She volunteers at the Festival of the Sun & Moon and has spent the past 4-5 years working with the Old Town Scrap Fest, where teams collect hundreds of pounds of scrap metal and turn it into works of art. The unique sculptures are auctioned off and a portion of the proceeds is donated to the Old Town Commercial Association.

“When I was growing up, Old Town was not the little gem it is today,” she said. “I have loved being involved in these community activities that have helped the area grow into this amazing art and cultural hub.”

Steller is also heavily involved in the Capital City Film Festival and the Turner Street Outdoor Theater, which provides family-friendly outdoor movies in the summer.

“It’s amazing to see the impact these activities have on local families,” she said. “Just watching a kid’s eyes light up as they watch a movie outside on this huge screen…it’s really heartwarming to see the community taking part and enjoying these events.”

Earlier this year, Steller and her fellow members of the Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS® took part in the first annual “Neighborhoods in Bloom” event, which was sponsored by the City of Lansing in an effort to beautify communities across the city. She was also heavily involved in this year’s Greater Lansing Balloon Festival, which benefited the scholarship program, Lansing Promise.

“I am a big advocate for the Lansing Promise program,” she said. “I attended Lansing schools, and I know there is work to be done there. As an individual, I may not have much of a direct impact, but I can spread awareness, provide information and encourage others to help promote the great opportunities Lansing is offering.”

Steller says it’s important for all area residents to be involved, but feels it can be especially beneficial for REALTORS®.

“It’s a wonderful way to meet new people and really interact with your clientele,” she said. “By engaging with the community you will have a better understanding of the area and the people you helping to buy or sell their homes. Even if you just give a few weekends a year, just that little bit of time spent volunteering can really make a big impact.”