SEPTEMBER 2024

~ Connect to Protect ~     

Suicide Prevention Month  

September is National Suicide Prevention Month – a time to remember the lives lost to suicide, acknowledge the millions more who have experienced suicidal thoughts, and the many individuals, families and communities that have been impacted by suicide. It’s also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope.



• During September, and throughout the year, we can care about suicide prevention; connect to community, culture, data, and research; and collaborate with others to address this public health problem that has impacted millions of Americans.

Live United

Urgent Needs/United Against Hunger 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 experiencing unplanned expenses due to unanticipated program needs, emergencies, or underlying situations while our United Against Hunger Grant addresses needs specific to food insecurity within our community.

Both applications are due on the 27th of the month.

Applications can be found here

 https://www.unitedwaywashcounty.org/community-impact-grants-investments

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

Washington County Public Schools HR Offers Employee Campaign.

Kate Younkins and Mike Harsh showed up to say thank you and to enjoy some awesome Antietam Dairy at the WCPS-HR ice cream social for employees!

Thank you to those who signed up to donate to United Way of Washington County through payroll deduction! When you choose to give this way, you’re not just making a donation; you’re investing in the future of our community and ensuring that we can respond swiftly to the needs of our neighbors.

Through your generous contributions, we are able to fund initiatives that focus on education, health, and financial stability. Our partnerships with local organizations help deliver essential services, empowering individuals and families to thrive. Together, we are creating a brighter future for everyone in Washington County.

Washington County Public Schools Human Resources Department

Ahoy all

Day of Caring Volunteers!

Please join us for our

Kick Off Breakfast Rally!

Before you and your team start the day,

join us for a morning of celebration and fellowship

as we come together for one

MASSIVE DAY OF SERVICE!

Thursday September 19th

7:30 - 8:30 am

Hagerstown Community College ARCC

This event lasts approximately 1 hour so

drop in for just a bit, or stay for the entire time!

$1000.00 in cash prizes

are up for grabs so don't miss out!

No ticket needed, the event is FREE!

Michael G. Callas New Educators Reception

It was pleasure to meet so many enthusiastic teachers at the Michael G. Callas New Educators Reception! Your passion for education and dedication to shaping the minds of our future leaders is truly inspiring. As we begin this new school year, we want to extend our heartfelt appreciation for the contributions you make to our community. At United Way of Washington County, we recognize the pivotal role educators play in fostering a nurturing and supportive learning environment. 

We encourage all teachers and community members to join us in our mission to enhance educational initiatives. Whether through volunteering, participating in our programs, or simply spreading the word about the resources available, your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of students and families in our area.

As we look forward to a year filled with growth, learning, and collaboration, let’s continue to work together to ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!

Washington County Public Schools

August 23 was a beautiful day for a JLG Industries

Employee Golf Tournament!

136 employees strong...34 teams...1 collective goal...

to feed our community.

We emphasize the urgency of addressing food insecurity, particularly for the children and ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families in our area. These families face significant challenges in meeting their basic needs, and we are unwavering in our commitment to support them through our United Against Hunger program. 

We are immensely grateful to JLG for their continued and substantial support this year. Their partnership is vital in driving our mission forward. A special shoutout goes to Maddison and her planning committee, whose hard work and dedication align perfectly with our vision to inspire collaboration and foster community improvement. 

Importantly, we want to assure our supporters that 100% of all funds raised will directly benefit the United Against Hunger program. We believe in transparency and building trust with our donors, as every contribution makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can combat food insecurity and ensure that no child or family in Washington County goes hungry.

Thank you for joining us in this essential mission to give back and uplift our community. 

Photo credit to: Monica Snyder

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 recently earned a 2024 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.

Dot Foods Inc. has shown a remarkable and unwavering commitment to supporting our community through their partnership with the United Way of Washington County. Their generous sponsorships, donations, and dedicated volunteer efforts have been instrumental in enhancing our programs and initiatives aimed at improving education, health, and financial stability for those in need. 

We are deeply grateful for Dot Foods’ contributions, which not only reflect their corporate values but also embody the spirit of collaboration that is at the heart of the United Way of Washington County. Together, we are making strides toward creating a brighter future for our community members. 

