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Reflections from the Road: Holiday Journeys and #GivingTuesday

As we prepare for the holidays – packing suitcases, loading up the car, battling traffic or airport lines – it seems that the process of getting to our destination has become as much a part of holiday tradition as turkey, stuffing and that awkward annual dinner toast from a distant relative.

This inevitable “are we there yet?” mentality stretches beyond just the holiday travel season — it extends to our personal goals, career objectives and other milestones in life. Yet, while we’re on these personal journeys, it’s important that we use this time of year to stop and reflect — here, in this moment — on the things that have brought us to where we are today…and be thankful.

This Tuesday, December 3rd, #GivingTuesday gives us that unique opportunity after both Thanksgiving and the holiday shopping that follows to further reflect on all that we’ve been given, and turn our gratitude into impact.

As an official #GivingTuesday partner, the Catalogue for Philanthropy encourages you to reflect and re-think your approach to holiday shopping: as you shop for loved ones this year during the sales on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, turn your pennies saved into pennies…given.

With the Catalogue’s #APennySaved campaign, think about using your holiday shopping savings to lift up those in need in our community through your support of our 350+ local, vetted charities (You can learn more about them and give at www.cfp-dc.org/nonprofits). Use the money you save on items purchased this holiday weekend to change your community for good.

This holiday season, travel safely, reflect on the journey, and give thanks by giving back.

 

 

Around Town 11/22-11/11/28

We hope that you have received your new copy of the 2013-14 Catalogue by now! If not, request one here and find some great nonprofits to support, just like the ones below!

Friday, November 22, 2013

‘No School Day’ Camp

CREATE Arts Center
When school is out, art is in at CREATE! Join us for one of our exciting one day camps where students ages 6+ will work on projects that include drawing, painting, sculpture, collage and more!
When: Fri Nov 22 2013 (09:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
Where: CREATE Arts Center, 816 Thayer Ave., Floor 1, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Fee?:yes $65/ day. Before Care & After Care available for additional cost.
Contact: Lauren, (301) 588-2787
For more information: click here

EMANCIPATION:Meditations on Freedom

District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC)
November 22, 2013 to January 5, 2014 PRODUCED BY Black Artists of DC CURATOR: Esther Iverem OPENING RECEPTION: November 22, 7-9 PM Closing Reception : January 5, 2014, 2-5pm This year marks the 150 th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation in the United States. Though the proclamation which freed millions of African descendants from bondage is the starting point, this show will also explore various aspects of emancipation, from the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual, to the social, economic and political realms as well. What does emancipation or freedom mean in the year 2013 compared to the year 1863, or throughout the millennia of human history? What is the meaning of freedom for different populations on the globe, or how has emancipation impacted relationships between different populations? How has technology altered our ideas about freedom? What does it mean to be free?
When: Fri Nov 22 2013 (2:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Where: 2438 18th St, NW, Washington, Dist of Columbia 20009
Fee?: no
Contact: DC Arts Center, (202) 462-7833
For more information: click here

The Bannermen Presents Lesser known Tales

District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC)
Lesser Known Tales is an entire one act play, completely improvised by the talented cast, based on a title given by you, the audience. What these performers do will absolutely make you question whether or not they really are making it up on the spot. But The Bannermen guarantee you that they are!
When: Fri Nov 22 2013 (7:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
Where: DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St., Washington D.C., DC 20009
Fee?: yes $12 for DCAC memebers / $15 for Non-DCAC members
Contact: DC Arts Center, (202) 462-7833
For more information: click here

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Run For Shelter 5K/10 K + Fun Run

Carpenter’s Shelter
Carpenter’s Shelter and Pacers Events is proud to bring back the Run for Shelter 10K, 5K & Fun Run, an event dedicated to ending homelessness in the DC area. All proceeds benefit Carpenter’s Shelter and our mission to end homelessness. Sign up by November 1st and you’ll be guaranteed a technical t-shirt.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (08:00 AM)
Where: USPTO- Madison Building (Eisenhower Ave) 600 Dulany St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Fee?:yes $35 5K Registration, $35 10K Registration, $30 Fun Run Registration
Contact: Kelly Andreae, (703) 548-7500 ext 203
For more information: click here

Distribution Day

DC Diaper Bank
Our distribution days are one of the most exciting and important days at DC Diaper Bank. This is the day we distribute more than 50,000 diapers to over 17 amazing organizations across the DC Metro area. Come join us as we help these great organization fill their trucks with much needed diapers for the families that they serve.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (09:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: DC Diaper Bank Warehouse 8858 Monard Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Sorting and packing diapers; helping with other inventory
Contact: Corinne Cannon, (202) 656-8503

Children’s Book Reading

Reach Incorporated
This summer, 15 DC teens set out to become children’s book authors. Join us on Saturday, November 23rd, to hear from the four original children’s books they authored.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
Where: The Hill Center, 921 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003
Fee?: no
Contact: Mark Hecker, (215) 205-9902
For more information: click here

Wild Plant Nursery Work Day

Earth Sangha
This nursery workday will focus on winterizing our stock. We will be spreading sand in the propagation beds, and filling pots with new topsoil to have the ready for sowing in early Spring.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: Wild Plant Nursery, See website for directions or search Google Maps for Wild Plant Nursery., Springfield, VA 22150
Fee?: no
Contact: Lisa Bright, (703) 764-4830
For more information: click here

Herbal Harvest

City Blossoms
The season is almost over, and one of our last activities is to cut back our perennial herbs – rosemary, lavender, thyme, sage, and more – to donate to local community organizations. Come and join us for an educational, delicious and fantastic smelling afternoon!
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: Marion St. Intergenerational Garden, 1519 Marion St NW, Washington, DC 20011
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Volunteers will learn about a variety of herbs and how to care for them before the winter season. During the event, volunteers will cut and harvest herbs to be donated (and also taken home with volunteers)
Contact: Lola Bloom, (202) 870-8158

