Breaking the Poverty Cycle: Winchester CCAP’s THRIVE Project

CCAP THRIVE poverty pod
From Band-Aids to Breakthroughs

For more than 50 years, Winchester CCAP has been a lifeline for struggling families in the Shenandoah Valley. Founded in 1974, the organization built its mission around a simple but powerful idea: it is far cheaper to prevent homelessness than to try to fix it. Through a food pantry, clothing ministry, and targeted financial aid, CCAP has helped thousands of families survive that brutal fourth week of the month when the bills don’t stop but the money does.

But Andrea Cosans, Winchester CCAP’s passionate Executive Director, wants more. “CCAP is what I would call a band-aid or a crisis program,” she tells host Janet Michael during a recent episode of The Valley Today. “There is certainly a need for that, but why not take it that extra level and get people out of the cycle of crisis?” That question sparked something remarkable. Click here to listen.

A Small Experiment With Big Results

About three years ago, Cosans teamed up with a therapist and a life coach from Legacy Wellness after they attended a conference and secured a modest $1,000 grant. Together, they launched a pilot self-sufficiency program with just five clients, pairing them with mental health support and life coaching to address the trauma, decision-making patterns, and structural barriers that keep people trapped in poverty.

The results were stunning. Three of the five participants thrived completely. One landed a job at Valley Health and never looked back. Another — a man who had previously spent his days cycling in and out of Winchester CCAP — got his mental health needs addressed, found steady work, and hasn’t needed CCAP’s services in two years. A third, a woman who described herself as “stuck,” found her footing and now works at Great Meadows, where she proudly won the Park Ranger Wheelbarrow Olympics. “You know, I was in a place that got stuck, and I couldn’t see my way out of getting stuck, and this program helped me get unstuck,” she told Cosans.

Encouraged by those outcomes, Cosans ran the program again with 10 clients. This time, all 10 succeeded — including a single father with no job and no idea how to pursue his dream of going back to college. Today, he’s enrolled and thriving.

The Thrive Project: Thinking Bigger

Armed with two years of remarkable data and an unshakeable belief in the program’s potential, Cosans did what great community leaders do — she brought people together. The result is the Thrive Project, a fully collaborative, grant-funded initiative backed by $112,000 from the Valley Health Foundation and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Rather than operating as a single-agency effort, the Thrive Project unites five additional organizations — Connected Communities, I’m Just ME, United Way NSV, Horizon Goodwill, and Family Promise — each contributing something unique and essential. Clients receive case management, therapeutic services, life coaching and mentoring, financial literacy classes, and access to Goodwill’s intensive week-long job training program, “Get on Board.”

Most impressively, the program doesn’t just check in for a year and call it done. Participants are followed for two full years after enrollment to track housing stability, financial health, and overall life outcomes. “It’s very easy to be successful in a program when you’re still in the program,” Janet observes. “That second year is really the true test.”

The Whole Person Approach

What sets the Thrive Project apart is its insistence on treating clients as whole people, not collections of problems. Cosans and her partners recognize that poverty rarely has a single cause. Substance abuse, domestic violence, lack of childcare, no access to education, generational financial illiteracy — these issues don’t exist in isolation, and they can’t be solved in isolation either.

“Everybody needs support,” Cosans says plainly. “I think that’s really the difference between a person who succeeds and a person who fails.”

The program’s life coaching component, in particular, gives clients what Cosans calls “room to dream” — structured, individualized sessions designed to help people set goals, map out the steps to achieve them, and envision a future that looks different from the one they’ve always known. For many participants, that kind of forward-thinking guidance is entirely new territory. Furthermore, the financial literacy component tackles deeply ingrained habits head-on. As Cosans notes, many clients think, “Great, my bills are paid — I can buy those $150 shoes,” without considering that bills come due again next month too. Breaking that cycle requires education, not judgment.

Collaboration Is the Point

Beyond the Thrive Project itself, the conversation shines a light on something the Winchester nonprofit community has quietly been doing for years: working together. Despite persistent narratives that nonprofits duplicate services and compete for territory, Cosans pushes back firmly.

“We do collaborate,” she says. “What we don’t do is toot our own horn.”

From carefully coordinated food pantry schedules — where Highland serves Tuesdays so CCAP can restock, and Hope Again picks up at 1:00 where CCAP leaves off — to a $50,000 United Way grant that pushed 50,000 pounds of produce as far south as Edinburg and north into Frederick County, the evidence of genuine partnership is everywhere. Cosans also points to the newly formed Nonprofit Collaborative, a group that spent 15 intentional months preparing to advocate for the sector, especially in the face of federal funding cuts that threaten to eliminate services entire communities depend on.

