Living United in Our Nation's Capital

Cradle-to-Career Education Access: A New Information Resource

2011-03-24T07:50:00.000-07:00

Education, from cradle to career, is a critical issue for our very eclectic community in the DC metro area. We’ve got some of the most highly-educated people as well as some of the least-educated.

We must work together

Improving education requires all of us — public, private and nonprofit sectors — to work together in new ways. And it requires a clear-eyed view of the problem and its roots. For instance, the fact is, high school dropouts are more than 12 years in the making.

Nationally,

Disadvantaged children start school at least 2 years behind in pre-reading skills.
For every 50 children who don’t learn to read in kindergarten, 44 will still be struggling in 3rd grade.
Children without reading skills by 3rd grade are unlikely to graduate. New research shows grades and absenteeism rates by 3rd grade can predict dropouts with 90% accuracy.

That's why the entire education continuum — from birth through 24 years old — must be in our sightline if we are to move the needle on educational achievement and preparing our youth for success.

A new resource for education advocates

To overcome the challenge of finding credible, actionable resources for improving educational outcomes for our youth, United Way NCA has launched a new educational insights news service. This interactive set of videos, tools, and resources can easily be embedded on your website or blog. Once it’s done, your visitors will receive the latest information about the state of education in our region. Once you embed the multimedia player, each time we update it, your version will automatically be synchronized with the new information.

Check out this month’s Insights, headlined by the Kenilworth-Parkside area’s Irasema Salcido, the CEO and founder of the Cesar Chavez Charter High School for Public Policy.

Click here for instructions for embedding the interactive media player on your own website or blog.

Education: United Way NCA and the Promise Neighborhood Initiative

2011-03-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, February 23rd, United Way NCA presented testimony (see the post below) before the Council of the District of Columbia, reinforcing our commitment cross-sector collaboration on improving education in our region.

As part of this mission, United Way has become a key partner in the DC Promise Neighborhood Initiative.

With the Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy as its applicant agency, the DC Promise Neighborhood Initiative (DCPNI) won a $500,000 grant to plan a Promise Neighborhood in the Parkside-Kenilworth community in Ward 7 of the District of Columbia. DCPNI’s mission is to increase the number of children who complete their education from cradle to college, and enter adulthood as productive participants in the 21st Century economy and in the civic life of their communities.

DCPNI Founder and CEO
Irasema Salcido

The Promise Neighborhood Initiative is an ideal partner for United Way NCA as, like us, they recognize the interconnectedness of diverse social issues on the overall condition of individuals, families and communities. For a tour of the DC Promise Neighborhood, sign up here.

United Way NCA will play a key role with DCPNI as the lead organization of the Funding Desk, charged with identifying new and continuing funding streams to sustain the program.

Opportunities being explored include, but are not limited to:

the White House’s Race to the Top Initiative;
Educare; and the
HUD Choice Neighborhoods program.

United Way NCA is also co-leading the External Relations Strategic Initiatives. This effort includes outreach to:

Capitol Hill,
the White House,
DC Government, and
regional development and business groups.

We are also a participant in the Local Funders Group dedicated to identifying and securing private sector supporters of the program.

Our partnership with DCPNI is a great step toward improving lives in one of the most distressed communities in our region. As we stated in our testimony to the DC Council, this effort needs to built upon and expanded for other troubled communities in the National Capital Area, and United Way NCA plans to be an active partner in this progress.

Education Reform is the Top Mobilization Priority in Your Transformed United Way

2011-02-24T08:05:00.000-08:00

As you know, we have some of the richest, poorest, best- and least-educated citizens in the country.

Yet, due to that diversity—both ethnically and geographically—the Capital Region is one of the most difficult communities in America to mobilize and address our most demanding civic challenges.

Leslie Whitlow Graves

In remarks to Council of the District of Columbia Chairman Kwame Brown and council members on Wednesday, February 23, your United Way of the National Capital Area made it clear that the organization is taking dramatic steps to transform, and outlined some of the actions we’re taking in the education arena.

As one of the most respected brands in the world, a transformed United Way can be a key “mobilizer” around the issues of education, financial stability, and health in our area. This is our new mission. This is our new calling.

Here’s an excerpt of United Way NCA’s President & CEO Bill Hanbury’s testimony, delivered by United Way NCA’s Leslie Whitlow Graves, senior vice president of community impact. Click the link below to read the full remarks.

"Education reform is our top mobilization priority. United Way of the National Capital Area is becoming a key neutral convener…bringing together leaders and stakeholders at all levels…from education, business, non-profits, neighborhoods, civic and philanthropic sectors…all around common goals and benchmarks to support every child in our community…from cradle to career.”

Read the complete remarks of National Capital Area’s President & CEO Bill Hanbury.

National Marathon: Run the Relay and Support United Way of the National Capital Area

2011-02-22T07:21:00.000-08:00

Run the National Marathon Team Relay March 26 and you'll not only get the cool t-shirt, half-marathoner's medal (if you finish, of course), and awesome goody bags, you'll have the satisfaction of supporting United Way NCA's efforts in improving the quality of life for real people in our area. A percentage of the team relay entry fee will go to United Way NCA to address top issues in education, financial stability, and health.

