BERLIN, MD – October 14, 2026 – The Coastal Association of REALTORS® (CAR) demonstrated the power of community collaboration during its Networking for a Cause Backpack Food Drive, held Tuesday, October 13, at CounterClox in downtown Berlin, Maryland. Members and supporters came together for an evening of networking, generosity, and community service, collecting enough nonperishable food donations to fill a car and help provide meals for local children in need.

The event was organized by the CAR Membership Networking Committee, co-chaired by Kate Deckenback and Pilar Burton, as part of the association's commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for members to connect while giving back to the communities they serve.

Committee member Michelle Macia played an instrumental role in identifying the charitable organization in need of food donations, helping turn a networking opportunity into a community outreach initiative benefiting local children.

Attendees were encouraged to bring prepackaged, nonperishable food items suitable for children to prepare and enjoy independently, without refrigeration or cooking. The overwhelming response demonstrated the generosity and compassion of CAR members, who arrived ready to make a difference.

In addition to collecting food donations, the event featured a 50/50 raffle benefiting the Coastal REALTORS® Foundation. CAR member Gussie Sholtis won the raffle and generously donated $60 of her winnings back to the Foundation, bringing the total contribution to $160.

The Coastal REALTORS® Foundation supports charitable initiatives and nonprofit organizations serving Worcester, Wicomico, and Somerset counties, helping strengthen the communities where CAR members live and work.

"The success of this event is a wonderful reminder that REALTORS® do more than help people find homes. They are neighbors, volunteers, and advocates who genuinely care about the well-being of their communities," said Terrence McGowan, President of the Coastal Association of REALTORS®. "When our members come together for a cause, especially one that supports local children, their generosity speaks volumes."

CAR extends its sincere appreciation to the Networking Committee, particularly co-chairs Kate Deckenbach and Pilar Burton and committee member Michelle Macia, for their leadership and dedication in planning the event.

Special thanks go to CounterClox for hosting the gathering, the event sponsors for their support, and every member and guest who attended and contributed food donations. CAR also recognizes Gussie Sholtis for her generous raffle contribution.

The association looks forward to continuing its Networking for a Cause initiatives, combining professional connections with opportunities to make a lasting, positive impact throughout Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore.

About the Coastal Association of REALTORS®

The Coastal Association of REALTORS® represents more than 1,000 real estate professionals throughout Worcester, Wicomico, and Somerset counties in Maryland. The association is committed to promoting professionalism, supporting private property rights, advancing real estate education, and strengthening the communities its members serve.

For more information, visit www.coastalrealtors.org.

Media Contact

Bernie Flax
CEO
Coastal Association of REALTORS®
314 Franklin Avenue, Suite 106
Berlin, MD 21811
410-641-4409
www.coastalrealtors.org