The Bannermen Presents Lesser known Tales

District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC)
Lesser Known Tales is an entire one act play, completely improvised by the talented cast, based on a title given by you, the audience. What these performers do will absolutely make you question whether or not they really are making it up on the spot. But The Bannermen guarantee you that they are!
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (7:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
Where: DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St., Washington D.C., DC 20009
Fee?: yes $12 for DCAC memebers / $15 for Non-DCAC members
Contact: DC Arts Center, (202) 462-7833
For more information: click here

Verdi’s Powerful and Timeless Requiem

National Philharmonic
Danielle Talamantes, soprano Margaret Mezzacappa, mezzo-soprano William Davenport, tenor Kevin Deas, bass National Philharmonic Chorale Stan Engebretson, conductor Written near the end of Verdi’s long career as a composer of opera, the monumental Requiem combines the drama of the stage, the passion and emotional power of an oratorio and the intensity of a symphony in a grand romantic expression of grief. This choral tour de force will feature two recent winners of the Metropolitan Opera National Council auditions, mezzo-soprano Margaret Mezzacappa and tenor William Davenport.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (8:00 PM)
Where: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Fee?: yes $28-$84 (Kids Free)
Contact: Deborah Birnbaum, (301) 581-5
For more information: click here

Intro to Performance Showcase

Joy of Motion Dance Center
Join us for the first Intro to Performance concert at the Jack Guidone Theater! Styles presented are Modern with Haley Culter, Tap with Tamara Henry and Hip Hop with Natasha Hawkins! Don’t miss your chance to join in on the fun with a disco dance party on stage following the performance.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (8:00 PM)
Where: The Jack Guidone Theater, 5207 Wisconsin Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015
Fee?: yes $12-15
Contact: JOMDC Friendship Heights, (202) 362-3042
For more information: click here

Le Villi & Heart of Madrid

The In Series
Pocket-Opera Double-Bill: Puccini’s first triumph, an opera-ballet in which the spirit of a jilted young woman returns to haunt her unfaithful lover. Paired with a charming Spanish fairy tale of lovers reunited serves as the vehicle for a cavalcade of zarzuela hits. In Elizabeth Pringle’s delightful libretto, fun-loving madrileos reunite an estranged American couple. Director: Abel Lopez Conductor: Carlos Csar Rodriguez Cast: Randa Rouweyha, Peter Burroughs, Gregory Stuart, Heidi Kershaw, Eduardo Castro, Adriana Gonzalez, Aurelio Dominguez, Mary Gresock, Adrienne Starr, Christine Soler, Brendan Sliger
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (8:00 PM)
Where: GALA Hispanic Theatre, 3333 14th St NW Washington, DC 20010
Fee?: yes $42 general admission; $37 seniors; $20 students with school id & children
Volunteer Info: Ushering, box office
Contact: Gregory Stuart, Executive Assistant, (202) 204-7765
For more information: click here

CAPITAL CITY SHOWCASE

District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC)
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show that brings you some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV. Hosted by Christian Hunt, it has featured some of the DC area’s finest stand up comedians, improv comics, rock bands, jazz bands, acoustic guitarists, and hip-hop artists.
When: Sat Nov 23 2013 (10:00 PM – 12:00 MIDNIGHT)
Where: DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St, NW, Washington, Dist of Columbia 20009
Fee?: yes At the door: $20 general/$15 DCAC Members ONLINE: $15 General/$12 DCAC Members
Contact: DC Arts Center, (202) 462-2438
For more information: click here

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Native Species Planting: Marie Butler Leven Preserve

Earth Sangha
If the weather permits, we’d like to do our last planting of the season on this day. We’ll add more Little Bluestem in our raised bed that we started on November 3rd. We’ll also bring some edge-of-the-wood native herbaceous plants species to plant where we removed Japanese Stiltgrass
When: Sun Nov 24 2013 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: Marie Butler Leven Preserve, 1501 Kirby Road, McLean VA 22101
Fee?:no
Volunteer Info: Plant native herbaceous plants.
Contact:Lisa Bright, (703) 764-4830
For more information: click here

Le Villi & Heart of Madrid

The In Series
Pocket-Opera Double-Bill: Puccini’s first triumph, an opera-ballet in which the spirit of a jilted young woman returns to haunt her unfaithful lover. Paired with a charming Spanish fairy tale of lovers reunited serves as the vehicle for a cavalcade of zarzuela hits. In Elizabeth Pringle’s delightful libretto, fun-loving madrileos reunite an estranged American couple. Director: Abel Lopez Conductor: Carlos Csar Rodriguez Cast: Randa Rouweyha, Peter Burroughs, Gregory Stuart, Heidi Kershaw, Eduardo Castro, Adriana Gonzalez, Aurelio Dominguez, Mary Gresock, Adrienne Starr, Christine Soler, Brendan Sliger
When: Sun Nov 24 2013 (3:00 PM)
Where: GALA Hispanic Theatre, 3333 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20010
Fee?: yes $42 general admission; $38 seniors; $20 students with school ID & children
Volunteer Info: Ushering, Box Office
Contact: Gregory Stuart, (202) 204-7765
For more information: click here

Pirouettes Workshop with Kathleen Weitz

Joy of Motion Dance Center
This workshop will examine the principles of turning, beginning with exercises focused on achieving balance and alignment, and will progress from basic pirouettes to traveling turns, grands pirouettes and turning jumps. Level: Beginning Ballet and above
When: Sun Nov 24 2013 (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Where: JOMDC Friendship Heights, 5207 Wisconsin Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015
Fee?: yes $25 advanced registration; $30 day of workshop
Contact: JOMDC Friendship Heights, (202) 362-3042
For more information: click here

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Hope for Henry Reads Presents Elisabeth Dahl

Hope for Henry Foundation
Children’s Book Author Elisabeth Dahl will share her book Genie Wishes with all the kids at Children’s National’s Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders.
When: Tue Nov 26 2013 (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM)
Where: Children’s National Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders, 111 Michigan Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20010
Fee?: no
Contact: Laurie Strongin, (202) 277-2710

Guest Post: One World Education

Today we welcome Eric Goldstein, Founder & Executive Director of One World Education (OWEd) to GoodWorks. OWEd provides middle and high school common core literacy programs and publishes student essays about cultural and global issues, promoting peer-to-peer learning and building skills for college and career writing. Founded in 2007, the teacher-created nonprofit has been recognized throughout the Capital Region as an outstanding literacy program that improves and celebrates student writing. Nationally, OWEd has been featured on Edutopia, ASCD’s Education Blog, Huffington Post, Comcast Newsmakers, and CBS News. In 2013, OWEd was selected as the first writing program to be adopted for all DC Public High Schools.Prior to One World Education, Eric was a middle and high school teacher in a DC Charter School. We’re delighted to welcome Eric & the OWEd team as a new 2013/14 Catalogue partner!

