A "tail" of Philanthropy and Thoughtful Intention

Mark and Patty Engberg of Salisbury didn’t initially set out to make a grand philanthropic statement. They simply wanted to create meaningful change in their local community.

Mark and Patty Engberg, at their Salisbury home with Jerry (right) who they fostered for the Humane Society of Wicomico County and Georgia (left) their rescue dog from the same shelter, have found creative avenues in philanthropy through the Community Foundation to support the causes and agencies most important to them.

“Patty’s passion is helping animals,” said Mark. “I had a sister with profound cerebral palsy, so I have always gravitated toward helping the disabled, the homeless and those in financial need.”

Like many donors, Mark and Patty felt there was a deeper purpose. How could their support go further, have a consistent impact, and who could help facilitate that?

The couple turned to the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore and a flexible and lasting way to give: a donor advised fund (DAF) where they could make regular contributions and recommend grants.

“We definitely wanted to give locally, create a source of ongoing support, and to make sure our gifts were going to the right people and places. The Community Foundation helps us to ensure our dollars are doing that,” said Mark.

With guidance from the team, they were able to establish their fund, gaining not only a giving vehicle but also a partner in philanthropy. “Everyone at the foundation is so local minded and pleasant,” added Patty. “Setting up our charitable fund was a piece of cake. We love the guidance we were provided and the flexibility it offers.”

That flexibility has allowed the couple, married for 31 years, to assist HALO, Easter Seals, Humane Society of Wicomico County, Christian Shelter and Habitat to name a few who have benefitted from Mark and Patty’s kindness since their charitable fund launched in 2007.

The couple saw first-hand the humane society’s impact through Patty’s volunteer work at the shelter. The need there is both practical and profound, like the Engberg’s themselves, who offered an interesting challenge at the 2026 Humane Society of Wicomico County Gala.

“I just tossed out that we’d match any donation up to $5,000, and thanks to the generosity of the people in the room, the total—including the match—very quickly reached $51,000, which we placed in the Humane Society of Wicomico County Fund housed at the Community Foundation,” said Patty.

The goal of that fund is $7 million for a new building.

“The kennels are small, there’s no ventilation, no outdoor runs for the dogs,” added Patty. “I believe we currently have about 40 dogs being sheltered and another 25 in foster care. It’s an immediate and desperate need.”

The Engberg’s see their volunteerism and overall participation through the Community Foundation as a legacy of care. One that reflects their values and supports causes close to their hearts. 

“You don’t have to be wealthy to partner with the Community Foundation. Have a conversation with them to see how you can help your community and causes that are important to you,” said Mark. 

Their story, originally launched from a desire to make a difference, doesn’t end with philanthropy. It continues to be driven by intention and thoughtful decisions that will impact the wellbeing of their community for years.

“It’s foolish to be selfish. When you have the means, you have to help people who are less fortunate than you,” closed Mark. “We’re just trying to do what is right and the Community Foundation has made that easy for us for 20 years.”

To learn more about how the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore can assist you to achieve your goals by helping others through charitable giving, please contact Jess Meeha

n, Senior Director of Advancement at 443-975-5815 or jmeehan@cfes.org.