As we continue this partnership, we remain committed to transparency and accountability, ensuring that every contribution from Dot Foods is utilized effectively to make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you, Dot Foods, for being a steadfast ally in our mission to uplift and empower our community.

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

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!

Spotlight~ Success Story

Shelter Collaboration -

St. John's Family Shelter

On May 28th, a member of the Local Homeless Outreach group found a mother and four children sitting outside a local hotel crying as they had run out of money and had been told to leave. They had nowhere to go and had left a bad domestic situation, so returning there was not an option. They had used up their time at the local shelter for domestic violence and simply had nowhere to go. 

St. John's Family Shelter was contacted and as luck would have it an apartment had just become available. The adult had no problem passing a background check and assured us that the rules would not be an issue at all. She was at the top of the housing list, and we knew it would be a short stay, but felt we could temporarily help them stay safe and put a roof over their heads. The family was brought in and the mother who had always worked in the nursing field wanted to get back to working as soon as she could get the children in daycare, summer camps, etc. Their apartment through the housing authority became available and they were scheduled to move in the first week of July.

Sometimes the right people are at the right place and things line up and people are able to get the help they need. We pray for this sweet family with a very determined mother who wants to move forward, be successful and do the very best she can for her children.   

~ Submitted by Carla Charles, St. John's Family Shelter, Board President

Spotlight~ Success Story

Health Collaboratives -

Celebrating Milestones

Jack E. Barr Center for Well-Being

The Center Celebrated the graduation of several youths in our program this year, but two in particular stand out. Through these young people, we learned even more about Collective Impact and how it is possible to do things alone, but it’s not lasting, and is it harder! Having a common understanding of a problem, and a joint approach to solve it is of utmost importance.  

COLE

Cole experienced so many challenges in his young childhood - from moving to multiple family members' homes, to eventually needing a more stable home at the time, so he joined a family in one of our foster homes. The goal was always reunification for him, but it was difficult. As we look at responses to stress-fight, flight or freeze, Cole was a fighter. And he fought. Through several foster homes, through his school journey and even after his visit back home. While he was fighting, his family was home, working on a plan with Bester Community of Hope for how to dive into the issues that were there when he left home. The program teams remained committed to helping find the best outcome for him- the Center, the foster care team, the team at social services, and the Bester Community of Hope team. Through therapy, he was able to remain with a therapist and medication management provider throughout his journey. When he returned home, he had the support of the Center, the support of Bester Community of Hope, and his same school system. He was able to remain within his community, his birthplace, and he and his family were able to navigate ultimately for the good.

KATIE

Katie's graduation brought about feelings of accomplishment and warmth, not only for her, but for all who saw her journey to this goal. A kind girl growing up in the city, she had difficulty with fitting in and finding purpose among all the pressures to be involved in sports, stay out of trouble and attend school. Katie ended up involved in the juvenile system, with a team that frankly never gave up on her. She worked to be a self-convener, leading each organization she was involved with to her therapist, who was able to bring the group together, and caregivers to devise a plan for success. When a caregiver stepped in to provide support in her later youth years, the therapist and organizations were able to support not only Katie but also her father who although he worked hard, wasn't able to keep her at home. Despite the challenges, he was able to connect with her therapist and be a part of her life even though she lived elsewhere.

~ Submitted by the Jack E. Barr Center for Well-Being

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.

Promoting Literacy Across Washington County!

Our Books United program, founded in May of 2022, has 26 active partner locations. In just over two years time,

we have collected and redistributed over 56,000 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.

We would like to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the generosity of our partners at 2nd & Charles. Their annual donation to our Books United program is a testament to their commitment to enhancing community services through collaboration, aligning perfectly with the mission of United Way of Washington County. This support not only helps us promote literacy but also reinforces our dedication to education and community improvement.

Additionally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to two of our dedicated volunteers, Alec Auwaeter and Mark Subrizi from Blue Ridge Risk Partners. Their hard work in hauling those heavy books inside is an essential contribution to the success of the Books United program. Volunteers like Alec and Mark play a crucial role in building a sense of community and making a significant impact on the lives of those we serve.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us!

