Community | Patterson-Schwartz Blog

PSA’s Fundraising Collaboration for Shoes That Fit: A Successful Conclusion

At Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate (PSA), we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This August, we proudly teamed up with the Friends of Fusion Foundation for a remarkable cause: providing sneakers to homeless children enrolled in Delaware public schools through the Shoes That Fit program. Thanks to the overwhelming support from our agents, partners, and friends, we’re thrilled to announce the incredible success of our month-long campaign.

Pictured:

Front row: Brian Hadley, Jeffrey Leggett, Joanne Glauser, and Nic DeCaire; Middle row: Terri Wamba, Linda Hanna, Angela Allen, and Donna Greenspan; Back rows: Casey Hadley, Karen Burke, Dave Iliff, Vicki Feeney, Sal Sedita, and Nicolette Pomijie.

Building Momentum: An Empowering Partnership

Our collaboration with Friends of Fusion began with a powerful goal—ensure every homeless child in Delaware starts the school year with a new pair of sneakers. When the Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit identified over 3,200 children in need across the state, PSA committed to stepping in with our network of support. For every transaction that reached settlement in August, we donated a pair of shoes to a child in need.

The Friends of Fusion Foundation, known for its unwavering commitment to supporting local children, young adults, and first responders, found a perfect partner in Patterson-Schwartz. From the moment we launched our collaboration in early August, the impact was immediate, sparking an outpouring of online donations for Shoes That Fit on day one. Nic DeCaire, founder of Friends of Fusion, took to social media to applaud the campaign’s swift momentum: “Thank you, Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate, for raising enough funds for 28 pairs of sneakers in just 24 hours. We truly appreciate your incredible support.”

The energy for this campaign only gained in speed from there.

The Impact: Over 350 Pairs of Shoes Donated

When PSA set our internal goal for the campaign, we aimed to donate 250 pairs of shoes through transactions alone. But thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we exceeded that target by over 100 pairs! By the end of August, PSA had donated a remarkable 379 pairs of shoes to Shoes That Fit.

These donations were made possible by the contributions of our agents, affiliates, friends, and partners— including Pike Creek Mortgage, who matched our donations for the loans they closed with PSA in August.

Our agents were quick to jump on board, spreading the word and contributing to the cause. Andrea Carbaugh from the Lauri Brockson Group in PSA Newark shared, “As a former teacher, I bought countless pairs of shoes for students. You CAN make a difference!” Gina Cockerille of PSA Rehoboth echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is one of the many reasons I love Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate.”

The Hadley Group of PSA Hockessin took their commitment one step further, pledging to continue donating a pair of sneakers for every transaction they complete for the remainder of 2024.

Our agents’ passion for this cause will continue to benefit local children long after the campaign’s official close.

Celebrating a Successful Campaign

In early October, members of the PSA family had the opportunity to meet representatives from Friends of Fusion and the Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit to celebrate the campaign’s tremendous success. It was an emotional and inspiring moment for everyone involved.

Jeffrey Leggett, President of the Friends of Fusion Foundation since its inception, shared his heartfelt gratitude: “I get really emotional at this… the golf outings, the running community, and now Patterson-Schwartz, you’ve been so generous to us. It’s amazing. Coming up on our 5-year anniversary, when we set out to do this, we never thought we’d be able to give out $20,000-25,000 to the community. With this campaign, we’re probably going to hit about $140,000. It’s mind-blowing.”

Joanne Glauser, who has been running the Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit alongside her husband for 26 years, expressed her deep appreciation for the campaign’s success. She highlighted how this groundbreaking partnership brought the goal of providing a pair of sneakers to every homeless child in Delaware schools within reach. “It’s never been done before. We are the first state to accomplish this nationwide,” she shared.

Click here to learn more about the PSA and Friends of Fusion Shoes That Fit Campaign.

Moving Forward: A Commitment to Community

As we celebrate the conclusion of this campaign, we remain dedicated to supporting our community in meaningful ways. The success of this fundraiser demonstrates what we can accomplish when we come together.

Thank you to everyone who participated and donated to Shoes That Fit. Your generosity has made a real difference in the lives of children across Delaware, and we are deeply grateful. Together, we’ve shown that every step matters, and we look forward to continuing our work to help those in need.