Step Back & Move Forward

by Eric Goldstein, Founder & Executive Director, One World Education

Sometimes the most effective step an organization can take toward improving its programming is to improve the organization behind its programming. Seven years ago in an 8th grade Charter School classroom, where One World Education (OWEd) was created with my 8th grade students, thinking about anything other than involving more students in our successful writing project wasn’t even a speck on the radar.

The success of that classroom project propelled OWEd’s expansion into a citywide organization. Now the organization provides in DC middle and high schools. As students strengthen the skills needed for college and career-level writing, they learn to write and frame arguments about cultural and global issues that they care about. The organization then on its website with aligned curriculum, so students can read and learn about these topics from the perspective of their peers.

Just as our programs ensure that teachers have strong plans for their students, OWEd followed suit and used the last school year to preparing its own strategic goals. The results have spearheaded program improvements, expansion, and more efficient partner collaboration. As a new member organization in the Catalogue of Philanthropy Community, I’ll use this blog post to share some of One World Education’s goals for long-term success and sustainability.

First, schools had asked OWEd about offering more in-school, professional development (PD). We realized that a higher quality of writing was coming from students whose teachers had participated in our trainings. In response, OWEd developed a Teacher Trainer Academy where our educator team trains a teacher from each partner school. These teachers then lead OWEd’s PD in their own schools – creating leadership opportunities, fostering collaboration, and ensuring program expertise exists in each partner school.

Second, OWEd needed to change its partnership model to be more effective. This year the organization transitioned from working with individual schools to working with school districts and Charter school networks. For the 2013-2014 school year, OWEd partnered with DC Public Schools (DCPS) to implement a citywide, high school writing program. Every 9th and 10th grade DCPS student and teacher has the opportunity to participate in the One World Writing Program this year.

OWEd’s third goal was to deepen its commitment to evaluation. With the DCPS partnership in place, OWEd needed a strong evaluation partner to assess our work with 3,500 DCPS high school students and their teachers. This summer, OWEd contracted the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration at George Washington University to lead this citywide evaluation.

The importance of having a strong, long-term plan is often overlooked in the face of short-term gains. As OWEd programs have demonstrated the ability to create successful teaching and learning experiences in classrooms, the organization was also successful in accomplishing its own goals over the past year. I want to thank those of you who have been a part of this accomplishment.

Thank you for your commitment to education and philanthropy.

To learn more about One World Education, please visit, www.oneworldeducation.org and keep up with Eric’s monthly blog here.

Around Town 11/15-11/21

Looking for something fun to do with your friends and family in the next week? Check out what is happening with Catalogue nonprofits in your neck of the woods!

Saturday, November 16, 2013

FLOC Book Festival

For Love of Children
The Book Festival is an opportunity for FLOC students and their families to celebrate the importance of reading and literacy. At last year’s event, more than 80 students and family members enjoyed a story from Master of Ceremonies Cynn Simpson of WJLA-TV and local author Laura Murray read her book The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School. Students participated in the presentations and at the conclusion of the event took home 20 books to start their own personal libraries. According to a 2007 study by the NCES, 4th graders who reported having 25 books or more at home had higher scores on reading tests than children who reported they didn’t have that many books. This year FLOC is hoping to engage our corporate partners and local businesses to support this event by hosting workplace book drives.
When: Sat Nov 16 2013 (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Where: Pepco Edison Place Gallery, 702 Eighth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20068
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Volunteers would host book drives at their place of business for FLOC students to take home and add to their personal libraries.
Contact: Kate Fleischer, (202) 462-8686 ext 3613
For more information: click here

Naked Girl Reading

District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC)
Sandman, Neverwhere, Stardust, American Gods and Coraline. Do those words bring excitement to your very being? Then this is the show for you! Don’t know those titles yet? Then come and find out about this amazing literary and film sensation. Naked Girls Reading dedicates the month of November to the winner of a multitude of literary awards and one of our favorite author’s, Neil Gaiman!
When: Sat Nov 16 2013 (6:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
Where: DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St. Washingtond D.C., DC 20009
Fee?: yes $20 Online Presale/at the door DCAC members // $25 at the door Non-DCAC members
Contact: Jae Lee, (202) 462-7833
For more information: click here

The Groove Experience, A Film Premiere and Dance Party

Joy of Motion Dance Center
* All proceeds go towards supporting Groove Elements Come walk the red carpet with Joy of Motion Dance Center’s teen Hip Hop company, Groove Elements, as they premiere their first concept video titled “Groove(n).” Music, games, prizes, food, and lots of dancing. Special performance by Groove Elements, with guest appearance by Hip Hop Company Prep Class. Fun for all ages.
When: Sat Nov 16 2013 (7:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
Where: JOMDC Bethesda, 7315 Wisconsin Avenue Suite 180E, Bethesda, MD 20814
Fee?: yes $7
Contact: Rachel Pearl, (202) 399-6764 ext 162
For more information: click here

Aerial Arts

Joe’s Movement Emporium/World Arts Focus
DC’s own Archane Aerial Arts welcomes performers in aerial dance and theater, circus arts, music and poetry as collaborating partners and as guests “just flying in.” Join us, with artists from near and far for an evening of work using the ground, the ceiling and all the space in between.
When: Sat Nov 16 2013 (8:00 PM)
Where: Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, MD 20712
Fee?: yes $20 General; $15 Students & Seniors; $10 Youth
Contact: Malori Rhones, (301) 699-1619
For more information: click here