Running the same course as the half marathon, the Team Relay consists of three participants per team and offers a distance for everyone, regardless of running experience. With two runners completing 5 miles and one participant running 3.1 miles, the Team Relay is a great way to promote health and fitness.

All you have to do is use the code "11runited" when you register your team - it's that easy.

On your mark, get set, go!

Why I Give to United Way

2010-12-03T11:10:00.000-08:00

As part of United Way of the National Capital Area's own workplace giving campaign, we included an essay contest asking our team to answer the question, "Why give to United Way of the National Capital Area?" We received an array of answers that ranged from pragmatic and prosaic to philosophical and poetic. The winning entry went to our Senior Director of Resource Development Michelle Bosau for her personal and cadenced account of why she gives.

I give to United Way NCA:

Because I believe community is not just the place you live.

To save.
Because the rising tide lifts all boats. To spread joy.
Because I am asked. To give back instead of giving up.

To honor my parents' legacy.

Because I believe in being part of the solution. Because giving feels good. To share wealth.

To inspire my children.

Because I am thanked.
To find happiness in little things. Because I was taught to share. To help good people in bad situations.

Because many people have given to me in so many ways.

To spread hope. Because I believe.
Because it could be me someday.

To spread happiness. To brighten someone's day. To spread opportunity.

Because I can't do everything, but I can do my part.

To bring change. Because some people have no where else to turn.
For impact. Because bad things happen to good people.

Because I am well while my neighbor is sick.
Because I am warm while my neighbor is cold.
Because I am full while my neighbor is hungry.

Because I have been given everything while my neighbor has been given nothing.

Young Leaders Receive the Gift of Giving at SOME

2010-11-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, November 14th, I joined the United Way Young Leaders, along with volunteers from all over the greater Washington area, at SOME (So Others Might Eat) to provide a warm meal to over 200 of DC’s less fortunate.

SOME, an interfaith community-based organization, has been helping the poor and the homeless of our nation's capital since 1970. Working with their experienced and energetic staff, I was truly inspired by their compassion and commitment. It was a fantastic experience for all of us. While we were providing meal for others, each of us gained so much from the act of giving and connecting with those we served.

I was thrilled to learn that SOME’s services go way beyond just serving meals to the hungry. SOME also provides clothing, healthcare (medical and dental), affordable housing, job training, addiction treatment, and counseling to the poor, the elderly and individuals with mental illness. They are truly a great resource for Washington DC.

I am very thankful that through United Way I had a chance to be part of this good work. I can’t wait to go back and help out again.

Aaron Shutzer
United Way Young Leader

Political Strategist Joe Lockhart Stresses Perseverance/Risk-taking to United Way Young Leaders

2010-11-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

In an intimate discussion over breakfast on Wednesday, October 27th, political strategist Joe Lockhart shared his thoughts on career success with members of United Way of the National Capital Area's Young Leaders.

Mr. Lockhart discussed his experiences and stressed the importance of perseverance in achieving one's goals. One of his first positions working on a political campaign, he said, was only offered to him after he repeatedly called the office asking about a job. After befriending the boss’s assistant and calling enough times after hours, he was finally invited in and eventually offered the position, energizing his long career in politics. Lockhart has worked on six presidential campaigns and spent five years in the Clinton White House, including two as press secretary.

He also emphasized risk taking as a key to professional success. Turning a job interview mishap into a career leap, Mr. Lockhart had gone to an an interview for a media producer position, but eventually realized he was in the room for on-air talent. Lockhart said taking the job that was offered despite his lack of experience was a smart move. Pushing himself to dive into unknown waters offered him a chance to challenge himself and explore new dimensions of his professional development. He has lived by that philosophy throughout his career.

Lockhart parlayed his media and political expertise to start up the Glover Park Group; a national media relations and political strategy company headquartered here in Washington, DC. Young Leaders member Carol Andes, who works for the Glover Park Group, helped arrange the Leadership Breakfast -- part of a series designed to provide Young Leaders opportunities to hear from and network with recognized business leaders around the region.

Cori Zorek
United Way Young Leader

Interested in becoming a Young Leader - contact Brandi Lester at blester@uwnca.org.

United Way NCA Young Leaders' Fall "Mix and Mingle"

2010-10-14T10:46:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, October 6th, dozens joined the Young Leaders at Pepco’s Edison Gallery to drink wine, munch snacks from local eateries and admire the “Breakthrough! Twenty Years After German Unification” exhibit. And to thank a few of our amazing speakers from our Leadership Breakfast Series.

Bill Hanbury, President and CEO of United Way NCA, spoke about the important role United Way plays in the National Capital Area, and about the important role each of us can play by giving back to and connecting with our community. Connie Bertram, a partner at Cooley Godward Kronish LLP, spoke of her own 20 year history with United Way; from fundraising to serving as the organization's legal counsel. We had an amazing time meeting new friends and talking again with our Breakfast speakers. Jim Dinegar, President and CEO of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, was also in attendance!

Keep an eye out for upcoming Young Leader events and join us as we serve the community, network with our peers and gain inspiration and wisdom from great leaders in our region.

