We are a network of friends inspired by Gospel values, growing in holiness and building a more just world through personal relationships with and service to people in need. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul serves our neighbors in need regardless of creed, ethnic or social background, health, gender or political opinions by providing emergency financial assistance.

Adult Literacy is a Survival Skill ... Without knowing how to read, how can someone understand directions on a medicine bottle or on a map? Without knowing how to write, how can someone fill out a job application? Without knowing English, how can a parent respond to a message from their child's school? The Literacy Council of Frederick County (LCFC) is providing a lifeline for people who need help reading, writing, and speaking English. Our Impact ... 60 Years of Lifting Lives through Literacy in Frederick County 357 adult learners who support 135 families & 272 children 236 adult learners in the Tutoring Program supported by 140 volunteer tutors 191 adult learners attended the weekly Community Class Program 41 community classes taught by 14 volunteer instructors 5 Parent classes & 21 family literacy events with 6 FCPS elementary schools & the Judy Center in the Parent Literacy Program 37 employees in hospitality and manufacturing jobs attended 8 classes in the Workplace Literacy Program 74 new volunteer tutors & class instructors trained in 8 tutor training workshops 178 volunteers contributed 14,322 volunteer hours 10,000+ adult learners served since 1963!! Thank you for supporting Literacy Council of Frederick County through the Unity Campaign. You can contribute online, text to give, or send your donation by mail using this donation form. I invite you to view Our Literacy Journey with LCFC: Ana and Family!

Supporting Black-owned businesses is an effective way to close the racial wealth gap, promote economic opportunity, and empower Black entrepreneurs and communities. Closing the racial wealth gap helps to address systemic inequalities and fosters a more inclusive and equitable society. Tons of data show that Black-owned businesses face greater barriers when starting and scaling their businesses. The latest ALICE report revealed that more than 36% of Frederick County households struggle to afford basic needs such as housing, transportation, childcare, food, health care and technology. Black households in Frederick County take the lead when it comes to poverty and are second place when it comes to being at the ALICE survival threshold. Funds raised through the Unity Campaign will support SOUL Street's vendor Scholarship Fund, which will cover fees for Black ALICE individuals looking to start/grow their businesses and earn a passive income through selling at our markets and attending our educational events. About SOUL Street SOUL Street was founded in July 2020 when we launched our first round of pop-up markets. In 2021, we started Frederick's first-ever Black-Owned farmer's market. Since then, three Black-owned businesses have turned their hobbies into businesses with us and have successfully grown and expanded into brick-and-mortar locations. Five business owners who started with us have expanded into commercial kitchens, and many others continue to grow. We continue to serve as an open-air incubator for Black-owned businesses to grow and raise capital. Mission: SOUL Street empowers the Black business community through events, outreach, advocacy, and education. Vision: SOUL Street aims to create economic opportunity for every member of the Black business community in Frederick County while rebuilding Black generational wealth.

Mission: The Literacy Council of Frederick County provides pathways to essential literacy skills. Vision: Literacy lifts lives. Adult Literacy is a Survival Skill. Yet, more than 25,000 Frederick County adults struggle with everyday life skills related to literacy. This includes English language learners and native English speakers who can't read or write. These skills are fundamental to work, prosperity, health, and family stability. The Unity Campaign provides a critical platform to support these programs.

Being able to participate in extracurricular activities is something that so many in the community take for granted. Activities during our childhood have a significant positive impact on the adults we become. Unfortunately, for many local families, there are barriers impeding the ability of their children to have these opportunities. City Youth Matrix helps children and parents overcome the barriers that prevent them from experiencing any youth music, art, athletic, drama, or vocational program in Frederick. In general, the greatest barriers that exist are registration costs and transportation. We meet any costs necessary for recreational programs, as well as the more costly club and travel organizations. We have a fleet of volunteer drivers that are vetted and screened, insured, and fully trained. We have a family empowerment program that helps support the sustainability of our values. Even though our core mission is to provide opportunities for youth, the parent/guardian must be part of the City Youth Matrix experience. This is an essential part of our mission, as we understand the importance a strong family unit. It is a pleasure to observe the growth of a family at the same time the child is experiencing growth and enjoyment from the activities in which they are able to participate, with the help from CYM.

