In Aiken, South Carolina, the spirit of community runs deep, and no one embodies that more than Vikki Crossland and Brandi Cook, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind Aiken Homes Team with Meybohm Real Estate. Together, they are not only top-tier REALTORS® helping clients find their dream homes but also dedicated advocates for the people, pets and programs that make Aiken such a special place to live. With a strong belief in giving back, they have spent over 10 years weaving philanthropy into the very fabric of their business, supporting local charities, nonprofits and community initiatives year after year.
Crossland and Cook’s efforts extend far beyond the closing table. “At Aiken Homes Team, we believe in the power of community,” they say, “and we’re committed to giving back to the people and places that make the Aiken area feel like home.” Whether it’s contributing time, resources or simply spreading the word about good causes through videos on social media, Crossland and Cook are always looking for meaningful ways to be of service.
One of the team’s proudest and longest-standing contributions is their yearly sponsorship of the Hopelands Concert Series. Held in the heart of downtown Aiken, this beloved music series brings neighbors together to enjoy local and regional performances under the shade of sprawling and ancient oak trees. “It’s such a joyful way for people to connect,” says Crossland. “We love supporting events that create those special moments that make Aiken feel so tight-knit.”
Equally close to their hearts is Storytime at Rye Patch, an event designed to ignite a love of reading in local children. Each participating child receives a free book to take home, building not only their personal library but also their confidence and curiosity. “There’s something magical about watching a child fall in love with a story,” says Cook. “If we can play even a small part in that journey, it’s worth everything.”
Crossland, a lifelong animal lover, is particularly passionate about their partnership with F.O.T.A.S. (Friends of the Animal Shelter). The organization works tirelessly to rescue and re-home animals in need, and Crossland has been a proud advocate of their efforts for years. “Animals don’t have a voice, so we have to be their voice,” she says. “Every pet deserves a safe, loving home, and FOTAS makes that happen again and again.”
For Cook, her heart lies with Aiken’s military families. She champions the Military on the Move (MOM) program which offers immediate financial rebates that can be used for closing costs, home repairs or price reductions for both buyers and sellers. “There’s no waiting, no red tape,” Cook explains. “It’s our way of showing gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our military families. They deserve support that’s simple, direct and heartfelt.”
Another cause close to both of their hearts is the Tri-Development Center which empowers individuals with developmental disabilities through job training, education and community connection. Supporting their work helps ensure that everyone in Aiken has a chance to thrive and feel included. “It’s about dignity, opportunity and creating pathways for all people,” Crossland notes.
Their love for Aiken also extends to the natural beauty of the area. Through the Adopt-a-Highway program, Aiken Homes Team maintains a clean and scenic stretch of road. “We take pride in keeping our city beautiful,” Cook says. “It’s a hands-on way to show love for where we live, and we hope it inspires others to get involved, too.”
Perhaps one of the most impactful things this mother-daughter duo does is simply share the good happening in Aiken. Whether it’s a charity event, a local fundraiser or a new nonprofit initiative, they use their platform to amplify community voices. “We want to give these efforts the spotlight they deserve,” says Cook. “Because when one of us shines, we all shine.”
At the end of the day, Crossland and Cook are more than real estate professionals, they are neighbors, volunteers and champions for the causes that matter most. Their dedication to community is not an afterthought, it’s the heartbeat of everything they do.
“Helping people find homes is only part of the story,” Crossland says. “Helping build a stronger, more connected community…now that’s the legacy we want to leave.”
There’s something magical about watching a child fall in love with a story,” says Cook. “If we can play even a small part in that journey, it’s worth everything.
Animals don’t have a voice, so we have to be their voice ,Every pet deserves a safe, loving home, and FOTAS makes that happen again and again