April 2024

Please join us in welcoming the newest addition to Team United, Kate Younkins. As our new Director of Engagement, Kate will prioritize, scale, and lead the execution of our strategic partnerships, marketing efforts, community-facing events, and volunteer opportunities. 

 

Kate will work to advance our mission and strategic imperatives while collaborating with our many stakeholders in Education, Financial Literacy/Stability, Health, Urgent Needs/Disaster Response, and Essential/Basic Needs. 

 

Kate most recently served as the Marketing and Events Manager for The Arc of Washington County. Before her time with The Arc, she was the Sales and Marketing Manager at the American Jail Association. Mission focused. Kate is well-versed in the barriers and needs of the most vulnerable. She has extensive experience assisting residents in active crises through her work with our mission partner, Zion Reformed United Church of Christ. 

 

Kate is a Washington County native and proud mother. She enjoys running in her free time, having recently completed her first half marathon. Kate is also an accomplished artist specializing in graphite portraits. Kate and her family reside in Hagerstown with her brood of beloved animals. 

 

Kate looks forward to making positive, measurable change in our community, benefiting the nearly 65,000 residents that United Way and our 80+ partner organizations serve each year. 

During the month of April, health care professionals and health promotion experts across the country will annually join forces to increase public awareness about both the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic. Sponsored by The Health Resource Network (HRN), a non-profit health education organization, Stress Awareness Month is a national, cooperative effort to inform people about the dangers of stress, successful coping strategies, and harmful misconceptions about stress that are prevalent in our society.


For more information visit

https://www.speakersfornurses.com/stress-awareness-month.html

to our March Urgent Needs Grant Recipient, Washington County, MD, Historical Society.

The Miller House Museum opened to the public in the summer of 1966, creating a safe, permanent home to many artifacts collected over the past 100 years in Washington County. Not only is the Miller House a museum, but it also houses the administrative offices of the Washington County Historical Society and hosts a variety of public programs and other services to our community.


Recently, when BOTH their boiler and refrigerator broke down, United Way was able to provide $605.50 in funding to cover the cost of these unanticipated critical repairs.



The Historical Society is one of three nonprofit organizations receiving a Live United Urgent Needs Grant this month.

to our March Urgent Needs Grant Recipient,

Boys & Girls Club of Washington County, MD.

The Boys & Girls Club of Washington County utilizes several passenger vans to transport students from schools to various after-school club locations in the county. If a van is no longer in operation, the Club is forced to reduce and/or eliminate routes temporarily. Fewer van routes mean fewer children are transported to after-school programs.

When one of the vans had its catalytic converter stolen, the Club contacted United Way for assistance. Through the Urgent Needs grants, we were able to fund $1300.00 to ensure that 50 children have a safe place to go after school.

to our March Urgent Needs Grant Recipient,

Breast Cancer Awareness, Inc.

For over 35 years, Breast Cancer Awareness, Inc. (BCA) has been supporting local breast cancer patients and their families with programs and services. Services include free mammograms for uninsured men and women who cannot afford screening.

Recently, BCA has experienced an unusually high volume of patients seeking financial assistance during treatment and surgical recovery. One such request was for a homeless breast cancer patient having extensive surgery with drains. The patient was living in her car when her physician contacted BCA Executive Director Stacy Horst with concerns about the significant risk of infection if the patient did not have access to a clean living space or shower facilities.

United Way’s Urgent Needs grant funding of $1227.09 provided the patient with an eight-day stay in a local hotel (with meals included) to ensure that she has a safe and clean place to stay while she recuperates from her surgery.

Live United

Urgent Needs Grant Awards

Each month, the United Way of Washington County is pleased to partner with various organizations that provide critical services to our community.


Our Urgent Needs Grant is a low-barrier grant designed to assist nonprofits experiencing unplanned expenses due to unanticipated program needs, emergencies, or underlying situations while our United Against Hunger Grant addresses needs specific to food insecurity within our community.


Both applications are due on the 27th of the month.

Applications can be found here

 https://www.unitedwaywashcounty.org/community-impact-grants-investments


For additional information contact Kelli Tencer at 301-739-8200 ext.104

CONGRATULATIONS to our board member and Youth United Chairman Angie Stouffer on being named a finalist for 2025 WCPS Teacher of the Year!


In addition to Angie's years of service to United Way and our Youth United high school service clubs, Angie is a board member of the Education Foundation of WCPS, where she also serves as the Financial Literacy Chairman; she is a SALT Advisor/AVID Coordinator, and a Smithsburg CARES Advisor.



