Dphw Fall 2008 Newsletter

Dinner Program for Homeless Women

What’s Cooking Fall 2008

Fannie Mae Help the Homeless Walkathon

Let’s Get More Feet on the Street

DPHW Board of Directors Diana Bruce, MPA President Rev. David Bowers Vice President David Bowman, PhD Secretary R. Matthew Kelley, Esq. Treasurer Erika Barry, MPA Ex Officio Marisa Gaither, MCP George Madill Lariena D. Matthews Anne K. Nelsen, PhD Tiffany Parker, MPA Ann Shafran Yvonne Rice Amy Weaver, MBA

In this issue:

Saturday, November 22, 2008 National Mall—9:00am Breakfast at DPHW—7:45am The Help the Homeless Walkathon is less than one month away, and DPHW needs your help to get more feet on the street! Our goal this year is 1,500 walkers, but we really need your help. If we meet our goal, Fannie Mae will award DPHW a $25,000 walker bonus.

HTH Walkathon

1

Letter from the Executive Director

2

United Way

2

Mini Walks

3

Pretty Day

3

Client Spotlight

4

Staff Departures

4

New Faces

5

Volunteer Corner

6

Happy Hour Thanks

7

Recent Donors

7

Wish List

8

Planned Giving

8

United Way #8280 CFC #56398 CVC #8275

Please join DPHW in the Help the Homeless Walkathon at 9:00am on Saturday, November 22 on the National Mall and take steps to end homelessness. Registration is only $25 for adults (ages 26 and up) and $15 for youth (ages 25 and under). The walk follows a 3-mile route around the Mall and Tidal Basin that moves at a slow pace comfortable for many ages and abilities. All DPHW walkers are also invited to our traditional pre-walk breakfast that takes place at DPHW immediately before the walk.

Register to Walk Now in 1...2...3! Step 1: Go to www.dphw.org and click on the “Register to Walk” link. Step 2: Click the "Join Team" link located right above the list of team members already registered to walk. Step 3: Input your individual information into the easy-to-use registration form.

Welcome to DPHW's 2008 Walker Team!! If you have any questions about the registration process, please email Elizabeth Evancho at [email protected] or call her directly at 202.737.9311 ext.526. Can’t walk on November 22, but still want to make a difference and support DPHW? Make an online donation at www.dphw.org.

Letter from the Executive Director

Live United With DPHW

Dear Friends, In these unprecedented economic times, the future can seem bleak and uncertain. Some of you may have wondered in the last few weeks how the latest economic downturn is affecting DPHW and the men and women we serve. As detailed in our last newsletter, DPHW has been serving an average of 1,000 more meals per month since May. Folks who have been struggling to survive on the margins face increasing hardships in finding jobs or housing and in meeting their most basic needs. As a result, DPHW’s case managers report seeing rising levels of stress, hopelessness, and depression in the people we serve. Yet despite these challenges, DPHW continues to provide a warm, supportive community in which individuals can get a meal or a shower, access community services, and find help in transforming their current situations. Because of the investments of time and resources that individuals like you have made through the years, DPHW is a well-run, financially stable organization. DPHW’s Board of Directors and staff are committed to being good stewards of the community’s gifts and resources, and we work hard to make sure we provide the highest quality services in the most cost-effective way possible. It is feasible that a continued increased demand for services might, at some point in the near future, outstrip even DPHW’s new, expanded social service capacity. However, we are committed to managing our resources in such a way that we can continue to meet the profound needs of our most vulnerable neighbors—not just today, but tomorrow as well. Now more than ever, we are working actively to pursue the funding we need to serve this community, drawing support from family foundations, local businesses, community groups, religious organizations, and individuals like you who know the importance of giving to DPHW. Let me extend my deepest thanks to those of you who are working hard to support DPHW, whether through your regular contributions, your participation in the upcoming Walkathon, or your tireless volunteer efforts. Even when there seem to be more ominous storm clouds on the horizon, I know that— together—we can provide hope and options to those who may have little of either. Warmly,

Erika Barry, Executive Director 

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Did you know that DPHW is member of the United Way? Whether you are planning to sign up for the United Way Campaign, Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), or the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign, please choose to contribute to DPHW. The United Way is an easy and convenient way to donate to DPHW: you can choose to give a one-time donation or even make a monthly pledge that can be deducted automatically from each paycheck. What a great way to make a difference in your community!

Please remember DPHW in this year's United Way Campaign: United Way #8280 CFC #56398 CVC#8275

What’s In A Name? DPHW thinks there’s a lot! That’s why we are changing our name to better fit the clients we serve and the programs we offer. Same great organization, great new look! Keep an eye out in your mail and inbox to get a sneak peak at DPHW’s new name!

