Please select a Committee to learn more.

The following are the Standing Committees currently accepting applications, in alphabetical order:

 

  Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee

Mission: To foster a culture within the Association and the real estate industry that values and promotes fairness, representation, and belonging. This committee works to ensure every member feels welcomed, respected, and empowered. Members of this committee:

• Identify and address barriers to equity within the industry and the Association.

• Promote inclusive practices in leadership, membership, and programming.

• Develop educational opportunities and partnerships that reflect the diversity of our communities.

• Oversee the Agent of Change Designation, the Emerging Achiever Scholarship Program, and the annual DEI-focused event.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attendance at DEI Committee events (3 hours/year), and possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) | Community Engagement

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  Education Committee

Mission: To advance the professional development of HCAR's members by ensuring access to relevant, impactful learning opportunities, as well as continuing education courses for Maryland license renewal. This committee is responsible for identifying educational needs, shaping course offerings, and supporting programming that helps REALTORS® stay informed, competitive, and compliant in a rapidly evolving industry. Members of this committee:

• Review and recommend continuing education topics, instructors, and formats offered regularly at the HCAR office as well as during the Annual Conference.

• Help to develop and promote innovative training programs and workshops.

• Ensure course offerings align with current market trends, legal requirements, and member interests.

• Monitor the REALTOR® Business Development Program.

• Collaborate with the YPN Committee on CE and monthly Happy Hour speakers and topics to support their offerings and avoid overlap.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Professional Development & Education

2026 Staff Liaison: Rita Williams

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  HCAR Cares Community Outreach Committee

Mission: In coordination with HCAR Cares, lead the Association’s efforts to give back, engage locally, and demonstrate REALTORS® as trusted community partners. This committee identifies meaningful opportunities for service, partnerships, and philanthropy that align with the Association’s values and the needs of the communities we serve. Committee members:

• Plan and execute volunteer events.

• Promote awareness of the REALTOR® brand through service and civic engagement.

• Encourage member participation in outreach efforts and foster a culture of giving back.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attend and support volunteer events (1 hour/month). Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Community Engagement

2026 Staff Liaison: Mikesa Ponder

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   Legislative Committee

Mission: Serve as the voice of the Association in the public policy arena, working to protect private property rights, promote homeownership, and advance REALTOR® interests at the local, state, and national levels. Committee members stay informed on legislative and regulatory issues, mobilize member advocacy, and help shape the Association’s policy priorities. Committee members:

• Monitor proposed legislation and public policy that affect the real estate industry.

• Advise the Board on positions to take on local and state issues and proposed laws.

• Organize grassroots advocacy efforts, including member calls for action and participation in Maryland REALTORS® Lobby Day.

• Collaborate with government officials, coalition partners, and Maryland REALTORS® on advocacy strategies.

• Educate members on how policy decisions impact their business and communities.

• During County Election Years, assist the RPAC Committee with Candidate Screenings.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. During the Legislative Session of the Maryland General Assembly (January-April), this committee meets weekly, on Monday mornings (2 hours/week). The committee meets monthly for the remainder of the year (1 hour/month). Committee members commit to attending Maryland REALTORS® Lobby Day (6 hours/year), HCAR Legislative Events (3 hours/year), and legislative hearings as needed (3 hours/year).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Advocacy & Government Affairs

2026 Staff Liaison: Louie Lujan

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   Preferred Partner Outreach Committee

Mission: Serve as a dynamic bridge between REALTOR® members and the Association’s valued Preferred Partners – businesses and service providers who support the real estate industry. This committee focuses on building relationships, enhancing member value, and creating opportunities for engagement, visibility, and partnership. Committee members:

• Plan and support events that connect Preferred Partners and REALTORS®.

• Develop and oversee sponsorship opportunities and promotional benefits for Preferred Partners.

• Strengthen the Preferred Partner experience and foster a sense of belonging within the Association.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attend and support committee events (1 hour/month). Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Association Development | Education

2026 Staff Liaison: Danielle Jacob

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   RPAC Committee

Mission: Champion the REALTOR® voice in government by leading the Association’s efforts to raise awareness and secure voluntary investments in the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC). This committee plays a critical role in ensuring REALTORS® have a seat at the table on the issues that impact their business, clients, and communities. Committee members:

• Plan and promote fundraising campaigns and events.

• Educate members on the importance and impact of RPAC at the local, state, and national levels.

• Recognize and celebrate RPAC investors and major donors.

• Ensure and support compliance with fundraising rules and RPAC guidelines.

• Collaborate with the Legislative Committee to align messaging and outreach.

• During County Election years, serve as the Candidate Screening Committee, in collaboration with the Legislative Committee.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attend and support committee events (1 hour/month). Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Advocacy & Government Affairs

2026 Staff Liaison: Louie Lujan

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   Young Professionals Network Committee

Mission: Empower emerging leaders in real estate by fostering professional growth, community involvement, and meaningful connections. While "young" may be in the name, YPN is open to all REALTORS® and Preferred Partners who are young in their career, young at heart, or passionate about innovation and leadership. Committee members:

• Plan and host networking events, educational sessions, and leadership development opportunities, including monthly Networking Happy Hours.

• Build a welcoming and inclusive space for REALTORS® to share ideas and learn from one another.

• Champion the next generation of industry leaders by promoting engagement in Association activities.

• Collaborate with the Education Committee on CE and monthly Happy Hour speakers and topics to support their offerings and avoid overlap.

Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attend and support committee events (2 hours/month). Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Professional Development & Education

2026 Staff Liaison: Danielle Jacob

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The following are the Time-Limited Committees currently accepting applications, in alphabetical order:

 

   Conference Committee

Mission: Serve as the creative engine behind the Association’s annual conference – HCAR’s signature event designed to educate, inspire, and connect REALTORS®. This committee is responsible for shaping every aspect of the conference experience, from planning engaging sessions to creating memorable networking opportunities. Committee members:

• Develop the conference theme, agenda, and speaker lineup.

• Collaborate with the Education Committee on CE offerings.

• Coordinate event logistics, including venue, vendors, and sponsorships.

• Assist with marketing, promotion, and attendee engagement.

• Curate impactful content that reflects industry trends and member needs.

• Serve as a conference “Governor” and oversee on-site event execution to ensure a seamless experience.

Time Commitment: Meets monthly November through April, weekly in May, and weekly in June leading up to the conference, which is held June 8-12, 2026 (11 hours/year). Attends and volunteers at annual conference (8 hours/year).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Professional Development & Education

2026 Staff Liaison: Mikesa Ponder (Lead), Danielle Jacob, Rita Williams, Sarah Rayne

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   Fair Housing Committee

Mission: Promoting equity, access, and inclusion in housing by upholding and advancing the principles of the Fair Housing Act. This committee plays a vital role in educating members, raising public awareness, and fostering a real estate community that is committed to eliminating discrimination and ensuring equal opportunity for all. Committee members:

• Develop and support fair housing education and outreach initiatives.

• Promote compliance with federal, state, and local fair housing laws.

• Create programs and events for Fair Housing Month in April that highlight the importance of equitable housing practices.

• Coordinate with the Howard County Executive’s Office to ensure April is proclaimed as Fair Housing Month in Howard County.

Time Commitment: Meets monthly November through April, unless otherwise needed to plan Fair Housing Month activities for April (6 hours/year). Attends and volunteers at annual Fair Housing Month events (4 hours/year).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Community Engagement | Professional Development & Education

2026 Staff Liaison: Rita Williams

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The following is a list of Task Forces currently accepting applications, in alphabetical order:

 

 Broker Manager Task Force

Mission: Serve as a strategic advisory group composed of managing brokers and office leaders who provide insight, feedback, and recommendations on key issues impacting brokerages and the real estate industry at large. This time-limited task force helps the Association stay aligned with the evolving needs of brokers and supports efforts to strengthen broker engagement, communication, and value via broker-specific programming. Task Force members:

• Identify challenges and opportunities faced by brokerages in the current market.

• Provide feedback on Association programs, services, and advocacy priorities.

• Recommend strategies to enhance broker involvement and support.

• Collaborate on initiatives that foster professionalism, compliance, and office-level engagement.

Time Commitment: Meets twice per year, once in November and once in March (3 hours/year).

Eligibility: All HCAR brokers and managers in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Professional Development & Education | Association Development

2026 Staff Liaison: Sarah Rayne & Robin Lewis

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    Forms Task Force

Mission: Review, update, and improve the Association’s standard real estate forms to ensure they remain legally sound, user-friendly, and responsive to evolving industry practices. This committee works closely with staff and industry stakeholders to ensure forms protect both REALTORS® and consumers while promoting professionalism and compliance. Task Force members:

• Review existing forms for clarity, consistency, and legal accuracy.

• Recommend revisions or new forms based on market trends, member feedback, or regulatory changes.

• Educate members about form updates and proper usage.

• Serve as a resource for identifying practical challenges REALTORS® encounter in the field.

• Build and maintain relationship with Maryland REALTORS® Forms Committee.

Time Commitment: Meets once in November or December to review current forms and recommend changes, and then shifts to meeting as or if needed (4 hours/year).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Association Development

2026 Staff Liaison: Robin Lewis

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    Leadership Development Task Force

Mission: Identify, cultivate, and prepare the next generation of Association leaders. This task force plays a strategic role in ensuring the Association has a diverse, engaged, and well-prepared leadership pipeline to guide its future. Task force members:

• Evaluate current leadership pathways, training opportunities, and succession plans.

• Identify gaps or barriers to leadership participation and recommend solutions.

• Recommend new programs or selection processes that foster leadership growth.

• Promote inclusive leadership that reflects the diversity of the Association’s membership.

• Support a culture of empowerment, engagement, and long-term sustainability.

Time Commitment: Meets twice per year, once in November and once in March (3 hours/year)

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Association Development

2026 Staff Liaison: Sarah Rayne

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    Member Recruitment & Retention Task Force

Mission: Strengthen the Association’s membership base by developing and recommending initiatives that attract new members and deepen engagement with existing ones. This task force plays a critical role in ensuring the Association continues to grow, adapt, and provides meaningful value to its diverse membership. Task force members:

• Analyze membership trends, data, and feedback to identify growth opportunities.

• Recommend strategies to improve the onboarding experience for new members.

• Explore value-added services, communication tactics, and engagement tools that increase member satisfaction and loyalty.

• Identify potential partnerships, benefits, and incentives to enhance the membership experience.

• Support outreach efforts to underserved or underrepresented segments of the real estate community.

Time Commitment: Meets twice per year, once in January and once in April (3 hours/year).

Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.

Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Association Development

2026 Staff Liaison: Sarah Rayne & Danielle Jacob

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