On this Thankful Thursday, Sharon Real Estate proudly acknowledges the exceptional volunteer work of Terry Brohawn Robbins within our community. In a recent conversation, when we asked Terry where her story of volunteerism began, she replied, “I am a volunteer; I was born to be a volunteer.”
Terry’s dedication to service was instilled early by her parents, Lee “Bummy” and Florence “Flossie” Brohawn. They often brought their youngest daughter along as they volunteered for the Elks and the Rescue Fire Company. Terry recalls that her parents made volunteering enjoyable, never grumbled, and always helped wherever needed. This way of life became a cornerstone for the Brohawn family, and Terry has faithfully carried on this tradition, dedicating her life to improving Cambridge and Dorchester County.
Terry’s commitment spans more than 46 years with the local Ducks Unlimited chapter. Since 1978, she has been involved in the Dorchester Chapter and has been Chairman for 35 years. She is proud to represent the hand full of committee members who make up the Most Efficient Chapter in the state, only losing that title 3 times in the past 46 years. Her sharp focus on the bottom line, combined with her knack for selecting unique and hand-crafted items for the live and silent auctions, has attracted numerous donors and sponsors. Her unwavering dedication and commitment to the cause have been the driving forces behind her success.
Beyond Ducks Unlimited, Terry lends her time and talents to an array of organizations, including Rock the Choptank, the Jay Aldridge Annual Tennis Tournament, Wreaths Across America, the Grand National Waterfowl Hunt, the Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians, the Cambridge Power Boat Regatta Association, The National Outdoor Show, the Busick Foundation, and many more. Some years, her contributions to the Salvation Army alone exceed 1,000 volunteer hours, not counting her efforts with other organizations.
The Bay Country Racquet Club stands as another testament to Terry’s volunteer spirit. Built through a partnership involving Lee Brohawn, John Tieder, and Allen Tyler, the club aimed to serve the community. For over a decade, Terry managed the racquet club voluntarily, without pay. Her vision was to provide indoor courts, a teaching facility for local pros, and development opportunities for children and high school tennis team members. She also organized annual tennis tournaments to benefit Relay for Life.
One of Terry’s most endearing qualities is her unwavering loyalty as a “True Friend.” Her friends know there is nothing she wouldn’t do for them. Her dedication extends to assisting at Sheet’s Flower Shop, where her sisters worked, and later at Flowers ‘n’ Things, opened by her sister Mary Ann. During every major holiday, wedding, funeral, or event, Terry was there, assisting Mary Ann, often recruiting her husband, Mark, to help as well. Terry and Mark Robbins have been married for over 35 years, and he supports her in all her endeavors.
For the past eight-plus years, Terry has attended every Dorchester County Council meeting, believing it crucial to understand firsthand what was happening in her county. She preferred this over relying on secondhand opinions or newspaper reports. This year, her commitment was recognized when Maryland’s Governor appointed her to the Dorchester County Property Tax Appeals Board.
Terry’s talents are not confined to her volunteer work; she is also a gifted artist. Her current passion is creating Pine Needle Coiled Baskets, which are truly exquisite. She generously donates these baskets to various organizations for their fundraisers.
When Terry’s mother once asked if she wanted children, Terry replied, “No, I want to work and volunteer.” Initially, she feared this made her selfish, but in truth, her life has been one of profound selflessness.
On behalf of Sharon Real Estate, we extend our deepest gratitude for all you have done for our community, Terry. You are an inspiration to us all, and we are incredibly thankful to call you our friend.
Terry Brohawn Robbins