Our community and your students are so lucky to have you, Angie!      

United Way of Washington County, Maryland, Inc. has been evaluated by Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator, and earned a 100% Four-Star Rating! This is the highest possible rating on Charity Navigator. 


Charity Navigator’s third-party accreditation validates our organization’s operational excellence.


You can learn more about Charity Navigator and our rating here:


https://charitynavigator.org/ein/520691704

The United Way of Washington County recently earned a 2024 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency!



Check out our nonprofit profile to keep up to date with our impact. 


https://

www.guidestar.org/profile/52-0691704


Keep this link handy; we want to ensure you always have the information you need to support our work with trust and confidence.

Check out these links for information on non-profits in Washington County.

Did you know that your United Way actively supports or partners with over 85 organizations and many individual Washington County residents annually?


All donations made here...stay here.

Our donors, partners and volunteers

make it possible for us to have a

major impact on our community!


If you would like to help the United Way

make a difference in Washington County please click the DONATE button today!



Thank you so very much for your continued support!

The United Way of Washington County would like to thank First United Bank & Trust for their generous donation on their Day of Caring/Giving!


First United is a valued longtime campaign partner and we're so grateful for their continued support of our mission.


Pictured is United Way President CEO, Heather Guessford and First United Wealth Advisor Associate Brandi Helman.

The United Way of Washington County would like to thank Mr. & Mrs. Gary and Anna Hayes for their donation, and congratulate them on becoming Tocqueville Society Members!


Gary is a board member, and the Revenue Committee Chair. As generous contributors to so many organizations in our community, we hope you'll join us in saying "thank you!"



Learn more about the United Way Tocqueville Society here: https://www.unitedway.org/.../tocqueville-society/membership



Community Foundation of

Washington County Maryland Incorporated

2024 Responsive Grants Ceremony

This year the Community Foundation of Washington County awarded over $245,000 to 27 organizations that serve the Washington County Community. United Way of Washington County was thrilled to be among those organizations!



The Responsive Grants awards are made possible through 16 community funds that were created by their Board of Directors as well as from multiple donors from Washington County, MD. These awards are also supported by the Pauline Anderson Foundation.


Thank you so much!

Spotlight~ Success Story


Financial Stability


Ladders to Leaders


"When I got out of rehab I needed a stable living arrangement that was centered on recovery. I found that home at Ladders to Leaders. In the 5-6 months I lived there, I was held accountable through going to meetings and house chores. Those required meetings led to to others who are working a twelve step program and my sponsor. The chores gave me discipline and taught me to take pride in the smallest of jobs. The guys I lived with were amazing! I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to spend my early recovery with. The house manager Anthony was always there if you needed to talk to someone. Lela was at our house meetings to help with any problems going on at the house. And Eva was always just a phone call away and could help with anything. It was amazing the time she put in helping others. Without the Ladders to Leaders program and everyone involved, I doubt I would have the confidence I have now to keep pushing forward and to call someone if I ever have a problem. Thanks for everything!" ~ N.S.


This client is still working, living in his own place, maintaining his sobriety and active in raising his daughter.


~ Submitted by Eva Guillard, Executive Director

VOLUNTEERS WANTED


United Way of Washington County MD is currently seeking additional members of the community to serve on both the Revenue and GIVE (Give. Invest. Volunteer. Educate) Committees. We ask interested parties to commit to at least once-a-month hybrid committee meetings in return for having a voice in how UWWC can maximize our reach within our community. 


For more information, please reach out to Heather Guessford at heather@uwwcmd.org or 301-739-8200 ext.102.

Promoting literacy across Washington County!

Our Book United program, founded in May of 2022, has 26 active partner locations

and has collected and redistributed over 35,000 books in less than two years!


In addition to book distributions, we also host multiple reading clubs, including one at Coffman Nursing Home and Lasting Change Recovery Solutions for Women and the Western Maryland Children's Center.

Read Across America Day

United Way of Washington County's Books United Program distributed over 1,000 books to our partner organizations in the month of March to mark Read Across America Day on March 2.

The day was initiated to coincide with the beloved author Dr. Seuss' birthday.


Reading stories and antics about his wonderful characters is a rite of passage, and the perfect way to get children interested in reading books. 