“When the nonprofit dies, the people who get served by the nonprofit don’t go away,” Cosans warns. It’s a sobering reminder that the stakes extend far beyond any single organization.

What Comes Next

Looking ahead, Cosans plans to pursue SAMHSA federal grants to make the Thrive Project a permanent fixture in the community — and potentially a replicable model for similarly sized cities across the country. “I could see a point where we could do that,” Michael says encouragingly. “There are a lot of communities the size of ours facing the same issues.”

In the meantime, Winchester CCAP continues to fund its core services through community support, including its popular Sixth Annual Benefit Bike Ride on August 22nd at the Wellness Center, 105 Campus Boulevard, and a joint fundraiser with New Eve Maternity Home, An Evening of Enchantment, on June 18th — featuring a silent auction, live auction, and entertainment by Magician Vic. Janet will serve as emcee. For tickets, registration, and more information, visit CCAPWinchester.org.

Listen to the Full Conversation

This is the kind of story that reminds you what community is supposed to look like. To hear Andrea and Janet discuss the Thrive Project in full — including the inspiring individual success stories, the nuts and bolts of how the partnership came together, and what it really takes to help people build a better life — click here to listen to the full episode of The Valley Today. 

The Challenge of Parenting Without a Manual

UWNSV Yellow School House parenting pod

On a recent United Way segment of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael spoke with Pam Haefner, executive director of the Yellow School House, about how the nonprofit is helping parents of young children find connection, resources, and support in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Click here to listen.

Pam remembers the moment vividly. She and her husband stood in the hospital with their first son, looking at each other in disbelief. “They’re letting us just take him—with no prep other than here’s how to change a diaper,” she recalls with a laugh. This universal parenting panic sparked an idea that would eventually transform into the Yellow School House, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families with young children.

During a conversation with a friend after her second baby, Pam recognized a critical gap in community resources. Parents felt isolated and overwhelmed, navigating conflicting advice from countless parenting books. Should you co-sleep or not? Daycare or stay-at-home? Every major decision came with competing expert opinions and no clear answers.

From One-Day Event to Year-Round Support

Initially, Pam launched the Baby Buzz, a one-day parenting conference in Loudoun County that ran successfully for five years. Then COVID hit, and life took an unexpected turn. Pam and her husband moved their home, business, and the nonprofit to Winchester—a decision she now celebrates. “Quite frankly, the best place I’ve ever lived,” she says enthusiastically.

Moreover, the move sparked a realization. Families needed more than an annual event. They needed ongoing connection, education, and support throughout the year. Consequently, Pam reimagined the organization as a comprehensive resource center for parents with children five and under.

Three Pillars of Support

Weekly Mom’s Group: Finding Community

Every Wednesday from 11:00 AM to noon, mothers gather in Winchester to discuss the biggest life-altering event most people experience. The group provides a safe space where moms openly share their struggles and celebrate their victories together.

Interactive Playgroup: Learning While Playing

Meanwhile, the playgroup offers something different. Children play and interact with peers while parents connect and seek guidance from professionals. The organization brings in experts based on parents’ actual questions and concerns. Recently, when parents expressed confusion about introducing solid foods, the Yellow School House brought in a nutritionist to address their specific needs.

“We really base our presenters on what the parents are bringing to the group to ask about,” Pam explains. This responsive approach ensures families receive relevant, timely information.

Baby Buzz: The Annual Conference Returns

Despite expanding to year-round programming, the Yellow School House continues hosting the signature Baby Buzz event. This year’s conference takes place on March 28th from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM at the Douglas Community Learning Center on North Kent Street.

The free event features nine speakers, 30 vendors, and a complimentary barbecue lunch provided by Bonnie Blue. Furthermore, children can climb on firetrucks and meet local first responders, including the fire chief and police chief who discuss safety topics in kid-friendly ways.

Importantly, families can bring their children to the conference—a deliberate choice that removes barriers to attendance. “Sometimes you have those events and it’s for adults only, which then brings its own set of problems,” notes Janet. Parents don’t need to find childcare or pay for sitters, making the resource truly accessible.

Keeping It Free and Accessible

The Yellow School House operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, relying entirely on volunteers, donations, and grants. No program charges attendance fees. “We want to make sure that every family is able to find this connection, not just if they can pay for it,” Pam emphasizes.

This commitment to accessibility proves especially critical for families living on the margins. As Janet points out, many families in the community struggle to find resources, and when they do locate them, cost often creates an insurmountable barrier.

Nevertheless, Pam acknowledges one remaining gap. Current programs primarily run during daytime hours, potentially excluding working parents. Consequently, the organization actively works to develop evening and weekend programming to serve all families regardless of work schedules.