Being able to participate in extracurricular activities is something that so many in the community take for granted. Activities during our childhood have a significant positive impact on the adults we become. Unfortunately, for many local families, there are barriers impeding the ability of their children to have these opportunities. City Youth Matrix helps children and parents overcome the barriers that prevent them from experiencing any youth music, art, athletic, drama, or vocational program in Frederick. In general, the greatest barriers that exist are registration costs and transportation. We meet any costs necessary for recreational programs, as well as the more costly club and travel organizations. We have a fleet of volunteer drivers that are vetted and screened, insured, and fully trained. We have a family empowerment program that helps support the sustainability of our values. Even though our core mission is to provide opportunities for youth, the parent/guardian must be part of the City Youth Matrix experience. This is an essential part of our mission, as we understand the importance a strong family unit. It is a pleasure to observe the growth of a family at the same time the child is experiencing growth and enjoyment from the activities in which they are able to participate, with the help from CYM.

Boys & Girls Club of Frederick County is the premier youth development organization in Frederick County providing children with the highest quality programs and opportunities for success. The mission of Boys & Girls Club of Frederick County is to enable all youth, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as responsible, productive, caring citizens. All children deserve to THRIVE, but many Frederick County families struggle to afford basic needs, including childcare. Boys & Girls Club of Frederick County is a safe, fun, uplifting after-school Club and summer camp where kids learn valuable life skills, build lasting friendships, experience new opportunities, and learn to chase their dreams. Great Futures Start Here!

Housing Frederick is a nonprofit resource for the housing continuum in Frederick County that will develop partnerships to solve community challenges better served through a united effort.The vision of Housing Frederick is to tackle affordable housing challenges and champion them in Frederick County. 1) We are building partnerships and setting collaborative efforts in motion, 2) supporting initiatives or legislation that will fund housing and, 3) providing education for the consumer and others who might join our cause. Learning how to manage money leads to both financial and housing stability - two things that we are passionate about at Housing Frederick. Our financial education courses are taught to children aging out of foster care, single Moms, homeless youth and anyone who wants to take charge of their financial future. We teach to give our clients the confidence in decision making about money issues.

The mission of Living Well Youth Works is to help teenagers to thrive, defy odds, and become productive members of society. We believe that it is essential to teach teenagers necessary skills that are required to become productive adults. This year we are raising funds to expand our Collegiate Exposure program. Our goal is to inspire and prepare young people to attend college by giving them opportunities to explore college campuses before the time of application. University tours can significantly impact a student's decision to attend college. Research has suggested that students who participate in college tours are more likely to apply to and enroll in those institutions. u Here are multiple ways that college tours help young people defy odds: Earning Potential: On average, individuals with a bachelor's degree earn significantly more than those with only a high school diploma. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2020, the median usual weekly earnings for someone with a bachelor's degree were about 68% higher than for those with only a high school diploma. Over a lifetime, the earnings gap between those with a college degree and those without can amount to hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Unemployment Rates: College graduates generally experience lower unemployment rates. The unemployment rate among individuals with a bachelor's degree tends to be lower than for those with lower levels of education. In 2020, the unemployment rate for those with a bachelor's degree or higher was significantly lower than for high school graduates without a college degree. Poverty Rates: Studies show that college graduates are less likely to live in poverty compared to those with lower levels of education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2019, the poverty rate for individuals aged 25 and older with a bachelor's degree or higher was lower compared to those with some college or only a high school diploma. Long-Term Financial Impact: Data from studies like the College Board's "Education Pays" report consistently show that individuals with higher levels of education tend to have better financial outcomes over their lifetimes, including increased savings, higher homeownership rates, and better access to employer-provided benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. College tours can play a significant role in helping young people escape poverty by providing them with exposure to higher education environments, insights into the college experience, and information about potential academic and career paths. Here are ten ways in which your donations will help these young people break the cycle of poverty: Inspiration and Aspirations: College tours can inspire young individuals by exposing them to the atmosphere of higher education. Visiting campuses allows them to visualize themselves attending college, fostering aspirations and the belief that pursuing higher education is an attainable goal. Awareness of Opportunities: College tours provide firsthand information about the variety of academic programs, majors, and career paths available. This exposure helps young people become aware of the diverse opportunities that a college education can offer, expanding their horizons beyond what they may have initially considered. Understanding Admission Processes: Visiting colleges allows students to understand the college application and admission processes. This knowledge can demystify the steps involved, making the prospect of applying to college seem more accessible and manageable. Exposure to Campus Resources: College tours showcase the resources available on college campuses, such as libraries, laboratories, recreational facilities, and student support services. Knowing that these resources are accessible can encourage students and alleviate concerns about potential barriers. Networking Opportunities: During college tours, students may have the chance to interact with current college students, faculty, and alumni. These connections can serve as valuable networking opportunities, offering insights into academic and career paths, mentorship possibilities, and access to support systems. Financial Aid and Scholarships: College tours often include information sessions about financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Learning about available resources can help students understand that financial constraints might be addressed through various aid programs, making college more feasible. Cultural and Social Exposure: College tours expose students to the cultural and social aspects of college life. Experiencing the diversity and inclusivity on campuses helps individuals see that higher education is not only about academics but also about personal growth and community engagement. Building Confidence: Setting foot on a college campus can build confidence in young individuals. It makes the prospect of attending college seem more real and achievable, boosting self-esteem and resilience in the face of potential challenges. Understanding Campus Life: College tours provide insights into campus life, including student activities, clubs, and the overall campus environment. Understanding the non-academic aspects of college can make it a more appealing and holistic experience for prospective students. Setting Goals and Planning: Exposure to college environments through tours helps young people set realistic goals and develop a plan for their academic and career paths. Having a clear vision of the steps needed to achieve their aspirations can be a powerful motivator for breaking out of the cycle of poverty.