Dissonance Dance Theatre Presents East To West: Dances of a Minority Mind

Joy of Motion Dance Center
Saturday, November 16, 8:00 PM Sunday, November 17, 7:00 PM East to West: Dances of a Minority Mind (East to West), is an evening length concert of dance works of African and Afro – American blends constructing stories through contemporary ballet and modern styles. Examining themes of loss, love and the celebration of life, African American choreographer, Shawn Short presents choreographic works from the heart. By blending western and European dance influences, Short’s work is diverse and brings a universal message.
When: Sat Nov 16 2013 (8:00 PM)
Where: The Jack Guidone Theatre, 5207 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20015
Fee?: yes $15-18
Contact: JOMDC Friendship Heights, (202) 362-3042
For more information: click here

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Aerial Arts

Joe’s Movement Emporium/World Arts Focus
DC’s own Archane Aerial Arts welcomes performers in aerial dance and theater, circus arts, music and poetry as collaborating partners and as guests “just flying in.” Join us, with artists from near and far for an evening of work using the ground, the ceiling and all the space in between.
When: Sun Nov 17 2013 (4:00 PM)
Where: Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, MD 20712
Fee?: yes $20 General; $15 Students & Seniors; $10 Youth
Contact: Malori Rhones, (301) 699-1619
For more information: click here

Monday, November 18, 2013

You’re Invited to Coffee Talk with Jubilee Jobs

Jubilee Jobs
Last year, Jubilee Jobs helped 1,000 people obtain employment. Want to know how we do it? Want to help us place 1,000 more people in jobs this year? Then join us on November 18th at The Festival Center, 1640 Columbia Rd NW at 8:30 am. We need your help to assist the unemployed in the community. Come and hear applicant testimonials, meet our Executive Director Terry Flood, learn more about our volunteer opportunities, and join others who want to make a real difference and help others in the community. Please call ahead of time at (202) 667-8970 so we know to look for you.
When: Mon Nov 18 2013 (08:30 AM)
Where: The Festival Center, 1640 Columbia Road, NW, Washington, DC 20009
Fee?: no
Contact: Sheila Robinson, (202) 667-8970

New Writers Now! – Save The Day!

Young Playwrights’ Theater
Hijinks ensue when unconventional heroes fight for truth, glory and chores? Join YPT as we launch our eighteenth season with a special, family-friendly evening of five new plays written by some of our most imaginative playwrights and performed by professional actors. We will begin with a reception at 6:30pm, where guests will have the opportunity to meet our playwrights and enjoy light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. The performance will begin at 7pm, and will be followed by a post-show discussion with the playwrights. The performance is free and our plays are appropriate for all ages. Bring the whole family to this free, fun performance event, and learn more about the exciting things YPT has coming up this season!
When: Mon Nov 18 2013 (6:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
Where: Josephine Butler Parks and Recreation Center, 2437 15th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20009
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Volunteers would assist YPT staff with set-up for the performance and reception, greet guests and collect contact information, serve as ushers during the performance and help with clean-up after the performance. We would greatly appreciate any volunteer help!
Contact: Alison Beyrle, (202) 387-9173
For more information:

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Tuesday Warehouse Volunteering

DC Diaper Bank
Come help us in the warehouse! Volunteering is family friendly and all are welcome whether it’s for one hour or four. We’ll be sorting and packing diapers and even little hands can help with that (or just play in the play area!). Our Volunteer Dates are a great way to starting talking about giving back and community in a very tangible way that kids can relate to well.
When: Tue Nov 19 2013 (09:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: DC Diaper Bank Warehouse 8858 Monard Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Sorting and packing diapers; helping with other inventory
Contact: Corinne Cannon, (202) 656-8503

Look at Literacy

Literacy Council of Montgomery County
The Literacy Council is presenting a one-hour program and tour that will “open your eyes” to the state of adult literacy in Montgomery County and give you a first-hand look at how our organization helps adult learners achieve literacy skills for life.
When: Tue Nov 19 2013 (10:30 AM – 11:30 AM)
Where: LCMC Office, Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Ave., Suite 320, Rockville, MD 20850
Fee?: no
Contact: Marty Stephens, (301) 610-0030 ext 202

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

CFLS Open House

Community Family Life Services
Join us for cookies and tea and find out why Community Family Life Services was selected as one of greater Washington’s best small nonprofits by the Catalogue for Philanthropy! It’s a great opportunity to learn more about CFLS. We host all of our Open Houses on the third Wednesday of every month from 10:30 – 11:30 am.
When: Wed Nov 20 2013 (10:30 AM – 11:30 AM)
Where: Community Family Life Services, 305 E Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001
Fee?: no
Contact: Kevin Holst, (202) 864-6308

One Hour, One World Tour

Ayuda
If you would like to get a first person introduction to Ayuda’s work and learn how you could get involved, please join us for one of our frequent One Hour, One World tours. Please sign up for a time and feel free to bring friends. (Tours are conducted in English)
When: Wed Nov 20 2013 (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Where: Ayuda DC office, 6925B Willow Street NW, Washington, DC 20012
Fee?: no
Contact: Elise Webb, (202) 387-4848 ext 130
For more information: click here

What Hope Looks Like: mural show and 15th anniversary celebration

Hope House DC
This is an exhibit of the murals created by our Hope House fathers and children at our Father to Child Summer Camp behind bars. The event will feature great art, live jazz music, delicious food, and a chance to meet our families. Valet parking available.
When: Wed Nov 20 2013 (6:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
Where: McDermott, Will & Emery, 500 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, dc 20001
Fee?: yes $50
Volunteer Info: staff our christmas table and our registration table.
Contact: Carol Fennelly, (202) 506-2253
For more information: click here

