Heather Leclerc
Business Partner, Riley Home Realty; Membership & Events Coordinator, Home Builders & Remodelers Assoc. of Western Massachusetts: Age 37
Heather Leclerc admits the pandemic was “the craziest time” to start a new business. But that’s exactly what she and her brother, contractor Nick Riley, did when they launched Riley Home Realty in 2020.
“It was such an uncertain time for the economy, but we said, ‘let’s do this,’” she recalled. “We had an idea to start a real estate business and build something together. I was looking for a new adventure in my career, and it was a perfect time to learn the ins and outs of building a business from the ground up. It was really exciting because I love a good challenge — and it was a trial by fire.”
But that’s not the only way Leclerc is deeply involved with regional development. As Membership & Events coordinator with the Home Builders & Remodelers Assoc. of Western Massachusetts, she supports industry growth, member engagement, event planning, social media marketing, and more.
“Event planning has always been fun for me,” she said. “The association didn’t prioritize that prior to my arrival, so it was fun to come in and build that role.”
But Leclerc is also known for her dedicated, wide-ranging commitment to civic leadership. She serves on the board of directors and financial committee for Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry and plays multiple roles with the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, which recognized her this year with its Shining Star Volunteer of the Year Award.
And no surprise — her work in the community includes reading at local schools, supporting the Love of Good Foundation, serving as a PTO vice president, volunteering at all three of her children’s schools, and coaching youth soccer programs. She has also spoken at high school scholarship ceremonies; organized coat, food, and Toys for Tots drives; volunteered for an Extreme Makeover: Home Edition renovation; serves as board treasurer of the Black Rose Academy of Irish Dance; is an active member of the John Boyle O’Reilly Club; sponsors foster children during the holidays … the list goes on.
“It’s very important to me to give back and stay connected to where my roots are,” Leclerc said. “Even in my Shining Stars speech, I mentioned my kids are right alongside me volunteering, and I’m instilling those values in them. It’s important for them to see me giving back to the community because it becomes a part of their lives as well.”
—Joseph Bednar