A special thank you to our sponsors, who contributed to the enjoyment of the event: Acacia Bistro, Austin Grill, Clyde’s Gallery Place, Georgetown Cupcake and Sonoma.

Carol Andes

United Way Young Leader

United Way Young Leaders - Leading the Way to Service

2010-10-11T10:10:00.000-07:00

United Way NCA Young Leaders Participate in the National Day of Service

On Wednesday night I attended our United Way NCA Young Leaders Fall "Mix and Mingle" (more details on that in my next blog post), and as Bill Hanbury, President and CEO of United Way NCA, spoke about the role we can play in our community, I thought of our most recent service activity.

Last month on September 11th, members of the Young Leaders joined our friends and community members for the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. We spent a beautiful Saturday morning painting the fencing poles and park benches in Washington Circle.

We were a part of a much larger, very impressive event. More than 10,000 community members joined together across the greater DC area to “rekindle the spirit of service and compassion felt by so many in the aftermath of the events of 9/11.” Among those thousands was President Barack Obama, who selected the Greater DC Cares project at Ron Brown Middle School to serve.

It's at times like these, when we all band together for the common good, that I am proud to be a member of this great community.

Carol Andes

United Way Young Leader

Family Night at the Ballpark

2010-07-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

Were you in the bleachers - did you cheer on the Alexandria Aces? United Way NCA volunteers, staff and many supporters recently came out for a family night at the ballpark on July 19. Everyone rooted on the Alexandria Aces collegiate baseball team as they played against the Baltimore Redbirds. It was also a great chance to offer a special thank you to the outgoing Alexandria Regional Council Chair, Delegate David Englin, for his leadership and support during his two-years of service.

The United Way NCA family also extended a warm welcome to the incoming Chair, Councilman Frank H. Fannon IV. The local Alexandria Gazette Packet came out to cover this great event. Read the clip here. Featured in the photo above are (from left) United Way NCA staff with Fannon and Englin. See more photos here.

Volunteering "So Others Might Eat"...

2010-07-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

by Doug Tees, United Way NCA Young Leaders' Serve Chair

On Sunday, July 18, I was able to Live United by volunteering at So Others Might Eat (SOME) in downtown Washington, D.C. with 8 other Young Leaders. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing first-hand the impact that a great organization makes in the community. SOME made it easy for us to contribute by having a well organized process and a volunteer coordinator who gave out assignments and kept us on our toes!

Being able to greet the clients as they came in, wish them a good day, perhaps have a quick conversation, and offer them a smile (and more often than not receiving one in return) was energizing and more fun than I anticipated.

It was a strange mix of emotions - feeling sad for the poverty in our community, grateful for United Way NCA and SOME for their support, admiration for many of the clients who were appreciative and positive despite their hardships, guilt for personally having so much, and joy to be giving my time and connecting with great people (clients, staff and volunteers) - all of this packed into a few hours on Sunday!

This was a fantastic experience, and one I know I will repeat. I appreciate that United Way NCA gives me opportunities to volunteer and connect with parts of the community that I would not see otherwise. Thanks to this experience, I am more grateful for the abundance in my life and look forward to the next opportunity to connect with other Young Leaders and Live United!

Learn more about our Young Leaders and how to get involved today. Visit Young Leaders on facebook and contact Elizabeth Owens at eowens@uwnca.org for more information.

An Hour Out of His Busy Schedule

2010-07-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

by Carol Andes, Young Leaders Member and part of the YL Marketing Committee

On July 7th, I had the great pleasure of having breakfast with Brian Gallagher, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. Mr. Gallagher took an hour out of his busy schedule to talk with the Young Leaders Society as a part of our Leadership Breakfast series.

It was an intimate group, which allowed us to have a real discussion with plenty of questions from the YLS members. The conversation ranged from how he shaped his successful career to how he led United Way’s transition from an organization that simply raised and distributed money to one that now focuses on making a measurable difference in the community around specific, pressing issues.

Mr. Gallagher also shared with us what he’s learned about effective leaders, including that those with long-term success are the ones who are purpose driven, results oriented, collaborative in nature and kind.

Young Leaders Connect

2010-06-16T14:19:00.001-07:00

by Andre Francis, Young Leaders Chair

Today, I attended one of our Young Leaders Connect events at On the Border - Mexican Grill. As usual, I saw a lot of new and familiar faces. I was able to catch up with fellow Young Leaders and speak with guests about the awesome things we're currently and planning on doing. The atmosphere was very laid back. In other words there were no "keynote speakers," so it was completely a no pressure vibe.

I have to give a round of applause to the cooks at On the Border. The food was absolutely amazing! I must've had 10 toquitos and 10 wings easily. I was even able to take some home because there was a fair amount left over. I'm sure you can imagine my excitement at the time...lol!

I can't wait to "pig out" at the next Young Leaders Connect event! I'm definitely looking forward to it.

Until next time,

Andre Francis

"Hanna-me-downs" are like brand new for children in need

2010-06-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

by Shana Starkand-Selender

It's amazing when a local business finds time to give back to the community.

