How do the United Way staff, board, and volunteers prepare for the Day of Caring?

Preparing for the Day of Caring is quite the adventure, and it takes a lot of time and effort!

Here are some of the things that make this community project happen:

• We begin the process by opening the applications for both projects and volunteers, usually late May/early June.
• United Way staff begin reviewing project applications and recruiting volunteer contractors to assist with site reviews. 
• Site reviews are conducted by UWWC staff and volunteers to determine the scope of work for each project. Site reviewers visit with the applicant, take photos of the job site, determine the items needed to complete the work, and provide an estimated cost for each project. This takes 2 hours or more per site, depending on the type of project.
• Meanwhile, volunteer applications are received, screened, and organized into teams. UWWC staff organize and sort all applications and volunteer waivers to ensure that all the required paperwork is in order before the Day of Caring.
• Our super cool t-shirts are designed and ordered by our very talented Kathy Harple
• Upon delivery of the t-shirts, volunteers help to sort and deliver the t-shirts to our volunteer team leaders, who distribute them to their team members.
• We work with our very generous community partners, such as PepsiCo, DOT Foods, Rinehart Orchards, and Chick-fil-A to secure donations for our volunteer lunches.
• UWWC works very hard to ensure that all teams are matched up to projects that are within the scope of their interest and abilities. This takes an enormous amount of time and effort.
• Lunch and photography routes are created and planned out by our patient and dedicated volunteer, Jennifer Kinzer.
• The evening before the event, UWWC staff and volunteers gather to pack lunches and organize them by lunch routes.

And that's all behind the scenes before the big day even begins!

Hopefully, this provides some understanding of the enormous undertaking involved in the Day of Caring.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to AMRIZE for their generous donation to the United Way Day of Caring. Their support not only exemplifies their commitment to making a positive impact in our community but also reinforces the essential partnerships that help us thrive. We deeply value these irreplaceable collaborations that enable us to uplift and transform lives.

Essential, Working, Struggling.

Meet ALICE. 

ALICE earns just above the Federal poverty level, lives on a modest household survival budget, yet struggles to afford basic essentials. We all know ALICE. 

The United for ALICE project is a driver of innovation, research, and action to improve life across the country for the growing number of ALICE households and for all. Through the development of the ALICE measurements, a comprehensive, unbiased picture of financial hardship has emerged. 

Harnessing this data and research on the mismatch between low-paying jobs and the cost of survival, ALICE partners convene, advocate, and collaborate on solutions that promote financial stability at local, state, and national levels.

What is Breast Cancer Awareness Month?

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international health campaign that’s held every October. The month aims to promote screening and reduce the risk of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. Known best for its pink theme color, the month features a number of campaigns and programs designed to:

• support people diagnosed with breast cancer, including those with metastatic breast cancer
• educate people about breast cancer risk factors
• encourage women to go for regular breast cancer screening starting at age 40 or earlier, depending on personal breast cancer risk
• raise money for breast cancer research

In the month of October, there are also specific dates designed to raise awareness of specific groups within the breast cancer community. 

Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day (October 13)

October 13 is nationally recognized in the U.S. as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. About 168,000 women in the U.S. are estimated to have metastatic breast cancer (cancer that spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body). Some researchers believe this number will rise to over 246,000 living with the disease by 2030. Despite the growing number of people living with metastatic disease, most money for breast cancer research doesn’t go toward studying it. 

Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day seeks to educate the public about the challenges that people with metastatic breast cancer face and the need for more research — and more treatments — for this deadly disease. 

The day also serves as a reminder that people can do all the right things — breast cancer screenings and all the recommended treatments for early-stage breast cancer — and still have cancer spread to other parts of the body. As sf-cakes, a member of the Breastcancer.org Community, shared, “Being stage IV during Breast Cancer Awareness Month sucks. All the messaging about ‘if you catch it early, you'll be fine,’ is simply not always true.”

Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week (October 17–23)

Although breast cancer is much more common in women, breast cancer affects men, too. In 2021, President Joe Biden designated October 17 to October 23 as Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week. According to the American Cancer Society, about 2,800 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, and about 510 are expected to die from the disease. But lack of awareness and stigma can be barriers to detection and care in men, trans men, and non-binary people.

Spotlight ~ Success Stories

Youth Opportunity

Girls Inc. of Washington County

Jade was a quiet girl who often lingered on the edges of classrooms and playgrounds, unsure of how to join the chatter and laughter around her. Her social skills were limited, and she struggled to communicate her thoughts and feelings. This led to frequent misunderstandings, oppositional behavior, and a sense of isolation that followed her into group settings.

