If you are a local resident, chances are you have either been aware of or even been assisted by the dedicated efforts of the Arundel Volunteer Fire Department. The men and women of Squad 7 continue to act as heroes to thousands in our community every year, but, as is the case with most nonprofit causes, the economic downturn has resulted in lower donations and funding.

Yet the need for this 50 year-old organization continues to grow with the area’s population boom, and the cost of equipment, supplies, and gear never decreases.

“We can’t complain because everyone else is in the same boat,” said Julie Peterson, Vice President for the AVFD’s Board of Directors. “We just need to be more creative about how we raise the money we need without putting a burden on local families.”

Now, local businesses are joining together to help the cause. The Chesapeake Homeowners Network and Suburban Scene are hosting a Home Show 2010, providing the community with an opportunity to meet one-on-one with local builders, contractors, landscapers, and other “home focused” vendors, with proceeds going to the AVFD.

The “Home Show 2010” event will be held on Saturday, March 20th, 10am-4pm, at the AVFD station located on Route 424, Davidsonville Road next to Bell Branch Park. Local home improvement businesses will have booths including displays and information on everything from painting to outdoor lighting and irrigation to kitchen and bath remodeling.

The event is free and open to the public, with a free hot dog lunch provided by the AVFD. Children’s activities, door prizes, and even a 50/50 raffle are planned as well. Sherwin-Williams representatives will offer demonstrations during the day on topics like color trends, deck maintenance, and their new green product line.

“This is really a win-win for all involved,” explained Joe Bowen, owner of Bowen Painting & Remodeling and Bath Builders in Crofton. “The public is offered an opportunity to meet and view what local contractors can do for them, the contractors are offered a new opportunity to meet potential customers, and the AVFD is the financial beneficiary.”

Mr. Bowen is the president of the Chesapeake Homeowners Network, a group of highly qualified professional businesses servicing the needs of local homeowners. Membership consists of a diverse group of businesses that are committed to providing the highest quality service in that market.

“We offer the consumer a choice of companies that have met our challenging membership criteria to join,” explained Mr. Bowen. “It is the mission of each and every member to provide quality workmanship, professional services, and fair prices, along with prompt and courteous service.”

From picking out a new carpet to designing a new patio, show attendees are guaranteed to leave with at least one home improvement project plan. The show will also include vendors representing landscaping, cleaning, and design services.

Mr. Bowen said the local home improvement scene has changed somewhat over the last couple of years to reflect the harsh economic situation.

“Many of us see a larger number of customers who either must spruce up their home to have any hope of selling it or who are staying put to save their equity and choosing instead to upgrade their existing space,” said Mr. Bowen.

Another growing group of customers are those choosing to go greener while saving money in the long run. Many contractors are offering to use more eco-friendly materials these days, and projects like new energy efficient window installation can help homeowners save on those crazy heating and air conditioning bills.

Have a project you have been considering? This is a great way to do some one-stop shopping and pricing with reputable local businesses – and all for a good cause. The timing couldn’t be better, as the event coincides with the start of spring.

So go find your “to-do” list and bring it down to the firehouse, located at 2380 Davidsonville Road on March 20th. And if you have a business that in some way relates to the home improvement market, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to register for booth space, paid for by your tax-deductible donation to the AVFD. But hurry because participation is first come-first serve.

“We hope to have a great crowd there,” said Ms. Peterson. “The business community is really stepping up, and they have a lot to offer local residents. It will be a great way to kick off the upcoming spring season.”