DC Law Students in Court and Justice Aid Benefit Concert

DC Law Students In Court Program
On November 20, 2013, JusticeAid honors the non-profit DC Law Students in Court for its 45 years of training law students from area schools to represent the disenfranchised in the nation’s capital. LSIC prevents homelessness by keeping families in safe and affordable housing while also striving to end the school-to-prison pipeline and reduce the mass-incarceration of the poor. Its mission is to break the cycle of poverty, attack injustice, and to inspire the next generation of lawyers. 7:00 PM – Mix and mingle with DC’s top legal professionals. Please see our website http://justiceaid.org/ for more information about the featured D.C. lawyers. 8-11 PM-Music Featuring: The Morrison Brothers Band, Flow Tribe, and Pants Velour.
When: Wed Nov 20 2013 (7:00 PM – 00:00 AM)
Where: The Black Cat 1811 14th Street, NW,, Washington DC 20009
Fee?: yes $20 Individual Ticket
Contact: Angela Wang , (202 ) 638-4798 ext 207
For more information: click here

Thursday, November 21, 2013

Thursday Warehouse Volunteering

DC Diaper Bank
Come help us in the warehouse! Volunteering is family friendly and all are welcome whether it’s for one hour or four. We’ll be sorting and packing diapers and even little hands can help with that (or just play in the play area!). Our Volunteer Dates are a great way to starting talking about giving back and community in a very tangible way that kids can relate to well.
When: Thu Nov 21 2013 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: DC Diaper Bank Warehouse 8858 Monard Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Sorting and packing diapers; helping with other inventory
Contact: Corinne Cannon, (202) 656-8503

Guest Post: ArtStream

Today we’re delighted to have a post from Patricia Woolsey, Executive Director of ArtStream, Inc., about their Allies in the Arts program at Walter Reed Medical Center, in honor of Veterans Day earlier this week. ArtStream, Inc. provides specialized arts opportunities to people who often lack access to the many benefits of arts involvement. Serving the greater Washington region and the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina, ArtStream supports people who are dealing with a variety of life challenges, including those with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities; youth who are adopted or in foster care; children and adults in hospital and hospice settings; individuals and families who are bereaved; wounded military personnel, veterans, and their families; and senior citizens.

by Patricia Woolsey, Executive Director

In honor of Veterans Day, I want to tell you about ArtStream’s Allies in the Arts Program at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. ArtStream was founded on our belief in the healing power of the arts, and we take our programs into the community where the need is. Wounded servicemen and women can’t come to us, so ArtStream artists go to Walter Reed two evenings per week to work with wounded service members, their families, and caregivers.

Some patients love a visit from Jude, a musician. Others prefer writing with Roseanne or storytelling with Ermyn. Still others enjoy making things with Nancy, a visual artist. One of the highlights of my job as Executive Director of ArtStream is reading the artists’ reports of their work at Walter Reed.

For example, musician Jude Crannitch writes:

“I played/demonstrated harmonica techniques to one patient — how to bend notes, breathing techniques, single note isolation, music theory-chord structure, keys — all in response to his questions. I played Rev. Gary Davis’ You Gotta Move, with and without guitar accompaniment. The patient showed me a bracelet with the names of his buddies who had died and described his vision of honoring and consolidating their memory and presence through mastery of the harmonica. He told me he was “shaky” before I came, about his surgery in the morning, but was empowered and focused by the visit.”

Storyteller Ermyn King works with words instead of music.

“The patient was cringing, wincing, and moaning with nerve pain in his injured leg, yet he welcomed the Allies arts session in determination to use it for pain distraction. He chose to work with the magnetic poetry board and “Healing Words.” After concentrating on this and maneuvering words on the magnetic slate, he said that the set didn’t have the words needed to express his thoughts and feelings adequately. I quickly gave him a tablet of paper and pencil so he could use all the words that he needed. He poignantly expressed the guilt that he feels in having survived the attack that killed three of his comrades. He said he feels this guilt “every second of every day.”

We are so grateful to be part of the Artist-in-Residence Program at Walter Reed and proud to be on the cutting edge of the “Arts in Healthcare” movement. ArtStream’s work at Walter Reed is featured as a model program in The National Initiative for Arts & Health in the Military’s report, Arts, Health and Well-Being across the Military Continuum: White Paper and Framing a National Plan for Action, presented to every member of Congress before Veterans Day.

The paper is a result of a growing number of military leaders recognizing that art helps heal the wounds so prevalent in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan: traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress, depression, and lost limbs. Fortunately, they also understand that artists have expertise and training worth investing in. At the moment, ArtStream supports this program entirely, but one of the findings of the report is that a public/private partnership benefits the military, artists, and the community. “Today, with only 1% of our population in the military, many individuals have no connection to the military yet are concerned and eager to help,” said Judy Rollins, lead writer.

Community support is important to the seriously wounded servicemen and women we work with. Many of them are very young, yet have given so much. Their lives are changed forever in ways that can’t always be expressed in words or treated with medicine. We are honored to share the healing power of the arts with them.

To learn more about ArtStream and the Allies in the Arts program, visit our website at: www.art-stream.org.

Guest Post: Yellow Ribbon Fund

In honor of Veterans Day, we welcome the Yellow Ribbon Fund to GoodWorks. While Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Ft. Belvoir Community Hospital provide world-class medical care for gravely wounded service members, the Yellow Ribbon Fund provides the programs that make daily life more manageable for the wounded and their family caregivers. YRF serves over 1,000 soldiers and their families annually through practical, hands-on assistance during recovery at the hospital, and ongoing support during reintegration to civilian life back home.

by Kristin Henderson
Communications Director, YRF

It’s Veterans Day again, a time to honor and thank those who’ve served in uniform. Be sure to thank the families, too. Every week, we hear stories like this one from the injured service members and families we serve:

“The Yellow Ribbon Fund took care of us when no one else would. I arrived at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on a weekend to greet my wounded husband, with a newborn son and 3-year-old daughter in tow. No one is in the offices there on the weekends and my kids desperately needed a place to rest other than the hospital. YRF paid for our hotel room for those first few nights until the Army had cut us orders to stay at the hotel on base. Later in my husband’s recovery, when he could leave the hospital, they took us to baseball games. This seems inconsequential but it gave our entire family a break from the hospital environment. It made our daughter feel special and let us smile and laugh together. We’re eternally grateful for that. Our daughter’s best Walter Reed memories are going with the Yellow Ribbon Fund to see the Nationals play. And my husband’s first solo trip without me was on a Yellow Ribbon Fund tour of a battlefield. That trip gave him confidence that he could do some things on his own despite his physical limitations. Yellow Ribbon Fund provides not just assistance for wounded warrior families, but they build hope as well.