At Girls Inc. of Washington County, Jade found the support she needed to change course. From the start, our staff met her with patience and consistency, offering the kind of steady encouragement and clear expectations that many girls need to grow. Through our social-emotional learning programs, Jade practiced naming her feelings, listening to others, and handling frustration in healthier ways. In small group activities and guided peer interactions, she was given safe spaces to

try again—turning each challenge into a chance to grow.

Now in third grade, Jade has blossomed into a friendly and engaged group member. She shares her successes with pride, participates enthusiastically in afternoon classes, and collaborates well with her peers. Staff members have walked closely alongside her journey, helping her navigate tough moments and celebrate the growth she often couldn’t see in herself.

Jade’s story is a testament to the power of a nurturing environment, responsive programs, and adults who show up every day with belief in a girl's potential. Her transformation reminds us why our work matters—and what’s possible when we invest in the whole girl.

~ Submitted by Maureen Grove, Executive Director, Girls, Inc.

Live United

Urgent Needs Grant Awards

Each month, the United Way of Washington County

is pleased to partner with various organizations that provide critical services to our community.

Our Urgent Needs Grant is a low-barrier grant designed to assist nonprofits facing unexpected costs due to unforeseen program needs, emergencies, or underlying situations.

For additional information contact Kelli Tencer at 301-739-8200 ext.104

Applications are due on the 27th of the month.

So...why donate to United Way?

Did you know that your United Way actively supports or partners with over 90 organizations and many individual Washington County residents annually?

• Community Impact:

United Way aims to improve the overall well-being of our community by addressing the most urgent, essential needs of our residents, including inequities, lack of access, and limited resources. 

• Focus on Key Areas:

United Way's initiatives are centered around building blocks for a good life, including education, financial security, and health. 

• Local Focus:

Donations are invested in local community impact programs and nonprofits that directly benefit local residents in your community.

• Broader Reach:

United Way's approach is broader than that of individual specialized nonprofits, addressing a wider range of community needs. 

• Partnering with Agencies:

United Way partners with local health and human service agencies to support individuals in need. 

• Financial Stability:

Our financial stability education helps individuals and families achieve financial security through education and job training. 

• Health and Wellness:

United Way promotes healthy communities by improving access to nutritious food and healthcare.

• Community Resiliency:

United Way Worldwide supports communities in preparing for and responding to challenges, including disaster relief.

• Joy of Giving:

Donating to United Way can bring a sense of happiness and well-being, knowing you're contributing to positive change. 

Remember...All donations made here stay here.

Our donors, partners, and volunteers

make it possible for us to have a

major impact on our community!

If you would like to help the United Way

make a difference in Washington County please click the DONATE button today!

Thank you so very much for your continued support!

Planned Gift

What will your legacy be? By remembering United Way of Washington County, MD, in your will and estate, your legacy will make a difference for a very long time. Contact United Way of Washington County, 301.739.8200 today for more information on how you can continue to help the community you love.

Securities

Giving long-term (owned more than a year) appreciated securities may provide greater benefits to you.

• You may save current income for day-to-day needs because a gift of security does NOT come out of your cash flow.
• You may save taxes in two ways: Income tax and Capital Gains tax.
• You may lower the "cost" of your gift.



In-Kind

United Way of Washington County gladly accepts in-kind gifts for our hygiene closets, literacy programs, office supplies, and special events. Donating products and services enables us to reduce expenses and dedicate more funding to direct programming. For more information, please contact us at 301.739.8200.

Purchase Items for Our Hygiene Closets

If you prefer to purchase items for our Hygiene Closets, please use this link to our 

Amazon wish list.

Donate Items

Agencies are always looking for office/ computer equipment, furniture, and household items.

Businesses and individuals are encouraged to give in-kind donations and can be assured that United Way of Washington County will connect you to local agencies that are:

• Tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organizations by the Internal Revenue Service
• Serve Washington County
• Have a health and human resources focus

United Way of Washington County, Maryland, Inc. has been evaluated by Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator, and earned a 100% Four-Star Rating! This is the highest possible rating on Charity Navigator. 

Charity Navigator’s third-party accreditation validates our organization’s operational excellence.

You can learn more about Charity Navigator and our rating here:

https://charitynavigator.org/ein/520691704. 

The United Way of Washington County earned a 2025 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency!

