International Day of Women and Girls in Science

Posted on February 11, 2016 by Spur Local

by Aline Newman, Director of Marketing and Communication

My career in science peaked in 4th grade.

My first entry in the school science fair involved a fish bowl, a miniature landfill, a gallon of water, and a love of the environment and the art of improv. I created an elaborate 2-minute demonstration to show judges the effect of pollution on our groundwater supply. As I poured the “rainwater” into the landfill, I accidentally tipped over the water-soaked landfill into the lap of a judge, causing my demonstration to come to an abrupt end. The moral of the story? Pollution — whether in a landfill, or in your lap — affects us all. Nevertheless, my passion for the project and research behind it led me to win the Grand Prize.

Although I’m unlikely to win any future “grand prizes” for my contributions to science (my passions and talents are aligned with the communications field), I do still love to learn about new discoveries, and am grateful that I can indulge in this even more now that I have children of my own. I want many things for my children, and among those things, I want them to be able to pursue their interests and feel encouraged as they explore them. I can’t help but feel proud when I see my children intently reading a book about space, building an intricate object with magnets, or even asking curious questions about the weather (like,why is it so quiet after a snowfall?). Who knows…one day my daughter may be the next great environmental champion, and when she is…I’ll be there supporting her every step of the way.

Today, on the inaugural International Day of Women and Girls in Science, the Catalogue invites you to discover some local charities in our network that provide STEM education for all children. We’re also sharing some charities that focus on instilling confidence in young girls and encouraging them to pursue their passion:

ReSET: Places volunteer scientists in PreK-6 schools to teach hands-on science.
Passion for Learning: Strives to close academic achievement gap through literacy and technology programs.
Washington School for Girls: Transforms lives of girls through tuition-free private education.
Girls on the Run (DC) (MoCo) (NoVa): Helps girls build confidence through physical activity.

The following charities have STEM-related wishlist items:

Everybody Wins! DC ($500: 50 STEM books for students)
DC Bilingual Public Charter School ($500: Provides students with gardening tools to take their STEM education outdoors)

And of course, when you choose to support a Catalogue for Philanthropy charity, you can do so with confidence: each organization in our network has been vetted for excellence.

Make a Local Difference on World Cancer Day

Posted on February 4, 2016 by Spur Local

February 4th marks World Cancer Day, a day that unites the world’s population in the fight against cancer. This day aims to save millions of preventable deaths each year by raising awareness and education about the disease, pressing governments and individuals across the world to take action.

While there are many global and national organizations dedicated to fighting cancer, and offering hope and support to those who are diagnosed, the Catalogue for Philanthropy is proud to highlight five local organizations that are making a difference in cancer prevention, treatment, and patient well-being:

Breast Care for Washington (Washington, DC) offers breast cancer screening and support for underinsured women.
Hope for Henry Foundation (Washington, DC) improves the everyday lives of kids in DC who are fighting cancer.
Nueva Vida (Alexandria, VA) offers support services for Latinas affected by cancer.
Smith Center for Healing and the Arts (Washington, DC) offers an integrative approach to wellness and cancer treatment by addressing the whole person.
Tracy’s Kids (Bethesda, MD) addresses the emotional needs of children with cancer through art therapy.

Want to know how your dollars can make a difference in the fight against cancer? A $100 donation can:

Host a birthday party for a hospitalized child at Hope for Henry.
Provide art supplies for 1 teen art group at Tracy’s Kids.
Host an artist-in-residence at a local hospital with Smith Center for Healing and the Arts.
Cover the cost of a 3D mammogram for 1 uninsured patient through Breast Care for Washington.
Buy 10 metro cards for transportation to medical and therapy appointments through Nueva Vida.

And of course, when using the Catalogue for Philanthropy to?#givelikealocal, you can give with confidence knowing at each of our charities has been rigorously vetted for excellence!

Catalogue E-Gift Cards: The Stocking Stuffer that Gives Back

Posted on December 17, 2015 by Spur Local

Still searching for the perfect gift for that person who seems impossible to buy for? This year, save yourself from a frantic last-minute trip to the mall and consider giving the gift that gives back. When you purchase a Catalogue for Philanthropy gift card, your recipient gets the opportunity to experience philanthropy in action as they distribute the card’s value across any of our 368 nonprofits.

The Catalogue for Philanthropy’s gift e-cards make the perfect gift for anyone on your list: from that one person who has everything to the budding junior philanthropist in the family. In fact, we can’t think of a time when a Catalogue gift card wouldn’t be a great gift.

Our gift cards not only capture the spirit of the holidays through the joy of giving, but also give recipients the opportunity to support the causes that mean the most to them — whether in the environment, arts, education or human services in the community where they live and work. And it’s SO easy: Simply click. Give. And inspire.

