REBNY urges members to aid Tsunami victims.

The beginning of the year brought an appeal from the Real Estate Board of New York to aid the victims of the worst natural disaster of modern times.

"The unimaginable Tsunami in Asia requires all people to assist in what is likely to be the most expensive recovery and relief effort in history," wrote REBNY president, Steve Spinola in a letter to members.

While many companies and individuals in the real estate industry have launched their own fundraising efforts, Spinola explained that many REBNY members had approached the Board suggesting it reach out to its entire membership for financial contributions for the monumental task.

"This past year was a very good year for our members, our industry and our city" he wrote in his appeal. "I ask you to share a small portion of that goof fortune by making a contribution to the REBNY Foundation, The Tsunami Fund."

All of the proceed of the Fund will be given to one or more of the leading relief organizations to help the estimated five million men, women and children who have lost their loved ones and find themselves without shelter, food and medical care.

"I know I can count on our industry's generosity; it always responds to the many cultural, medical and social institutions in our city," wrote Spinola.

"Today, we need to send a sign of that generosity to help feed, clothe, shelter and care for the millions of victims half way around the world.

"I urge you to start off 2005 with a meaningful contribution to this effort."

Checks can be made payable to the REBNY Foundation, The Tsunami Fund, Real Estate Board of New York, 570 Lexington Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10022.