Check out our nonprofit profile to keep up to date with our impact. 

https://

www.guidestar.org/profile/52-0691704

Keep this link handy; we want to ensure you always have the information you need to support our work with trust and confidence.

Check out these links for information on non-profits in Washington County.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED



United Way of Washington County, MD is currently seeking additional members of the community to serve on both the Revenue and GIVE (Give. Invest. Volunteer. Educate) Committees. We ask interested parties to commit to at least once-a-month hybrid committee meetings in return for having a voice in how UWWC can maximize our reach within our community. 

For more information, please reach out to Heather Guessford at heather@uwwcmd.org or 301-739-8200 ext.102.

Please share this with all your friends.

2-1-1 Maryland - Supported by our local United Way, this is the state's most comprehensive health and human services resource database. With approximately 7,500 resources, individuals with essential needs can connect to local help 24/7/365.

You can dial 2-1-1 on your phone to speak with someone, or visit https://211md.org/.

Hagerstown Area Religious Council has also compiled the following resources:

Food & Clothing Resources - https://harccoalition.org/resources/food-and-clothing/

Housing/Shelter - https://harccoalition.org/resources/housing-shelter/

Washington County Mental Health Authority has a listing of mental health providers at https://wcmha.org/provider-directory/.

United Way of Washington County, Maryland

Our Books United program, founded in May of 2022, has 36 active partners. In just over two years, we have collected and

redistributed over 83,000 books!

In addition to book distributions, we also host multiple reading clubs,

including one at Coffman Nursing Home and

Lasting Change Recovery Solutions for Women.

As always, a special thanks to our wonderful volunteers,

Sharon Giles, Beth Johnston, Jo Ellen Allenberg,

Mike Harsh, Leah & George Freeman, Kyle Hayes and James Muth!

United Way of Washington County's

Books United Program

We invite all community members to visit the Book Nook, ensuring every child has access to the reading materials they deserve. Your engagement and support are crucial in fostering a brighter future for our children through literacy!

You can find the Book Nook in the

Valley Mall just outside JCPenney, where it serves as a vital resource for families seeking to inspire a love for reading in their children.

The Valley Mall has been part of our community for over 50 years!

The 34th Annual Day of Caring supported our Books United Program.

Reach of Washington County dedicated the day to sorting and packing books.

A team from the Washington County Free Library assisted Stacey Abeles and Sharon Giles by visiting Little Free Libraries throughout the county, providing essential cleaning and restocking.

Since July 2024, we have impacted over 7,000 people, and our numbers are GROWING by the day.

Our on-campus closets discreetly benefit low-income students and their families who lack transportation and/or those wishing to keep their demonstrated needs private. Our most requested hygiene items include shampoo, deodorant, and body wash. We have experienced growing requests for laundry pods, feminine pads, and liners.

Requests for specialty items include lice kits and body wipes for those living in our rural communities who lack sufficient running water...yes, there are many!

If you wish to learn more about either program or become a partner location, please contact Stacey Abeles - stacey@uwwcmd.org or Kathy Harple - kathy@uwwcmd.org.

United Way has 12 active in-school hygiene closets, and we currently partner with 9 organizations across Washington County:

"A student reached out to share that they needed hygiene supplies and was grateful to be able to shop the on-site closet for the items they needed. This

is the really cool part of this program from my perspective".

~ Teresa Jordan, M.Ed - School Counselor, Clear Spring Elementary School

The United Way is proud to collaborate with the ENOUGH Initiative,

uniting our efforts to uplift and empower families in the

Bester Community of Hope area. Together, we are making a

meaningful difference in their lives.

The United Way of Washington County hygiene closet/warehouse

is situated at the drive-thru/walk-up area on Court Place

at the rear of our offices at 83 W. Washington Street.

Working with several community organizations through our voucher-based hygiene closet, we have served over 1400 people at this location since its inception in 2024.

Our "closet bags" contain essential hygiene supplies supporting the needs of those who visit the walk-up window, as well as our partners located throughout the County.

Volunteer Mike Harsh packs bags and offers a smile as he works the window for our walk-up patrons.

If you have events, volunteer opportunities, or other information

you would like to include in our monthly newsletter please contact

Kathy Harple at kathy@uwwc.md.org

From Our Partners...

Maryland Symphony Orchestra

Performances for People with Special Needs

Neurodiverse individuals are an integral part of every orchestra’s community, and can find great value in attending concerts. However, traditional orchestra settings may present sensory or accessibility challenges.

