Dear fellow members,

I would like to start this message by acknowledging the steady leadership and excellent work of our association staff, our Board of Directors (BOD), and everyone who is contributing so significantly with our various committees and working groups.  A quick review of the other sections of this Newsletter will reveal the current efforts and priorities of our Association being powered by our industry’s most dedicated professionals.  Despite the incredible challenges of the current pandemic, I am very grateful and proud that our Association is in a stronger position at this moment, both financially and structurally, than it was before the pandemic hit us around this time last year.  And we have big plans and opportunities to continue our success. 

A big focus for this coming month will be our first fully virtual Lobby Days.  Those of you that have participated in past years already know that Lobby Days has become one of the most important and impactful events of our Association as we generate awareness and engagement between FLTA members and key policymakers around current Association legislative priorities and promote the overall benefits that the title insurance and real estate settlement industry provides.  And now this event is open to easier access and more participation by being virtual.  Are you interested in participating?  Get more specific details and register. 

Another big focus that I would like to highlight starts with the charitable action of past BOD member, Aaron Davis, who has travelled to Texas to help with the natural disaster caused by their recent storm.  Our Association was inspired by Aaron’s efforts and has contributed $250 to the Harper, TX, Fire Department GoFundMe Account and we encourage any interested members to contribute individually as well.   I know that giving back is an integral part of who we are as individuals, and I am very proud that our Association is evolving in a way that will put formal structure and resources around these efforts.  What started with our BOD decision to donate $20,000 to be split between five Florida area food banks with  increased demands created by Covid-19 and a call to action for our members that was met with so much enthusiasm has now evolved into formal BOD approval to establish an FLTA affiliated Charitable Action Foundation with 501(C)(3) status and a commitment to strengthening the communities where our members live and work. 

We envision our foundational philanthropy will not be simply about writing a check.  This new organization will put structure around our ongoing relationships, collaborations, shared missions to serve our communities, and the giving of our time and talents to specific need driven challenges as well as the broader long-term goals.   Our Foundation will heighten our Association’s identity internally and externally.

The scientific research, and the development and rollout of vaccines gives us hope that the dark and isolating days of this pandemic are numbered.  And in its wake, we will have an opportunity to connect in ways both old and new in order to advance the interests of our title insurance and real estate settlement industry in Florida and to serve our communities better than we have before.

I hope this newsletter contains information that is helpful for you and that you are also proud and engaged in our Association.  Your ideas, comments and questions are always welcome!  I can be reached at lprescott@firstam.com.

Respectfully,

Len Prescott, 2020-2021 President