For Jimmy Shanken, being a REALTOR isn’t just about helping people find properties — it’s about helping them find home and community. That’s why Georgia REALTORS (GAR) chose Shanken, who is the broker/partner with Coldwell Banker Commercial Southern Coast and member of both the Hinesville Area Board of REALTORS and the REALTORS Commercial Alliance of Savannah/ Hilton Head, as a featured ambassador for “Rooted in Georgia,” a statewide campaign celebrating the REALTORS who are woven into the very fabric of their communities.

“Rooted in Georgia” highlights the community connections REALTORS foster across the state, showcasing their professional excellence and commitment to the people and places they serve. Through personal storytelling and local spotlights, the campaign underscores how REALTORS help Georgians put down roots and thrive in their communities.

“Being a REALTOR in Hinesville means more than unlocking doors — it’s about welcoming people into a community I truly believe in,” Shanken said. “This is my home, and it’s a privilege to help others find theirs here.”

Every day, Shanken supports local businesses, drives the same roads, and invests in the same community as the people and families and people he helps settle through the residential side of his real estate practice in Hinesville and Ludowici, along with the businesses that he helps to establish through his commercial projects. It’s this deep connection to place and people that makes REALTORS like Shanken more than professionals — they’re neighbors, volunteers, community advocates, and friends.

As a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, Shanken is a member of the Audie Murphy Club, which comprises the top two percent of non-commissioned officers.

He has served as president for both of local boards of REALTORS to which he belongs and has been selected twice as the Hinesville Area REALTOR of the Year. In 2024, Shanken was selected as the Georgia REALTOR of the Year, representing more than 48,000 real estate practitioners across the state.

Beyond his professional achievements, Shanken’s dedication to community service sets him apart. His involvement spans a wide array of organizations, including the Liberty County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the Development Authority of Long County, and the Coastal Georgia Military Affairs Coalition. He’s also an active member of the Greater Savannah Regional Alliance of Economic Development, Hinesville Disabled American Veterans, Hinesville Lodge, Order of the Eastern Star, Alee Shriners, and the Hinesville Rotary Club.

Additionally, Shanken volunteers regularly with the Sleep in Heavenly Peace Hinesville Chapter, where he helps build beds for children in need.

The “Rooted in Georgia” campaign will run through the end of 2026, featuring REALTORS from across the state who embody GAR’s mission of service and professionalism. Shanken is one of 12 REALTORS who are being highlighted for their professional accomplishments and her commitment to their communities, which embodies part of GAR’s mission statement, “....enhancing the quality of life in our communities.” Ads featuring Shanken will run in on social media channels in the greater Hinesville area this fall and again next spring.

Georgia REALTORS (also referred to as “Georgia Association of REALTORS ”) is a voluntary professional association of approximately 49,000 licensed real estate brokers and salespersons engaged in all aspects of the real estate business throughout Georgia. GAR is the leading advocate for the real estate industry in Georgia, committed to protecting private property rights and free enterprise, maintaining ethical and professional standards, and enhancing the public’s awareness and confidence in REALTORS.