A local nonprofit is turning personal loss into a lasting legacy of kindness, one book at a time.
At Easterns Automotive Group, giving back to the communities we serve is at the heart of what we do. Through our continued partnership with FOX 5 DC and the Pay It Forward initiative, we’re proud to recognize local organizations making a meaningful difference.
This time, we’re shining the spotlight on Demand a Cure, Inc., a Maryland-based nonprofit honoring the life and legacy of Amanda Shea Wilkins by supporting families affected by cancer.
Turning Grief Into a Mission of Giving
Demand a Cure was inspired by Amanda Shea Wilkins, a devoted mother and nurse who faced her own battle with cancer.
During her final days, Amanda’s family received books to help her young daughter, Madison, understand and cope with her mother’s illness. Recognizing how valuable these resources were, Amanda wanted other families facing similar challenges to have access to the same support.
Following Amanda’s passing on June 11, 2019, her family made it their mission to continue her legacy of compassion and generosity.
Today, Demand a Cure has distributed more than 5,000 books to local cancer centers, doctors’ offices, chemotherapy and radiation treatment facilities, and counseling departments throughout Calvert County Public Schools.
These books provide comfort, understanding, and support to children and families navigating some of life’s most difficult moments.
Supporting the Next Generation of Caregivers
Amanda’s passion for helping others extended beyond her family. As a nurse, she dedicated her life to caring for people, and her loved ones wanted to ensure that dedication continued.
Through the Amanda Shea Wilkins Memorial Scholarship Fund, Demand a Cure supports students pursuing careers in healthcare at the Calvert County Technology Academy, Amanda’s alma mater.
Last year alone, the organization awarded five $3,000 scholarships to aspiring caregivers, helping the next generation of healthcare professionals follow in Amanda’s footsteps.
The nonprofit also brings the community together through its annual Magnolia Market, a fall celebration featuring local vendors, food trucks, music, family activities, and more. The event recently celebrated its fifth year with more than 90 vendors participating.
Easterns Automotive Group and FOX 5 Give Back
During a special FOX 5 Pay It Forward segment in Benedict, Maryland, Easterns Automotive Group and FOX 5 surprised Demand a Cure with a $2,200 donation to support its ongoing mission.
The emotional presentation highlighted the tremendous impact that a small group of dedicated individuals can have on an entire community.
Representatives from Demand a Cure shared that the donation will help fund future scholarships and purchase additional books for families in need.
Their mission remains simple: continue spreading kindness, supporting others, and bringing light to families experiencing difficult times.
Continuing Amanda’s Legacy
What began as one mother’s desire to help her daughter has grown into a community-wide effort to make sure families never feel alone during their cancer journey.
Through books, scholarships, fundraising events, and the generosity of supporters, Demand a Cure continues to transform grief into hope.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we’re honored to play a small part in that mission. We’re grateful for organizations like Demand a Cure that remind us how powerful kindness can be.
To learn more about Demand a Cure, make a donation, or support an upcoming event, visit amandashaywilkins.com.
Stay connected with Easterns Automotive Group as we continue recognizing the people and organizations making a difference throughout the DMV through our Pay It Forward partnership with FOX 5 DC.