Hanna Andersson, a national children’s retail chain held what is becoming an annual event - its "hanna-me-downs" clothing drive. Stores in the DC metro area participated in the effort collecting more than 500 articles of children’s clothing for infants to school-aged children. United Way staffmember Andrea Banks is featured here with Michelle Holley, store manager at Hanna Andersson, Bethesda (photo shown at right).

Through UWNCA’s partnership with Christian Relief Services and Interstate Worldwide, clothes received from this drive went to benefit Fondation pour les Enfants d'Haiti, a Haitian Non Government Organization with a hospital and orphanage near Port-au-Prince that was not damaged in the recent series of earthquakes.

Its inspiring to think of how many children will be helped through this project. Thank you Hanna Andersson.

United Way's Annual Breakfast and Community Awards Celebration - Alexandria

2010-06-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

by Kim Tate, UWNCA Relationship Manager

United Way's Alexandria Regional Council celebrated community leaders on Wednesday, June 2nd at their Annual Breakfast & Community Awards Celebration.

Along with more than 90 people, I helped honor five members in our community for their outstanding dedication and community service.

In addition, we were able to thank two local nonprofit leaders for their commitment to the citizens of Alexandria and beyond.

This event was a great opportunity to show our gratitude and give back to community leaders that give so much of themselves every day. They truly demonstrate what it is to LIVE UNITED. See more video here.

Featured in the video(from left to right):
Bill Hanbury, President and CEO of UWNCA
Mayor William Euille, City of Alexandria
Fran Becker, Executive Director, Carpenter’s Shelter
Diane Charles, Executive Director, SCAN of Northern VA, Inc.
Carla Fleming, Chair, Alexandria Regional Council

Bringing Caring Women to the Table

2010-06-04T07:34:00.000-07:00

by Melissa Glynn, WLC Community Impact Chair

The Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) hosted a kick-off event at its sponsored Fun, Fly and Fit program location, Martha’s Table in Washington, D.C. We were graciously hosted by Lindsey Buss, Martha’s Table Executive Director who led a tour of the facility and a discussion of the range of programs from the accredited afterschool programs to Martha’s Outfitters.

Most importantly, we were able to watch the kids enjoy participating in the Fun, Fly and Fit program on the playground with their trainers.

Martha’s Table’s mission is to help at-risk children, youth, families and individuals in our community improve their lives by providing educational programs, food, clothing, and enrichment opportunities.

Bowling for A Cause

2010-04-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

On April 8, UWNCA’s Young Leaders held a Happy Hour at Lucky Strike Lanes and Lounge so young leaders could meet other like-minded peers.

The group gathered to raise awareness about how our Young Leaders help the community and to have some fun! More than 40 people had a great time and spoke with other young philanthropists about how they can make a difference with United Way.

These types of fundraisers have produced quite a turn-out with tons of young people learning how to make a difference in their community.

Young Leaders focus on giving back to their community through fundraising events like the one at Lucky Strike and by volunteering their time with days of service.

This year on April 24th, the Young Leaders team will be joining thousands of other area residents in the region’s largest day of service.

Want to learn more about becoming a Young Leader?

Contact Elizabeth Owens, Relationship Manager for Major Gifts and UWNCA Young Leaders Manager eowens@uwnca.org or 202-488-2125

Celebrating a Stellar Campaign!

2010-03-30T08:52:00.001-07:00

Pepco Holdings, Inc., conducted a leading United Way workplace campaign and wrapped this year's campaign up in style at an appreciation luncheon on Monday, March 29th. The celebration of a job well done was amplified by their in-house company rock group, the Static Band.

Janet Randolph, Pepco Regional Campaign Chair, emceed the event for executives and staff volunteers who helped them top the list of UWNCA contributors. She commended business units that achieved 100% participation, as well as organizers of out-of the-box fundraising events like their long-running car show, company talent show, and a prize drawing for a heart-adorned quilt designed and stitched by Pepco employees.

The funds raised through these events went to support United Way’s Community Impact Fund, a general fund that allows United Way to allocate money to pressing community needs through a competitive grant process. Randolph shared that this approach provided a counterpoint to the employee contributions which traditionally are designated to specific agencies. “We’re trying to help in as many dimensions as possible,” said Randolph.

United Way thanks Pepco’s leadership and their entire team for all they do to support United Way and our community.

How Did You Spend Your Spring Break?

2010-03-24T07:49:00.000-07:00

What happens when your local United Way links up with United Way Worlwide to give back to the community?

It's called Alternative Spring Break(ASB). As a United Way staff member, Dave Kurtz, signed up to support this exciting way to use his spring break.

They worked on many projects at the Frazer Center in Atlanta, GA. United Way staff and students worked on a bunch of projects, including the creation of literacy kits for students, garden planning and work for the facilities.

Volunteers also created accessible garden planters for individuals with physical limitations!

How are you spending your spring break - are you giving back? We want to hear your story - email sselender@uwnca.org and your volunteer experience may be featured on on our blog!

Have you prepared your tax return yet?

2010-03-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

Have you prepared your tax return yet?

As the result of generous grants from the Wal-Mart Foundation and the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, United Way of the National Capital Area has joined forces with community partners to help families and individuals benefit from the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).

