Original Article: https://www.elliman.com/
During the holiday season, Elliman Insider invited agents at Douglas Elliman to share the ways they are volunteering, donating, and otherwise giving back to their community, from Thanksgiving through the December holidays.
In Boca Raton, Fla., where David Bergstein and his wife have been giving back to local communities throughout the year, the two recently established Friends of Sammy, a 501(c)(3) named after their nearly 18-year-old dog.
“This year we sponsored 12 elementary schools, providing supplies for the kids and teachers, and yesterday was the annual Holiday Toy Drive,” Bergstein said.
“We own properties throughout Broward and Palm Beach counties, and a few of our tenants were firefighters, so we hooked up with the Pompano Fire Benevolent and donated thousands of toys to be handed out by BSO/Pompano Fire and volunteers (including my wife and me) on Christmas morning.
“It is great fun seeing smiles on kids’ faces, and we enjoy giving back. Yes, my wife is a force to reckon with, so she had commissioners and volunteers, along with BSO/Firefighters, all helping load up three trucks and vans. Amazing things can happen if everyone just pitches in!”
Brooklyn broker Jack Chiu recently signed a commercial lease with ICNA Relief, “a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those in need through its food pantry program. This partnership is more than a transaction—it’s a commitment to uplifting our neighbors and strengthening the bonds of compassion in our community.”
“Every Monday, ICNA Relief opens its doors to distribute dry goods to families who need a helping hand,” Chiu continued. “This holiday season, I’ll be there—not just as a supporter, but also as a servant to the cause—helping ensure that no one goes hungry and that every home feels the warmth of generosity.
“Giving back is a calling, and I believe that blessings multiply when we share them. It’s my honor to stand alongside ICNA Relief and contribute to a mission that reflects the true spirit of humanity: caring for one another.
“If you feel inspired to join us—whether by volunteering your time or offering support—please reach out. Together, we can make this season brighter for those who need it most.”
Paul DeTurris, on Long Island, shared a note to “recognize and sincerely thank one of our agents, Lisa DeTurris, of the Merrick office of DE for her continued generosity and commitment to giving back to those in need.”
“Each year during the holiday season,” he continued, “she organizes a collection to support members of our community who are less fortunate through her church. In addition, she leads an annual back-to-school initiative, collecting funds for book bags and school supplies to help children start the school year prepared and confident.
“These efforts reflect compassion, leadership, and a genuine dedication to service. Her actions make a meaningful difference in the lives of many families and are a wonderful example of the values we strive to uphold both professionally and personally.
“Please join me in expressing our gratitude and appreciation for her ongoing kindness and generosity. With sincere thanks, Paul.”
In New York City, Bushra Pereira is volunteering as a member of a professional choir at St. James Episcopal Church. “I love signing and have been doing so since I was a kid,” she said. “I will be singing on Christmas Eve, a variety of select Christmas songs (not the usual carols) in English, French, and Latin!”
In Weston, Massachusetts, Catherine Bassick chaired an initiative to decorate the Golden Ball Tavern in red, white, and blue for America’s 250th birthday. “It was a great success,” said Bassick. “Watch video here and fast-forward to the middle to see the best part of the decorations!”
On Long Island, The Furino Team led campaign for the Michael Magro Foundation, collecting gift cards and donations for families who have kids battling cancer. The money helps them buy gifts for their kids.
“As a family,” added Michael Furino, “we volunteer every Wednesday at NOSH Delivers, a food pantry in Glen Cove. We help pack and decorate bags of food for families that do not have food for the holidays.
According to Terhi Edwards, the Riverdale office helped to collect 700 toys for children living in shelters in the Bronx.
