Member Spotlight: Karen Willison nominated for the 2026 Canadian REALTORS Care® Award

COLLINGWOOD, ON, APRIL 16, 2026 — OnePoint is proud to recognize Member Karen Willison, Sales Representative with Royal LePage Locations North in Collingwood, on her nomination for the 2026 Canadian REALTORS Care® Award.

In 2025, Karen and her team, KW Collaborative Real Estate & Associates, hosted their first major hospital fundraising event and raised just over $100,000 in support of Meaford General Hospital and the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital. As their first large-scale event of its kind, it marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to growing that impact in the years ahead.

We recently connected with Karen to learn more.

Can you share a bit about your fundraising efforts over the years?

“Giving back has always been part of who I am. Over my 23 years as a REALTOR®, I’ve supported various organizations, contributing to approximately $1 million in donations. Slow and steady gets you there. Prior to real estate, alongside a close friend, Sylvie Raithier, we raised just over $6 million over an 11-year stretch through the Jimmie Heuga Snow Express for MS, a skiing event I brought to Canada in the late 1990s. I was raised by Bob and Pat Davey, who were deeply committed to supporting their communities, including Collingwood.”

What’s your plan or focus for this year?

“While the larger-scale events will take place every few years, we’re committed to ongoing support annually. This year, we’re continuing our pledge to donate $5,000 per year, for five years, to each hospital, while also finding smaller, meaningful ways to engage our clients and community throughout the year and every year. The focus is on consistency and long-term impact.”

Is there anything you’d like to share about your charitable work that Members might not know?

“One thing that might surprise people is how much collaboration goes into an event like this. From hospital foundations to local business owners, volunteers, and clients, it truly takes a community. We were fortunate to have a donated venue, discounted services, and a team willing to roll up their sleeves to make it all happen. It was a very hands-on, heartfelt effort.

You can also structure donations over multiple years. We chose $5,000 per year for five years for both hospitals, and many of our donors followed that model.

Our team, KW Collaborative Real Estate & Associates, covered all event costs so that 100% of donations went directly to the cause. Giving is also built into my business model. Donations are part of my annual budget, and contributions to the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation are automatically deducted from my commission. There are many ways to give back.”

How has your involvement in fundraising influenced your role as a REALTOR®?

“It has deepened my connection to the community in a very meaningful way. Real estate is ultimately about helping people, and going beyond achieving their real estate goals has been incredibly rewarding. It has strengthened relationships and allowed me to work alongside clients in a more impactful way.”

What would you say to Members who want to give back but aren’t sure where to start?“

“Start simple and don’t overcomplicate it. Reach out to a local organization you care about and ask how you can help. They are often very willing to guide you. You don’t need to start with a large event. Even small contributions or partnerships can make a big difference. The key is to begin.”

What keeps you motivated, and how do you find the time to continue this work?

“The motivation comes from pure pride and joy in knowing the impact these contributions have on our local healthcare system and the people who rely on it. Seeing the community come together is incredibly inspiring. As for time, it’s about having the right team and planning ahead. We began organizing our event six months in advance, and everyone contributed based on their strengths. When you have that kind of support, it becomes much more manageable. Every dollar counts!”

About the award

Each year, REALTORS® from across Canada are recognized through the Canadian REALTORS Care® Award, proudly presented by REALTOR.ca. The award celebrates those who go beyond their role as a REALTOR® to make meaningful contributions to the health and well-being of their communities. Karen was one of 48 REALTORS® nominated nationwide. The 2026 recipient was Sue Heddle of Oakville, Ontario, recognized for her work advancing reconciliation by expanding opportunities for Canadian youth.

What’s next from OnePoint At OnePoint, we’re proud to support Members who go above and beyond to make a difference. We’re also excited to soon launch Impactful Giving For REALTORS®, as part of Brand Boost, an initiative designed to provide tools and resources that help Members connect and support with their communities through meaningful engagement and charitable involvement. Stay tuned!