INSIDE:

• Volunteer Profile: Michael Knipe

• Summer of Impact Spotlight: China Charles

• Participant Update: Magali Aguirre

• Save the Date: 40th Anniversary Gala is Nov. 7

Michael Knipe has lived in DC for decades, but he had never been to the Congress Heights neighborhood before he began volunteering there as an associate caseworker for Samaritan Ministry this past spring.

But the retired United States Department of Agriculture attorney quickly found the work with Samaritan’s staff and program participants so enjoyable and meaningful that he signed up to serve the Ward 8 neighborhood office three days each week. 

“It’s worked out fabulously,” says Michael, who serves as the right-hand Next Step team member of Doris McRoy, Samaritan’s Lead Caseworker in DC. "I really love working with ..." READ MORE

If you have not had the opportunity to read about China Charles, a powerhouse returning citizen and grad of Samaritan's STRIVE program, please read Samaritan Executive Director Jennifer Longmire-Wright's letter about China here.

We have been so impressed by her hard work and success, and her commitment to giving back to our community now that she's back on her feet, that we made her the featured participant for our 40th Anniversary Summer of Impact Campaign.

And if you have not gotten a chance yet to donate to our Summer of Impact Campaign — which will be crucial to keeping our doors open throughout the summer and fall months — please give now at this link.

Every donation makes a difference, and no gift is too small!

We are thrilled to report that with Samaritan's help, Next Step participant Magali Aguirre successfully moved into her own apartment in Arlington in the spring — and we are now supporting her as she prepares to launch her own business.

Samaritan had previously assisted Magali as she sought and recovered from surgery for the eye disease that had taken away her ability to work and led to several years of homelessness.

Recently, she completed AI and bookkeeping courses, and she is now preparing to launch a bookkeeping business — the final step in her path to regaining her financial self-sufficiency.

"This progress reflects her dedication and hard work, and it has been a pleasure to witness her advancement," says Julio Da Silva, Deputy Director, Programs, for Samaritan. "We are optimistic about her continued success and remain committed to supporting her journey with Samaritan Ministry and achieving her Next Step goals."

Samaritan's Gala 2026 will take place on Saturday, November 7 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm

Please plan to join us for a very special 40th Anniversary gala on Saturday, November 7th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm!

The event will offer our inspiring annual awards, delicious food and drinks, and multiple ways to support and celebrate our mutual ministry and our momentous milestone anniversary!

If you, your business, or your place of worship would like to help ensure the gala's success by becoming a sponsor, please write to info@samaritanministry.org.

Watch for more news on this exciting event at www.samaritanministry.org.

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Newsletter editor and photographer: Sarah Wood.