Please read why I became a volunteer for the Literacy Council of Frederick County, just click on the link below- January-2024-Newsletter.pdf (frederickliteracy.org) Adult Literacy is a Survival Skill ... Knowing How to Read, Write, and Communicate Saves Lives ... Yet ... more than 25,000 Frederick County adults lack the literacy skills needed to function in society. This number includes people who are learning English and native English speakers who are all our neighbors. Literacy is listening, speaking, reading, writing, navigating and belonging. Without knowing how to read, how can someone understand directions on a medicine bottle or on a map? Without knowing how to write, how can someone fill out a job application? Without knowing English, how can a parent respond to a message from their child's school? Many of our students fall within the population of Marylanders mentioned in the ALICE Report. Despite working multiple, low-paying jobs, these adults and their families can’t make ends meet. The COVID-19 crisis has added to their plight. How do they keep their jobs, support their children's schooling, and access health resources? The Literacy Council of Frederick County (LCFC) is providing a lifeline for these people in many ways by teaching everyday life skills. Our Impact ... 60 Years of Lifting Lives through Literacy in Frederick County 357 adult learners who support 135 families & 272 children 236 adult learners in the Tutoring Program supported by 140 volunteer tutors 191 adult learners attended the weekly Community Class Program 41 community classes taught by 14 volunteer instructors 5 Parent classes & 21 family literacy events with 6 FCPS elementary schools & the Judy Center in the Parent Literacy Program 37 employees in hospitality and manufacturing jobs attended 8 classes in the Workplace Literacy Program 74 new volunteer tutors & class instructors trained in 8 tutor training workshops 178 volunteers contributed 14,322 volunteer hours 10,000+ adult learners served since 1963!! Thank you for supporting Literacy Council of Frederick County through the Unity Campaign. You can contribute online, text to give, or send your donation by mail using this donation form. OUR MISSION The Literacy Council of Frederick County provides pathways to essential literacy skills. THEORY OF CHANGE Success for the individuals and families we seek to serve rests on a collective community approach that shapes a full path to a thriving life. VISION Literacy Lifts Lives. We invite you to view Our Literacy Journey with LCFC: Ana and Family!

