Mike Ford

Formed in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks in New York City, the REALTOR® Relief Foundation was founded to support the families of those affected by that disaster. This year, 20 years later, Mike Ford leads an organization that has expanded to support victims of disasters all over the country, paying out $33 million in aid to assist 17,000 families in the aftermath of hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires and more. A dedicated professional with a huge heart, Ford led critical fundraising efforts in 2021, marking the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 tragedy as well as guiding the Foundation through an incredibly demanding time period, navigating the pandemic, an active hurricane season and other large-scale challenges.

Known as a truly inspirational leader, Ford was the exact right person for a difficult job that demanded a great deal of empathy, carrying the Foundation to tremendous heights this year.