SANDPOINT — The Selkirk Association of Realtors is showing that even in difficult economic times, community service should not be abandoned.

At an April 3 luncheon, SAR unveiled its community service plan for 2009, which includes four distinct programs meant to bring together those in need with those who want to give back.

The cornerstone of the association’s plan is its signature project, which will remodel or rebuild — both cosmetically and structurally — a local non-profit organization’s facilities. As part of the project, SAR will solicit materials, supplies and money from area businesses and community members, while using in-house funds and labor to round-out whatever is needed.

The Working Hands project will provide skilled laborers to complete critical projects for community members in need. Examples of projects under the Working Hands umbrella would be roof or plumbing repairs, snow shoveling and any other services that could be completed in a single day.

The association also announced plans to get involved with the Panhandle Habitat for Humanity work day, while also continuing its traditional Giving Tree program for area youth.

With all the projects, SAR officials hope to recruit a large number of community members, both inside and outside the real estate profession.

Bob Huyck, who sits on the SAR Community Service Committee, said one of the committee’s goals is to build a coalition between members of the community, the association and area non-profit organizations.

 “Many people say, ‘I don’t know what I can do to help,’” Huyck said. “Well, here’s a vehicle for the public to join with members of the association to do something great for the community.”

Merry Brown-Hayes, who spearheaded the Community Service Committee and has spent years doing similar community service projects, said giving back to the community is something SAR members feel compelled to do,

“We’re an intricate part of this community and have been for a long time,” she said. “This community has been very good to all of us, so this is just  another way for us to show our gratitude and stay intricately involved in the community.”

Applications for the signature project, which can be picked up at the SAR offices, need to be filled out and returned by April 24.

To learn more about the Working Hands projects or to find out how you can volunteer on any of the projects, visit SAR at 325 South Marion Avenue, or call 265-2227.