Our Vision is a Maryland where everyone who wants a job, needs a job, and can hold a job, can get a job. We believe employment can be transformative and that everyone can rightfully aspire to the middle class. We are certain that human beings can solve all our problems by working together! Our Mission is to help people experiencing barriers to employment to get a job, keep that job, and move up to better jobs, ultimately working their way into the middle class. Even in a hiring economy, many citizens face barriers to employment that keep them out of work. By joining the Justice Jobs team, you will help people like Rico, who came to us fresh out of prison and now manages a regional warehouse making a six-figure income. Become a Justice Jobs Partner through your financial contribution, by volunteering, or by becoming an employer-partner today!

Our mission is to provide the very best technology and services for the early detection and treatment of breast cancer in the Frederick Community. Donations to the Hurwitz Breast Cancer fund support the entire Frederick community and make the best available early detection and treatment available to all Frederick county residents regardless of their economic status.

For years, I've recognized that Frederick is a great small city that's getting even better. We are not without challenges, however, and City Youth Matrix is addressing some of these immediate needs with the hope of achieving lasting results. Getting our kids involved in extra curricular activities has a proven track record for building character and community. I joined this team because I strongly believe in the mission of making a way for every child to pursue their passion whether it's sports or music or art or STEM. City Youth Matrix provides opportunities for youth to flourish through enrichment programs. We help children and parents overcome the barriers that prevent them from experiencing any youth music, art, athletic, drama, or vocational program in Frederick. In general, the greatest barriers that exist are registration costs and transportation. We meet any costs necessary for recreational programs, as well as the more costly club and travel organizations. We have a fleet of volunteer drivers that are vetted and screened, insured, and fully trained. We have a family empowerment program that helps support the sustainability of our values. Even though our core mission is to provide opportunities for youth, the parent/guardian must be part of the City Youth Matrix experience. Our family empowerment program is closely related to the ALICE research and we are sensitive to the those families that are making strong efforts but coming up short with their survival budgets. At City Youth Matrix, we help break down barriers to give low income ALICE children and families opportunities. We remove the barriers of income, transportation and access that prevent children from participating in activities. We invest in training family liaisons, engaging parents and inspiring volunteers as part of our matrix of support.

Mission: Aim to inspires and challenge youth through mental, physical, and social activities that fosters self respect and respect for the world around them. Target at-risk/disadvantaged youth in Frederick, MD through mentoring services, education, and community outreach. Goals:1. To improve interpersonal relationships between the youth of IBM and their peers, their community and the society as a whole.2. To instill within them the desire and love for learning.3. To provide an environment free from distractions that inhibit learning and inner growth.4. To return back to the community, youths that are willing and able to meet society's challenges head on with the eagerness to solve them positively.The overarching mission of the program is to provide a safe space for youth after school while teaching them life lessons and the five key pillars for success: integrity, respect for self and others, consistency, responsibility and accountability. I Believe In Me operates an after school program and summer program offering educational activities and mentorship to youth between 6-18; with a new summer program Project GUIDE targeting age 16-24. Led by mentors who once made life-altering decisions, our youth are given the opportunity to learn, engage, and connect with supportive adults; to empower them toward positive and productive futures.

The Frederick Community College Foundation, Inc. is a philanthropic network of advocates enriching the vitality and quality of life in our community by promoting access to higher education. In partnership with individuals, organizations and businesses, the mission of the FCC Foundation is to remove barriers to a community college education and provide financial support so all students can succeed and positively contribute to our community. The Parents Lead program provides a support system for students to ensure their success. The FCC Foundation helps student-parents with scholarships to help them stay in school so they can graduate successfully. The Student Success & Retention Office at FCC offers regular and supportive success coaching. Students can complete an associate's degree, enter the workforce, or transfer to a baccalaureate program.

I'm fundraising for Derek Milley because they do amazing work, and I'm inviting friends like you to support my campaign. Thanks for taking a moment to check it out!

Our vision is Equity for all Frederick County residents by providing the essential tools to equip all immigrants to become independent and successful contributors to our communities and society at large. AACF “ENHANCES” community services through improving access, referral and information: assistance with health insurance enrollment, interpreter / translation services, sponsoring an annual community health fair, care-coordination, and conducting community outreach and health education. AACF “EMPOWERS” local communities through education and training: Citizen Integrated Services, interpreter training, mentoring, volunteer, and technical assistance and advocacy for health equity, higher education and workforce development. AACF is also engaged in coalition building. AACF “ENRICHES” Frederick’s cultural richness through multi-ethnic events and diverse programs. AACF has partnerships with local and state organizations and maintains a diverse staff and leadership.

