Giving Back Comes Naturally for Realtor Dixey Arterburn

Giving back is second nature to Dixey Arterburn. For the seasoned Dave Perry-Miller agent, philanthropy isn’t merely a choice – it’s engrained in her DNA.

This past weekend, we caught up with the tireless Realtor, who, in addition to showing homes, was making final preparations for this Friday’s Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball. It’s an event she holds dear, having served as chair in 2014 when her daughter, Libby, made her debut. Dixey currently serves as president of the DSOL – just one of her many philanthropic efforts.

“Our work with the symphony helps to make positive changes in the community through innovative music education and special programs for kids, teens, and adults,” she said.

“The most important thing in life is giving back.”

It’s a trait she learned early on. The New Orleans native credits her parents for instilling a charitable spirit in her. “They were incredible role models, always ready to lend a helping hand.”

After relocating to Dallas in 1982, Dixey quickly crossed paths with philanthropists Cindy Brinker and Debra Payne – just the first of many serendipitous meetings. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with so many wonderful, supportive people throughout the years.”

In the early ’90s, Dixey decided to embark on a career in real estate. Once again, philanthropy played a pivotal role. At every closing, she anonymously made a personal donation to Austin Street Center, one of the largest low-barrier homeless shelters in Dallas. “Here I was selling homes, so I wanted to do my part to help those less fortunate. We’re all called to do different things at different times.”

In 2012, Dixey met Ginger Sager – friend, collaborator, and kindred spirit. Fashion show producer Jan Strimple affectionately dubbed them “Thelma and Louise” – a nickname that stuck. “We even had t-shirts made, which we wear to meetings and rehearsals.”

In addition to their work with the DSO, the dynamic duo has also chaired the Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon, benefiting the Grant Halliburton Foundation, which promotes suicide awareness in schools; the Salvation Army Fashion Show and Luncheon; and the Mardi Gras Parish Party at St. Michael and All Angels.

Throughout these endeavors, Dixey makes donations on behalf of the specific buyers and sellers she’s working with.

“It’s my personal way of giving back to these organizations and a way to say thanks to my clients.”

Still, other charitable pursuits hit closer to home. When Dixey’s youngest child, Libby, was only four years old, she required two liver transplants – the first failed, the second saved her life. Today, mother and daughter are active supporters of Southwest Transplant Alliance, which facilitates organ and tissue donations, and Camp John Marc, a year-round camp in Bosque County, Texas, that provides camping experiences for children, teens, and families with chronic medical and physical challenges.

Clearly, the philanthropy gene has been passed to the next generation. Libby, who calls her mom her best friend, said, “I’m grateful for the things I’ve been through so I can help others.”