Corporate Partner Spotlight: Sherry Rahnama

In our monthly Corporate Partner Spotlight, we speak with corporate leaders about what inspires them to serve as advocates and ambassadors for children’s health. This month, we spoke with Sherry Rahnama, CEO of RE/MAX Executives. Sherry owns six RE/MAX offices in northern Virginia.

Sherry is a native of Fairfax, Virginia and has lived in the area throughout her life. She has 14-year-old twin boys. For more than 20 years, Sherry has supported Children’s National Hospital through RE/MAX’s work with Children’s Miracle Network. She believes deeply in the power of philanthropy to make children’s lives better.

 

Why do you support Children’s National as a member of the Corporate Advisory Council?

 

I am honored to be a part of the Corporate Advisory Council and in awe of how many amazing people are on the council, dedicating their time to support children in our area.

 

I am passionate about children’s causes and give in many ways. I consider my own children to be miracles because of the health issues I’ve faced. Being part of the Corporate Advisory Council at Children’s National is one way I can give back.

 

As a parent, what does it mean to you to support the patients and families of Children’s National?

 

I saw my mom dealing with my brother’s asthma when he was younger, so I know what a struggle health issues can be for a family. But it really hits your heart differently when you become a parent. You cannot imagine what it would be like to deal with your child living with cancer or another serious illness. It really puts life in perspective, and it moves me to see how strong these families are. I think we should do anything we can do to make their lives easier and supporting Children’s National is an excellent way to do just that. 

Can you tell us about the Miracle Home program?

 

The Miracle Home program was established by RE/MAX and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals as an easy way for RE/MAX agents to donate to their local children’s hospital. It is such a great program that has raised than $185 million over 30 years. RE/MAX agents have the opportunity to donate a portion of their commission after each closed transaction to their local children’s hospital on behalf of their client. A card gets mailed to their client letting them know their agent has made a donation in their honor. Our agents are incredibly fortunate and closings give them the chance to donate a substantial amount back. It also is a great marketing tool. It makes homeowners feel good knowing that a portion of their home’s closing went toward helping children, and it helps agents feel good about their generosity. The fact that the money powers philanthropy within their communities makes it an even bigger win. 

Children’s National is currently looking for support for its Reason to Believe campaign, with RE/MAX matching donations up to $100,000 through 12/31. What would you tell someone who is considering making a gift this holiday season?

 

The holiday season through the end of the year is a great time to give. Many of us are extremely blessed. Your donation to Children’s National makes sure that others can share in that blessing. With a match from RE/MAX, your gift will be twice as effective. These kids and their families need it, and it will go a long way.

Children’s National is also continuing its follow the leader campaign. What role can business leaders play in the success of our campaign and the hospital?

 

As a leader, it’s your job to lead by example. It’s important to show people what Children’s National can do for children and their families through the campaign. If we don’t raise awareness, then people might miss what’s happening to better the lives of children in their community and kids around the world.

What lessons have you learned from your time partnering with the hospital?

 

I’ve seen the difference donations make and how philanthropy changes lives. That impact was apparent to me earlier this year on my tour of the Children’s National Research & Innovation Campus. It blew my mind to see all that is happening at this new campus and the progress researchers are making in pediatric health. I feel like since they are dedicating their lives to taking on the complicated science, we need to provide the funds to help them develop cures. It doesn’t have to be a big donation like $25,000. The beauty is that you can make a $25 donation. It all adds up, and it really does help.