The United Way Connection

Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, generously shared half of his regular podcast segment to give Pam additional airtime. His support reflects more than just kindness—it demonstrates the strategic partnership between the organizations.

The Yellow School House partners with United Way’s Campaign for Grade Level Reading, which focuses on ensuring children read proficiently by third grade. This milestone matters tremendously because third grade marks the point where children stop learning to read and start reading to learn. Students who fall behind at this critical juncture face an uphill battle throughout their academic careers.

Four Pillars of Community Impact

United Way recently restructured its traditional pillars to better reflect community needs. The organization now focuses on four key areas:

Youth Opportunity replaces the former education pillar, emphasizing early childhood education, literacy, and workforce development for young people. This shift reflects research showing that early intervention produces the strongest outcomes.

Health remains a core pillar, recognizing that physical and mental wellness forms the foundation of thriving communities.

Basic Needs evolved from financial stability, addressing fundamental requirements like housing, food, and safety that families must secure before they can focus on advancement.

Community Resilience represents the newest pillar, ensuring robust safety nets exist so communities can withstand challenges and continue thriving.

Investing in the Spring, Not the River

Andy uses a powerful metaphor to explain United Way’s approach. “It’s like the spring where the water’s bubbling up out of the ground. It’s not the raging rapids downriver trying to save someone from drowning,” he explains. “Let’s make sure that the spring is pure.'”

This upstream investment recognizes that supporting parents directly benefits children. While many programs focus exclusively on child development, the Yellow School House acknowledges that parents need tools, knowledge, and community support to effectively nurture their children.

Additionally, the Handley Regional Library recently achieved Family Place Library accreditation, doubling down on its commitment to families and children. This designation means the library reimagines itself as a second home where families access enrichment activities, parenting classes, and early education resources.

Breaking Down Barriers to Support

For community members wanting to support early childhood education, United Way offers a streamlined approach. Rather than researching and donating to 15 or 20 different organizations individually, donors can contribute to United Way and designate funds for the youth opportunity pillar. United Way then distributes resources through impact grants to partners across the Northern Shenandoah Valley.

“We want to maximize the impact,” Andy explains. The organization conducts background research on partner organizations, combines individual gifts to create larger impact, and ensures funds reach programs making measurable differences.

Looking Ahead

The Yellow School House dream originated 20 to 30 years ago in Pam’s imagination—always as a welcoming yellow house with a front porch and yard. While she doesn’t yet operate from an actual yellow house, the vision of creating a home-like environment where families feel welcomed and supported drives everything the organization does.

Currently, the organization seeks donations to expand programming and volunteers to facilitate groups. Grandmothers particularly bring valuable experience and perspective to support new parents navigating unfamiliar territory.

Getting Involved

Families can register for the Baby Buzz event and learn about ongoing programs at yellowschoolhouse.org. The organization also maintains active Facebook and Instagram accounts under “Yellow Schoolhouse Winchester.”

Meanwhile, those wanting to support United Way’s early childhood education initiatives can visit unitedwaynsv.org or contact Andy directly at agail@unitedwaynsv.org. The Campaign for Grade Level Reading maintains its own website at WinchesterCGLR.com.

The Power of Community

Ultimately, both organizations recognize that raising children takes a village. No parent should navigate this challenging, rewarding journey alone. By providing free, accessible resources and building connections among families, the Yellow School House and United Way work together to ensure every child in the Northern Shenandoah Valley starts life with the support, education, and opportunities they deserve.

As Pam reminds listeners, “Parenting is probably the hardest job I have ever done.” Fortunately, Winchester families don’t have to do it alone.

Mapping the Nonprofit Landscape: United Way NSV’s Regional Survey Initiative

Mapping the Nonprofit Landscape
Understanding the True Landscape of Community Services

United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley is tackling one of the region’s most persistent questions: Are there too many nonprofits, and do they overlap in their services? To find definitive answers, CEO Andy Gail announced a comprehensive regional nonprofit survey during a recent episode of The Valley Today with host Janet Michael. Click here to listen.

“We’ve heard so many people from elected officials to community members say, ‘Oh, there’s so many nonprofits. There’s a bunch of overlap,'” Andy explains. “We said, let’s actually get the data and provide real answers instead of conjecture.”

Beyond the Numbers: What the Survey Reveals

The survey goes far deeper than simply counting organizations. Instead, it captures critical details about each nonprofit’s operations, including their specific programs, service areas, collaboration efforts, and capacity challenges. Participating organizations answer questions about which populations they serve, whether they’re meeting current demand, how many people sit on waiting lists, and crucially, what services they believe are missing in the region.

Moreover, the survey asks nonprofits to identify their biggest challenges and common misconceptions about their work. Early responses already reveal telling patterns: funding remains the top concern, with organizations citing high food costs, rising demands, and aging volunteer bases as significant obstacles.