The MSO has been featured in the Guide on Health and Wellness.

https://americanorchestras.org/health-and-wellness-serving-neurodivergent-audiences/ 

The Hagerstown Housing Authority is currently in need of volunteers/groups to help provide lunches to low-income seniors and disabled residents residing at Potomac Towers in Hagerstown. The Potomac Towers Lunch Program operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Volunteer groups assist by providing either grab and go bagged lunches, serving a hot meal onsite, assisting with making and distributing the lunches or providing donations of items. The volunteers normally provide meals or drop them off at the Towers around 11:30 am. The Lunch Program currently is without regular volunteer groups. If interested in assisting, please contact Deena Holder via email at dholder@hagerstownha.com or via phone at 301-733-6911 x163. 

Use JustServe for your volunteer needs

and opportunities!

Looking for volunteers to serve in your ministry? Or are you looking for volunteer opportunities for yourself and/or your group? JustServe is a website where volunteer needs meet volunteers. All nonprofits, houses of worship and faith-based organizations are welcome to use this service to post your volunteer needs - just contact Ashlee Harris to get started at jon2ash@gmail.com or text 801-860-1301. Those searching for volunteer opportunities can simply search the database by city, state or zip code or even look for ways to volunteer by remote.

Mentoring Closes the Opportunity Gap

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America recently shared the findings of a study that proves that mentored youth have greater enrollment in higher education, increased salaries, reduced dependency on social services, and improved behavioral outcomes over time. This groundbreaking study demonstrates the transformative power of mentoring in shaping young people’s educational, economic, and social trajectories, and explains how mentoring programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters can serve as scalable solutions to reduce socioeconomic disparities. To learn more, find the summary HERE. To learn more about mentoring with BBBS of Washington County, visit bbbswcmd.org

Hagerstown Area Religious Council is a HUGE hub for resources in Washington County

Homeless Street Guide

The Homeless Street Guide (August 2025) is a quick reference to give out to homeless individuals and families in Washington County. 3-per-page for a small helpful resource.

Shelters in Washington County

See list of Shelters in Washington County for a more detailed list of shelters, their requirements, and what they offer.

Rapid Rehousing & Homeless Outreach

The Homeless Coalition is providing a new and dynamic service in the community. If you are homeless and are interested in housing, please contact one of these providers for additional information:

Community Action Council: 301-797-4161 x131 (serves homeless families)

REACH: 301-733-2371 x103 or x106 (serves homeless individuals)

Horizon Goodwill: 301-733-7330 (serves homeless individuals, unaccompanied youths)

Washington County Housing Case Management

Useful links and guides from Community Action Council. Contain information on emergency shelter/housing, public housing, low-cost rental housing, senior housing, and various housing programs. Great to use as reference. See Community Action Council’s Housing Case Management web page for updated versions of these guides

Hagerstown Home Store

Hagerstown Home Store offers a wide range of housing counseling and resources, including down-payment assistance.  Brochure   Visit website.

The Women’s Club

The Women’s Club at 31 South Prospect St., offers housing for ladies of low income that is not time-limited. They have single bedroom rooms with beds, dressers. The ladies share a common kitchen and bathrooms. It is a safe, secure building. The rents vary from $230/mo to $295/mo, depending on whether the room has a bathroom attached. If interested, please contact Linda at 301-739-0870, Monday through Friday 9 am to 1 pm.

Habitat for Humanity of Washington County

Habitat for Humanity offers a variety of programs to support the various needs of current and future Washington County homeowners.

• New Home Building
• Home Renovations
• Home Preservation Program
• A Brush with Kindness
• Weatherization
• Critical Repairs

For additional information about any of these programs, including how to apply, call (301) 791-9009.

Energy Assistance

Community Action Council manages local energy assistance programs. Past due bills up to $2,000 are covered once in 5 years for eligible households. Also, apply for a subsidy (discount) on your monthly energy bill to reduce the cost to an amount you can afford. Learn more on CAC’s website, call 301-797-4161, or apply in person at 117 Summit Avenue, Hagerstown (or one of CAC’s rural locations).

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Founded in Kimberly, Idaho, in 2012, Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit providing hand-made bunk beds to children who don’t have beds of their own. Not only do they deliver these beds to children in need, but they partner with organizations, churches, businesses, and individuals to build them at events called Build Days! Learn more and request a bed on their website.