As always, a special thanks to our wonderful Books United volunteers,

Sharon Giles, Beth Johnston, and Jo Ellen Allenberg!

The United Way of Washington County stopped by and picked up school supply donations from Sweet Notes Bakery!

Thank you so much to everyone who donated. Their next charity drive will be starting in November. Just watch their FB page for details and be sure to stop by for some goodies!

https://www.facebook.com/thesweetnotesbakery/

Maryland

Department of Juvenile Services

At United Way of Washington County, we believe in the power of compassion and the strength of community. We are proud to announce that thanks to the incredible generosity of our local community, the Department of Juvenile Services has received a donation of school supplies, books, and hygiene items aimed at supporting their targeting students. These contributions play a pivotal role in enhancing the educational and health outcomes for at-risk youth, ensuring they have the essential tools to thrive in their academic journeys.

Receiving the donation is Danielle Staley, Case Management Specialist Program Supervisor

Field Services/Community – Washington County

Maryland Dept. of Juvenile Services

The donation includes a variety of school supplies such as notebooks, pens, pencils, and backpacks, which are crucial for students to engage effectively in their studies. Additionally, a selection of books has been provided to foster a love for reading and to encourage literacy among these young learners. Hygiene items, such as, shampoo, and personal care products, are also included, addressing an often-overlooked aspect of student well-being and dignity.  

Special Thanks to Julie Rohm and the Valley Mall for continuing to support our Books United Program!

Be on the lookout for upcoming events and the addition of our permanent "Book Nook". We are so grateful for our collaboration with the Valley Mall!

Deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste and brushes and feminine pads are all items we need every day. But for some low-income families personal hygiene poses a problem. For many families it can be difficult to put food on the table so personal hygiene items and other necessities are out of reach. Every day people go without personal care Items because they simply can't afford them.

We currently serve 2,308 people and our numbers are GROWING by the day. Our closets are on-campus and 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 and 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 currently has 11 active hygiene closets across Washington County! Hancock Elementary will be joining our group as of August 2024 to take our total to 12 active closets!

• Hagerstown Community College
• Cascade Elementary School
• Clear Spring Elementary School
• Hickory Elementary School
• Western Heights Middle School
• Parkside Community Center
• Pleasant Valley Elementary School
• Smithsburg High School
• Rockland Woods Elementary
• Soul Haven Wellness & Recovery Center
• Zion Reformed United Church of Christ

HCC On-Campus Hygience Closet supported by the

United Way of Washington County

 is ready for the new school year!

We are also thrilled to announce the launch of our newest endeavor - an on-site hygiene closet/warehouse situated at the drive-thru/walk-up area on Court Place at the rear of our offices at 83 W. Washington Street. This innovative initiative is a testament to our unwavering commitment to meeting the basic needs of our community members. Operating in cooperation with our community closets, the hygiene warehouse functions through a voucher distribution system, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation.

By providing essential hygiene products through a structured and inclusive approach, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who rely on these resources. 

Thank you so much to the Hagerstown Rotary Club - Sunset for their donation to our hygiene closet initiative. This contribution is not just a gift; it is an investment in the health and well-being of our community.

The hygiene closet serves as a vital resource, providing essential items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and other personal care products to those in need. By ensuring that everyone has access to these basic necessities, we are taking significant steps towards fostering a stable and nurturing environment in Washington County.

WHO IS ALICE?

With the cost of living higher than what most people earn, ALICE families have income above the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), but not high enough to afford a basic household budget that includes housing, child care, food, transportation, and health care.

The United Way ALICE Report provides a framework, language, and tools to measure and understand the struggles of the growing number of ALICE households in our communities.

This research initiative partners with state local United Ways such as those in Maryland, to deliver research-based reports that can stimulate meaningful discussion, attract new partners, and ultimately inform strategies that effect positive change.

To learn more about ALICE visit:



https://www.unitedforalice.org/

Community Resources Alert!

We're blessed to live in a community where help is

always just a phone call away. You are never alone!

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 about over 7,500 resources, individuals with essential needs can get connected to local help 24/7/365.

You can dial 2-1-1 on your phone to speak with someone or you can 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

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.