Read Across America Day is more so a reading program, which calls upon everyone to read and engage with children to make reading a more fun and interactive experience. From the time when the building blocks of our character are laid, to adulthood when we seek to escape from the humdrum of daily life in the pages of a book, reading plays an integral role in shaping us into who we are. With the advent of smartphones and tablets, it is more essential than ever to motivate children to read. 


The National Education Association (NEA) has been leading the Read Across America initiative since 1998. Their primary purpose is to work for the betterment of public education. Reading has been promoted across the nation with events organized in libraries, schools, book clubs, and communities. Teachers and group organizers can also take a pledge and post their idea on the NEA’s website. This way, more attention and attendance is drawn to the event. 



But it is not only teachers and librarians who are doing their part in creating another generation of readers, but celebrities as well. Ever since the day has been official, actors, sports stars, and other popular figures have used their platforms to spread the message of the joys of reading, and some have also participated in children reading circles to put a spotlight on this cause. 


Books United gave out 1,082 free books to 18 different organizations: Coffman, Zion, It's a Blessing, DSS, Community Roots, Lasting Change, Family Health and Bright Eyes ( just to name a few) including 2 new partners- Kids Closet and Shephard Pratt. 


155 meditation coloring books and 50 children's coloring books were also given out at events throughout the month.


One of Books United's stops was at Bright Eyes Child Care Center. Everyone looks like they're having a great time!

Kid's Closet Connection


The Kid's Closet Connection at the

Premium Outlets in Hagerstown

celebrated Read Across America with

FREE books provided by our Books United Program.


Each Kid's Closet Connection is like a super-large, organized, walk-in closet chock-full of gently-used kids' clothing, furniture, maternity and toys just waiting to be bought!


Our consignment sales events are top-drawer, bursting at the seams because we connect the best consignors with the savviest shoppers who want to save up to 90% off retail! So, whether you want to SELL or SHOP, join hundreds of families to find the Kid's Closet sale nearest you.


Parkside

Community Center



Zion Reformed United

Church of Christ

Lasting Change Recovery Solutions for Women

Ladies for Lasting Literacy Book Club combined their monthly book reading with an Easter egg hunt for the children at Hagerstown Day Nursery.

Western Maryland Children's Center

On March 8, International Women's Day, our Books United program launched our inaugural (all-female) book club at the Western Maryland Children's Center. While the book club was our "in" and our "what," our "why" came from the thoughtful and intelligent young ladies that filled these chairs.


Team United, alongside our best volunteer (Ms. Sharon), couldn't have spent this special day more meaningfully. The books were simply a tool to connect and build trust. We left inspired, motivated, and energized to return.



  • Believe in them.
  • They have worth.
  • They are valued.
  • They are learning.
  • Never underestimate their potential.


Thank you to

Sunrise Rotary-Hagerstown

for hosting our Community Education Advocate, Mrs. Stacey Abeles, as your weekly speaker on March 22.


A devoted and lifelong educator, Stacey leads our Books United and Hygiene Closet programs.



As Always...

Special Thanks to Julie Rohm and the Valley Mall for loaning us storage space for our "thousands of books"!



Deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste and brushes and feminine pads are all items we need every day. But for some low-income families personal hygiene poses a problem. For many families it can be difficult to put food on the table so personal hygiene items and other necessities are out of reach. Every day people go without personal care Items because they simply can't afford them.


We are serving 1,176 people and GROWING by the day. Our closets are on-campus and discreetly benefit low-income students and their families who lack transportation and/or those wishing to keep their demonstrated needs private. Our most requested hygiene items include shampoo, deodorant, and body wash. We have experienced growing requests for laundry pods and feminine pads and liners.


Requests for specialty items include lice kits and body wipes for those living in our rural communities who lack sufficient running water...yes, there are many!


If you wish to learn more about either program or become a partner location please contact Stacey Abeles - stacey@uwwcmd.org or Kathy Harple - kathy@uwwcmd.org.


Our student hygiene closets have grown to eight locations in one year!


  • Hagerstown Community College
  • Cascade Elementary School
  • Clear Spring Elementary School
  • Hickory Elementary School
  • Western Heights Middle School
  • Parkside Community Center
  • Pleasant Valley Elementary School
  • Smithsburg High School



Thanks so much to Kim Bain for donating items to our Hygiene Closet.


Items that many of us take for granted offer self confidence and peace of mind to those who cannot afford to purchase them.





Donations are always welcome!

Community Resources Alert!


