Welcome to February, Greater Washington!

And welcome to GoodWorks, Judith Dittman, Executive Director of Alternative House. Founded in 1972 as a shelter for runaway and homeless teens, Alternative House has evolved into an entire support system designed to keep kids off the streets — and is currently the only shelter for youth in Northern Virginia. Learn more about Judith and their incredible work right here:

1. What was your most interesting recent project, initiative, partnership, or event?

We started a new program called the homeless youth initiative, which provides help with rent and support for high school students who are homeless without the support of a family. It’s been phenomenally successful, but we are scrambling for funding. In June of 2009, there were 100 homeless youth in Fairfax without the support of a parent or guardian who were trying to complete high school. Almost 10% ended up in adult homeless shelters and many dropped out of school. We started our Homeless Youth Initiative in September 2009. In June of 2010, there were more than 200 homeless youth without the support of a family who were still in high school. None went to an adult homeless shelter, only one dropped out of school, and 77% of graduating seniors went to college. I am so inspired by what these kids are doing, given the chance and a roof over their heads. It’s amazing!

2. What else are you up to?

I love my job and I spend a lot of time at work, but my husband and I also love to camp (in a tent). Our favorite spot is the National Seashore at Assateague. I also love to garden and cook and I’m a birdwatcher. Oh, and my husband and I both love music of all kinds.

3. Is there a moment, person, or event that inspired you to do this particular work?

I grew up telling my father that “it’s not fair” and him telling me “life’s not fair … but maybe you can change that.” Sometimes life isn’t fair and I want to do whatever I can to change it. That’s probably the early foundation of my work.

4. Who is your hero in the nonprofit/philanthropy world?

Pete Seeger.

5. What is the single greatest (and non-financial) challenge to the work that you do?every day?

Overcoming the people who say it can’t be done and so don’t try.

6. What advice do you have for other people who want to work in your field?

Don’t do it unless you REALLY believe in it. Follow your passion, but don’t ignore what your head tells you either.

7. What’s next?

I want to see federal recognition and funding for homeless young people 18 to 24. These are kids who have been homeless, runaways, foster care youth and who are being ignored as they abruptly change from a child at 17 to an adult at 18. I plan to keep banging at the doors to get people to realize that investing a small amount now saves not just dollars down the road but people’s lives. We are all winners when a young person has what they need to become contributing members of the community instead of someone who is chronically homeless.

EXTRA: If you could have a power breakfast with any three people (living, dead, or fictional) who would they be?

Jane Goodall, Pete Seeger, Cesar Chavez.