With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I would like to thank all of those who have contributed to the great success Coldwell Banker experienced in 2009. From our wonderful staff, motivated agents and to you, our clients and readers of View magazine, I thank you all for your contributions to a successful 2009. While this year has not been without its serious challenges for the real estate industry, Coldwell Banker continues to be a real estate leader in Orange County, Southern California and beyond.

Part of being a leader is setting a good example. This year, Coldwell Banker offices in Orange County have been hosting food drives for various charities. While many of those programs have completed gathering food for Thanksgiving, it is not too late for you to donate food, your time or money to such wonderful charities as the Second Harvest Food Bank, Orange County Rescue Mission and the We Give Thanks Foundation.

Please take a moment this Thanksgiving to remember those less fortunate and give thanks for what you are fortunate to have.

Whether you can donate your time, food or money here is a list of various charities and their Web sites for you to consider.

Second Harvest Food Bank, www.feedoc.org. Orange County Rescue Mission, www.rescuemission.org. Toys for Tots, www.octoysfortots.org. Salvation Army, www.salvationarmyoc.org. We Give Thanks Foundation, www.wegivethanksfoundation.org. CASA of OC, www.casaoc.org.