About Us

At Patterson-Schwartz, we believe in giving back to our community. In addition to the countless hours our sales associates and employees dedicate to charitable causes, we donate a portion of the proceeds from every real estate transaction to the PSA Foundation. Since 2001, the PSA Foundation has donated nearly $1.4 million to local charities and organizations close to our hearts

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Making Strides for Local Students in Need

We’re excited to announce a new collaboration at Patterson-Schwartz! 🎉 Introducing our charitable partnership with the Friends of Fusion Foundation, an organization dedicated to aiding efforts that offer crucial support to children, young adults, and first responders across Delaware. Together, we’re on a mission to provide sneakers to every homeless child enrolled Delaware public schools through the Shoes That Fit Program.

Shoes That Fit, Delaware

Founded in 1992 in California, Shoes That Fit has chapters in every state and helped nearly 165,000 kids nationwide in 2023. The Delaware chapter, started in 1998 by Newark resident Joanne Glauser, has provided shoes to an estimated 40,000 children.

Shoes That Fit defines homeless students as those who lack fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. The children and teens benefiting from the program are often sharing housing due to economic hardship, or living in emergency shelters or medical facilities. Earlier this year, the Delaware chapter identified 3,291 students needing their assistance with new sneakers: 804 in Kent County, 1,960 in New Castle County, and 527 in Sussex County.

Infusing Hope

“When The Shoes That Fit program came across our radar, it was all we talked about,” says Brian Hadley, PSA Hockessin sales associate and board member of the Friends of Fusion Foundation (FOF).

The Friends of Fusion Foundation has a strong track record of helping the local community. Since joining FOF in late December 2023, Brian has helped organize a golf outing that raised over $12,000 and a donor recognition event where seven FOF supporters each received $1,000 to donate to a charity of their choice. He is also in the final stages of planning a mid-July event with the Facebook group, Hockessin Gossip Girls.

In May 2024, The Friends of Fusion Foundation committed $30,000 to support Shoes That Fit through community donations.

“The Friends of Fusion mission is to help those around us who need it most,” says Brian. “When we learned about the Shoes That Fit program, we quickly decided to aim higher and help every homeless child in Delaware, not just in New Castle County.”

Brian emphasized that partnering with PSA was a natural fit due to their shared commitment to community support. “The reach that PSA has with our agents and affiliates is massive,” he shared. “I’m excited to see and hear the positive impact we can make by providing name-brand shoes to every homeless child in the state.”

Kicking Off a Charitable Partnership

Not long after meeting with members from the Friends of Fusion Foundation, Patterson-Schwartz signed on in support of their Shoes That Fit fundraising goal, committing to donate one pair of shoes for every closed transaction in August.

“Reading about homeless students being fitted with new sneakers after dealing so long with ill-fitting shoes, and how it positively affected their self-esteem and school performance, was inspiring,” says Donna Greenspan, PSA’s EVP and Managing Broker of the PSA Brandywine Sales Center. “We’re joining FOF to amplify the Shoes That Fit cause during what is typically one of our busiest months, ensuring every disadvantaged child has the shoes they need for the school year ahead.”

In addition to fundraising through transactions, Patterson-Schwartz will raise awareness for the Shoes That Fit cause with online and in-person donation events, including an upcoming summer networking event at the beach.

Click here to learn more about the PSA and Friends of Fusion Shoes That Fit Campaign.

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Scorching with Opportunities: A Look Back at PSA’s Summer

As the temperatures soared and the sun blazed, summer became a time of heightened activity at Patterson-Schwartz. In addition to helping buyers and sellers, PSA agents were busy getting in front of their communities and industry peers, as well as getting ahead on their service portfolio and professional development. Join us as we revisit the highlights and achievements, and share the opportunities that were seized during those sunny days.

Fired Up Philanthropy

The temperature wasn’t the only one rising to the occasion this summer. In June, PSA participated in another successful Build Day for Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County, and in July, took a trip to the Delaware beaches to return as sponsor of the Rehoboth Art League’s Cottage Home Tour. In addition to these events, PSA co-sponsored a number of agent-driven causes through the PSA foundation, hit the links at a number of golf fundraisers, and helped local kids prepare to get back in the classroom with a company-wide school supply drive.

