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In the Community

Showing Up Where I Live and Work

Throughout Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs, I’m grateful to serve, support, and participate in ways that reflect what matters to me: inclusion, connection, creativity, service, and belonging.

Some of that work happens through organizations where I serve in a leadership role. Other times, it means sponsoring a local program, volunteering, fundraising, participating in an event, or simply showing up when help is needed.

These aren’t things I do because I’m a Realtor.

They’re part of who I am.

Music for the Ages

Connection Across Generations

Music for the Ages brings preschool children into senior care communities for interactive music, movement, and connection.

I serve on the organization’s board and as a volunteer program leader at Harbor House Memory Care in Wheeling, helping facilitate intergenerational music and movement programs.

I’ve seen firsthand how a familiar song, a little movement, or a child’s smile can unlock a memory or create a moment of connection where you didn’t know it was possible.

I also make a donation to Music for the Ages with every home I sell because I believe so strongly in its mission.

For me, it’s one of the clearest examples of what community can look like when different generations are given the opportunity to connect, participate, and simply enjoy being together.

Learn About Music for the Ages
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Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist

Service, Connection and Giving Back

At Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist in Palatine, I serve on the Worship Council and co-lead our Service Partner Outreach fundraising committee.

One project especially close to my heart is our annual Time and Talent Auction.

Last year, the auction raised approximately $40,000, with most of those funds going directly to local service partners.

I love the combination of creativity, generosity, and community that makes this event possible.

Explore Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist
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Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®

Inclusion in the Profession I Serve

I serve on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee for Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS® and am honored to serve as Vice Chair for 2026–2027.

For me, that work is about more than representation.

It’s about supporting Fair Housing, building connections, encouraging thoughtful conversations within our profession, and helping create a real estate community where people know there is room for them at the table.

That work also influences how I approach my clients, my business, and the communities I serve.

See MORE's DEI Committee

Northgate Neighborhood

Sometimes Community Starts With Hello

Closer to home, I serve as a trustee in my Northgate neighborhood in Arlington Heights and help welcome new neighbors.

One of my favorite responsibilities is organizing our summer new-neighbor picnic.

It may seem like a small thing, but those first hellos matter.

A neighborhood feels different when someone knows your name, introduces you around, and helps you feel connected.

Northgate Neighborhood
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AmSpirit Business Connections

Relationships That Strengthen the Community

I serve as President of the Wheeling Township Chapter of AmSpirit Business Connections.

I enjoy creating opportunities for local professionals to connect, support one another, share resources, and build meaningful business relationships.

I especially value the opportunities we have to support charitable efforts, local organizations, and community initiatives beyond our own businesses.

For me, networking is at its best when it creates connections that benefit more than the people sitting in the room.

Visit Our Facebook Page

Supporting Local Organizations

Sponsorship Is Better When You Show Up Too

Not every way I serve comes with a board position or leadership title.

I also support local organizations through sponsorships, fundraising, active participation, and community events.

That includes organizations such as CardioKidz and the Boys & Girls Club, along with other local programs and community efforts throughout the Northwest Suburbs.

I believe supporting a community means noticing the people doing good work and helping when you can, whether that means giving your time, resources, connections, or financial support.

For me, participation matters just as much as sponsorship.

I want to be involved, not simply have my name on a sign.

Learn About Cardio Kidz Learn About Boys' and Girls Club
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Creativity, Movement and Connection

Creativity has always been one of the ways I connect with people.

For many years, I was active in the local belly dance community as a performer and teacher. That involvement became quieter after the pandemic, but the love of movement, music, and shared creative experience never went away.

Since then, I’ve been invited by local drum-circle organizers to dance at their gatherings and help encourage others to move, participate, and feel more comfortable joining in.

And it has.

There’s something powerful about watching people go from standing on the sidelines to moving, smiling, and becoming part of the rhythm around them.

Different settings, different seasons, but the same thread runs through both: creativity, connection, participation, and belonging.

Earth Rhythm Drum Circle

Why Community Matters to Me

I believe strong communities are built when people participate.

When we show up.
When we welcome someone new.
When we support the organizations doing meaningful work.
When we listen to people whose experiences are different from our own.
And when we make room for connection and belonging.

These parts of my life aren’t separate from who I am as a Realtor or a neighbor.

They’re simply part of how I choose to show up in the world.

About

There’s More to Life in the NW Burbs Than Real Estate

Living here is about the homes, but it’s also about the people, organizations, businesses, events, and small connections that make a community feel like home.

Meet Mari Explore Living in the NW Burbs

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Contact Details

Mari Van Meter (lead)

Phone

(630) 267-1808

Email

[email protected]

Michael Sodic

Email

[email protected]

Open hours

M 9am - 7pm T 9am - 7pm W 9am - 6pm Th 9am - 7pm F 1pm - 7pm Sa 12pm - 7pm Su by appointment only

Address

c/o Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices American Heritage Real Estate 1010 Rohlwing Rd Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

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