Woman to Woman Mentoring, Inc. provides women with guidance, support, and community connections through mentoring relationships. Through our programming we offer women the opportunity to: Be heard. Discover how sharing “you” can start to open doors. Take action. Dig into your challenges and explore the possibilities. Get the information and encouragement needed for new habits to take root. Move forward. Collect small wins that help to create momentum! Grow without limits. Enjoy an extended community that remains committed to your success. Our innovative programs combine the power of one-one-one mentoring and community-building workshops to help women identify and work toward their goals in education, career, and life. We are a strong community of connectors, collaborators, guiders, and bridge-builders. We use our platform to amplify the voices of others, affirm their value, and spotlight their strengths and help ALL women thrive.

Our purpose is affecting positive change in the life of individuals with addictions and their families through education, intensive therapy, and a compassionate, caring atmosphere. Home Away From Home is our project to make our residence halls more comfortable for the men in our long-term residential recovery treatment program. People living in recovery are often housed in dirty, broken-down, miserable conditions during the early stage of their recovery. This reality further contributes to their own feelings of being unworthy and marginalized. The importance of a safe, comfortable living environment cannot be overstated, and contributes significantly towards both physical and mental well-being. With funds raised in partnership with the Unity Campaign, we aim to furnish our residence halls with sturdy, comfortable beds and furniture. This will provide every client we serve with not only a place to lay their head at night, but an environment where they can relax and build positive relationships while undertaking the journey towards recovery and self-improvement. We sincerely thank everyone who contributes towards our goal and allows us to keep serving our community!

Our vision is Equity for all Frederick County residents by providing the essential tools to equip all immigrants to become independent and successful contributors to our communities and society at large. AACF “ENHANCES” community services through improving access, referral and information: assistance with health insurance enrollment, interpreter / translation services, sponsoring an annual community health fair, care-coordination, and conducting community outreach and health education. AACF “EMPOWERS” local communities through education and training: Citizen Integrated Services, interpreter training, mentoring, volunteer, and technical assistance and advocacy for health equity, higher education and workforce development. AACF is also engaged in coalition building. AACF “ENRICHES” Frederick’s cultural richness through multi-ethnic events and diverse programs. AACF has partnerships with local and state organizations and maintains a diverse staff and leadership.

Everyone in recovery deserves not only to have their basic needs met, but to be treated with respect and compassion. In partnership with the Unity Campaign, we hope to further improve the Ranch's facilities and provide clients with a comfortable place to stay during their journey.

SOAR’s mission is to provide financial assistance to older adults in Frederick County to meet their essential needs in a confidential, respectful, and dignified manner. Seniors are the fastest growing population and the most underserved. They have served their country; their community and their families and NOW it is THEIR time to be helped. SOAR assists low-income seniors aged 65+ living in Frederick County, MD. We help them to pay for services such as transportation, food, medical equipment and other services. SOAR does not charge for any support we provide. Please help us to continue to serve our Seniors in need. Any contribution is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

I'm fundraising for Erin Lawson because they do amazing work, and I'm inviting friends like you to support my campaign. Thanks for taking a moment to check it out!

Mission: Aim to inspires and challenge youth through mental, physical, and social activities that fosters self respect and respect for the world around them. Target at-risk/disadvantaged youth in Frederick, MD through mentoring services, education, and community outreach. Goals:1. To improve interpersonal relationships between the youth of IBM and their peers, their community and the society as a whole.2. To instill within them the desire and love for learning.3. To provide an environment free from distractions that inhibit learning and inner growth.4. To return back to the community, youths that are willing and able to meet society's challenges head on with the eagerness to solve them positively.The overarching mission of the program is to provide a safe space for youth after school while teaching them life lessons and the five key pillars for success: integrity, respect for self and others, consistency, responsibility and accountability. I Believe In Me operates an after school program and summer program offering educational activities and mentorship to youth between 6-18; with a new summer program Project GUIDE targeting age 16-24. Led by mentors who once made life-altering decisions, our youth are given the opportunity to learn, engage, and connect with supportive adults; to empower them toward positive and productive futures.