A 21-Minute Investment with Lasting Impact

While Andy initially worried the survey might take up to an hour, data shows nonprofits complete it in an average of 21 minutes and 47 seconds. The survey accommodates organizations with multiple programs, allowing them to detail up to five programs with specific information about each one.

Furthermore, United Way has made the process as accessible as possible. Organizations can access the survey through the United Way NSV website, and Andy’s team is reaching out through multiple channels—including chambers of commerce, email blasts, and social media—to ensure every nonprofit in Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, and Page counties has the opportunity to participate.

Collaboration Over Competition

Contrary to popular belief, local nonprofits aren’t fighting for territory. Instead, they’re increasingly working together to maximize their impact. Andy highlights several successful partnerships that emerged simply from United Way facilitating introductions between organizations doing similar work.

“There’s this misconception that we’re all competing,” he notes. “While in some cases, yeah, you are competing for grants, you’re competing for visibility, it’s really not that way. No one is out to get anyone.”

For example, Winchester CCAP recently received United Way’s largest grant—$50,000—and has since expanded to seven collaborative partners, all working together to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to food-insecure residents. Similarly, organizations serving individuals with intellectual disabilities in Shenandoah County have formalized an alliance after United Way connected them, positioning themselves to pursue larger regional funding opportunities.

Dispelling the Overlap Myth

When people claim there are “too many” nonprofits, they often misunderstand what that number represents. Andy clarifies that while the IRS lists over 400 tax-exempt organizations in Winchester alone, these include various categories beyond traditional human service nonprofits.

“A 501(c)(3) is what we’re talking about—organizations eligible for tax-deductible charitable donations,” he explains. “But there are also 501(c)(4) advocacy groups, (c)(6) chambers of commerce, (c)(7) recreational clubs like Little League teams. When you filter down to human services organizations actually serving our local community, the picture looks very different.”

Additionally, even among similar services, nonprofits often serve distinct needs. Food pantries, for instance, may appear redundant until you consider that some operate as drive-throughs while others accommodate walk-up clients, some distribute in mornings while others serve evening hours for working families. These organizations increasingly coordinate to ensure they’re complementing rather than duplicating each other’s efforts.

The Funding Reality

One critical misconception the survey will help address concerns nonprofit funding sources. Many community members assume local nonprofits receive substantial government support, but the reality tells a different story.

“City of Winchester used to give out local funding but stopped that program back in 2016, 2017, 2018,” Andy reveals. “The county still gives a little, but when federal funding cuts happened recently, we lost over $2 million from our local nonprofit space. The localities simply can’t make that up—the city would have to raise taxes through the roof.”

Consequently, local nonprofits rely heavily on private philanthropy and strategic partnerships to stretch every dollar. United Way itself demonstrates this efficiency: every dollar invested now generates $1.77 in community impact through their grants and collaborative initiatives. Andy’s goal is to reach a 2:1 return by fostering even more collaboration.

Building a Living Resource Guide

The survey data will serve multiple purposes beyond answering the overlap question. First, United Way will create an updated public-facing resource guide, replacing their 2022 printed version with a searchable online database. Second, they’ll share the information with Virginia 211, the statewide resource navigation hub, ensuring residents can easily find help when they need it.

Third, and perhaps most importantly, the data will inform community leaders, funders, and elected officials about actual service gaps and needs. When nonprofits—the organizations on the front lines—identify missing services or insufficient capacity, their insights carry significant weight.

“They’re the ones dealing with people,” Janet emphasizes. “If you’ve not been in one of those situations, you don’t really know what they may need at any point in that journey.”

A Call to Action

United Way is accepting survey responses throughout February, with plans to analyze the data in March and release a comprehensive community report in the second quarter of 2025. Nonprofit leaders, board members, and volunteers can access the survey at unitedwaynsv.org or by contacting the organization directly at info@unitedwaynsv.org or 540-536-1610.

As the region faces a frigid winter weekend, Janet offers a practical suggestion: “What better way to spend it? Spend 20 minutes of your time filling out a survey.”

Ultimately, this initiative represents more than data collection. It’s an investment in understanding and strengthening the safety net that supports the Valley’s most vulnerable residents. By mapping the nonprofit landscape with precision, United Way aims to foster collaboration, eliminate inefficiencies, and ensure every dollar donated creates maximum impact in the community.

Democratizing Philanthropy: How Giving Circles Empower Our Community

uwnsv giving circles pod
A Fresh Start for Philanthropy in the Valley

As the calendar turns to 2026, United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley (UWNSV) is charting an ambitious course for community engagement and philanthropy. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael sat down with UWNSV CEO Andy Gail to discuss the organization’s evolving mission, innovative giving models, and the vital role of collaboration in addressing local needs. Click here to listen.