Northern Virginia CASH (Creating Assets, Savings and Hope) and the DC EITC Campaign each received $30,000 in grant funds to raise awareness about the EITC and to support Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) sites where low-income workers can go to have their taxes completed for free. Low-income individuals and families in the greater Washington area who qualify for the Federal Government’s EITC program can earn up to $5,657 in tax credits for the 2009 tax year.

Why is this important to you?

EITC and tax preparation support may increase the refund amount that individuals receive or help reduce the amount of taxes owed.

Area residents may visit Northern Virginia CASH and DC EITC through April 15, 2010 to access this support. Volunteers will be on-hand to prepare taxes and to provide other assistance. You can also prepare your taxes on your own by visiting www.myfreetaxes.com/metrodc

Watch a related clip featured on WUSA!

Helping Haiti right here at home...

2010-01-28T10:38:00.001-08:00

United Way of the National Capital Area, Christian Relief Services and Interstate Relocation Services are joining forces to bring relief and hope to those suffering in Haiti – and you can help. We are collecting medical-based supplies to help relieve the suffering of those in need.

If you would like your company/organization to participate in this very important initiative, please contact Monika Taylor at mtaylor2@uwnca.org. You will then receive a list of the most needed items and a collection box. The drive will take place until February 28. Items will be picked up by Interstate, dropped off at Christian Relief’s warehouse in Fredericksburg, Virginia, transported to Florida and then shipped to the Fondation pour les Enfants d'Haiti, (a Haitian NGO with a hospital and orphanage near Port-au-Prince -- www.usfch.org) as soon as possible.

Here’s a great way to make a very tangible difference in the lives of individuals you may never meet, but who need your help today!

The Gift of Giving

2009-12-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the generous gift of a local law firm this month, United Way of the National Capital Area (UWNCA) coordinated the delivery of 300 gifts to nearly 100 families in the greater Washington Area.

The partner agencies that work closely with UWNCA helped to identify families in need through the region. In Da Street Inc., Bright Beginnings, Teen Support Inc., Helping Hands, Inc., Kiwanis club, DC, DC Public Schools along with the United Way staff, all helped deliver toys to local households.

"Even a game for these kids lets them know that someone cares - This is just a blessing for these families," said Elizabeth Parker with Teen Support Inc.

UWNCA works with more than 950 partner agencies to address the needs of our neighbors throughout the year and especially during the holiday season. Thank you to the agencies who helped get these toys to those who need them and UWNCA wishes everyone a warm, safe bright holiday season.

Helping Kids "Tackle" Childhood Obesity

2009-11-25T12:45:00.001-08:00

Not all professional athletes make time in their busy, demanding schedules to tackle community issues and to give something back. Who are we kidding, the average person whose schedule may be much more flexible can't always find time to make a difference in a child's life.

Well, Andre Carter, defensive end for the Washington Redskins and his wife, Bethany are setting an example when it comes to the health of the next generation.

The Carters support United Way's Fun, Fly and Fit program that helps kids enjoy health and wellness and they came out and led the kids in a workout that included kickboxing, pushups, calisthenics, and other exercise activities. This is not an isolated event - the Carters have adopted River Bend Middle School for the Fun, Fly & Fit program and they will continue working with these children to illustrate the positive benefits of good nutrition and physical activity.

Just 8 More...

2009-11-06T09:30:00.000-08:00

"Just 8 more, keep moving," said Mark Jenkins, celebrity personal trainer and spokesperson for Fun, Fly & Fit (UWNCA's fitness and nutrition program for school-aged kids). Yes, that was about the time I started to feel a little weak in the knees but, no pain, no gain right?

I kept pushing myself through a great workout and became very well-acquainted with my professional jump rope. I never realized that there were "real" jumpropes, as opposed to the yarn ones that you can easily find at a local drugstore. No, these were the real deal, heavy cords - no yarn here and the entire UWNCA staff learned how to use them quickly. If P.Diddy and Mary J. could do it, we could too.

Aside from working off some post-halloween candy calories, and expanding our life-expectancy with a simple 30 minute routine - the entire UWNCA staff came out to Neval Thomas elementary to kick-off our internal campaign. Most importantly, we brought Fun, Fly & Fit to some daring 4th and 5th graders. UWNCA is committed to improving the health and safety of children throughout the region we serve - this program does exactly that.

This was a great afternoon. Mark helped the whole team enjoy getting fit while having fun and we even looked "fly" doing it. Its supposed to be fun and that's what it was - Watch video here:

"Tee" Time in Loudoun County / Shana

2009-10-15T08:13:00.000-07:00

October 8 was a picture-prefect day for the 10th Annual Loudoun Charity Golf Classic. UWNCA’s Loudoun Regional Council and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) hosted 138 golfers, sponsors and volunteers at Raspberry Falls Golf and Hunt Club. It was a great time for all who attended. The Classic raises money for UWNCA’s Loudoun Community Impact Fund.

The best ball scramble format featured prizes for the top 3 foursomes in each division, several contest holes, and even an appropriate prize for the team with the highest score – deluxe stadium seat cushions. Golfers enjoyed a complimentary continental breakfast, Panera Bread Company boxed lunch delivered to them on the course, and a steak dinner provided by Outback Steakhouse.