At the YMCA of Frederick County, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is our cause and vision. Our formal mission statement is: To build healthy spirit, mind and body, for all. The Y is the largest childcare provider in Frederick County and, as a movement the Y is the largest childcare provider in the nation. We provide a wide range of fitness classes and sports activities. In many places, the Y is known for a place to go swimming but it is much more than that- it's a place that changes lives. Our open doors program welcomes all those who wish to enter: we provide financial assistance to 600-plus families in Frederick County through Y subsidized scholarships. The YMCA is seeking funding for scholarships for ALICE families who need access to quality childcare. The Y will use these scholarship to take care of their children while we help them apply for additional state funding. Our goal is to offer quality and affordable childcare to ALICE families in Frederick County.

We are a professional, collaborative theatre ensemble broadly connected to our community by inspiring passion for the arts with courageous, relevant, accessible programs that enable people to feel more, think deeper, and laugh longer. MET strives to create a positive environment where artists and audience share an exciting, emotional, thought provoking theatre experience. MET features an eclectic season of plays that challenge audiences. Through open communication and life long learning, the MET ensemble brings a commitment to excellence that helps shape our region by initiating creative dialogue between artists and audience; providing outreach to under served communities; and training, education, and professional development opportunities to students of theatre that will propagate MET artistic values into the American Theatre. MET is dedicated to creating anti-oppressive artistic spaces and producing work that is representative of, affirming, and accessible to our entire community. Provide an entry point to hands-on, professional experiences for pre-teens, teens, and young adults entering threatre professions and boost our local economy. Participants in MET's Pre-Teen/ Teen Ensembles and Apprenticeship Program seek practical experience/ training to develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of production, acting, technical work, directing, stage management, and more.

Adult Literacy is a Survival Skill ... Knowing How to Read, Write, and Communicate Saves Lives ... Yet ... more than 25,000 Frederick County adults lack the literacy skills needed to function in society. This number includes people who are learning English and native English speakers who are all our neighbors. Literacy is listening, speaking, reading, writing, navigating and belonging. Without knowing how to read, how can someone understand directions on a medicine bottle or on a map? Without knowing how to write, how can someone fill out a job application? Without knowing English, how can a parent respond to a message from their child's school? Many of our students fall within the population of Marylanders mentioned in the ALICE Report. Despite working multiple, low-paying jobs, these adults and their families can’t make ends meet. The COVID-19 crisis has added to their plight. How do they keep their jobs, support their children's schooling, and access health resources? The Literacy Council of Frederick County (LCFC) is providing a lifeline for these people in many ways by teaching everyday life skills. Our Impact ... 60 Years of Lifting Lives through Literacy in Frederick County 357 adult learners who support 438 children 236 adult learners in the Tutoring Program supported by 140 volunteer tutors 191 adult learners attended the weekly Community Class Program 41 community classes taught by 14 volunteer instructors 5 Parent classes & 21 family literacy events with 6 FCPS elementary schools & the Judy Center in the Parent Literacy Program 37 employees in hospitality and manufacturing jobs attended 8 classes in the Workplace Literacy Program 74 new volunteer tutors & class instructors trained in 8 tutor training workshops 178 volunteers contributed 14,322 volunteer hours 10,000+ adult learners served since 1963!! Thank you for supporting Literacy Council of Frederick County through the Unity Campaign. You can contribute online, text to give, or send your donation by mail using this donation form. OUR MISSION The Literacy Council of Frederick County provides pathways to essential literacy skills. THEORY OF CHANGE Success for the individuals and families we seek to serve rests on a collective community approach that shapes a full path to a thriving life. VISION Literacy Lifts Lives. We invite you to view Our Literacy Journey with LCFC: Ana and Family!

