The Eastern Shore has a way of drawing back those who leave. For Mark Carter, who grew up on a farm in Milford, the decision to return to the area — after attending the Virginia Military Institute and serving nine years as an officer in the U.S. Marines — was rooted in the spirit of family.
“My partner, Sara, and I were looking forward to growing a family. I thought it was time to consider changing careers, to do something less dangerous,” said Mark. “This area was a great place to grow up, so I knew it would be a great place to raise kids.” Around that time, his older brother passed away from a heart condition, so Mark wanted to be near family as well.
Once back, Mark began giving ecotours across Cape Henlopen, through his brother Matthew’s company, Quest Adventures. While he enjoyed the opportunity to connect with nature, the off-season was slow, so he searched for a side gig. Mark wound up at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, where he was hired full-time to oversee the brewery’s events. Fourteen years later, he is the company’s Beer & Benevolence director. He still manages events but also focuses on the brewery’s significant philanthropic initiatives by collaborating with local nonprofits and leading community relations.
“My role is not so much marketing but more like, ‘Okay, there’s a town park. How do we help make that grow?’” said Mark, adding that his time as a public affairs officer in the Marines translated well to his community work at Dogfish Head.