Finding Home and Building Community
Words by Michelle Key | Image by Ryan McGill
I grew up in Montgomery, Alabama. It was the only community I had ever known. In 2006, I graduated from Auburn University - Montgomery (AUM) with a degree in Human Resource Management. I then served as an event coordinator for a private school in town for several years. During this time, I met Kyle, the man who would become my husband. We got married in 2010 after he finished physical therapy school and made the big decision to move to his hometown of Jasper.
Like I said, Montgomery was the only home I’d ever known. I was apprehensive to move to this new place, knowing practically no one. But those nerves faded rather quickly as I adjusted to my new community.
After owning and operating a children’s boutique in town from 2010 until 2016 and taking some time off to spend with our beautiful children, Kohlson and Maggie, I decided it was time to jump back into the working world. That jump landed me in my role as Executive Director of the Walker Area Association of Realtors (WAAR).
WAAR is an organization that promotes, educates, and supports its members in serving the public while adhering to the REALTOR Code of Ethics. In partnership with the Alabama Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors, we exist to expand opportunities for real property ownership and to preserve private property rights. The benefit to realtors of joining this association is to set themselves apart from the average real estate broker or agent, while ensuring professionalism and fostering connections with other people in our area.
I was initially interested in this role because it encompassed all the areas in which I have previous work experience. The role allows me to organize events, form partnerships, and coordinate service projects for our area, all while helping realtors become more successful in developing their skills to further our organization and our community.
Walker County is blessed with an abundance of great realtors, and WAAR makes us into a large family that champions Walker County in its growth. I've been so excited to be a part of promoting value in our community.
Beyond the career value, my role with WAAR has been a blessing to me and my family. It allows me to spend time and nurture my relationships with Kyle, Kohlson, and Maggie, and to prepare for the exciting recent arrival of our third little one, Knox.
Through the twists and turns of life, from graduating college to starting a family, from owning a boutique to becoming the Executive Director of WAAR, one thing has remained constant: my love for community. Montgomery will always hold a special place in my heart, but it is here in Walker County where I have found a true sense of belonging. It's amazing how life can take unexpected turns and lead us down paths we never imagined, but it's even more amazing when those paths lead us to exactly where we're meant to be. I am grateful for the journey that brought me here and excited for what the future holds, both for my family and for our community. Our home. 78