Businesses reach out to charities year-round

Charitable organizations can benefit greatly during the holiday season, but some business owners have made it their business to raise money for needy charities throughout the year.

Jim Rubush, Crofton resident and owner of Fence & Deck Connection in Millersville, decided to raise money for Sarah's House in Fort Meade, after he and his wife, Michelle, became familiar with the organization through Community United Methodist Church. The shelter serves as an emergency shelter and transitional housing program for Anne Arundel County families in need.

The shelter's name can be misleading as many people envision a small house...