The Rockford Area REALTORS® is putting its collective community spirit toward helping two local charities that benefit children this month, the Walter Lawson Children’s Home and Rock House Kids.

Members gathered for a Holiday Open House and Candy Cane Ball on Dec. 10 at the Rockford offices, 6776 E. State St. and collected $472 to be split evenly between the two organizations. The amount included $250 from the Rockford Young Professionals Network. A box of batteries was given to the Walter Lawson Children’s Home and a box of winter hats, gloves and socks was delivered to Rock House Kids.

Rock House Kids provides a safe, warm and nurturing environment for at-risk children, ages 5 to 18, in Rockford’s inner city. The non-profit organization teaches manners, offers educational field trips, offers purity classes, counsels against gang involvement and serves hot meals. Christmas presents are given to children at a special party in December.

The Walter Lawson Children’s Home provides assistance and service to persons with intellectual disabilities. The staff serves non-ambulatory individuals with severe and profound developmental disabilities.

Officers of the Rockford Area Association of REALTORS® are: Association Executive Steve Bois, President Alisa Patterson-Orozco, President-Elect Larry Holen and Secretary/Treasurer Karl Gasbarra.