The charitable giving never stops at PSA and there are a number of events and charitable efforts lined up for fall, including sponsorships with The Delaware Center for Horticulture, The Delaware Museum of Nature & Science, Delaware Hospice, and The Mary Campbell Center.

Fun in the Sun

From our first-ever company-wide picnic at our Newark campus to our Mid-Summer Mixer in Lewes, members of the PSA family had a number of opportunities to celebrate the best of summer with their colleagues. These events proved an excellent way to gather agents from across the company and provide a warm welcome to the many new and returning agents who’ve chosen to make their home at PSA.

PSA company-wide picnic 2023

Speaking of fresh faces, over the summer our corporate headquarters welcomed a new technology support assistant, and a number of new staff members to our property management department. We are constantly improving and expanding our network of support at PSA and these new hires are already integral to the strength of our team.

With end-of-summer celebrations underway – an intimate “Q&A with PSA” open forum with our EVPs, Donna Greenspan and Jason Giles, and plans for a November Mid-Month Mixer in the works – there are sure to be plenty of opportunities to celebrate PSA’s culture, community, and growth into the fall months.

Tools & Tech Coming in Hot

Before the Memorial Day barbeques coals got a chance to cool, PSA beefed up our tech with the launch of a new and improved online home valuation tool on pattersonschwartz.com. What better way to bring the summer heat than with maps showing buyer activity hot spots? A product of partnership between PSA and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, this new tool has already proven a valuable resource for potential sellers, and a springboard for PSA agents assisting clients with putting their homes on the market.

Try it now! Click the image to get started on a successful home selling journey today!

On the heels of that launch came a series of in-person sessions at each PSA office with experts from Homes.com, and the release of some updates to our internal business management system (PS@NET).

On tap for this fall, PSA is helping agents dip their toe in the AI waters by hosting sessions with a national expert and coming up with ways to make AI more accessible for day-to-day business.

Diving into Professional Development

At PSA, our agents are always striving to be the best they can be. And during a season defined by clocking out for vacation, our agents were increasingly checking into the office. Well-attended educational summer sessions on “How to Answer Six Common Real Estate Questions” and “A Day in the Life”, and workshops on compliance guidelines, gave PSA agents an edge on generating business and the best practices to garner success.

“How to Answer Six Common Real Estate Questions” with Justin Kierstead and PSA leadership team members Juan Fuentes, Jr., Angela Allen, and Brian Pomije.

September brings a new season of our Successful Start new agent training program, a vigorous continuing education schedule, business planning sessions, and a marketing road show focused on leveraging testimonials for business. Sales meetings, workshops, and round tables with PSA peers, leadership team members, and industry partners will also pick up in frequency as the leaves change.

With a bustling summer under our belt and a jam-packed fall on deck, it’s a great time to be a part of PSA regardless of the season.

About Us

Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is Delaware’s largest independent real estate brokerage and offers a full range of services that include residential home sales, purchase and rental, relocation services, and property management. We’ve been guiding home buyers and sellers since 1961, and invite you to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.

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Summer Fun to Feel Good About: Giving Back at PSA

From fun and fundraising along Dewey’s sandy beaches to fireworks lighting up the hills of Hockessin, PSA is teaming up with our agents to support events that celebrate the best of summer in the areas we serve.

Summer is a great season to get out and enjoy outdoor events with family and friends. It’s even better when these events benefit a worthy cause, or give some love to the local community.

From fun and fundraising along Dewey’s sandy beaches to fireworks lighting up the hills of Hockessin, Patterson-Schwartz is teaming up with our agents to support events that celebrate the best of summer in the areas we serve. What does it mean to partner with a company that believes in giving where you live? We spoke to agents across the company about how PSA is helping the causes and communities they care about get their day in the sun.

“We are so grateful to count on the support of PSA”

Jamie Coleman and Cassie Rogerson of PSA’s Rehoboth Beach office

Jamie Coleman and Cassie Rogerson of PSA Rehoboth Beach say, “For eight years, Patterson-Schwartz has supported the Seeshore Fest Event and helped raise over $100,000 to fund research finding treatments and cures for blinding diseases. We’ve been sponsoring this event in honor of a former client since the very beginning, and were proud to be involved in its launch. We are so grateful to count on the support of PSA as the cause continues to grow.”

