History

The origins of Building Block Foundation Fund start with the Teahouse Gang.

For many years, camaraderie was the driving force that brought together a group of commercial real estate brokers who worked in the same Coldwell Banker real estate office in the ’60s, under the leadership of John B. Parker. In those days, the small team was primarily responsible for The Irvine Company’s leasing and sales activity. Because of their legacy and connection to the early growth of Orange County, many of the brokers went on to much success in the local Orange County real estate community.

Even though many of the original members sought their own career paths in real estate, the group met annually to share news and continue friendships. While the camaraderie of their gatherings was enjoyable, many of the original members recognized the need to do more for the local community. Dubbed the Teahouse Gang because the old broker office in Corona del Mar resembled a Japanese teahouse, the group started planning its first annual event to benefit a local charity.

In October 2001, the Teahouse Gang held its first annual real estate industry event to benefit KIDWORKS, a Santa Ana based non-profit organization dedicated to educating and nurturing at-risk youth. The Rock and Roll Party raised $50,000. From that point the group continued events, increasing donations each year and adding new members from the Orange County real estate community.

In 2002, long-time member Dan Donahue of Donahue Schriber passed away. To honor his commitment to the local industry, the Teahouse Gang and “Friends of Dan” joined forces to hold a benefit in his name, raising approximately $1 million for KIDWORKS.

Considering the success of the Teahouse Gang’s charitable contributions to date, the local real estate community recognized an immense desire to give back in a meaningful and substantial way. Out of respect to Teahouse Gang members, Orange County real estate professionals joined together in 2004 to form Building Block, which is dedicated to pursuing a broader charitable goal for the entire real estate community.

Building Block has grown tremendously since 2002. In addition to raising funds for Kidworks, Building Block has raised nearly $1 million through the Annual Celebration Event, Foot by Foot Program, and other annual events. The funds have been distributed to 5 local charities; Kidworks, Orangewood Guardian Scholars, Taller San Jose, Project Access, and Newport Sports Museum.