What’s Cooking

DPHW Clients Walk the Walk

DPHW was filled with Halloween spirit on Thursday, October 30, as we held our Second Annual Client Mini-Walk and Halloween Party. For many of the individuals whom DPHW serves, this walk provides the unique opportunity to give something back to the community and DPHW. Many of the people who participate in this walk have lost everything—their jobs, their homes, their health, and even their friends and family. This event stands as a symbol of hope for a better future and the determination to rise above the many barriers that lie ahead in overcoming their homelessness. DPHW registered over 200 client walkers who were each sponsored by DPHW’s Board of Directors and several other generous individuals. After walking nearly one mile, clients were invited to celebrate at our Halloween party! The party included dancing, Halloween crafts and puzzles, great food, a costume contest and several games, including “Pin the Nose on the Pumpkin” and “Guess How Many Lollipops are in the Jar.” Clients, volunteers, and staff all had a great time. Special thanks to Target, which charitably donated two shopping carts full of costumes for our costume contest. Please remember to support the Columbia Heights Target the next time you are out shopping.

Fall 2008

A Pretty Day at DPHW Promoting the importance of health for the whole person, World Mission members conducted their signature Pretty Day event this October during DPHW’s evening program for women and children. Joanne Perkins, Rev. Rebecca West, and Shannon Hodges, master cosmetologist, gave an informational presentation about breast cancer, educating DPHW clients about the importance of self exams and early detection as well as how and where to receive mammograms. To raise spirits, World Mission members led DPHW clients in song and reflection. Finally, World Mission gave women goodie bags filled with cosmetics and styled several women’s hair, reminding participants that feeling good on the outside can help to improve their self esteem. Thank you to World Mission for recognizing that cultivating good physical health and positive self image are essential steps in ending homelessness.   

Schools Walk for Homeless DPHW would like to thank the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School, Janey Elementary School, and the Bethesda Jewish Congregation for sponsoring Help the Homeless Mini Walks this fall. The money raised from these events will go directly to DPHW for client resources and social services programs. The Mini Walks are preludes to the larger Fannie Mae Help the Homeless Walkathon, which is scheduled for Saturday, November 22. To register to walk or to learn more, visit www.dphw.org. Thanks to these schools for raising awareness about homelessness while benefitting DPHW. Page 3

Client Spotlight—Real Opportunity Graduates DPHW congratulates these recent graduates of our Real Opportunity employment training program.

Kelly Brevard was a PM Program Aid Trainee, providing social services to women and children in DPHW’s evening program. Kelly brought with her a broad knowledge of DPHW’s clientele, having been a long-term and reliable participant in the dinner program and having experience as a program aide for Downtown Services center. Kelly graduated after participating in the Real Opportunity Program for a year. She is now living in independent housing and has dedicated herself to helping others by working full-time as a case manager through AmeriCorps. Kelly plans to attend college to study psychology once she completes her AmeriCorps service.

A Fond Farewell Sadly, DPHW recently said goodbye to longtime Volunteer and Community Resources Manager, Heather Prince Doss, and Security Guard, Bryson Brown. Both of these individuals greatly impacted the lives of the men and women DPHW serves each day, and we thank them for having given their expertise and passion to DPHW. Heather and Bryson, you will truly be missed by many people. Thank you!

Penny Callan was DPHW’s first Administrative Aid Trainee. Penny was able to continue her internship despite a serious illness, for which she was connected to support groups and medical care and received help managing her medical needs. Penny also took control of her debt by researching debt consolidation, setting up a financial plan, and paying debts. DPHW is proud to report that Penny recently graduated from the program, successfully managing her health, completing her education, and managing her debt. She continues to work with our newly hired Employment Specialist for follow-up and assistance with job placement.

William Muldrew came to the Real Opportunity program in order to obtain housing, full time employment, and assistance in completing his college degree. During his four short months as a Culinary Trainee in the program, Bill completed both his goals of finding housing and finding employment. He found a job as a caterer and as a Serve Safe proctor. Bill became such a vital part of the DPHW kitchen team that he obtained permanent employment as an assistant chef. We look forward to many more delicious and nutritious meals that Bill prepares.

