Bello Machre Raises Over $15,000 at Annual Every Step Counts Bingo Fundraiser

GLEN BURNIE, MD (March 30, 2026) — Bello Machre welcomed community members, supporters, and friends to Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company on Friday evening for its Every Step Counts Bingo fundraiser, raising more than $15,000 in support of individuals with developmental disabilities across Maryland.

Doors opened at 5:30 PM, with the first game beginning shortly after 6:30 PM. The evening brought together a full room of attendees who enjoyed an energetic lineup of bingo games, raffles, and community connection, wrapping up around 9:45 PM.

“I was blown away when I unlocked the doors at 5:30 PM and saw the line wrapped around the building. It was incredibly heartening to see so many people come together with such enthusiasm to support an amazing cause,” shares Mitchell Daro, Special Events & Marketing Coordinator. “I’m truly grateful to everyone who supported the event, whether by attending, donating, sponsoring, or volunteering.”

Guests had the chance to win a variety of designer handbags, including Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and Dooney & Bourke, along with a wide selection of raffle baskets featuring items from generous local businesses and supporters. Food was provided by the Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company Women’s Auxiliary and included hot dogs, hamburgers, pretzels, and other favorites.

“This event is a great example of what happens when community comes together,” said Dr. Robert T. Ireland, President and CEO of Bello Machre. “Every dollar raised helps create opportunities for the people we support to live, grow, and thrive.”

Bello Machre extends its sincere gratitude to the businesses that contributed in-kind donations to support the event, including Annapolis Blues FC, Blended Essentials, Crofton Yoga & Wellness, Dodge Arrows, Franklins Toys, Heavy Seas Brewing, Kelly’s Homemades, Board and Brush, Puzzled Pet Treats, ASAP Screenprinting, Severna Park Lanes, Third Eye Games, and Vineyards at Dodon.

Additional thanks go to the many individuals who contributed generously, including Alicia Chamblee, Dr. Robert T. Ireland, Krystal Dorsey, Linda Ancin, Michelle Parrish, Pam Abbott, Peggy Soley, Pat and Dave Menzel, Rhonda Kelley, Spike, and Tracy Lynott.

The success of the evening reflects the strength of the Bello Machre community and its shared commitment to providing a lifetime of loving care and opportunity.To learn more about Bello Machre and how to get involved, visit www.bellomachre.org.

About Bello Machre

Bello Machre, a non-profit organization with offices in Anne Arundel and Carroll Counties, MD, provides a lifetime of loving care, beautiful wheelchair-accessible homes, and community support to people living in its 50 community homes located throughout Central Maryland as part of our Residential/Group Home Services. Our Community Development Services provide community-based day services, plus employment services for people with developmental disabilities. The Ray of Hope Program offers assistance with expenses such as specialized summer camps, physical therapy, and adaptive equipment. Bello Machre is here to help, empowering people with developmental disabilities to live life to its fullest. bellomachre.org