Whisking Up Brighter Futures: Xenia’s Secret Ingredient Is Heart

When families in our community need a helping hand, Xenia Monterosa is there—as a Client Services Specialist in the Care for Kids program with heart, energy, and an unstoppable drive. “I see myself on the front lines, helping families at their most vulnerable moments,” she says. “It’s something I feel deeply about and have built my career around.”  Care for Kids is a program that provides access to health care services for uninsured children in Montgomery County. 



A proud DC native, Xenia grew up in Columbia Heights and attended Woodrow Wilson High School, now named Jackson-Reed High School in Tenleytown. Her connection to the city fuels her passion: “I see what’s happening in our community every day, and that motivates me to do even more in my role.”

Still Believin’ Storytelling Show: Watch Now and Be Inspired!

Nearly 100 friends, partners, and colleagues gathered at the Silver Spring Civic Building for our Still Believin’ Storytelling Show—and the stories shared were unforgettable.

From overcoming fears to escaping adversity, each storyteller reminded us of the power of resilience and community:

• Wenjing Zhang turned phobias into strengths.
• Brigid Howe reflected on her early passion for service.
• Uma Ahluwalia shared lessons from a lifetime in public service.
• Razia Alizada told her courageous journey from Afghanistan to becoming a caregiver.
• Corey Smedley showed how determination shaped his career in fire service.
• Nina Ashford spoke about thriving through personal challenges as a leader in public health.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and to our sponsors who helped make the evening possible: Alfa Specialty Pharmacy, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Feldesman, Hartman Executive Advisors, and HR Strategy Group! If you missed it—or want to relive the magic—watch the full show now: Click here to view the video.

Here’s to building an even stronger community—together!