Pillars of Progress: United Way’s Guiding Principles

At the heart of United Way’s strategy are four foundational pillars: healthy communities, youth opportunities, financial stability, and community resiliency. Andy explains that these pillars, distilled from United Way Worldwide’s research and best practices, serve as a roadmap for local chapters. They ensure that every initiative—from healthcare access to disaster preparedness—addresses both immediate challenges and long-term community well-being. “It’s a nice balance for both,” Andy notes, “and we can get specific to what’s happening and what we’re seeing in our communities.”

Collaboration Over Competition: The New Nonprofit Mindset

Gone are the days of nonprofits guarding their resources in isolation. Today, organizations recognize the power of partnership. Andy and Janet reflect on how United Way acts as a central hub, bringing together nonprofits, businesses, and individuals to maximize impact. By pooling resources and expertise, the region’s nonprofits can tackle complex issues more effectively. “If we put our piles together, we can serve even more people and maybe solve a problem so that we don’t have to keep addressing it on a regular basis,” Janet observes.

Introducing Giving Circles: Democratizing Philanthropy

One of the most exciting developments for 2026 is the launch of Giving Circles—innovative groups that empower individuals and small businesses to pool their donations and collectively decide how to allocate funds. The Small Business 365 circle, for example, invites local entrepreneurs to contribute as little as a dollar a day, network with peers, and make a tangible difference in the community. Meanwhile, Women United offers a platform for women to support causes they’re passionate about, from mentorship to empowering girls and women in the region.

Andy emphasizes that these circles are about more than just writing checks. They foster engagement, education, and a sense of ownership among participants. “It’s our impact grant model, but done on a micro level,” he explains, “for those that aren’t giving in the workplace, those that don’t have a workplace, those that want to see their money multiplied.”

Maximizing Impact: Grants, Partnerships, and Year-Round Giving

The conversation also highlights United Way’s expertise in securing and distributing grants. By leveraging its credibility and donor base, UWNSV can access funding that individual nonprofits might not qualify for on their own. This approach has already yielded impressive results, such as a $100,000 grant that helped over 2,700 families in the southern region.

Importantly, Andy and Janet urge listeners to think beyond traditional end-of-year giving. Needs persist throughout the year, and even small, regular donations can add up to significant change. “The need doesn’t stop,” Andy reminds the audience. “Numbers are scale… if a thousand people give a hundred bucks, we have lots of ways to do it.”

Looking Ahead: A Vibrant, Resilient Community

As United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley celebrates its 80th anniversary, the organization is more committed than ever to fostering a culture of generosity, collaboration, and innovation. With new giving models, a focus on collective action, and a deep understanding of local needs, UWNSV is poised to lead the region into a new era of community impact.

For more information on joining a Giving Circle or supporting United Way’s mission, visit unitedwaynsv.org and follow them on social media for updates on upcoming events and initiatives.

United Way NSV’s Day of Caring

day of caring 2025 pod

Every September, a wave of orange (this year) shirts sweep across the Northern Shenandoah Valley, signaling a day when the community comes together for a singular purpose: to give back. This is Day of Caring, an annual event organized by the United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley, and it’s more than just a day of volunteerism—it’s a celebration of community spirit, corporate partnership, and the power of collective action.

In this episode of “The Valley Today,” host Janet Michael sat down with Andy Gail, CEO of United Way NSV, and Beth Falu, Assistant Vice President of Fraud Operations at Navy Federal Credit Union and chair of Day of Caring, to discuss the origins, evolution, and impact of this remarkable event. Click here to listen.

Mobilizing a Movement

Day of Caring is not just a local phenomenon; it’s part of a global United Way tradition that mobilizes thousands of volunteers to support their communities. As Andy explains, the event’s power lies in its scale: “It’s great if you can volunteer two hours here, three hours there, but think about if you could get a thousand people in one day to volunteer—what that impact would be.” In the Northern Shenandoah Valley, that impact is visible across Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, and Page counties, where nearly a thousand volunteers fan out to tackle projects for nonprofits, schools, and community organizations.

Evolving Opportunities

While Day of Caring has long been associated with hands-on projects like painting, landscaping, and building ramps, this year marks a significant evolution. Under Beth’s leadership, the event has expanded to include administrative and professional services. “Our volunteers have so many skills,” Beth notes. “We want to evolve our volunteer opportunities to cater to all of our volunteer skill sets.” Now, teams can help with marketing, office organization, and even Excel spreadsheets, ensuring that every volunteer can contribute in a meaningful way.

