Richmond Realtor Wins National Good Neighbor Award

Sue Farrell receives a $10,000 grant for her work with the nonprofit organization Boots to Suits.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration of a formal blazer and trousers on a hanger, representing professional preparation for veterans. — Richmond realtor Sue Farrell was named a National Good Neighbor Award recipient, receiving a $10,000 grant for her veteran-focused nonprofit, Boots to Suits. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The National Association of Realtors has named Sue Farrell one of five annual Good Neighbor Award recipients. Farrell is the first winner from Central Virginia in the program's 27-year history.

Why it matters

The award recognizes real estate professionals who dedicate significant time and resources to charitable causes that strengthen their local communities. The grant will allow Farrell to expand the inventory of clothing available to the veterans her nonprofit serves.

The National Association of Realtors awarded a $10,000 grant to Boots to Suits, a nonprofit that has served 7,000 veterans since its founding. The organization currently fits approximately 1,000 veterans annually with customized professional attire.

The players

Sue Farrell

She is a local real estate professional and the founder of the Richmond-based nonprofit Boots to Suits.

National Association of Realtors

This is the largest trade association in the United States, representing over 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

The details

Sue Farrell founded the organization in 2014 to help veterans transition into the workforce by providing tailored professional clothing. Volunteer stylists and tailors provide at least two complete outfits for each veteran served by the nonprofit.

Sue Farrell founded Boots to Suits in 2014.
The National Association of Realtors announced the winners in October 2026.
The awards ceremony occurs at the NXT Conference in November 2026.

Market Landscape

This recognition highlights the growing trend of industry-led corporate philanthropy initiatives that leverage professional expertise to address local social challenges. It marks a shift for the national organization to recognize community-specific outreach efforts that extend beyond traditional business metrics.

The grant funds will enable Boots to Suits to purchase clothing in sizes that were previously unavailable through standard donations, increasing the number of veterans the nonprofit can assist. Local residents looking to support the mission can continue to offer clothing donations to help sustain the operation.

The takeaway

Supporting veteran-focused nonprofits helps provide the professional resources necessary for successful career transitions. Small-scale donations of professional attire can significantly impact the ability of local organizations to serve those in need.