2006 Good Neighbor Award Recipient, David Willette

The Berkshire County Board of REALTORS® proudly announces that David Willette of RCI Real Estate in North Adams has been named the Berkshire’s ‘GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD WINNER’ for his outstanding contributions to the community. David has earned this title through his good works for three charitable organizations in northern Berkshire; The “Just Play” Hoop League, Habitat for Humanity and North Adams Little League.

Nine years ago David founded the organization, “Just Play” Hoop League, a before school basketball program for fourth and fifth graders. This program encompasses all North Adams and Clarksburg elementary schools involving 150 children. The basketball league started as an informal gathering of kids at lunchtime and the teachers noted that the kids were more attentive in class after moving about and getting rid of some excess energy kids are known to have in great supply. The League evolved, now involving 4-5 schools and 6-7 teams and is a before school semi-competitive league. It is more than just a pick-up game – it instills pride and sense of belonging to those children involved, it gives them a safe place to go before school and fosters confidence and teamwork. And it’s great exercise too!

David is also actively involved in the North Adams Little League, where he organizes, schedules and trains the umpires for the League. He also serves as an umpire himself and works over 100 hours a year for the group, while soliciting volunteers to donate another 150 per year.

The Habitat for Humanity is a familiar organization that provides home ownership to those who couldn’t otherwise afford it. David attends the general Board Meetings and serves on the site location committee, spending approximately 40 hours a year serving this worthwhile organization. Some of those who wrote to us in honor of David’s hard work and contributions:

David’s name has also been submitted to the Massachusetts Association of REALTORS for their consideration in determining the three ‘Massachusetts Good Neighbor Award Winners’. This honor is awarded to only three Realtors across the state, out of over 15,000 members. Their awards banquet is held each year to recognize the achievements of the Good Neighbors, Realtor of the Year and Outstanding Educator.