Corporate Champions and Community Partners

The event’s success is fueled by a diverse array of sponsors, from large corporations like First Bank and Navy Federal to local businesses and mom-and-pop shops. “There was every size business imaginable on that list,” Janet observes, highlighting the region’s unique spirit of collaboration. These sponsors don’t just write checks—they send teams of employees into the field, fostering camaraderie and a sense of purpose among staff.

Beth shares stories of volunteers who travel from as far as Northern Virginia to participate, and Andy recalls his own experience as a nonprofit leader benefiting from Day of Caring before joining United Way. The event, he says, is a lifeline for organizations that lack the resources to complete essential projects.

A Day of Celebration and Connection

Day of Caring is as much about celebration as it is about service. The day begins with a lively kickoff event at Shenandoah University, complete with coffee, breakfast, music, and motivational words from community leaders. After a day of hard work, volunteers and their families gather at West Oaks Farm Market for an after-party, enjoying food, networking, and even sparklers to “spark change.”

The event also coincides with the conclusion of the Community Baby Shower, a collaborative effort to collect supplies for new mothers in need. Donations are gathered at local First Bank branches and Marlow dealerships, then assembled into kits for distribution by Healthy Families, further amplifying the day’s impact.

Lasting Impact and Growing Momentum

The ripple effects of Day of Caring extend far beyond a single day. Volunteers return to work energized and inspired, often bringing their families and colleagues into the fold for future events. Nonprofits receive much-needed support, and the community as a whole is strengthened by the connections forged through shared service.

As Beth reflects, “It’s so contagious… people just had such a great day. It was very impactful for them and they’re just sharing the news.” Andy encourages nonprofits to continue submitting projects and invites anyone interested to visit the newly refreshed United Way NSV website for more information.

In a world where it’s easy to feel disconnected, Day of Caring stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together. Whether you’re wielding a paintbrush, crunching numbers, or simply sharing a meal, every act of caring adds up to something extraordinary.

For more information or to get involved in next year’s Day of Caring, visit unitedwaynsv.org/dayofcaring.

Advocacy in Action: United Way’s Powerful Role in Virginia

united way va

The Valley Today was abuzz with meaningful discourse as Janet Michael, host of the popular show, invited two significant figures in the United Way network to discuss their mission of community upliftment and collaboration. Click here to listen. The guests, Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Angela DeBoskey, Executive Director for United Way Virginia, shared valuable insights into the collective efforts of United Way organizations at local, state, and worldwide levels.

Angela offered a detailed explanation of the hierarchical structure of United Way, ranging from local operations to a worldwide network. Angela highlighted the organization’s flexibility to adapt and meet specific community needs, emphasizing their power to create a unified voice when addressing legislative and social issues.

Angela elaborated on the robust structure of United Way Worldwide, which not only provides local organizations with resources like training and branding but also bridges the gap between local needs and national or international trends. This ability to adapt and adopt effective strategies is crucial for addressing the unique needs of each community and achieving sustainable change. Angela discussed how global perspectives inspire local initiatives, with Janet noting the effectiveness of Andy in leveraging worldwide trends for local benefits.

An integral part of the conversation was the role of data in driving effective advocacy. Angela spoke passionately about how United Way employs a multitude of data sources—such as the 2-1-1 helpline, which records crucial community needs—to shape their support strategies. Andy echoed this sentiment, explaining how regional United Ways can use collective data to present a compelling case to lawmakers and funders alike. This data-driven approach ensures that United Way’s efforts are not only timely but also relevant to the communities they serve.

Janet shifted the focus to the importance of volunteerism, spotlighting upcoming events such as the Day of Caring. Andy provided a glimpse into the extensive planning and community involvement that goes into such events, highlighting the significant impact—both financial and social—of community volunteer efforts. Angela crystallized this idea by explaining how even limited volunteer hours can translate into substantial community benefits. Andy also pointed to the altruistic spirit of Shenandoah Valley residents who continually step up to support their neighbors.

The discussion circled back to the core of United Way’s mission: fostering partnerships and building a cohesive network capable of advocating for systemic change. Angela explained their strategic approach to advocacy, which involves collaborating with various stakeholders—businesses, nonprofits, and government officials—to address complex social issues collectively. By forming such alliances, United Way is uniquely positioned to drive impactful legislative changes and community improvements. Andy emphasized the invaluable service United Way offers by acting as a trusted partner and expert resource for elected officials.

Janet expressed hope that listeners would be moved to engage more deeply with United Way’s mission. Both Angela and Andy encouraged the public to get involved, whether through volunteering, financial contributions, or professional skill-sharing. Their message was clear: collective efforts lead to measurable, impactful changes in society.

