1. Mr. Chris Cortazzo, tell us when you became passionate about this worthy cause in proving sustainable living in Africa?
I have been passionate about Pilot Light Foundation since I first learned about it 8 years ago. It was founded by my close friend, Carol Levy, and I knew 100% of the money I gave was going directly into funding the projects.
2. You have achieved unlimited success in Real Estate. This has allowed you to be in position to make a bigger difference and contribute to charitable causes. Tell us why you decided to support Pilot Light Project?
I am a committed supporter and board member of PLF, because it is possible to see that tangible results are achieved through relatively small budgets and that families in Africa are improving the quality of their lives. I like the way this organization starts at the grassroots level, communicating with and listening to the beneficiaries themselves and works in partnership with local grassroots organizations that are part of the same communities where they work. I love the concept that the funds I donate are used to enable poor people to support themselves by empowering them to earn a livable income.
3. There is a charity event on 9/29 in Sunset Restaurant with Wayne Brady, tell us why the people you care about the most should be on this event? What are they going to get?
The event on September 29 is very important to me, because it is one of largest fundraisers of the year for PLF and it is right here in Malibu. This event is going to be the best one yet, as Wayne Brady is hilarious and he has some surprises up his sleeve for the audience. It is a win-win situation. You can support a great cause while also having a good laugh, good food and drinks!
BIO
Chris Cortazzo
If there ever was a poster child for the mantra, "Passion breeds success," Chris Cortazzo is it. As Coldwell Banker's #1 Malibu real estate agent for the past decade, Chris embodies what it means to do what you love-and embrace every minute of it. "Each day in this business is challenging, fun, and inspiring," he says. "The secret is to work hard and have integrity. I am proof that you can reach the top without sacrificing your values."
With more than $1.9 billion in closings since 2000, Chris has been widely hailed for his outstanding production, which remains steady despite an uncertain housing climate. In addition to his reign as Malibu's premier real estate agent, he is a member of Coldwell Banker's elite Top 1% nationwide. How does Chris continue to defy market expectations? A Malibu native, he has unsurpassed knowledge of the local market, which enables him to instinctively match clients with their ideal properties. Chris also excels at the negotiating table, navigating even the most challenging situations with grace and ease.
Central to Chris's success, however, is his dedication to his clients. Given his high-profile persona, many are surprised to find him warm and down-to-earth, with an uncanny ability to connect with them on a personal level. Chris is his clients' greatest advocate, always keeping their interests top of mind. His staff of six supports his service philosophy by handling last-minute showings and other requests with efficiency and expertise.
Chris Cortazzo's very first multimillion-dollar transaction was for a prominent celebrity. Since then, he has attracted some of the biggest names in entertainment and business. Though these powerhouses may be the backbone of his clientele, Chris has always welcomed all types of clients. "No matter the price range I'm working in, it's a tremendous pleasure helping someone buy or sell their home and fulfill their dreams."
Chris lives in Point Dume, where he spends his rare free time surfing, traveling, collecting fine art, and enjoying the company of his family and pets. An avid philanthropist, he supports over 40 charities. These include local organizations like the Malibu Boys & Girls Club and Point Dume Marine Science School as well as national/international charities such as Farm Sanctuary, UNICEF, Operation Smile and the Elton John Aids Foundation. For more information, visit: http://www.chriscortazzo.com/
ABOUT THE PILOT LIGHT FOUNDATION:
Promoting Independence through Interdependence-Community Unity through Individual Opportunity-Security in Self-Sufficiency. Pilot Light supports sustainable, income generating projects in Africa. We strive to create a solid foundation for future generations to build upon. When individuals can support themselves, they can establish a sustainable and thriving community for generations to come, lasting self-sufficiency, secure interdependent communities, and self-determination are all that we hope for our future. We build resiliency by working on the relationship between the individual and the community. The idea of the pilot light is that it will light a small spark that can grow into a larger fire that burns on its own, after we are gone. Pilot Light is proud that 100% of donations will be used directly for funding these projects and is a 501(C) (3). For more information, visit: http://pilotlightfund.org/
CHARITY EVENT:
Date: Thursday, September 29th, 2016
Time: 6: 30 pm
Location: The Sunset Restaurant & Beach Bar. 6800 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
Price: $150 at https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/OTk2NQ==
