Broker Brawl Raises $25K for Disabled Veteran at Originator Connect 2024

In August 2024, Originator Connect's highly anticipated "Broker Brawl" wasn’t just a battle of words between the nation’s top broker CEOs—it became a powerful fundraising event for a remarkable cause. Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, the return of the Broker Brawl featured four of the largest and most successful brokers—NEXA Mortgage, Edge Home Finance, Loan Factory, and West Capital Lending—competing not just to claim the heavyweight championship belt but also to prove their leadership in an industry marked by fierce competition and evolving market challenges.

Throughout the evening, debates raged on topics critical to the mortgage industry, including compensation structures, company culture, and technology advancements. But beyond the spirited exchanges, the event served as a unique opportunity to give back. Each attendee contributed at least $5 with their vote, and by the end of the night, the Broker Brawl had raised nearly $25,000 for Homes for Our Troops, a charity that builds specialized homes for disabled veterans.

One veteran in particular, Adrian Walker, became the focal point of the fundraising efforts. The donations collected during the event will help fund a home designed to meet his specific needs as a disabled military veteran. The generosity of the attendees underscored a powerful message: that even in an industry known for competition, there is room for compassion and support for those who have served.

Adding an emotional note to the evening, NEXA loan officer and retired Marine Staff Sergeant Christopher Shank took the stage to thank the audience for their contributions. “They literally build homes for veterans who are so damaged because they gave their all for this country. Every dollar you contribute here is going straight to them to make somebody's life better,” Shank said, highlighting the life-changing impact these homes provide for veterans like Walker.

While the event was full of lively debates, with broker CEOs like Mike Kortas from NEXA Mortgage and Daniel Iskander from West Capital Lending squaring off over compensation plans and production numbers, the true victor of the night was the spirit of giving. Kortas, who took home the Broker Brawl Championship belt after a fierce exchange with his competitors, echoed the sentiment that the evening was about more than just competition—it was about helping those who have sacrificed for the country.

Ultimately, the event was a powerful reminder that the mortgage industry can come together for a greater purpose. In the end, it wasn’t just about who won the debate on stage but about the nearly $25,000 raised to support veterans like Adrian Walker. The event served as both an exciting showcase of industry expertise and a touching demonstration of the community’s generosity. And with Originator Connect already looking toward 2025, the Broker Brawl is sure to return next year with new challenges, new contenders, and hopefully, even greater acts of charity.

If you'd like to contribute to the funds for Adrian Walker and his family, you can do so here.