I have the honor of working with the Literacy Council in two capacities: Our company partners with them to provide ESL classes to our associates, and I serve on their Board. I have the unique perspective of seeing the vision and strategic plan as well experience firsthand how they impact our community. The Literacy Council is so well strategically aligned that they have people on waiting lists to receive their services, and need income to increase their staff and other resources to meet their needs. They have become a model for Literacy Council's in other counties. As it relates to our associates, we currently have 19 students across all six of our Frederick hotels. We have seen a major increase in the confidence and engagement with our guests now that they have a better understanding of the english language. Associates who once walked with their heads down to avoid eye contact with other staff or guests now walk with heads high and initiate conversation. If that isn't enough to compel you to donate to the Literacy Council, here is more! Adult Literacy is a Survival Skill ... Knowing How to Read, Write, and Communicate Saves Lives ... Yet ... more than 25,000 Frederick County adults lack the literacy skills needed to function in society. This number includes people who are learning English and native English speakers who are all our neighbors. Literacy is listening, speaking, reading, writing, navigating and belonging. Without knowing how to read, how can someone understand directions on a medicine bottle or on a map? Without knowing how to write, how can someone fill out a job application? Without knowing English, how can a parent respond to a message from their child's school? Many of our students fall within the population of Marylanders mentioned in the ALICE Report. Despite working multiple, low-paying jobs, these adults and their families can’t make ends meet. The COVID-19 crisis has added to their plight. How do they keep their jobs, support their children's schooling, and access health resources? The Literacy Council of Frederick County (LCFC) is providing a lifeline for these people in many ways by teaching everyday life skills. Our Impact ... 60 Years of Lifting Lives through Literacy in Frederick County 357 adult learners who support 135 families & 272 children 236 adult learners in the Tutoring Program supported by 140 volunteer tutors 191 adult learners attended the weekly Community Class Program 41 community classes taught by 14 volunteer instructors 5 Parent classes & 21 family literacy events with 6 FCPS elementary schools & the Judy Center in the Parent Literacy Program 37 employees in hospitality and manufacturing jobs attended 8 classes in the Workplace Literacy Program 74 new volunteer tutors & class instructors trained in 8 tutor training workshops 178 volunteers contributed 14,322 volunteer hours 10,000+ adult learners served since 1963!! Thank you for supporting Literacy Council of Frederick County through the Unity Campaign. You can contribute online, text to give, or send your donation by mail using this donation form. OUR MISSION The Literacy Council of Frederick County provides pathways to essential literacy skills. THEORY OF CHANGE Success for the individuals and families we seek to serve rests on a collective community approach that shapes a full path to a thriving life. VISION Literacy Lifts Lives. We invite you to view Our Literacy Journey with LCFC: Ana and Family!

COIPP provides the supports that I needed as a child. I was 4 years old, lining up outside the county jail for weekend visitations, and I remember noticing how nice it was that they decorated the place with sparkles at the very tip top of the tall, tall chain link fences. I didn't know what razor wire was yet. Beginning at ages 5-6, I remember visiting a variety of state penitentiary units. By now, I knew what razor wire was. I remember worrying that men in the guard towers would shoot me if it looked like I was misbehaving on the long walk from the sally port to the visitation yard. I remember receiving gifts from my incarcerated family member, like a necklace made of crocheted trash bags. Once, we traveled 8 hours across the state only to be told that the unit was on lockdown and visitation was canceled. My mom drove to the warden's house and wept at the gate. I remember hearing that we could be arrested if we didn't leave. Incarceration affects the entire household, leaving scars of trauma that can stay with a child for a lifetime.Studies refer to these events as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Children of Incarcerated Parents Partnership (COIPP) provides services to prevent and mitigate those ACEs. We serve the children in these situations, the caregivers at home with them, as well as the incarcerated family member. Programs include parenting classes, books, school supplies, assistance with food and hygiene items, and fun activities where kids can focus on being kids. I am asking you to give any amount that you feel moved to donate.$1 provides a juice box at a pizza party$5 provides face painting supplies$10 provides an award-winning children's book that teaches messages of resilience$25 provides a grocery gift card$100 provides materials and resources for a parenting class offered in a jail or residential treatment facilityEvery dollar makes a difference in the life of a child.

Our mission is to foster the growth of strong, resilient, hopeful children who are impacted by the incarceration of a loved one in the Frederick County region. Although providing basic human needs and reducing suffering is not a unique philanthropic endeavor, COIPP is the only organization in the Frederick Region that specifically targets the needs of children and families impacted by incarceration of a loved one. A donation today will provide opportunities and direct support to children suffering from the trauma of having a loved one incarcerated.