This year marks the 8th annual Seeshore Fest at the Starboard in Dewey Beach, and both Jamie and Cassie will once again be teaming up to support the cause with the help of Patterson-Schwartz. Click here to learn more about how this fundraising event benefits the mission of the Foundation Fighting Blindness & Eye Institute.

“Delaware Crime Stoppers is dependent upon the support of businesses like PSA”

Jeff Olmstead of PSA’s Greenville Office

Jeff Olmstead of PSA Greenville says, “My involvement on the board of directors of Delaware Crime Stoppers began about 15 years ago. It has grown significantly and is dependent upon the support of communities and businesses like PSA to have funding for its mission. It is Delaware’s only anonymous reporting source which bridges the gap between scared citizens with information and the police that need to solve crimes. The organization receives up to 200 tips on a monthly basis. We appreciate the commitment to sponsoring DECS as it brings us closer to making Delaware and its communities a safer place.”

Patterson-Schwartz is a proud returning sponsor of this year’s Delaware Crime Stoppers’ Friends of Law Enforcement Annual Golf Tournament at Deerfield in Newark. Click here to learn how you can join Jeff and PSA in lending your support to solving crime in the community.

“PSA truly values the uniqueness of communities it serves”

Karen Burke of PSA Hockessin says, “I joined the Hockessin Business Association over six years ago and one of the many initiatives I support is the annual Fourth of July parade. With the backing of local businesses like Patterson-Schwartz, the celebration has expanded into a festival of events that ends with evening fireworks. PSA truly values the uniqueness of communities it serves, and I am proud to be a part of this amazing, caring company.”

Hockessin has been home to Patterson-Schwartz’s corporate headquarters and largest sales center since the 1980s. Click here to learn about the community’s Annual Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks, and how you can join Karen and PSA’s efforts to keep the celebration going for years to come.

More Ways to Have a Feel-Good Summer

Please join the PSA family in supporting more summertime events in our community:

Auburn Heights After Hours events at Marshall Steam Museum
SL24 Memorial Dewey Beach Volleyball Tournament, a fundraising event for Sean’s House of Newark and the Unlocke the Light Foundation of Delaware
42nd Annual Charmie Welch Golf Invitational at DuPont Country Club benefiting The Mary Campbell Center

At Patterson-Schwartz, we embrace the philosophy that being a good neighbor is more than just giving money to a worthy cause – it’s about developing and investing in the community in which we live and do business. That’s why our sales associates and employees give countless hours of their time to charitable causes.

In support of this culture of giving back, Patterson-Schwartz donates a portion of the proceeds from every real estate transaction to the PSA Foundation. Since its inception in 2001, the PSA Foundation has donated nearly $1.4 Million to local charities and organizations that are close to the hearts of the PSA family of sales associates and employees.

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A Strong Foundation: Giving Back at Patterson-Schwartz

What does it mean to partner with a company that shares your values on charitable giving? We spoke to members across the PSA family about how where they work is helping them make a difference where they live.

“Always there, always supporting!”

“From winter dances and bowling to golf and summer bocce ball, it is the highlight each month to get together with our Cecil County Special Olympic athletes. Thank you to Patterson-Schwartz for being supportive of this great organization and caring about our community of athletes.” – Linda McKinnon, PSA Elkton sales team

“As a real estate agent, I like to be involved in the community that I serve — especially with Cecil County Special Olympics. The support and donations from Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate have directly contributed to the success of the annual “Ice Splash” fundraiser for our athletes. And in 2022, my PSA family supported the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Women of the Year and helped my fundraising campaign in a huge way. Always there, always supporting!” – Danielle Ward, PSA Elkton sales team

In addition to being colleagues, Danielle Ward and Linda McKinnon are friends who partner up to support the Cecil County Special Olympics as well as the local real estate community through their work with CCBOR®. Our Elkton office is a small but mighty force when it comes to caring about the people and area it serves.

“So giving, so caring — that’s PSA!”

“There was a wonderful opportunity to help Faithful Friends Animal Society, which I hold so close to my heart. I asked for a donation, and, of course, the Patterson-Schwartz Foundation came through! So easy, so giving, so caring within the community we live and work in — that’s Patterson-Schwartz!” – Jennifer Jamieson, PSA Greenville & Coastal Offices admin team

Jennifer’s cat, Augustus, was adopted from Faithful Friends Animal Society in April 2022. Located in Wilmington, Faithful Friends Animal Society is a private, nonprofit animal welfare organization with a No Kill shelter and community veterinary clinic. Learn more about their adoption, foster, volunteer, and donation opportunities on their website.