We're blessed to live in a community where help is

always just a phone call away. You are never alone!

Please share this with all your friends.


2-1-1 Maryland - Supported by our local United Way, this is the state's most comprehensive health and human services resource database. With about over 7,500 resources, individuals with essential needs can get connected to local help 24/7/365.


You can dial 2-1-1 on your phone to speak with someone or you can visit https://211md.org/.


Hagerstown Area Religious Council has also compiled the following resources:


Food & Clothing Resources - https://harccoalition.org/resources/food-and-clothing/

Housing/Shelter - https://harccoalition.org/resources/housing-shelter/


Washington County Mental Health Authority has a listing of mental health providers at https://wcmha.org/provider-directory/.


United Way of Washington County, Maryland

Volunteer Opportunities 

The Family Center - Do you love holding babies? Do you enjoy interacting with toddlers? The Family Center is seeking volunteers to work in their childcare rooms with infants and toddlers (Up to age 4). Flexible daytime hours Monday-Thursday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. A background check and fingerprinting is required at no cost. For more information, please contact Rhonda Forrest at 301-790-4002 or rhonda.forrest@maryland.gov


Big Brothers Big SistersWith the renewed inspiration and energy ushered in by the New Year, there is almost no better time to consider making the commitment to share your time and talents with others. The special friendships formed between Bigs and Littles positively change the trajectory of the lives of all involved. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washington County has a waiting list of kids and needs your help! There are various volunteer opportunities that will fit almost anyone’s availability. For more information, please contact their enrollment & matching coordinator, Kerry Fair, at 301.375.0939 or k.fair@bbbswcmd.org. Let the New Beginnings of this time of year be your call to Be the Change. Visit volunteer need here: https://volunteer.unitedwayfcwc.org/need/detail/?need_id=654044


Girls Inc. – Qualified and willing volunteers are always welcome to join and assist with projects. The girls love meeting new people and will act as a positive role model to them. To express interest, visit: https://www.girlsinc-md.org/volunteer


Boys and Girls Club Volunteer in many different ways like on-site engagement, advocacy, and more. Fill out an application here: https://www.bgcwc.org/volunteer


Discovery Station Volunteers help in every area of the museum in positions like exhibit docents, admission's office clerks, gift shop salespersons, creative development members, program leaders, and more. Visit volunteer need here: https://bit.ly/VolDiscovery


Horizon Goodwill IndustriesVolunteers help in many diverse ways ad can include mission support, community outreach, job connection services, administration, court ordered community service, to name a few. To learn more, visit: https://horizongoodwill.org/volunteer-opportunities/


Literacy Council of Washington CountyYou don’t need experience to be a tutor with LCWC. Training is provided and FREE. You do need to be fluent in English, have enthusiasm, and patience. To learn more, visit: http://www.literacyofwcmd.org/become-a-tutor/

Hagerstown Rescue Mission Sorting volunteers at the donation center are always welcome. To learn more: https://www.hagerstownhopecenter.com/volunteer


Faith Step Ministries - is seeking volunteers to assist with their Saturday morning breakfast ministry that connects with over 150 community members on a weekly basis on

the West End of Hagerstown. They are seeking volunteers from 7:30 am – 10:30 am at 451 Salem Avenue, Hagerstown to help prepare breakfast, serve the public, and

clean up. A minimum of 6 volunteers are needed each week, and they always

welcome extra hands to help! Interested individuals should contact Josue Orellana at

josueorellanaguevara@hotmail.com with any questions or to sign up.


English & More, Inc. - Stay safe while serving your community from the comfort of your home. English tutors for ESL populations are needed. Shadowing opportunities are available for both new and seasoned volunteers. To express interest or learn more, email: virginia.wilson1277@gmail.com.


Washington County Commission on Aging - Volunteers welcome as Meals on Wheels delivery drivers. All those interested must be fully vaccinated. More information here: https://www.wccoaging.org/volunteer


Children in NeedSorting and serving opportunities are always ongoing for community members, organizations, high school students, and more! Learn about getting involved by visiting: https://childreninneedwashingtoncounty.org/volunteer/

 

Easterseals - Virtual volunteer opportunities are available for anyone with a special talent to share virtually on Zoom. It could be singing, sharing a craft (we can get the supplies), magician, dancing, reading a story etc. If anyone is interested, they can contact Debbie Lauricella, Assistance Center Director, to coordinate. dlauricella@eseal.org



Easterseals Adult Day Services

Many volunteer opportunities are available for anyone with a special talent to share. It could be singing, sharing a craft (we can get the supplies), magician, dancing, reading a story etc. If anyone is interested, they can contact Emily Hankewycz, Activity Director, to coordinate. ebrecht@eseal.org or call 301.745.3828


Habitat for Humanity - Join a team of invaluable volunteers at the ReStore! Multiple positions to fit any skill/interest level. Volunteer Benefits: Flexible schedule / 20% store discount / Rewarding work / Plus, for a limited time receive $20 a month in ReStore cash for up to 6 months. Flyer.