Our very own Bill Hanbury was on hand to thank players and sponsors and to describe the work of the charities funded by the Community Impact Fund. Amazing what an afternoon of golfing and fun can support. Ten-year sponsors Giuliani Associates Architects, PMC, and MWAA were also recognized. MWAA has been the presenting sponsor of the Classic since its inception, with Larry Ferrigno and Mark Waslo leading to tournament committee every year.

The 2009 Golf Classic committee included Juli Seaman and Jeff Eveland from the Loudoun Regional Council, Larry Ferrigno and Mark Waslo from MWAA and David Kurtz with UWNCA

Hometown Huddle / Shana

2009-10-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

So what do you get when you bring together 6 local schools, a star-studded panel of celebrity judges and United Way - Hometown Huddle!

On Tuesday, October 6, 2009, at the Washington Ballet Studio, "THEARC" - United Way Worldwide, United Way of the National Capital Area (UWNCA) and the Washington Redskins Charitable Foundation held a dance competition. Bill Hanbury, President and CEO of UWNCA, was the emcee for the event. Middle School student groups were judged by a panel of celebrities including NFL-United Way spokesman Santana Moss; world-famous dancer and choreographer Desmond Richardson; and Septime Webre, artistic director of the Washington Ballet. See video here.

See photos here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/wbarronphotos

The NFL and United Way are working together to provide new, fun opportunities for young people to lead healthier lifestyles and this was a great opportunity to showcase that. Childhood obesity is a growing, national health issue and it is affecting kids right here in the nation's capital. The Washington Post reports that 30% of children nationally, 40% of children in the District of Columbia, and 50% of children in DC Wards 7 and 8 are considered overweight and obese.

This was a chance for kids to demonstrate their skills and to enjoy being active. United Way of the National Capital Area is committed to helping kids do this every day in the places where they learn and play, through our child wellness program "Fun, Fly & Fit."

Check back for details soon www.unitedwaynca.org

Living United out in the field / Dominic

2009-10-05T06:48:00.000-07:00

This was a busy week for United Way out in the community with visits to some important partners. On Monday, Bill Hanbury, President and CEO of UWNCA, toured DC’s Food and Friends, a local agency that provides meals and groceries to people living with HIV/Aids, and saw first-hand the top notch work they do to help people in need.

Tuesday, Bill attended back-to-back campaign meetings, accompanied by UWNCA’s Les Talley, to thank the folks at PNC Bank and the Washington Post for their continued support over the years. Both companies kick off their campaigns within the next couple of weeks.

And on Thursday, Bill was out in Virginia thanking City Administrator, Jim Hartmann and the City of Alexandria government for their strong sense of “civic responsibility” as they prepared for their annual drive.

Next week we join United Way Worldwide for an NFL/United Way Hometown Huddle event with the Washington Redskins. It will take place in the Washington Ballet studio space. The event will feature a dance competition among select DC Public Schools and will include Washington Redskins Wide Receiver Santana Moss, Washington Ballet Artistic Director Septime Weber, and our own Bill Hanbury, as judges. Stay tuned for a report on this great kids event.

United Way Inspires girls to be Fun, Fly & Fit!

2009-09-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mark Jenkins, celebrity trainer and spokesperson for United Way's child wellness prorgam, Fun, Fly & Fit leads girls in a workout at the first BET health summit from September 12-13. Read more here http://www.unitedwaynca.org/newsandevents/events.html

United Way Spreads the Word! / Shana

2009-09-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

Did you receive "Live United" today? Its United Way of the National Capital Area's enewsletter. Email newsletter@uwnca.org to sign up today.

Campaign Season has Arrived / Shana

2009-09-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

Campaign season has arrived and local companies are already in full swing.

United Way's campaign provides companies and local partners with a streamlined, transparent way to address community needs. More than 8,000 corporate workplace campaign supporters will join our efforts again this year. Each year United Way starts the campaign from the ground up and resets to $0. The process of encouraging new companies, federal agencies and current partners to carry out a campaign begins anew.

This year, the Orbital Science Corporation, Pepco Holdings, Inc. (PHI), Rolls-Royce North America, UPS and the Washington Post are among many local companies that will carry out a campaign.

United Way will help the Washington Post kick-off this year's campaign this week! Check back for photos.

Waking up the Neighborhood! /Shana

2009-08-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

All week hundreds of volunteers, general and skilled have been busy - really busy! In the heat and the bright sun, and mosquitos, people in blue shirts and hard hats have been clammoring about to get the job done and to build a home and a community center with ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. On very little sleep, tons of coffee and even more adrenaline, our entire community has been working to raise a home for one family and to give children a new place to play. This week has flown by and within a few hours, the Tripp family gets to set foot in their new home. United Way of the National Capital Area is on-site right now with hundreds of builders and volunteers,working to put on the finishing touches. The big stuff is done, you know: the frame, the walls...the geo-thermal well that will save the family a ton on electricity costs...it is all coming together. It has only been 7 days! Join UWNCA at 11:00am tomorrow, Saturday August 29th - (actually today) to greet the Tripp family and see the product of a community's hard work. Bring a toy or canned food to help those in need too!