“Values philanthropy as much as I do“

“For nearly 17 years, I have worked with Meals on Wheels, DE, to help home-bound seniors as well as raise funds and awareness for the cause. When I joined [PSA] it became immediately apparent to me that the company has been supporting [MOWD] and the greater community for far longer! It’s so great knowing I work for a company values philanthropy as much as I do.” – Mike Clement, The Crifasi Group of PSA Greenville

Patterson-Schwartz was a proud returning sponsor of the 2023 Meals on Wheels Delaware Cellar Master’s Wine Auction — their largest grossing event of the year. From fundraising to volunteer efforts, PSA remains a committed community partner of MOWD year after year.

In support of this culture of giving back, Patterson-Schwartz donates a portion of the proceeds from every real estate transaction to the PSA Foundation. Since its inception in 2001, the PSA Foundation has donated nearly 1.4 Million to local charities and organizations that are close to the hearts of the PSA family of sales associates and employees.

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Teaming Up for Charity: Giving Back at Patterson-Schwartz

What does it mean to partner with a company that shares your values on charitable giving?

“‘We Are Local’ is embedded in the core of Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate’s investment in the local community. When I received the call that The Hadley Group was going to be the main event sponsor for the First State Half Marathon, I knew beyond a doubt that [PSA] would support my team, the cause, and the community. Already looking forward to the next race.” – Brian Hadley, PSA Hockessin sales team

Patterson-Schwartz will be back running along side Brian and The Hadley Group for the second annual First State Half Marathon and 10k planned for Saturday, March 25th 2023. Visit the event page for more information.

“The Delmarva Aces North Baseball Team, a local little league program that my grandson is a part of, lived a dream and had the time of their lives in part because of PSA’s support. The parents told me their travel team had so much fun and made so many memories thanks to the donations from their sponsors.” – Kelley Quinn, PSA Brandywine support team

From supporting local little league teams to organizing coat drives, Kelley and her Brandywine office colleagues are making a difference in the community beyond assisting with real estate needs. Follow the Brandywine office Facebook page to learn more.

“I have been working for Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate for 19 years and they have always generously supported causes that I was personally involved with. Their support of events, such as the American Heart Association Golf Outing, shows how much the company cares about local organizations that support worthy causes. Their generosity has incentivized me to be more active in my community!” – Dave Watlington, PSA Middletown management team

Patterson-Schwartz is a proud returning sponsor for the 2023 Swing For Heart Classic benefiting the American Heart Association Delaware. Learn more about the July 10 event by visiting their webpage.

As you can see, giving back at Patterson-Schwartz is a true team effort, and every member of our PSA family plays an important part. We truly love where we live and work, and embrace efforts that make the communities we serve great places to call home.

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A little office, a lot of heart: a visit with PSA Brandywine

“I have an important update, friends,” says Tim Carter as he greets the late October Lunch & Learn crowd at the North Wilmington office of Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate. “Before we start our meeting, I want to share photos from the local mom we helped back in April… a lot of them featuring outfits you so generously gifted. She wants you all to know baby Skylar is doing well and how grateful she continues to be for all of your help.”

As sales manager of PSA Brandywine, Tim Carter’s strength is bringing people together, whether it’s for a training session, a celebration, or, as is often the case, a charitable cause. The office roster is small compared to others in the organization yet the agents are a mighty force when sharing their ideas, time, and resources.

Tim Carter, PSA Brandywine Sales Manager outside the North Wilmington office

Before April 2022, the mother they helped was just a stranger, struggling with a disability and with limited access to support or resources. Her story reached a member of the PSA Brandywine office and Tim dropped a call-to-action in his weekly communication. In less than two weeks, the office had amassed enough donations of diapers, clothes, and baby supplies to fill four car loads and to keep the little girl outfitted for at least two years.

“We saw a need, spread the word, and came together,” says Tim about the donation effort. “It’s just what we do.”

Where good things happen

The Brandywine office of Patterson-Schwartz is tucked in a quiet corner of a bustling commercial plaza off Silverside Road and is home to about 40 full-time sales associates. The two-story brick building is well-equipped for real estate business with the usual desks, conference areas, and a glassed-in board room. But upstairs, the cubicle walls give way to a bright, open space with three large farmhouse tables scattered with chairs.

