After a 26-year career in the banking industry and moving across the country, Dick Brown decided to settle down in Calgary and become a REALTOR®.  That was in 1981 when the real estate market in the city had a downward trend that lasted five years, so even though it wasn’t easy at the start, Brown didn’t give up.  

Having built a successful and rewarding career as a REALTOR®, Brown undoubtedly wanted to give back to his community, and a friend encouraged him to volunteer at Calgary Meals on Wheels. This not-for-profit organization provides affordable and nutritious meals to all Calgarians who need them.

“I was inspired by the idea of providing meals for the elderly who wanted to remain in their own home,” says Brown, who was named Calgary Meals on Wheels Volunteer of the Year in 2011.

The charity has also provided meals through programs such as Going Home, where seniors can recover after a stay in the hospital in the comfort of their home and receive lunch and dinner for 30 days at no cost, as well as their school program, which in 2022 provided 700,000 nutritious meals to school-aged children experiencing food insecurity. 

“The benefits and paybacks, while not monetary, are excellent,” Brown adds.

As an established Calgary REALTOR®, Brown also took his volunteering and commitment to philanthropy to the next level.

At his client appreciation parties, he incorporated silent auctions in which the proceeds were directed to Calgary Meals on Wheels.

For the past 25 years, Brown’s client appreciation parties and fundraisers have contributed over $600,000 that helped pay Calgary Meals on Wheel’s new building’s mortgage and supported their state-of-the-art 16,000 sq ft kitchen, among other things.

These fundraisers have built memories that he will not only always cherish but that have made a significant impact in addressing food insecurity and helping individuals and families thrive.

“Seeing my family helping out and my wife singing at many of these events were specific moments I will never forget,” Brown says.

His commitment and fundraising efforts towards Calgary Meals on Wheels earned him the REMAX Community Care Award for Western Canada.

His advice for REALTORS® who wish to contribute to their communities but don’t know where to start? Take it slow.

“When the time is right, start slow and gradually become passionate about the charity you choose,” he says. “Work hard, be kind, and give back…that makes a person feel successful.”

As for his plans for the future, Brown wants to keep supporting Calgary Meals on Wheels. 

“We’re all set to concentrate on what we do for another 20 years,” he says.

“I will continue to stay in the loop, knowing that my efforts to help my clients and Meals on Wheels will carry on as long as I can, and to strive to stay healthy, be happy and enjoy every day.”