"Suprise, We are Rebuilding Your House" /Shana

2009-08-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

The alarm went off at 6:30 a.m. - I got dressed, grabbed some coffee and headed out to help suprise a deserving family in Hyattsville. In a long procession of buses, cars, local law enforcement and the whole celebrity cast and crew, we made our way down the street. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdPWs2G5qis

Along with several builders, United Way staff and volunteers stood in the distance as Extreme Makeover: Home Edition let a special family know that their dream had come true - their home was going to be rebuilt in 7 days!

United Way of the National Capital Area received an overwhelming response from friends and supporters, literally thousands of people wanted to volunteer. Those who we were able to secure spots for during the build, came out to Capitol Plaza and RFK to get their Extreme Makeover: Home Edition t-shirts. Everyone is welcome to come out and watch the builds - find out where to go and how to be a spectator at www.burchbuildersgroup.com/capitalmakeover.

With all of the builders, volunteers and people that are working round the clock to make this happen, we are still looking for donations (especially meals). Visit http://www.builduwnca.org/ to donate goods and services for the build or email lbritt@uwnca.org

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! Follow the builds and our updates on facebook and twitter by visiting our homepage at http://www.unitedwaynca.org/.

Ty minus 5! / Michelle

2009-08-17T13:05:00.000-07:00

So, in case you haven’t heard, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is coming to the DC area next week. I’ve seen the show. I know they find a deserving family and build a house in 7 days. Being a reasonably intelligent person, I’ve always presumed that an advance teams shows up months ahead of time, moves in with the builder, plans every last bit of the house down to the nails the pictures hang on, Ty and the gang show up and through the magic of television the old house is demolished and a new one is built in “just 7 days”.

Boy was I wrong! It really does happen that fast.

This project came to United Way of the National Capital Area almost exactly a month before Ty will stand in front of someone’s house with his bullhorn.

I’m not sure the builders knew about it much before we did.

So what does United Way have to do with Extreme Makeover: Home Edition? Well, one of the things we do every day is bring together the people, companies and resources of the community for the greater good. Who better to recruit, organize and care for the volunteers working to change the life of a family and the families served by a community center?

Have I mentioned that this is not one project, but two? Oh yeah, Ty and the gang are building two structures in one week – a family home and a community center. That means double the volunteers (3,300), double the meals (10,000), double the water (30 pallets of bottled water), double the coffee (I can’t even begin to guess, but you may want to triple it since I will be on site), all donated by the caring people, organizations and companies in our community.

And, oh yeah, we weren’t allowed to talk about the project until about a week ago. That’s a lot free stuff, um in-kind donations, to get in just two weeks. Besides an exciting opportunity, we see this as a drill. There are some moments when this feels like an emergency response and it is clear that we, as an organization, are bulking up our capacity to respond when the emergency does not consist of a rather hyper TV personality with a bullhorn.

Extreme Makeover:Home Edition is coming!!!/shana

2009-08-14T11:21:00.001-07:00

One family, one home, one community center - one week? That's right, ABC's Extreme Makoever: Home Edition is coming to the DC Metro region and United Way of the National Capital Area has stepped up to rally more than 3,300 volunteers and the in-kind support to get the job done. This will take 25,000 soft drinks, hundreds of bottle of sunscreen and bugspray..and food did I mention that 10,000 meals will need to be served. It will take an entire community to get the job done!

Have you ever been part of something this big? Haven't you wanted to be? Can you donate your time? Step up, stand up and join your neighbors. Personally, I can't wait to be working side by side with hundreds of dedicated builders and volunteers to do something incredible. Are you going to be there? Sign up to volunteer or donate anything you can to the builds at www.builduwnca.org or call UWNCA at 202.488.2000.

Don't let this opportunity to Live United - pass you by. One family and one community are counting on us!

Reflections on the Live United Challenges/Shana

2009-07-27T10:56:00.000-07:00

It is great to see volunteers dedicating their time to Living United. Arianne, recently shared her Live United Challenge experience with us and she really went the extra mile. She made tough choices from the onset and kept to her budget. Arianne learned how it feels to go hungry, how challenging it is to make difficult choices because you must stay within your means, how much hunger can affect your ability to concentrate. Arianne, we admire your resolve to understand what so many of our neighbors experience every day - and certainly not by choice.

Who is next - what challenge will you try? Will you take the food stamp challenge too? Will you reduce your utility usage? Temperatures are soaring and the humidity makes it worse. What would your days and nights be like without air conditioning, cold/hot water. Try the utilities challenge and tell us about it.

Get started at http://www.unitedwaynca.org/getinvolved/advocate.html

Day 5,6 and 7-Live United Challenge/Arianne

2009-07-20T05:09:00.000-07:00

I'm finished with my challenge!
Friday was basically the same as Monday through Thursday although I had just come to the frustrating conclusion that even though I continued to be hungry, there just wasn't any food to eat.

I was afraid of the weekend because I knew that I wouldn't be concentrating on work and would have more time to think about how hungry I was.
I tried to keep myself busy but didn't do as well of staying on track as I did during the week.

I went to the grocery store yesterday to buy my groceries for the coming week and I found that I was much more concious of what I was buying and what would last me the week and perhaps flow into the week after that. I wasn't standing in the grocery store with a pen, paper and calculator like I was the week before, my bill came to $43.18, $22 over the amount I spent last week.