For those interested in participating or supporting United Way, Andy provided links: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/ and contact information, underlining that every bit of help counts. He reiterated the agency’s commitment to transparency and community accountability, inviting everyone to explore their revamped website which will be online in the coming months, for more information and data resources.

With a steadfast commitment to holistic community support, United Way continues to shine as a beacon of hope and unity, proving that the collective power of engaged citizens and dedicated organizations can indeed carve out a brighter future for all.

United Way NSV Highlights the Power of NonProfit Partnerships

UWNSV love to nic

In the latest edition of ‘The Valley Today,’ host Janet Michael sat down with Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Holly Roberts, founder of Love To Nic, to discuss their impactful and collaborative efforts to support the homeless and needy communities in Northern Shenandoah Valley and beyond.

Holly shared that Love To Nic was founded in memory of her late son, Nic, who struggled with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder before dying in a car accident a decade ago. The nonprofit primarily focuses on providing shoes but has since expanded to include winter jackets, boots, and other essential items like non-slip shoes and steel-toed boots to help the homeless secure jobs. Holly’s heartfelt story included her travels to NFL stadiums. During these trips, the organization hands out numerous pairs of shoes, socks, hats, and gloves to the homeless.

Janet remarked on how powerful and touching Holly’s mission is, particularly the ripple effect that one act of kindness can provoke. Holly recounted a poignant story about a recipient who reached out to his mother after receiving shoes, which led to a cascade of donations from various states.

The discussion then shifted to the collaborative aspect of their work. Andy explained how United Way emphasizes collaboration among nonprofits through their impact grants, requiring partnerships among applicants to address community needs more holistically. He noted that they had received over $800,000 in requests from 50 nonprofits.

In a surprise announcement, Andy revealed that United Way had received an additional grant to support basic needs in rural counties. Holly was overjoyed to learn that Love To Nic would be receiving $5,000 from this fund to continue their important work in providing shoes and meals to the needy.

Holly also discussed the logistics of her operations, highlighting partnerships with companies like Bombas for socks and various brands for affordable footwear. Despite the challenges, Holly’s determination and her support network have allowed Love To Nic to make a significant impact.

Andy talked about how United Way leverages community connections and data to secure funding and support for various initiatives. He emphasized that their success is a community effort, showcasing how collaborative efforts can drive meaningful change.

The discussion ended on a high note with Holly thanking United Way and the community for their support, while Andy promised continued backing for her vital work. Janet encouraged listeners to engage and support such initiatives.

Learn more about Love to Nic: https://lovetonic.org/

Learn more about United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/

7th Annual Housing Summit: Escaping the Housing Trap

Housing Summit

In a recent episode of the Valley Today – listen here – host Janet Michael welcomed Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, and Amanda Whitson, co-chair of the Housing Coalition of Northern Shenandoah Valley, to discuss the upcoming Housing Summit. The summit, scheduled for May 23rd at Laurel Ridge Community College, seeks to address various housing challenges faced by the region.

The conversation began with informal exchanges about local events and food trucks, underscoring the community-oriented vibe of the show. The light-hearted banter set the stage for the in-depth discussion on housing issues.

Amanda elaborated on the origins and mission of the Housing Coalition, a group formed seven years ago to unite local nonprofits, realtors, and organizations like Virginia Housing in tackling housing-related issues. The coalition’s work includes hosting the annual Housing Summit, which aims to bring awareness and solutions to the area’s housing challenges.

This Housing Summit will focus on ‘escaping the housing trap’ and features notable speakers such as Ryan Price, Chief Economist for Virginia Realtors, and Robert McNabb, Economics Professor at ODU. Edward Erfurt from Strong Towns will also contribute insights on zoning and community planning.

Janet and Amanda discussed the interconnectivity of housing with other community issues, emphasizing the summit’s agenda of translating discussion into actionable solutions through breakout sessions and panels. Partnership details with local organizations and businesses were highlighted, demonstrating community-wide support for the initiative.

To register for the summit or to learn more about the Housing Coalition and its activities, Amanda advised visiting their Facebook page. The event is free, but registration is required for logistical planning – click here to register.

Campaign for Grade Level Reading Comes to United Way NSV

campaign for grade level reading

In a recent discussion on the Valley Today – listen here – host Janet Michael welcomed guests Andy Gail from United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley’s CEO, and Matt Peterson, the Executive Director for the John and Janice Wyatt Foundation. The conversation revolved around innovative efforts and collaborations aimed at improving early childhood education through the Campaign for Grade Level Reading. United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley was recently named to manage the program.

The John and Janice Wyatt Foundation, established in 2019, has been passionately involved in supporting early childhood education. Matt Peterson shared that the foundation initially focused on providing grants in specific communities to back early childhood outreach, quality, and access. However, it quickly became evident that impacting the educational system required more than just targeted grants; it needed a community-wide effort. This realization led them to embrace the ‘Campaign for Grade Level Reading,’ a model aimed at unifying communities around early childhood education.