Welcome to Fall Interns DPHW is pleased to announce the addition of two new fall interns to our team of dedicated staff and volunteers. Dorothy Mejia, Communications and Development Intern, is working to development new partnerships and promote DPHW’s mission through fundraising initiatives. Dorothy is from Staten Island, NY and is a senior studying Political Science at American University. After graduation, she hopes to work in the non-profit sector and one day found her own non-profit organization. Sara Rigdon, Community Relations intern, works closely with our expanding volunteer network, helping with volunteer coordination and event organization. Sara hails from Havre de Grace, MD and is a junior at American University. Last spring, she interned with Greater DC Cares, a local non-profit that promotes community service and volunteerism.   

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What’s Cooking

New Faces at the Dinner Program Greg Byrd, Security Officer Greg comes to DPHW with two years of experience as a security professional and as a sales representative for T-Mobile. At Gambling State University and Texas Southern University, Mr. Byrd studied biology and was a member of both universities’ football teams. Although he was born in Atlanta, Mr. Byrd grew up in DC. When he’s not keeping the peace at DPHW, he enjoys working out, biking, and fishing.

Abra Lyons-Warren, Employment Specialist Case Manager Abra has been passionate about hunger and homeless issues since high school and has worked on them in St. Louis, Boston, and throughout DC. She received a BA in Sociology and Women and Gender Studies from Brandeis University with a minor in journalism. As the Employment Specialist Case Manager, Abra is excited to assist DPHW clients with a variety of employment-related issues including resumes, cover letters, interview preparation, computer skills, job searching, and employment workshops. Most days, you can find Abra munching on something sweet.

William Muldrew, Assistant Cook Upon graduating from DPHW’s Real Opportunity program, Bill joined DPHW as an Assistant Cook. He has worked in the hospitality industry for many years, including at the Emmanual Dining Room in Wilmington, DE where he served the area’s low-income and homeless residents. Bill comes from a large family where he learned that everyone has something to share with each other, a philosophy that he brings to his work at DPHW.

Natasha Neal, AmeriCorps Intern, P.M. Program Assistant  Natasha is an enthusiastic addition to DPHW’s social services team where she refers clients to on-site and off-site services, distributes emergency items, and lends an ear to anyone who needs to talk. She greatly enjoys working with DPHW’s female clientele. She is a Certified Nursing Assistant and has also studied computer information services. When she completes her AmeriCorps term, she plans to enroll in veterinary studies at Howard University. Outside of work, Natasha loves spending time with her children.

Fall 2008

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Volunteers who help to prepare, cook, and serve food are vital to the success of DPHW’s programs, but did you know that there are many other ways to volunteer with DPHW?

Volunteer Corner

DPHW currently seeks committed volunteers to help with various aspects of our programs. These positions are great for students, retired adults, or anyone with an hour or two to spare. Take a moment to browse the listings below and see how you might be able to share your skills with DPHW and our clients. URGENTLY NEEDED – Computer Lab Attendants: Computer Lab attendants provide a valuable service to our clients, assisting with résumé writing, job searches, e-mail, and general supervision. By volunteering just one hour per week, you allow over 1,000 people to access computers each year. We are currently looking for volunteers who are available from 12:00pm – 1:00pm Mondays and/or Wednesdays every week, and 4:00pm – 6:00pm twice a month. We are also seeking someone who can fill in for other shifts on an as-needed basis. Please help DPHW fill these positions so that more people can connect to family, housing, and employment resources. Gleaners: Every Thursday evening, DPHW receives fresh produce donated from FreshFarm Markets. Currently, we have a dedicated volunteer who gathers the leftover produce each week, but we need someone to assist him with transporting, loading, and unloading the produce. No vehicle necessary! By committing to produce pick-up, you will be ensuring that DPHW clients receive healthy, nutritious meals. If either of these opportunities sound like something you or someone you know might be interested in, please let us know! DPHW needs your time and skills to continue its programs and services. For more information, email Sara Rigdon at [email protected]. Do you have a van, truck, or SUV? Do you have a Zipcar account? Do you have access to a large vehicle? We are looking for volunteers to help transport furniture for clients who have just moved into new homes. These volunteers should have their own vehicles and should be available on an as-needed basis, most likely less than once a month. This is an exciting opportunity to help when you can in a flexible way and see the transformation of our clients from homelessness into housing. For more information, please contact Abra Lyons-Warren at 202-737-9311, ext 516.

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Kids in Action On September 25, the second graders of Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School participated in the school’s annual Community Action Day. The serviceminded students spent the day learning about homelessness and doing their part to help out. They created crucial items, including homemade scarves and tote bags filled with toiletries and trail mix, and donated them to DPHW’s clients. They also made enchiladas and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches which made delicious meals at DPHW. Thanks for your support, Charles E. Smith JDS!

