Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Charles Meng from Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC), a dedicated nonprofit committed to fighting hunger in Arlington County. Despite being one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, Arlington faces a stark reality: nearly 24,000 residents—almost 10% of the population—are registered for food assistance. Charles shares insights into AFAC’s impactful work providing healthy, nutritious food to those in need and discusses their signature community fundraising event, Empty Bowls, which raises awareness and critical funds to combat food insecurity. Tune in to learn how AFAC is making a difference in their community and how you can get involved in their mission to ensure no one in Arlington goes hungry.

🔗 Learn more and get involved: https://afac.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode, we sit down with Neal Lawson from the Jennifer Bush-Lawson Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving prenatal care and support for underprivileged mothers in our community. Inspired by Jennifer Bush-Lawson’s own challenging pregnancies and her fortunate access to high-quality medical care, the foundation is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent others from receiving the same vital support. Neal shares how the foundation works tirelessly to ensure that every expectant mother can access comprehensive care, emphasizing the importance of establishing relationships with care providers early in pregnancy—ideally within the first trimester. Join us as we explore how the foundation is making a difference by addressing disparities, fostering understanding that each pregnancy journey is unique, and championing equitable prenatal care for all.

Learn more and get involved: https://jb-lf.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Join us on the Nonprofit Spotlight as we sit down with Bobbie Sue Tunstall, a dedicated donor and volunteer at the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation. In this inspiring episode, Bobbie Sue sheds light on the vital work of the CKG Foundation in promoting youth mental health awareness and support.

We delve into how the foundation empowers young people to speak openly about mental health challenges and fosters a community of understanding. A key highlight of our conversation is the annual Speak Up 5K, an event that beautifully symbolizes the wellness journey. Bobbie Sue explains how the course, with its challenging hills and triumphant finishes, mirrors the ups and downs of mental health, while the vibrant community of participants and supporters embodies the crucial role of encouragement and connection.

Discover how the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of young people and how events like the Speak Up 5K provide a powerful platform for hope and healing.

Learn more about their mission and how you can get involved by visiting their website: https://www.ckgfoundation.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Andrew Steele, Chief Development Officer at Global Refuge, an organization dedicated to ensuring that refugees and immigrants are protected, embraced, and empowered within welcoming communities.

Andrew reflects on the monumental challenges of resettling refugees during moments of global crisis—including the historic 2021 evacuation of 80,000 Afghans, when Global Refuge resettled 14,000 people in just three months, a number typically seen across an entire year.

We explore the concept of a "long welcome"—supporting refugees not just upon arrival, but over the months and years it takes to truly rebuild a life—especially critical in a time when the U.S. refugee admissions program faces indefinite suspension. We also challenge common myths: refugees and immigrants are not only legal residents, but in an era of declining birth rates, may be key to revitalizing local economies and sustaining our future.

Finally, Andrew gives a candid look at what’s ahead for Global Refuge as they navigate difficult transitions—closing programs, letting go of staff—but also finding new, innovative ways to continue serving and welcoming new neighbors.

This is a powerful conversation about compassion, resilience, and reimagining what it truly means to welcome the stranger.

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Kristyn Peck, CEO of Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), for a candid conversation about the shifting landscape of refugee resettlement in 2025. Following a change in federal administration and a sudden stop work order issued in January, LSSNCA was forced to pause critical services and reevaluate how to continue its mission under extraordinary pressure.

Kristyn shares how LSSNCA has responded—through creativity, partnership, and a commitment to the core value of welcome. She explains how the organization is diversifying its services to meet the evolving needs of immigrant and refugee families, especially those in dire circumstances. From legal aid to emergency support, LSSNCA is adapting in real time to ensure no one is left behind.

Kristyn also raises a serious concern: recent changes in immigration policy have left many people vulnerable to deportation or long-term detention. Instead of being welcomed, some are now facing life-altering consequences. It's a call to action for communities to come together, fill the gaps, and walk alongside individuals and families during these challenging times.

She offers practical ways community members can get involved—reviewing resumes, driving clients to medical appointments, mentoring youth, and even fostering unaccompanied immigrant children fleeing war and trafficking among other opportunities.

This episode is a moving testament to the power of compassion, the importance of advocacy, and the ongoing need to show up for our newest neighbors.

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Dr. Amber Burton, veterinarian, CEO, and founder of Wolf Trap Animal Rescue (WTAR). What began in her home with 30 puppies has grown into a life-saving operation that has rescued and rehomed over 12,000 animals in just ten years. WTAR specializes in transporting at-risk puppies and kittens—primarily from Mississippi—out of overcrowded, under-resourced shelters where they face euthanasia due to illness, overpopulation, and lack of adoptive homes.

Dr. Burton shares the heartbreaking realities of animal overpopulation in rural areas and how WTAR’s veterinarian-led model sets them apart, focusing first and foremost on the health and well-being of each animal. We dive into the power of short-term fostering (just a three-week commitment!) and how community members can become part of this rescue mission. Whether you're a pet lover, animal advocate, or someone looking for meaningful ways to give back, this conversation will move and motivate you.

Tune in to hear Dr. Burton’s journey, the incredible work WTAR is doing, and how you can help save lives—one pet at a time.

Learn more at: https://www.wtarescue.com/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Maralee Gutierrez, Founder and Executive Director of Comunidad, a grassroots organization grounded in the values of human dignity and thriving community. Maralee shares how these core beliefs shape every aspect of their work—from food distribution and education programs to computer literacy, mentoring, elementary reading support, and family dinners.

We dive into what success looks like beyond the numbers, hear powerful stories of hope and joy, and explore the challenges that come with building a more compassionate world. Maralee also reflects on the importance of being a voice of kindness and how each of us can live out values rooted in love—the biggest way to help.

Tune in to be inspired, and learn how you can volunteer with students and families by visiting Comunidad’s website.

https://www.comunidadva.org/

#NonprofitLeadership #HumanDignity #BeTheChange #VolunteerVoices #CommunityEmpowerment #Comunidad

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Kamilah McAfee, President and CEO of Wesley Housing, one of the nation’s top 50 affordable housing developers. With a powerful mission to provide safe, quality, and affordable housing across Virginia and Washington, D.C., Wesley Housing is celebrating 50 years of impact.

Kamilah shares the inspiring history behind the organization’s growth and success, the variety of dedicated housing solutions they offer, and the holistic programs that go beyond housing—from food assistance and seasonal support to after-school care and educational resources for local youth. In 2024 alone, Wesley Housing served over 1,500 families and built more than 850 affordable units, changing lives and strengthening communities.

Kamilah also opens up about the economic and political headwinds the organization faces in today’s housing landscape—and how listeners like you can get involved through volunteering or donations to help sustain their vital work.

Tune in to hear how Wesley Housing is more than a place to live—it's a place to grow, thrive, and belong.

Learn More about Wesley Housing here: https://wesleyhousing.org/

#Affordablehousing #Nonprofitspotlight #WesleyShousing #CommunityDevelopment #SocialImpact

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.