Washington County Family Center

221 McRand Court, Suite 300, Hagerstown, MD 21740

The Family Center provides GED and ESL (English as a Second Language) classes for expectant parents and parents with children ages

0-3. Childcare, meals, parenting education, and case management services are provided. Transportation is available on a case-by-case basis. To register or learn more information, please contact Christina McCauley at 301-790-4006 or christinamccauley2@maryland.gov

UPDATED Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list

The Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list was just updated significantly. Please replace copies you may already have and share it with anyone in need. Updated Resource List. The most recent list can also always be found on the HARC website. If you know of any additional changes, please contact Kathy at director@harccoalition.org or 301-842-4272.

Funds, Furnishings, and Volunteers Needed for Refugee Families

Recently, there has been an influx of refugee families in Washington County. Refugee Welcome Network (RWN) needs funds, furnishings, and volunteers to help stabilize them while we work with them toward self-sufficiency. In the last two weeks, the RWN settled two new families into housing, with a third currently waiting for housing and help. Read more and see our list of needs. Donate funds. Contact us to volunteer.

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.

Bereavement Toolkits Available

The Hospice of Washington County Bereavement Team announces a resource "toolkit" for grieving children and teens! This "toolkit" is a box full of multiple resources, comfort items, workbooks, and materials that have been designed to match a student's developmental level. Toolkits are available for the following age groups: Pre-K/Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School aged students. Each toolkit provides educational and helpful materials to help a student and family navigate grief and loss. English and Spanish resources are available. Information Website. Request a Toolkit. Information Email: Bereavement Counselors Stephanie Nalley and Jennifer Morningstar. Check out a video to preview these toolkits.

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

FREE Person-Centered Spiritual Visitation Course

A 12-week program that provides trainees with a combination of 50 of classroom and in-practice educational learning in Person-Centered Hospitals and Nursing Homes visitation. Flyer. For more information, contact: Chaplain Richard W. Bower at 301-745-4285, or email at rich.bower@maryland.gov.

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!

https://www.visithagerstown.com/events

Girls on the Run Volunteer Coaches Needed

Girls on the Run inspires girls of all abilities to recognize their individual strengths while building a sense of connection and confidence. They are seeking volunteer coaches who facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skills development to create opportunities for joyful movement and meaningful connections. Teams (elementary and middle school) meet twice per week over an 8- to 10-week season. At the end of the season, the team completes a celebratory 5K event, which provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset in motion. They are currently seeking volunteers to help as coaches in Washington County - particularly in Hagerstown at Bester Elementary, Pangborn Elementary, Hickory Elementary, Lincolnshire Elementary, and Eastern Elementary. Website / Facebook. / Flyer.

Memory Cafes Returns - 3rd Thursdays, Resuming September 19

3rd Thursday of each month, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

Resuming September 19

Otterbein United Methodist Church

108 E. Franklin Street, Hagerstown

Memory Cafe is a safe environment for those living with early-stage Dementia as well as their care partners. This group offers a unique blend of educational and social interactions for all attendees. Each cafe is sponsored by a local senior care professional. Join them for an afternoon of fun experiences as well as a light lunch and socialization. Attendance is free. Information contact Carolyn Perrygo, Member, Dementia Friendly Washington County at 301-733-4331, c.perrygo@myactv.net. Flyer.

VIRTUAL - FREE Advocacy Training Session - Ongoing Beginning Sept. 24

4th Tuesdays and 4th Saturdays, 6:00 - 7:00 pm

Begins Tuesday, September 24

VIRTUAL

Sign up for this one-time free training session by clicking here. Find out how to be heard…and where it counts! Questions? Call Carol Mowen or Mary Heeringa at 301-797-7682.

Save the Date! Annual Taste of the Town

September 29

Sunday, September 29, 5:00 - 8:00 pm

The Maryland Theatre

21 S. Potomac Street, Hagerstown

ON SALE NOW: Reach of Washington County presents the 19th Annual Taste of the Town on Sept 29! Taste of the Town is one of the largest and oldest tasting events in the area, showcasing the culinary talents of local chefs. Ticket proceeds go directly to Reach’s programs. To purchase tickets, visit mdtheatre.org/town or call the local Box Office at 301-790-2000.