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

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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

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In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Michelle Connors, the passionate Founder and Executive Director of Rustic Love, a grassroots nonprofit making a powerful impact in Northern Virginia. Michelle shares the heartwarming story of how a simple idea—selling charming, handmade heart signs—blossomed into a vibrant community movement helping fight food insecurity.

With over 100,000 people in the Vienna community facing food insecurity, Rustic Love has become a symbol of hope and support, especially for children in local public schools. Michelle opens up about the organization’s humble beginnings, the creative spark behind the iconic heart signs, and the heartfelt stories of lives changed through their mission.

Discover how you can get involved, donate, or proudly display a Rustic Love heart of your own—and become part of a growing community that’s leading with compassion and action.

Tune in and be inspired to spread love, one heart at a time.

Learn More and Support Rustic Love here: https://rusticlove.org/

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In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Monica Springman, Director of Programs, and Tom Powell, Executive Director of Caroline Furnace Lutheran Camp and Retreat Center. Discover what sets this unique summer camp apart—from its deep roots in Lutheran faith to the lasting impact it has on young hearts and minds. We explore how Caroline Furnace blends spiritual growth with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, and how that mission is reflected in everything from their daily programming to long-term initiatives. Tune in to hear how faith and creation care go hand in hand—and how you can get involved through summer camp sessions, volunteer opportunities, and even exploring their beautiful nature trails.

Learn More about Caroline Furnace on their website: https://www.carolinefurnace.org/

#FaithAndNature #LutheranCampLife #EcoMinistry #CarolineFurnace #YouthFaithFormation

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This week on Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Lu Cousins, the dynamic Director of the Vienna Arts Society. Prepare to be inspired as Lu shares the incredible impact of art in our local community, extending far beyond the gallery walls. She'll delve into the Vienna Arts Society's innovative approach to partnering with businesses and facilities across the region, transforming unexpected spaces into vibrant showcases for local artists. Lu also shares moving stories that vividly illustrate how art has profoundly impacted the lives of diverse community members, fostering connection, healing, and joy. Tune in to discover how the Vienna Arts Society is truly painting a brighter future for our community, one brushstroke at a time.

Learn More about the Vianna Arts Society here: https://viennaartssociety.org/

#ViennaArtsSociety #CommunityArt #LocalArtists #ArtImpact #NonprofitSpotlight

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In this episode of NonProfit Spotlight, we sit down with Noel Durman, Executive Director of the Falls Church Community Service Council (FCS). Noel shares the vital work FCS is doing to support individuals and families in crisis—from emergency food and rent assistance to transportation and utility support.

We discuss the growing challenges nonprofit organizations face amid rising needs and the widening gap between the cost of living and stagnant wages. Noel gives us a candid look at what it takes to keep services running and how FCS is adapting to serve more people with limited resources in Northern Virginia.

Most importantly, we explore how you can get involved—whether by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word—to help ensure more of our neighbors have access to the essentials they need to thrive.

Listen in to learn how small actions can lead to big impact in your community.

Learn more or get involved at: https://fcswecare.org/

#NonProfitSpotlight #CommunitySupport #FallsChurch #Volunteer #CostOfLivingCrisis #foodinsecurity

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In this powerful episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Maryn Olson, the Director of Lutheran Disaster Response. Join us as Maryn provides an insightful look into the critical work of LDR, addressing the devastating impacts of disasters in the United States and across the globe.

Maryn shares the immense challenges her organization faces in navigating today's complex political and economic landscape to deliver essential aid and support to vulnerable communities. From logistical hurdles to the emotional toll on both aid workers and those they serve, she offers a candid perspective on the realities of humanitarian work.

A key part of LDR's mission is their unwavering commitment beyond the immediate crisis. When the dust settles and the headlines change, LDR stays to provide ongoing assistance to those in need. Discover how LDR remains long after the initial news cycle fades, offering crucial long-term support for recovery and rebuilding.

Maryn also illuminates the incredible resilience of the human spirit, sharing moving and hopeful stories of individuals and communities rebuilding their lives in the face of unimaginable adversity. Discover how Lutheran Disaster Response brings tangible hope and long-term recovery to those most in need.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the vital role you can play in offering aid to those communities recovering from unforeseen disaster.

Learn More and Donate at www.elca.org

#Disasterresponse #DisasterRelief #LutheranDisasterResponse #GlobalImpact #HopeAmidstCrisis

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Join us as we sit down with Lynette Sappe-Watkins, Executive Director of the Culmore Clinic. This remarkable non-profit healthcare clinic has been a beacon of hope for low-income adults in the Bailey's Crossroads community.

Discover how Culmore Clinic, powered by a dedicated team of volunteers and healthcare providers, offers compassionate medical care, counseling services, and essential referrals. Learn about their unwavering commitment to serving a diverse immigrant population and ensuring effective treatment through top-notch medical services.

In this episode, we'll delve into the inspiring story of the clinic's founding and its continued impact on the community. We'll explore the challenges and triumphs faced by the organization, and how you can support their mission of providing accessible healthcare to all.

Tune in to this heartwarming conversation and be inspired by the power of community and compassion.

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