In the end, i'm extremely glad I did this challenge even though it was much more difficult than I had anticipated. I learned a lot about myself and about the challenges that many in our area face every single day.

I'm asking you to try a LIVE UNITED challenge, it may change your life-it's changed mine.

Don't hesistate to ask me or a staff member about how you too can LIVE UNITED!

Day 4-Arianne/Living United Challenge

2009-07-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

Not too much has changed on day 4. All I can say is that it's extremely difficult to be surrounded by people eating the foods you want so badly to eat, I haven't slipped yet today though!

Day 3 evening Arianne/Live United Challenge

2009-07-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

It's now 730pm and my hunger has gotten the best of me. I ate my specific meals all day, but when i got home from work I ate a small salad with my spaghetti and meat sauce. I'm going to try not to slip up again but it is truly hard when I have food in my fridge that I can eat. It's hard to imagine what it would be like if that food wasn't there...

Day 3-Arianne/Live United Challenge

2009-07-15T06:06:00.000-07:00

It's Day 3 of my Live United challenge and it hasn't gotten any easier. I find myself thinking about food more than I normally do and I notice a change in my mood. I'm more irritable, i'm tired and i'm having trouble concentrating on my work.

It's hard to have to focus so much on what i'm eating and when i'll be eating next, it's a constant countdown to the next meal. It's a necessity to count out my portions so I ensure I have enough food to last me all the way through Sunday.

Day 2

2009-07-14T04:59:00.001-07:00

It's only Day 2 and I have already been tempted to cheat on this challenge. My mom and her friend were going to my favorite restaurant last night and it took all of my will power to not go with them!

For breakfast I had two eggs and a piece of toast, again I must reiterate that I am not allowed to use butter because it didn't fit into my budget. I love butter!
It's almost lunch time and I will be having an apple, a peanut butter sandwich and some pretzels which actually sound delicious right now!

Day One

2009-07-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

I'm well into Day 1 and am quite hungry! I'm going to be making spaghetti with tomato sauce for dinner, no extra frills like cheese or butter (I have those things in my fridge but it doesn't fit into this weeks budget!)

I went into Whole Foods today to see what I could purchase for $21. The food is much more expensive there but the quality of the food is high and it is organic and natural. Living off of $21 a week doesn't allow you to get fresh fruits and vegetables.

After Whole Foods I went to Giant and found that the prices were a bit more in my range.
The amount of time and thought it took me in the grocery store was suprising. Normally, I pick up random things and throw them in the cart and don't think too much about the cost. This exercise has forced me to think about each item I put in the cart.
Usually I would buy whole wheat pasta but with a price difference of almost $2.00 that was something i would have to do with out.

Here is my list of food and the total amount I paid:

4 apples
Generic Creamy Peanut Butter
Generic Spaghetti
Generic Spaghetti Sauce
Whole Wheat loaf of bread
1lb of pretzels
dozen eggs
ramen noodles (6pack)

The total is $18.57 including tax

I had to look at the typical brand I might buy versus the brand that would fit my budget as well as what would fill me up for the whole day.
As you can see by what I chose, meat and fish were out and nothing extra was allowed.
It was extremely difficult and eye opening and i'm looking forward to seeing how i feel tomorrow on Day 2.

How do you Live United?

2009-07-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

As part of the United Way of the National Capital Area’s ongoing mission to help those in need, we have looked into the growing problems within our region and put together a set of opportunities to Live United.

Below is a listing of all of the challenges our team has put together:

Utilities Challenge- Imagine it is 90 degrees and all you have to keep you cool is a small fan and a glass of ice water. Imagine what it would be like to not have air conditioning, a television or your computer. The average monthly electric bill for DC customers rose from $58.16 in 2004 to $103.67 in 2009. Would you use your air conditioning a bit more wisely if you couldn’t use it at all for a month?

Transportation Challenge- Imagine your life without a car, go without it for a week. How would you get to work? How much time is added to your daily commute? Is mass transit a less expensive option?

Food Stamp Challenge- Did you know that in the DC Metro area, there are approximately 633,000 residents at risk of, or experiencing hunger? Imagine feeding your family of four on just $84 a week, or $21 per person.

My name is Arianne Llerena and I am a UWNCA employee and have been for the past 10 months. A group of 6, including myself, came up with these challenges in a meeting one day to give those who give back to the community an idea of how those who are less fortunate live.
September 15, 2009 is our UWNCA Campaign Kick Off event, the idea is that once you complete a challenge you receive a Live United experience sticker, upon receiving this you will be able to talk about your experience at our event.

I have chosen to do the food stamp challenge. As a single 24 year old I go to the grocery store once a week and pick up whatever happens to satisfy my cravings at that moment. I can admit that I do very little price comparison and don’t think too much about spending $30-40 dollars once, sometimes twice a week at the store.
I plan on blogging about my experiences, starting with my trip to the grocery store today with only $21 to spend. Wish me luck!

**Tell others how you Live United in the Nation’s Capital. What are you doing in your community? Have you taken the Live United Challenge? Email your experience to sselender@uwnca.org to be posted on our blog.