Volunteers Needed

The Hagerstown Housing Authority needs volunteer groups to help provide lunches to low-income seniors and disabled residents of Potomac Towers in Hagerstown. 

 

The Potomac Towers Lunch Program operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Volunteer groups assist by providing either grab-and-go bagged lunches, serving a hot meal onsite, or providing donations of items for the lunches. The volunteers typically provide meals or drop them off at the Towers around 11:30 AM. 

 

The Lunch Program currently has several days each month without volunteer groups. Open days of the month are the 1st Tuesday, 2nd Thursday, 3rd Thursday, and the 4th Thursday. If interested in assisting, please contact Deena Holder via email at dholder@hagerstownha.com or 301-733-6911 x163. 

Use JustServe for your volunteer needs

and opportunities!



Looking for volunteers to serve in your ministry? Or are you looking for volunteer opportunities for yourself and/or your group? JustServe is a website where volunteer needs meet volunteers. All nonprofits, houses of worship and faith-based organizations are welcome to use this service to post your volunteer needs - just contact Ashlee Harris to get started at jon2ash@gmail.com or text 801-860-1301. Those searching for volunteer opportunities can simply search the database by city, state or zip code or even look for ways to volunteer by remote.

News & Events

Washington County Parks and Recreation is offering various programs and events throughout spring and summer including:

 

  • Summer Camps: Embark on unforgettable adventures and create lasting memories at our action-packed summer camps!
  • Swimming Lessons: Dive into the refreshing waters and learn essential swimming skills with our expert instructors.
  • Sports Clinics: Sharpen your athletic abilities and unleash your competitive spirit with our dynamic sports clinics.
  • Adult Fitness: Achieve your fitness goals and discover new ways to stay active and healthy with our invigorating adult fitness programs.
  • Special Events: Experience the magic of community and celebrate special occasions with our exciting lineup of special events!

 

And that's just the beginning! With a diverse range of programs and activities, Washington County Parks and Recreation is your ultimate destination for spring and summer fun. Don't miss out on the adventure – join us for an unforgettable season of excitement and discovery.

 

To register for classes and events, please visit www.washcorecfit.com.

For additional questions or information, please contact Washington County Parks & Recreation at recsupport@washco-md.net

Washington County Parks & Recreation

Free Breakfasts

2nd Saturday of each month

9:00 - 10:30 AM

Hagerstown Church of the Brethren

Corner of E. Washington St. and South Mulberry St.

Hagerstown, MD 21740



See flyer for dates of our upcoming events. See our most recent Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources List

Washington County Family Center

221 McRand Court, Suite 300, Hagerstown, MD 21740


The Family Center provides GED and ESL (English as a Second Language) classes for expectant parents and parents with children ages

0-3. Childcare, meals, parenting education, and case management services are provided. Transportation is available on a case-by-case basis. To register or learn more information, please contact Christina McCauley at 301-790-4006 or christinamccauley2@maryland.gov

Circles Washington County


Circles Washington County, MD, is accepting and adding Circles Leaders (participants) to our program and will begin training a new cohort on May 2. We are also actively recruiting more Allies and other volunteers. (Allies work with Circles Leaders on their goals at least twice a month.)  

 

Coordinators Elizabeth Howe and Marci Corea are holding information sessions and are also happy to accept invitations to meet you in person or speak at your church or organization to share how it’s going and discuss ideas for alleviating poverty in our community. Contact us for more information at circleswcmd@wccac.org or 301-797-4161, ext. 142.  


UPDATED Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list



The Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list was just updated significantly. Please replace copies you may already have and share it with anyone in need. Updated Resource List. The most recent list can also always be found on the HARC website. If you know of any additional changes, please contact Kathy at director@harccoalition.org or 301-842-4272.