Through the Yellow Ribbon Fund, our supporters are able to offer real thanks to injured service members and their families for their sacrifices. Since 2005, we’ve been listening to what the injured and their family caregivers tell us they need. Then we fill those gaps in support with practical help for the whole family, because when the service member is wounded, the whole family is wounded. Our focus on the family sets us apart, especially the services we pioneered for family caregivers — mostly moms and wives who sacrifice jobs and put their lives on hold to help care for their injured loved ones. It can take years to recover from a devastating combat injury. Family caregivers are truly America’s unsung heroes.

So while injured troops are recovering at Walter Reed and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, YRF provides free rental cars, taxi rides, hotel stays, and apartments for visiting family members. We arrange for family-friendly activities and stress-relieving massages for the family caregivers. We organize more than 100 social events and outings yearly for the injured and their families, including free tickets to sporting and cultural events. These events and outings nurture family relationships during a difficult time. We also offer career and education mentoring. Even after they return to their hometowns, our nationwide network of volunteers continues to provide practical support.

The needs of our injured heroes and their families will go on long after the wars are over. But with the help of our donors and volunteers, we will ensure they don’t fall through the gaps. We’ll keep on saying thank you in ways that make a real difference.

Learn more or get involved at: www.yellowribbonfund.org

Around Town: 11/8-11/14

We hope that everyone has enjoyed (or has requested a copy) of the 2013-14 Catalogue! We feature over 365 of DC’s best small nonprofits and they do put on a lot of great events! Check out what is going on in the next week:

Friday, November 08, 2013

RTMC Playhouse Project Builders Informational Meeting

Rebuilding Together Montgomery County
RTMC is preparing to launch Rebuilding Hope: The RTMC Playhouse Project, a fundraiser in which we recruit skilled professionals to create and donate elaborate playhouses to RTMC, which will be displayed and promoted, and then auctioned off to support our mission of safe and healthy homes for families in need. This meeting is a recruiting exercise for builders, remodelers, architects, designers, and other skilled professionals who have an interest in creating a playhouse for our event. We will introduce Rebuilding Together, go over last year’s successes and lessons learned, and introduce the plan, timeline, and logistics for this year’s event, as well as answer any questions. RTMC staff, the Playhouse Planning Committee, and builders from the previous event will be on hand to answer questions and provide perspective. If you may be interested in participating, please join us!
When: Fri Nov 8 2013 (08:30 AM – 09:30 AM)
Where: Bethesda Chevy Chase Chamber of Commerce Board Room, 7910 Woodmont Avenue, 12th Floor, Bethesda, MD 20814
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Volunteers interested in creating a playhouse are needed!
Contact: Lee-Berkeley Shaw, (301) 933-2700 ext 307

Central Asian Dance Camp and Performance

Joe’s Movement Emporium/World Arts Focus
A three-day immersion into Central Asian dance and culture with classes, lectures and performances presented by leading World Dance specialists. Over 20 hours of instruction in a variety of genres including Uzbek, Persian, Afghan and Azerbaijani styles. All levels welcome. $325 full camp advance registration: including concert; $40 per workshop; $45 at door (space limited).
When: Fri Nov 8 2013 (09:00 AM)
Where: Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, MD 20712
Fee?: yes $325 full camp advance registration; $40/workshop; $45 at door
Contact: Malori Rhones, (301) 699-1819
For more information: click here

Saturday, November 09, 2013

Central Asian Dance Camp and Performance

Joe’s Movement Emporium/World Arts Focus
A three-day immersion into Central Asian dance and culture with classes, lectures and performances presented by leading World Dance specialists. Over 20 hours of instruction in a variety of genres including Uzbek, Persian, Afghan and Azerbaijani styles. All levels welcome. $325 full camp advance registration: including concert; $40 per workshop; $45 at door (space limited).
When: Sat Nov 9 2013 (09:00 AM)
Where: Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, MD 20712
Fee?: yes $325 full camp advance registration; $40/workshop; $45 at door
Contact: Malori Rhones, (301) 699-1819
For more information: click here

Native Species Planting: Daingerfield Island

Earth Sangha
Join volunteers from the PorColombia Professional DC Chapter will help plant various native plants in the tidal wetland and on its banks.
When: Sat Nov 9 2013 (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: Daingerfield Island We will meet at Daingerfield Island’s main GWMP parking lot., Alexandria, Va 22314
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Planting native plant species.
Contact: Lisa Bright, (703) 764-4830
For more information: click here

Canal Stewards at the River Center

Potomac Conservancy
Join us at the River Center! We’ll be meeting at 10 am at the River Center to clean up the lockhouse area and the nearby towpath. This cleanup is open to all ages, and we’ll provide all the necessary supplies – just wear clothes that can get dirty. This event is part of the National Park Service’s Canal-Stewards program, engaging volunteers to become long-term caretakers of a site within the C & O Canal National Historical Park.
When: Sat Nov 9 2013 (10:00 AM)
Where: River Center at Lock 8, 7906 Riverside Drive, Cabin John, MD 20818
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Typical activities include picking up trash, invasive plants removal, pruning vegetation, or repairing the towpath and trails.
Contact: Lien Vu, (301) 608-1188 ext 205

2nd Annual World of Wheels for CASA: Family Festival and Touch-a-truck

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)/Prince George’s County
CASA’s 2nd annual World of Wheels for CASA: A Touch-A-Truck and Family Festival will take place Saturday, Nov. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at DeMatha Catholic High School (4313 Madison St., Hyattsville, Md. 20781). This community event will feature cars, trucks of all sizes, motorcycles and other unique vehicles, including: a 1958 refurbished Mac tractor, a Brink’s Security armored vehicle, a Maryland Army National Guard Humvee, a Maryland State Highway Administration flusher truck and TurboHaul bulk trash truck. Batman, himself, will appear with the Batmobile from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the Maryland National Capitol Park Police Prince George’s County Mounted Division will be on hand throughout the day. Adding to the excitement will be food, music and an assortment of activities for “kids of all ages,” including moon bounces, carnival games, craft tables, face painting, temporary tattoos and shopping at vendor display tables–new this year. Attendees also can learn about volunteer opportunities with CASA to provide a voice to abused and neglected children in Prince George’s County.
When: Sat Nov 9 2013 (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Where: DeMatha High School, 4313 Madison Street, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781
Fee?: yes $5/person; children 2 and under free; $10/person for VIP package
Volunteer Info: Volunteers are needed to staff game and craft tables and to work at food stand either making or selling food
Contact: DeMatha High School, (301) 209-0491
For more information: click here