The campaign emphasizes the importance of ensuring children reach grade-level reading by third grade, a critical milestone for their future academic and life success. According to Peterson, vast amounts of research highlight that if children do not achieve grade-level reading by third grade, their chances of future success dwindle significantly. This inflection point is crucial as education transitions from ‘learning to read’ to ‘reading to learn,’ and children who fall behind may find it exceedingly difficult to catch up.

Seeing positive shifts in absenteeism rates and assessment scores over a short period is testament to the campaign’s early success in Winchester, Virginia, and Dorchester County, Maryland. The collaborative approach the campaign has adopted allows for the pooling of resources and ideas, and leverages a national network of more than 350 communities. These shared experiences and best practices are pivotal in driving local impacts.

An exciting aspect of the discussion was the various innovative initiatives currently underway. For instance, the laundromat reading program engages Hispanic families over a casual setting, promoting the importance of education and literacy. Other programs include attendance competitions that reward students for regular attendance, transforming going to school into an exciting and rewarding activity.

Peterson stressed the importance of a broad, inclusive approach incorporating parents, educational systems, and local governments. He highlighted that parents are pivotal in their children’s educational journeys. Therefore, educating parents about the importance of early literacy is a crucial component of the campaign.

While highlighting the indispensable role United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley has played in the campaign’s progress, Andy Gail remarked on the power of collaboration. Janet’s double role as the host and chair of the United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley board was humorously noted, showcasing the deeply interconnected community working together towards this common goal.

As they wrapped up, Gail recognized the honor and responsibility of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley leading this change. With optimism and gratitude, he looks forward to furthering this mission, striving to bring about substantial improvements through collective efforts and sustained community engagement.

The conversation concluded with an open invitation to the community to participate, ask questions, and become part of this transformative journey. The unyielding message was that together, the community can achieve great milestones in ensuring every child has the chance to succeed through education.

Celebrating Our Community Volunteers

volunteer celebration

In celebration of National Volunteer Month, the community of Winchester is gearing up for a grand Volunteer Celebration Day on Friday, April 11th, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, at the Our Health Campus. The event aims to honor the invaluable contributions of volunteers who continuously make impactful changes within the community. In a recent episode of ‘The Valley Today,’ – listen here – host Janet Michael was joined by Sharen Gromling, Executive Director of Our Health; Kit Redmer, Communications Director for the City of Winchester; and Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley, to discuss the importance of volunteerism and what attendees can expect at the celebration.

The celebration will be teeming with activities embodying the community spirit. From 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, families can enjoy a range of activities including food, beverages, bounce houses, games, and face painting. Sharon expressed excitement about recognizing the volunteers’ contributions, emphasizing, ‘We can’t do the work we do in our nonprofit organizations without their help.’ The community is invited to participate in the festivities and say thank you to their local volunteers.

Janet highlighted special appearances to be made during the event’s program from 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Mayor Les Veach will be delivering a proclamation, echoing the volunteer week proclamation by former Mayor David Smith, and presenting the Golden Shovel and Silver Shovel Awards to outstanding volunteers from the city’s SnowBusters program.

Andy touched upon the diversity in volunteering by mentioning projects from physical labor to administrative tasks, showing that there’s a role for everyone. Highlighting Day of Caring, he hopes to inspire more community involvement. Emily Lopez Bonilla, a student from Handley and heavily involved in the Interact Club, will also be speaking about the impact of volunteering on the new generation.

Sharen pointed out the role of the Volunteer Action Center that connects volunteers to nonprofit needs and mentioned the impressive valuation of volunteer hours. Winchester CCAP’s Andrea Cosans will speak about the community refrigerator program, relocated just outside the Our Health office building, which is maintained by volunteers.

The event underscores the symbiotic relationship between businesses and the community. Businesses involved in the discount card program are giving back to volunteers, recognizing their crucial role. Kit noted the enthusiasm of local businesses in supporting this initiative, despite economic challenges, highlighting their commitment to community service.

The celebration is not just a recognition event but also an opportunity for community members to learn more about volunteering. Sharen noted, ‘We will shamelessly be recruiting’ new volunteers, with booths and sign-up forms available on-site.

The conversation beautifully underscored how volunteerism is woven into the fabric of Winchester. With heartfelt gratitude towards volunteers and a shared enthusiasm for continued community support, the town is set to celebrate the spirit of giving. The program’s spirit was best summed up by Sharen’s words on mutual admiration and the deep appreciation for community efforts: ‘We appreciate you.’