The Western Maryland Consortium is a regional workforce development agency under the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act with offices in Allegany, Garrett, and Washington Counties. We address the needs of job seekers and businesses by establishing a workforce system that helps them access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market. The Western Maryland Consortium provides services to underemployed and unemployed adults, youth, and dislocated workers who are residents of Western Maryland.


The path that leads you to your full-time destination will vary as will the services and training available to you. We pride ourselves on providing individualized and tailored plans that meet the needs of our clients and assisting them in achieving their workforce goals.

Funds, Furnishings, and Volunteers Needed for Refugee Families


Recently, there has been an influx of refugee families in Washington County. Refugee Welcome Network (RWN) needs funds, furnishings, and volunteers to help stabilize them while we work with them toward self-sufficiency. In the last two weeks, the RWN settled two new families into housing, with a third currently waiting for housing and help. Read more and see our list of needsDonate fundsContact us to volunteer.

ENVY Youth Basketball League Sponsorships Needed

ENVY, a youth violence prevention program here within the City of Hagerstown that works to facilitate collaboration of resources and efforts of various community partners who provide services to or engage with youth in the community, has started a very unique youth basketball league and is looking for faith community assistance. You may recall Chief Kifer and Danielle Staley speaking about this program at the recent HARC meeting. ENVY stands for Ending Needless Violence with our Youth, and this basketball league is really ENVY’s way to initially engage at risk youth. Read more

Walking 2 Wellness - Wednesdays

Every Wednesday, 12:00 pm

The Athletic, Recreation and Community Center (ARCC)

Hagerstown Community College

11400 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown

 

Trying to fulfill your New Year's Resolution in getting healthier? Let's get healthy together! Be part of Prime Time For Women's "Walking 2 Wellness" community … meet new people, connect with longtime friends, and develop a regular exercise regime that is good for you. Even better, it’s fun! Prime Time For Women Website / Facebook.

WCFL Hosts Large Chromebook Distribution Events for Eligible Families


Hagerstown, MD – Washington County Free Library believes that access to technology is one key to achieving economic freedom and accessing important educational activities. In an effort to close the digital divide and increase digital literacy in Washington County, through a grant provided by Washington County government via the Maryland State Department of Housing and Community Development, WCFL is the primary distributor of no-cost Chromebooks for Washington County households. 


Distribution events will be held at each WCFL location during the first five months of 2024.


As with appointment distribution dates, only Washington County residents 18 years or older may participate. One device is allowed per household. To pick up your Chromebook at the event, you must provide:



  • Valid and not-expired Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, work or government ID, passport, etc.)
  • Proof of Washington County residence
  • Proof of one of the following qualifications listed below:
  • Households with an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
  • $27,180 for a household of 1
  • $36,620 for a household of 2
  • $46,060 for a household of 3
  • $55,500 for a household of 4
  • Or $9,440 more for each additional household member
  • Households enrolled in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
  • Households that participate in government assistance programs such as:
  • Child receives free or reduced-price school lunch
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
  • Medicaid
  • Pell Grant (current award year)
  • SNAP, formerly Food Stamps
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit
  • WIC


Examples of proof include (but are not limited to) proof of benefit like a SNAP or Medicaid card, an internet bill showing the ACP discount, or the first page of your 2022 or 2023 tax return. The person listed on the provided proof must be the person in attendance at the event to receive the device.


Appointments for upcoming distribution dates are now available and listed at 

washcolibrary.org/chromebook


For more information about Chromebook distribution, visit washcolibrary.org, or contact the Fletcher Library Information Services Department at 301-241-9968 or 301-244-8994.

Free - "Servant or Sucker?" - April 9 - May 14


Tuesdays, April 9 - May 14, 6:30 - 8:15 pm

Otterbein United Methodist Church

108 E. Franklin Street, Hagerstown

 

Wise and Compassionate Ways to Help the Poor - A Community Program by OUMC & REACH of Washington County. 6:30 pm – Gather and enjoy a snack. 7:00 - 8:15 pm – Series Presentation in Auditorium. Open to the community. Main point is to assist people of faith in getting a clearer picture of the "face of homelessness and poverty" and how to make wise giving choices to individuals and agencies. Also learn more about area resources and gaps in service. Info: 301-739-9386. Flyer

Chair Yoga and Beginning T'ai Chi -

Start April 18 and April 24


Chair Yoga - 6 Thursdays April 18-May 23, 11 am - noon

Beginning T'ai Chi - 6 Wednesdays April 24-May 29, 5-6 pm

Otterbein United Methodist Church

108 E. Franklin Street, Hagerstown

 

Each program costs $30. See flyers for more info: Chair Yoga flyer, T'ai Chi flyer. Register on-line: https://otterumc.org/chairyoga / https://otterumc.org/taichi, or contact Kate in the church office: office@otterumc.org or call 301-739-9386.