Lost Childhood: A Concert Opera

National Philharmonic
The year is 1939 in Lvov, Poland. In the living room of a well-to-do Jewish family, Julek, 9, and his teenage sister dance the tango to music from the radio. Their father enters and turns to the BBC broadcast to hear news of impending war. Fast-forward to 1993, an elegant bar in a Manhattan hotel, where Judah, a psychiatrist (formerly the child Julek), sits across from his German colleague, Manfred, born after the war to a prominent family of Nazi sympathizers. In a gripping confrontation between a post-war German and a Jewish Holocaust survivor, each deeply troubled by his own lost childhood, the past comes alive in the present. Through a series of flashbacks, Manfred, tormented, faces his family’s dark past, while Judah reveals for the first time, with bravado and humor, anger and grief, how he, his mother and sister outwitted the Third Reich. With searing emotion and heartwarming lyricism, the music recollects the terrors of the Holocaust and inspires a hopeful vision of the future. Judah is based on Yehuda Nir, a psychiatrist and the author of the memoir The Lost Childhood. The inspiration for Manfred is Nir’s friend Gottfried Wagner, a great-grandson of Richard Wagner and a specialist in post-Holocaust dialogue between victims, perpetrators and their descendants. This performance marks the 75th anniversary of Kristallnacht (“The Night of Broken Glass”), on November 9-10, 1938, when a series of violent anti-Jewish pogroms occurred throughout Germany and elsewhere.
When: Sat Nov 9 2013 (8:00 PM)
Where: The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
Fee?: yes $28-$84 (Kids Free)
Contact: Deborah Birnbaum, (301) 581-5
For more information: click here

Dance Project

Joy of Motion Dance Center
Saturday, November 9 at 8:30PM Sunday, November 10 at 7:00 PM Dance Project is an annual choreography showcase of the best local dance companies. JOMDC created the Dance Project series in order to give rising artists a performance platform. This concert will feature the Audience Favorite Award, where the audience votes for their favorite performance.
When: Sat Nov 9 2013 (8:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
Where: JOMDC Friendship Heights, 5207 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20015
Fee?: yes $12-15
Contact: JOMDC Friendship Heights, (202) 362-3042
For more information: click here

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Central Asian Dance Camp and Performance

Joe’s Movement Emporium/World Arts Focus
A three-day immersion into Central Asian dance and culture with classes, lectures and performances presented by leading World Dance specialists. Over 20 hours of instruction in a variety of genres including Uzbek, Persian, Afghan and Azerbaijani styles. All levels welcome. $325 full camp advance registration: including concert; $40 per workshop; $45 at door (space limited).
When: Sun Nov 10 2013 (09:00 AM)
Where: Joe’s Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier, MD 20712
Fee?: yes $325 full camp advance registration; $40/workshop; $45 at door
Contact: Malori Rhones, (301) 699-1819
For more information: click here

Native Species Planting: Marie Butler Leven Preserve

Earth Sangha
We will be sowing native grass seed, and planting grasses and other meadow species into the front meadow section at Marie Butler Leven Preserve. The Park Authority has cleared away the invasive fescue and prepared the ground for the planting. Sidharth Madhavan from Boy Scout Troop 1518 will be leading the volunteers as part of his Eagle Scout Project. This section of the meadow will establish important native species that are integral to meadow communities and will give us a foothold to re-establish a native meadow on this site.
When: Sun Nov 10 2013 (09:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Where: Marie Butler Leven Preserve, 1501 Kirby Road, McLean VA 22101
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Sow native grass species seed and plant native meadow species.
Contact: Matt Bright, (703) 764-4830
For more information: click here

 

Monday, November 11, 2013

The Farmland Feast

FRESHFARM Markets
The Farmland Feast pays delectable tribute to the food community of our Chesapeake Bay region with a cocktail party, farm centric seated dinner and auctions. This event helps us maintain and expand the educational programs of FRESHFARM Markets.
When: Mon Nov 11 2013 (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Where: Ritz Carlton Hotel. 22nd Street, NW washington DC, DC 20007
Fee?: yes $300 for dinner; $125 for cocktail party only
Volunteer Info: We recruit volunteers each October. Please check with us if we still need help for this year’s event. Volunteers help with general event management, check in/check out/ auction help etc. Sometimes we also need voluteers in the office to help with pre-event planning.
Contact: Amanda Phillips Manheim, (202) 362-8889 ext 5
For more information: click here

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Tuesday Warehouse Volunteering

DC Diaper Bank
Come help us in the warehouse! Volunteering is family friendly and all are welcome whether it’s for one hour or four. We’ll be sorting and packing diapers and even little hands can help with that (or just play in the play area!). Our Volunteer Dates are a great way to starting talking about giving back and community in a very tangible way that kids can relate to well.
When: Tue Nov 12 2013 (09:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
Where: DC Diaper Bank Warehouse 8858 Monard Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Sorting and packing diapers; helping with other inventory
Contact: Corinne Cannon, (202) 656-8503

38th Anniversary Benefit

Wendt Center for Loss and Healing
Annual fundraising benefit, featuring keynote speaker General George W. Casey with Emcee David Gregory.
When: Tue Nov 12 2013 (6:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
Where: Four Seasons Hotel Georgetown, 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, DC, DC 20007
Fee?: yes $325 per ticket
Contact: Ricarda Dowling, (202) 204-5010
For more information: click here

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

SSA’s Speaker Series – “Staying Connected: Employment & Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors in Alexandria