“It’s a collaborative space,” says Tim when asked about the break with tradition. “Previously, we didn’t have a place for our agents to gather that didn’t feel cramped or formal. One day something came over me and I walked upstairs and just started tearing down a cluster of unused cubicles. Then I went to IKEA.”

The re-imagined space works — and not just for sales meetings or holiday parties. Earlier in the month, agents and partners from Fairway Mortgage used the space to put together over 250 bagged lunches for Ministry of Caring. In September, it was used to sort toiletry donations for Ronald McDonald House. And months before that, it was filled with baby shower gifts for someone they had never met.

It’s a comfortable space where conversation and laughter flows, and good things happen.

A generous spirit

“We have a great family here. We’re supportive of each other professionally and personally, and at the heart of everything is this spirit of generosity,” says Tim. “It’s no wonder we often find ways to get together that also give back.”

And give back they do. The office has a monthly commitment going back 20+ years with Meals on Wheels Delaware and members regularly volunteer for the Delaware Food Bank, but a lot of outreach happens organically as needs develop in the community.

It’s these “pop-up” needs that brought their attention to organizations like Urban Promise of Wilmington who needed water bottles for their summer camp program; and the Friendship House Clothing bank who put out an urgent call for winter coats.

It’s also what brought them to a stranger’s doorstep with baby gifts.

#CountingOurBlessings

After the October Lunch & Learn in the collaborative space, Tim walks back to his office to add the baby photos he received to his window of collages. It’s a big collection of happy faces and moments from gatherings and charitable events his office has been a part of.

He has a special memory and story to go with each photo, like a social media feed come to life.

Tim’s collage display on his office window

“If you ask, my group isn’t really fond of getting their pictures taken. They don’t do any of this for recognition, but I’ve never seen a group of people so generous with their time and resources. I document it to remind us just how truly blessed we are.”

About Us

The Patterson-Schwartz Brandywine sales center is located at 2211 Silverside Road. As proud members of the North Wilmington community, the PSA Brandywine staff, sales associates, and mortgage professionals are area experts who care about the people and communities they serve. You’re invited to reach out to Tim, his team, or any of our local offices when you need assistance with your real estate goals.

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Special Olympics Cecil County: PSA Foundation Spotlight

In late February 2022, Danielle Ward and Linda McKinnon of Patterson-Schwartz Elkton donned their winter gear and headed out into the elements for a good cause. The air may have been cold, but hearts warmed at the sight of hundreds of individuals running into the frigid Northeast River to raise money for local youth programs.

Left to right: Top individual fundraiser Jake Schweible with Linda McKinnon, Alex Ward, and Danielle Ward.

The annual Cecil County Ice Splash fundraiser is just one of several events Danielle and Linda support as part of their work with the Special Olympics Cecil County (SOCE).

Fitness, Fun, Friendship

As the mother of a child with special needs, Danielle Ward has been active with Special Olympics as an athlete parent for several years. About a year ago, Danielle asked Linda to help with a SOCE fitness day at a local park.

That day about ten kids showed up, as they did every week, to play with hula hoops, take a walk around the park, and otherwise stay active on a chilly day. Linda was touched by the friendships the participants made, and the fun they shared.

Linda and Danielle have been making a difference together ever since.

“Working with Danielle for many years, I have had the pleasure to get to know her amazing family, including her son, Alex,” says Linda. “He is such a special young man, and the stories he tells will keep you laughing. Both of her children and her husband help organize the [Special Olympics] activities and treat every athlete as though they are their own family. It is a blast spending time with them and so fulfilling.”

Creating Opportunities to Grow

The mission of the Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and competition for individuals age eight and older with intellectual disabilities. They believe sports give these athletes continuing opportunities to grow mentally and socially through activities that help them improve physical fitness, gain self-confidence, and discover new abilities and talents.

Less than a year after first volunteering, Linda joined the SOCE management team alongside Danielle. Recently, the two friends have been working to increase volunteer and athlete activity.