Potato Drop - April 20


Saturday, April 20, 8:30 - 10:30 am

St. Andrews UMC

1020 Maryland Avenue, Hagerstown

 

The United Methodist Men of St. Andrews United Methodist Church will host a potato drop in the church parking lot. They will be offering 50-pound bags of Maine Potatoes to organizations and smaller bags to individuals in need. To reserve one or more bags of potatoes, please contact John Davidson at 301-730-7359, write him at davidjoh@myactv.net or go to www.bwc.umm.org to order online. Flyer.

Stories In The Round - Susan Gordon - April 22


Monday, April 22, 7:00 pm

Unitarian Universalist Church of Hagerstown

13245 Cearfoss Pike, Hagerstown

 

Susan Gordon returns to Stories In The Round to continue the story of Liza and John Ingram, living in the West Virginia Alleghanies at the seep beginnings of Laurel Fork below Bayard Knob in the Cheat River watershed, who fight to keep their land from being lumbered out. Her novel-in-progress, set in the early 1900’s when these mountains were clear cut of every standing tree, includes the history of the land with the towns, hamlets and families who struggled to survive the disaster around them. Gordon is a prose writer of fiction and memoir, a poet, a storyteller, and was a narrative therapist until her retirement in 2023. $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Children 12 & older welcome when accompanied by a parent or group leader. Contact: Fanny Crawford, 301-730-1638 or fanitsky@hotmail.com.

Visit our Website for Music Line Up

HARC Hike for Hunger & Hope - May 18 (Challenge Hike), June 8 (Main Hike)


Challenge Hike - Saturday, May 18

Appalachian Trail, meeting at Weverton

4K, 10k & half marathon Hikes - Saturday, June 8

Shepherd's Spring Outdoor Retreat Center and C&O Canal Towpath

 

Register now and spread the word for the 11th annual HARC Hike for Hunger & Hope! This family-friendly FUNdraiser benefits HARC and Micah's Backpack, and is a great opportunity for getting outdoors and having fun. The main hike is a 4K, 10K or half marathon hike/walk/run on the C&O Canal Towpath and the Challenge Hike is a 20-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail. TEAMS are encouraged. This year we have an exciting matching pledge from the God's Grace Fund. HARC Hike participants who raise funds beyond a $200 suggested fundraising goal will see any additional amounts raised matched 2-1 for triple the impact. Learn more and registerFlyer / Bulletin inserts / Sponsorship form / Manual registration form / How to set up a team

May 22, 2024 at 4:30 – 9:00

Antietam Brewery


Join support those affected by Cancer in our Community at Antietam Brewery!

Volunteers will be on-site to collect gift cards for caregivers and share how you can get involved locally with the American Cancer Society. 10% of Pints, Flights & Food will be donated to the American Cancer Society, the evening will also include Raffles and door prizes!


Last year, this event raised over $1,000 for the American Cancer Society and $530 in gift cards were received for area caregivers. Help us surpass our fundraising goal this year $1,600 in donations and $700 in gift card donations.

More about Caregiver Gift Cards: Donations of Gift Cards, valued at $20 or more for Caregivers. Gift cards for Gas, Groceries, or Restaurants are most appreciated! These gift cards are distributed at events right here in Washington County to make a difference in households battling cancer.



Follow along for more information about the event and raffle previews!

Questions about the event: Please contact Audrey Vargason at ajvargason@outlook.com

United Way of Washington County, MD partners with SingleCare

(formerly FamilyWize) to provide community members with access to affordable prescription medications, ensuring greater health and financial stability. 



About the SingleCare

prescription savings card: 


Always free to use by everyone

just show it to the pharmacist.        

No registration or eligibility requirements.

Use it right away! ·        

Save up to 80% on 10,000+

prescription medications  ·        

Accepted at major pharmacy chains nationwide ·        

Sign up on SingleCare.com for additional member savings 

(earn $1 per eligible script!!) 

Works whether you’re insured or underinsured  

·        

Unlimited uses 

For more information and resources, visit: https://www.unitedwaywashcounty.org/singlecare