Senior Services of Alexandria
Hear from local experts that can help you plug into new careers and find exciting volunteer opportunities. This FREE event is happening on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at the Charles Beatley Central Library. Representatives from AARP, Joblink, National Council on Aging, Alexandria’s Mentoring Partnership, Tutoring Consortium, Alexandria Library, Senior Services of Alexandria & Volunteer Alexandria will be on hand to answer your questions. To register go to www.seniorservicesalex.org or call 703-8836-4414, ext 10.
When: Wed Nov 13 2013 (09:30 AM – 12:00 NOON)
Where: Charles Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22304
Fee?: no
Volunteer Info: Be part of the Meals on Wheels Volunteer team and recruiting volunteers for the Friendly Visitor Program to meet weekly with an isloated senior.
Contact: , (703) 836-4414 ext 10
For more information:

Wine & Wonderment

Our Daily Bread
Join us at 2941 Restaurant for a special wine tasting in the beautiful waterfall room to support Our Daily Bread’s Holiday Program. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Enjoy wines selected by Sommelier Jonathan Schuyler and delicious appetizers. Proceeds will help ODB provide meals and gifts for families on our Holiday assistance list whom we are not able to match with sponsors.
When: Wed Nov 13 2013 (6:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
Where: 2941 Restaurant, 2941 Fairview Park Dr, Falls Church, VA 22042
Fee?: yes $50
Contact: Jennifer Rose, (703) 273-8829
For more information: click here

Thursday, November 14, 2013

A Night at the Movies

Reach Incorporated
Join Reach Incorporated for desserts, drinks, and the release of a short film, made in partnership with Stone Soup Films, highlighting the work of our tutors and students.
When: Thu Nov 14 2013 (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Where: The Globe Theater, 2005 Florida Avenue NW, Washington DC 20009
Fee?: yes Tickets range from $30 – $100
Volunteer Info: Check In Guests Sell Children’s Books Distribute Information to Guests
Contact: Mark Hecker, (215) 205-9902
For more information: click here

Guest Post: The Barker Foundation

November is National Adoption Month! Today we’re excited to have a guest post from The Barker Foundation, whose mission is to serve all members of the adoption circle – birth parents, adoptive parents, adopted persons, and anyone whose life is touched by adoption. A licensed adoption agency serving DC, Maryland and Virginia, The Barker Foundation supports teens and women as they consider an adoption plan, places infants and children with carefully selected, local adoptive families, and provides lifelong support and education to all adopted persons.

Reflections by Beverly Clarke

Director, Project Wait No Longer

I have 9 year old twins who are full of questions, and we are always discussing new words and looking up definitions on-line. Recently, we were looking up the definition for the word “inspiration.” There were many definitions, but the ones that I felt most drawn to were “divine influence exerted directly on the mind and soul of humankind” or “to spur on, impel, energize or motivate.” My kids began making up sentences based on this new found understanding of the word and all the things that are “inspirational” in the life of a 9 year old. My favorites were “I am inspired to eat my broccoli so that I can have a brownie,” or “I am inspired to read three books so that I can watch an episode of Scooby-Doo.” Listening to them was entertaining but also got me thinking about what inspires me.

I realized that I am fortunate to feel inspired on a daily basis while working with Project Wait No Longer, Barker’s older child adoption program. I am inspired by the children and teenagers that still have the audacity to hope for a forever family even after surviving years of abuse and neglect at the hands of adults. I am amazed when I see them begin to break down their protective walls, change their behaviors, and develop trust for the members of their new families. I am inspired by the parents who come to our program, determined to provide loving and stable homes for older children who oftentimes don’t know how to be a part of a family – by the families that stick it out, even when the going gets unbearably tough.

This is what drives me to work harder every day to find placements for older children who are often languishing within the foster care system. The needs of the children weigh on my mind and soul, inspiring me and the amazing team in PWNL to be a part of the solution.

Recently, I had the pleasure of helping to facilitate the placement of a little guy (Bobby) who is 10 years old into the home of Sue and John. Bobby has been doing really well with his new family, but has come from a long history of being rejected by former caretakers, so making the leap to calling Sue and John “mom” and “dad” has been really hard. Last week my phone rang, and John was on the line. I was surprised to hear from him because Sue (the more emotional one of the pair) is usually the one who calls me. In a very excited voice, John said to me, “Bev, something pretty cool happened. Bobby was talking about me to one of his friends, and I overheard him call me “dad.” This is the first time he has ever done that! Isn’t that great?” Through the phone I could hear the pride, joy and excitement in John’s voice. After several months of patient and consistent love, his son has begun to claim him as “dad.” This is what we work for at Barker. These are the true moments of inspiration.

Beverly Clarke, LCSW-C, LICSW is the Director of Project Wait No Longer at the Barker Foundation. For more information on our work, visit us at: www.barkerfoundation.org.

 

Congratulations to Barbara Harman!

On November 1, the Catalogue’s President and Editor, Barbara Harman, was named by Washingtonian Magazine as one of DC’s “Most Powerful Women.” Selected biannually by the magazine’s editors, the list includes 117 of the area’s most influential women in government, business, health, media, law, education, nonprofits, and the arts. Barbara is recognized for her work in “shaping the dialogue about which small Washington charities are best.” And she is in good company! This year’s list includes First Lady Michelle Obama, Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor, as well as Catalogue supporters and partners such as Rose Ann Cleveland (Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation), Terri Lee Freeman (Community Foundation for the National Capital Region), Nicky Goren (The Women’s Foundation), and Julie Rogers (Meyer Foundation).

The list of the “Most Powerful Women” is featured in the November 2013 issue of Washingtonian magazine. A reception recognizing the honorees will be held at the Fairmont Hotel in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 13.

From all of us here at the Catalogue: Congratulations, Barbara!

Around Town 11/1-11/7

Happy November! Catalogue nonprofits are kicking off the month right with lots of great events all around the area. Let us know if you are heading to one (and you never know, you might even see us there!). Don’t have time to get out to an event? Request a copy of our brand new catalogue (out on November 1st!) and get to know our new class of nonprofits!
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