“This once very active organization seemed to lose strength over the past few years,” Danielle says of Special Olympics Cecil County. “In 2021, we began to build it back up by sponsoring seasonal activities like basketball, softball, bocce ball, and health walks, and monthly activities like bowling. In the last month, we hosted a winter dance and sponsored an athlete at the regional competition in Florida. Watching these athletes have fun, compete, and make friends is such a joy. Alex loves being with his friends, no matter the event.”

Alex Ward posing at the 2022 SOCE Winter Dance (Cecil Whig photo by Carl Hamilton)

The Sons of the American Legion’s annual Cecil County Ice Splash raises money for local children and youth programs, including Special Olympics. Patterson-Schwartz was a proud sponsor of the 2022 event alongside Danielle and Linda. To learn how you can get involved in future efforts that benefit the Special Olympics of Cecil County, reach out to Linda or Danielle or click here for more information.

Together we can light the way to a better tomorrow

The PSA Foundation was created in 2001 and supports numerous local charities and organizations whose causes are close to the hearts of the Patterson-Schwartz family of sales associates, employees, and friends. We invite you to learn more about how Patterson-Schwartz is giving back to the communities where we live, work, and play, and to connect with us when you’re ready to partner with a local real estate expert.

The Elkton Sales Center of Patterson-Schwartz is conveniently located along the Route 40 corridor. Established in 2008, this full-service office has a family of local experts proud to serve the real estate needs in Elkton and the surrounding communities of Cecil County, Maryland.

PSA Foundation Spotlight: Habitat for Humanity NCC

Q&A with Dave Iliff, Habitat volunteer coordinator for PSA since 2007

In late September 2021, a group of Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate sales associates took a break from selling homes to help build them. It wasn’t the first time members of the Patterson-Schwartz family put on their hard hats and tool belts for Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County, but it was a notable one. This most recent volunteer effort marked the first on-site Build Day since the pandemic restrictions set in early 2020 were lifted.

September 2021 PSA Build Day Volunteers from left to right: Logan Kidwwell, Mary Corcoran, Ketia Dukes, Jeff Whitaker, Nick Rybinski, Sonny Reeves, Dave Iliff, Karen Burke, and Vicki Feeney.

No one could be more proud to be back building homes than Dave Iliff. This Patterson-Schwartz Hockessin sales associate has been coordinating our local volunteer efforts for Habitat for Humanity since 2007.

Hey Dave, how did Patterson-Schwartz get involved with Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County?

I remember PSA got involved in a one-time Habitat for Humanity Build Day, and I think a year or so may have passed, but I still vividly recalled the joy I felt volunteering that day. I thought it would be a great thing for us to become more involved on a regular basis.

I have organized about 20 volunteer efforts over the years. And, even though we don’t do it for the recognition, I was proud to accept the Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Partnership through Volunteerism on behalf of Patterson-Schwartz in 2019.

Who benefits from the services that Habitat provides?

Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County builds affordable, well-constructed homes and provides interest-free loans. The homeowners-to-be, who are often trying to overcome hardships, are provided with financial education and required to work on the sites and help with the fundraising events. There is a great sense of achievement in the work they must do to qualify, and lives truly change with the help of Habitat.

I remember attending the groundbreaking and dedication ceremony of a site at Walnut Ridge in 2015. It was raining, and a young single mom who was to be one of the new homeowners gave an emotional speech at the podium. She spoke about where she had been in her life and how grateful she was to have her own home and a fresh start for her family. I will never forget that day and how she spoke from the heart. I think everyone present had tears in their eyes. I was grateful to be there for it.

What is the job of a Habitat volunteer?

As a volunteer on Build Days, you don’t necessarily need to have any skills in building. There is always something for everyone to do, and Habitat for Humanity provides all of the tools necessary for each build phase. You can even learn some new skills while on the job!

It’s not all about building. We have also volunteered with a Habitat for Humanity program known as “A Brush with Kindness,” which helps communities restore their homes and common areas. The jobs associated include anything from painting and landscaping to repairing screen doors, weather sealing homes, and more.

Why is it good to volunteer on Build Days?

In addition to helping the local community and contributing to a worthy cause, volunteering is fun! You really get to know your colleagues and fellow build mates. This last group consisted of a lot of newer PSA faces from across the company as well as some repeat volunteers. The work really appeals to everyone, and we had a great day making memories.

I have seen real passion and dedication in the people who fulfill the Habitat mission, and they are a great organization with which to partner. Whatever the job, our volunteers come away from the experience feeling inspired and proud of the work they’ve accomplished.

