Application Process

• What are the categories and criteria for the awards?
  There are seven categories: Education, Finance, Leadership, Media, Project, Public Policy, and Real Estate Brokerage.
  
  Applications are judged on the impact of the nominee's work, use of innovative ideas, focus on minority homeownership and affordability.
   
• When is the application due?
  The application deadline for the 2011 HOPE Awards was December 17, 2010.  We are no longer accepting applications.
   
• How do I submit an application?
  Applications are accepted online or by downloading an applicaton and e-mailing it to swiskerchen@realtors.org (plain text only, no PDFs). Downloadable applications are located at the top of each online application. Please note that supporting materials can be submitted in PDF format.
   
• How do I submit supporting materials?
  There are two ways to submit supporting materials. Electronic documents can be e-mailed to swiskerchen@realtors.org. Hardcopy documents can be mailed to HOPE Awards, c/o National Association of Realtors®, 500 New Jersey Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20001.
  
  Please avoid using binders, sheet protectors, staples, binder clips or paper clips. Send six copies of any item that cannot be easily photocopied or reproduced (i.e. copyright protected DVDs or multipage/stapled booklets).
  
  
• Am I allowed to submit an application for someone else?
  Absolutely.  Feel free to submit an application on behalf of someone else. Self-nominations are also encouraged.
   
• May I apply for more than one category?
  Yes. You can apply to more than one category, however, you will have to fill out a separate, tailored application form for each entry. For example, if an organization provides first-time home buyer education that program may be submitted for a HOPE Education Award; and if the organization also provides down payment or closing cost assistance that program may be submitted for a HOPE Finance Award.
   
• Can individuals apply for an award or only organizations?
  Individuals are eligible for the Leadership and Public Policy awards.
  
  The Education, Finance, Media, Project and Real Estate Brokerage awards are conferred to organizations.
   
• Is there a word or page limit for the application?
  No. The judges appreciate as much information and background as you can supply.
   
• Will I receive confirmation that my application has been received?
  Confirmation will only be received for applications that are submitted online.
  
  If an application is mailed and you’d like to follow up on its status, send an e-mail to swiskerchen@realtors.org or call 202/ 383-1013.
   
• When are the winners announced?
  Finalists will be notified in February and announced in March 2011.  Winners will be announced in April 2011.

Judging Process

• What is the judging process?
  The HOPE Awards judging process consists of two rounds of judging.  The first round will take place in late-January 2011 when representatives from the six HOPE Awards partner organizations meet and narrow down the applications to three finalists in each category. Finalists will be contacted in early-February for additional information and screening.
  
  The second round of judging will take place in early-March by a group of distinguished leaders recognized for their expertise in housing and minority affairs. Winners will be notified in late-March.
   
• Who are the judges?
  The HOPE Awards judges are distinguished leaders who have been recognized for their expertise in housing and minority affairs.
   

Miscellaneous

• What does each winner receive?
  Winners receive $10,000 and paid travel expenses to the HOPE Awards.
   
• When and where is the HOPE Awards held?
  The HOPE Awards will be held in May 2011 in Washington, D.C.
   
• How do I become a sponsor of the HOPE Awards?
  The HOPE Awards is dependent on the continued support of sponsors.  Organizations and individuals can show their support by participating at several levels.
   
• Who can I contact if I have further questions?
  Please contact Sara Wiskerchen at swiskerchen@realtors.org or 202/ 383-1013.