Clean Plate Volunteers DPHW could not provide all its services without the unwavering support of ALL our volunteers, but some of our volunteers really go above and beyond the call of duty, spending hours of their weeks serving in a variety of capacities here at the Dinner Program. Our “Clean Plate Volunteers” from September through November are:

Fredda Sparks Anna Johnson Marley Moynahan Nicole Scro Rochelle Osei-Tutu

Thank you for all you do! What’s Cooking

DPHW Loses the Blues On Thursday, October 16, DPHW teamed up with Madam’s Organ Blues Bar in Adams Morgan to host a happy hour fundraiser. Madam’s Organ donated $1 from every drink sold and 20% from all food orders to DPHW’s Help the Homeless Walkathon team. In addition, DPHW held a raffle with the grand prize totaling over $400 in gift certificates and sold DPHW merchandise at the event, with all the proceeds going directly to DPHW. The happy hour was tons of fun and a huge success -- we sold approximately 200 raffle tickets and registered several walkers for our Help the Homeless Walkathon team. Thank you to everyone who came out to the happy hour, those who participated in our raffle and to Madam’s Organ which made the whole event possible!

Many Thanks to Local Businesses  Special thanks also go to all of the local businesses that donated gift certificates and services to be used in our raffle at Madam’s Organ Blues Bar. In all, their donations totaled over $400! Their support helped make our happy hour fundraiser a huge success. Please show your support to the following businesses for their generous donations by frequenting their establishments. District Chophouse and Brewery Lucky Strikes Lanes

Hollywood Tans La Tasca 9:30 Club

Jaleo-Downtown location Madam’s Organ Blues Bar

Recent Donors — Gifts That Keep On Giving Individual Donors  Mr. Gilbert and Mr. James            Anderson   Mr. Dantes Augustin  Ms. Lucy Barber  Ms. Maryam Benganga  Mrs. Joedy and Mr. Richard      Mr. Jeffrey Coster and Ms. Nancy  Mr. Stephen and Mrs. Faith  Mr. Christopher Dixon  Mrs. Deborah and Mr. Michael  Mrs. Ruth and Mr. Stuart Duncan  Mrs. Louise and Mr. William Fall  Mr. Edward Grossman 

Foundations & Organizations  Mr. Howard Schnitzer  Ms. Caroline M. Hufford‐ Anderson  Mr. John Wagner  Ms. Rosemary Killen and            Mr. Thomas Morgan 

Rapoport Family Foundation  William S. Abell Foundation, Inc.   Jack D. and Fredda S. Sparks Foundation   Jovid Foundation 

Mr. Reaz K. Mehdi 

Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament 

Ms. Janie Norman‐Edu 

St. Raphael Catholic Church 

Mr. Christopher O'Brien 

GIVES INC  Association of Bolivian Women of the             Metropolitan Area 

Mrs. Janyce and Mr. Peter Olsen  Ms. Phyllis Stinson and                Mr. Edward Roche 

Whole Foods Market Tenleytown 

Mr. John and Mrs. Lilya Wagner 

Little River United Church of Christ 

Mr. Frederick Walton 

Metropolitan Community Church   The German Marshal Fund of the                   United States 

Mr. Elton and Mrs. Sibyl Wright 

Thank you to our third quarter donors! Fall 2008

Dimick Foundation 

Westmoreland Congregational Church  

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Wish List This winter giving season, consider having your office, church, or community group hold a drive for some of the daily items that our clients need. All donations are tax deductible. Below is a list of our most needed items this season: ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊ ◊

Men and women's underwear (new) and bras (gently used) – especially in large sizes New socks Scarves, hats, and gloves Winter coats Feminine hygiene products Toiletries (especially hotel-sized): soap; shampoo; deodorant; toothbrushes and toothpaste; razors; lotion Rain ponchos and umbrellas Towels and washcloths Backpacks, duffel bags, handcarts Art supplies Greeting cards and postage stamps Bus tokens and Metro passes Blankets

Planned Giving: Plan Now, Give Later Has being involved with DPHW made a difference in your life or in the life of someone you know? Would you like to leave a legacy of compassion and community involvement by giving homeless men and women a second chance at life? One of the most compelling ways to give to DPHW is in the form of a bequest. This can include more than just monetary gifts; it may also include gifts of real estate and even stocks. Please remember DPHW when you are creating your will. Want more information on planned giving and leaving a bequest to DPHW? Have you already remembered DPHW in your will? Please contact us at [email protected] or 202.737.9311.

Dinner Program for Homeless Women (DPHW) 309 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 www.dphw.org Building Community One Meal at a Time...

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