Help with Diapers and Home Supplies

for Refugee Families

The Refugee Welcome Network is actively working with ten families and still offering some support for others struggling this month with reduced hours at Amazon and FedEx. Some families have babies and can't afford diapers, formula, and other supplies. We've connected them to all community resources available, but it's not quite enough. Donations of gift cards from Walmart, Target, or another source of baby supplies are wanted to help lighten the load of these new Americans as they work hard to build a life here. If you can give a gift card, please email director@harccoalition.org. Monetary donations are also a blessing to help with various needs.

Walking 2 Wellness - Wednesdays

Every Wednesday, 12:00 pm

The Athletic, Recreation and Community Center (ARCC)

Hagerstown Community College

11400 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown

Trying to fulfill your New Year's Resolution in getting healthier? Let's get healthy together! Be part of Prime Time For Women's "Walking 2 Wellness" community … meet new people, connect with longtime friends, and develop a regular exercise regime that is good for you. Even better, it’s fun! Prime Time For Women Website / Facebook.

FREE Community Resources

Here are Resources that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers, either online or in person. They have specialists over each category who are willing to individually help people that might be interested in these programs. Please share this with anyone you feel it could be valuable/useful for.

Flyer: Spanish. No Cost to Recipients. Simple Application Process. Information: alex4prevent@verizon.Net / 240-372-5433. hapcoa.org

Make sure to keep up to date with everything going on in Hagerstown by following our announcements and staying connected with the pulse of the city. Whether it's festivals, concerts, or important announcements, we'll keep you in the loop. Don't miss out - stay connected and be part of the vibrant Hagerstown community!

RADIO FREE HUB CITY

News, events, and entertainment for Hagerstown, Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and beyond.

 https://www.facebook.com/RadioFreeHubCity/

Volunteers Needed at Salem Elementary

Salem Elementary School is seeking community volunteers to help provide fun and engaging activities for students on early dismissal days. These afternoons run from 2:00–3:30 p.m., with activities in 30–40 minute rotations for groups of about 10 students each. The goal is to keep the afternoons varied and engaging, while also giving students the chance to connect with different caring adults in the community.

Volunteers Drivers Needed

Meritus Hematology Oncology has a patient who needs treatments 5 days/week for 6 weeks and needs rides each day from Martinsburg, WV, to and from the John Marsh Cancer Center. We also have patients who need transportation to other hospitals in Baltimore and DC as well.

Some volunteers are already lined up to help with this, but more are needed for a rotation. The Cancer Center is finding that there are more patients who need this kind of help who are living or have appointments outside of the radius of available services. So even if you can't help with this, you may be able to help with another need.

If you have time to give to drive a patient, please contact Brandi Zeigler at 301-665-4710.

Saturday, Oct. 18 | 12:00 - 2:30 pm

Islamic Society of Western Maryland

October 24 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Night of the Living Drag

The Maryland Theatre 21 S Potomac Street, Hagerstown, MD, United States

The Divas are back in The Maryland Theatre Ballroom for Night of the Living Drag – a Halloween-themed drag show! Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and creepy specialty cocktails to keep you fueled for this 2-hour spooktacular performance.

Ticket includes reserved seat, hors d’oeuvres, full bar with beer, wine, & specialty cocktails (available for purchase), and photo opportunities

Only Debit/Credit is accepted at the Bar

Please bring cash for tipping the performers. The Maryland Theatre is a cashless venue and will not be able to provide change.

This is a 21+ event.

October 25 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

98th Annual Alsatia Mummers' Parade

North and South Potomac Street 245 North Potomac, Hagerstown, MD, United States

98th Annual Alsatia Mummers’ Parade is the largest night-time parade of its kind on the East Coast, which includes floats, bands, walking groups, decorated vehicles, Mummers (persons dressed in costume), and MORE!!! Prizes up to $2,000 are awarded to eligible participants. Official parade tickets are only sold through The Maryland Theatre. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages, “AlsatiaMummersParade” and www.alsatiaclubinc.com for additional parade information, submit a parade entry application, or to become a sponsor of Hagerstown’s Favorite Tradition.

Sunday, Nov. 2 | 5:00 - 8:00 pm

Elks Lodge

11063 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown

Be part of one of Hagerstown’s most beloved traditions—an evening of handcrafted bowls, delicious soups, raffle prizes, and community spirit. Every dollar raised helps the Community Free Clinic continue providing free medical care and prescription services to uninsured residents of Washington County. $55. RSVP deadline: Oct. 30.