Together we can light the way to a better tomorrow

PSA Foundation Spotlight: The Mary Campbell Center

As a long-term care facility for disabled adults, The Mary Campbell Center strives to be a place where a resident’s independence is enhanced, family members are always welcome, and comfort and safety are paramount. The Mary Campbell Center is as unique and special to the local area as it is to those who benefit from its homelike environment. And for two members of the Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate family, the facility and its mission are especially close to heart and home.

Filling a need

Since the mid-1980s, Steve Crifasi of Patterson-Schwartz Greenville has been a member of the committee that organizes The Center’s largest annual fundraiser, The Charmie Welch Golf Tournament. For Steve, who is now co-chairman of this fundraising effort, his involvement is a family affair with roots in friendship.

Charmie Welch, the golf tournament’s namesake, was a little girl when she developed a life-altering disability. When her medical needs became too difficult to manage at home, her parents were dismayed to learn the only care options were nursing homes. Their struggle to find the perfect place for their daughter inspired the creation of The Mary Campbell Center.

In addition to Charmie’s parents, seven founders came together to bring The Center to life in north Wilmington in 1976. Bill Davis, a dear friend of the Welch family and Steve Crifasi’s father-in-law, was on the original golf committee in 1981. With his help, The Mary Campbell Center has grown every year due to the tournament’s success.

“My father-in-law inspired my involvement, and the tradition continues with his son, Bill Davis Jr., me, and my son, Steve Jr.,” says Steve.

“The Mary Campbell Center truly is a phenomenal facility that helps many individuals and families, but its needs are constantly evolving. I am proud of all of our fundraising efforts and grateful for the unwavering support we’ve had from sponsors like Patterson-Schwartz. Over the years we have been able to help The Center reach many goals, including the construction of an indoor wheelchair-accessible pool.”

Surrounded by support

Another member of the PSA family personally connected to The Mary Campbell Center is Hockessin sales manager, Sal Sedita. Sal’s daughter, Sarah, has been a resident at The Center for over 15 years.

“Every parent worries about who will take care of their child if they are gone or unable to do so,” says Sal. “This becomes a much more ‘real’ situation when you have a son or daughter who will need full-time care for their entire life.”

When Sarah completed school at age 21, Sal and his wife looked at multiple options where Sarah could live as an adult, but nothing felt right. Sarah had received respite care at The Mary Campbell Center before and the exceptional experience gave the whole family good feelings. Expecting to be on a waitlist of a year or longer, they consider themselves very fortunate that The Center had an opening for Sarah almost immediately.

“I compare The Center to a fraternity or sorority: a big home where she is surrounded by friends and people who care for her, care about her, and love her for her,” says Sal.

from left to right: Tom Shea, Director of External Affairs Mary Campbell Center, Juli Giles of Patterson-Schwartz, and Sal Sedita at the 2018 Guest Bartender Fundraiser at BBC Tavern & Grill in Greenville

“Every day, I am thankful for The Center, and the peace of mind it gives us knowing she is so safe and so happy. To have such a special facility so close to home where we can visit anytime is one of my biggest blessings in a very blessed life.”

Teeing it up to give back

Throughout the years, members of the PSA family have gathered in support of Sal, Steve, and The Mary Campbell Center. The Center has been a frequent beneficiary of the Hockessin office’s annual soup fundraiser and the recipient of all the proceeds raised at the 2018 PSA Guest Bartender event. Corporately, Patterson-Schwartz has donated holiday trees and lunches to the facility and returns year after year as a sponsor of the Charmie Welch Golf Tournament.

On September 13, 2021, the Charmie Welch Golf Tournament will be celebrating its 40th year. Like past years, Steve and Sal will team up in support not only as sponsors and colleagues but also as friends hitting the links for a good cause: they have been playing the tournament together as part of the PSA foursome for as long as either can remember.

The Patterson-Schwartz foursome at the 2015 Charmie Welch Golf Tournament at DuPont Country Club. From Left to Right: Joe Pluscht, Jr., Steve Crifasi, Sal Sedita, and Jason Giles.

To learn more about this year’s tournament (which includes a drone golf ball drop raffle open to the public) and how you can support The Mary Campbell Center mission, please click here.