Around Town: 12/10-12/18

Posted on December 10, 2015 by Spur Local

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Bishop Walker School Basketball Tournament with Bishop John T Walker School for Boys

A basketball tournament that begins on Thursday, Dec. 10 – Saturday, Dec. 12
When: Thu Dec 10 2015 (7:00 PM)
Where: St. Albans – Martin Gym, Mount St. Alban, Washington, DC 20016-5069
Fee? yes Email for specifics
Contact: Suzanne Burrows, (202) 591-3074

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Children’s Holiday Party with Community Lodgings, Inc.

This beloved holiday event is enjoyed by about 100 low-income children living in Arlandria (north Alexandria/south Arlington). The kids enjoy the music, food, crafts, book-reading and of course a visit from Santa! The party takes place at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center, 2701 Commonwealth Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22305. Please note that volunteers must meet at Beverly Hills Church (more information below). Volunteers with SUVs and trucks are especially appreciated.
When: Sat Dec 12 2015 (10:15 AM – 11:45 AM) and (2:00 PM – 3:30 PM)
Where: Beverly Hills Church, 3512 Old Dominion Blvd, Alexandria, VA 22305
Fee? no
Volunteer Info: 10:15-11:45am: Pick up tables and chairs at the Beverly Hills Church, load into vans, trucks, cars, etc. and transport and unload at the Mount Vernon Recreation Center. Assemble the tables and chairs, set up decorations. Volunteers with SUVs and trucks are especially appreciated. 2:00pm – 3:00pm: Tear down the tables and chairs and holiday decoration. Gather up and take out any trash. Load the tables and chairs into cars, SUVs and trucks (provided by volunteers) and return them to Beverly Hills Church at 3512 Old Dominion Road. Unload tables and chairs.

George Mason University Ice Hockey Charity Game with Our Military Kids

George Mason Ice Hockey is pleased to announce that our annual community fundraiser game will see our current team play the Mason Hockey Alums. The game will benefit Our Military Kids in the continuation of our series of exhibition games to support local organizations in our community. Tickets will be on sale beginning NOV 1 with an admission price of $10 for both early purchase and at the door on the day of he game. Those who pre-purchase tickets will be entered into a drawing to win a legacy Mason Ice Hockey jersey.
When: Sat Dec 12 2015 (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Where: Prince William Ice Center, 5180 Dale Blvd, Woodbridge, VA 22193
Fee? yes $15 General Admission, $50 VIP
Contact: Matthew Lockwood, (703) 734-6654
For more information: click here

Sunday, December 13, 2015

Adoption Event at PetMAC DC with City Dogs Rescue

Join City Dogs Rescue at an adoption event at PetMAC DC to meet some of our adoptable dogs!
When: Sun Dec 13 2015 (12:00 NOON – 2:00 PM)
Where: PetMAC DC, 4914 Wisconsin Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20016
Fee? no
Volunteer Info: We need drivers to bring dogs from foster homes or our daycare facility (1832 18th ST NW) and back from the event. We also need dog handlers. Dog handling preference will be given to those who can drive a foster to/from the event and stay for the duration.

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Future Link Graduation

Celebrate the success of 32 students from Future Link’s Self Advocacy and Career Development Seminar. Keynote Speaker: Catherine Leggett.
When: Tue Dec 15 2015 (5:30 PM – 07:30 AM)
Where: Montgomery College Rockville Campus, Music Recital Hall — Music Building at 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, MD 20850
Fee? no
Contact: Kris Trible, (301) 346-3463

College and Career Senior Challenge with One World Education

Join DC public and charter school seniors, their teachers, education and civic leaders, and the community for the 2nd annual College and Career Senior Challenge on Tuesday, December 15th. This is the culminating event for the 2,300 DC seniors who have completed the One World Program. Schools across DC have each nominated several students to participate. At the Senior Challenge, these students will deliver a 3-minute argumentative presentation, present a 30-second pitch, and create an issue presentation board, all about their chosen issues. They hone the skills they developed in the classroom by attending a two-month, after-school Senior Challenge Academy where they receive intensive instruction and mentorship as they prepare to present to a panel of judges, which includes education, business, and civic leaders, in hopes of winning scholarship awards.
When: Tue Dec 15 2015 (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Library Great Hall, 901 G St. NW, Washington, DC 20001
Fee? no
Volunteer Info: NA
Contact: Eric Goldstein, (202) 558-8
For more information: click here

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Beyond the Classroom Tour with For Love of Children

Please join us ‘Beyond the Classroom’ to take a tour of our mission and to learn how you can get involved. At this event, you will hear from FLOC’s staff, board members, students, parents, and volunteers. We look forward to seeing you there!
When: Wed Dec 16 2015 (5:30 PM – 6:30 PM)
Where: For Love of Children, 1763 Columbia Road, NW, Washington, DC 20009
Fee? no
Contact: Kate Brown, (202) 462-8686 ext 3

7 Questions: Rebekah D. Mason, Legal Counsel for the Elderly

Posted on December 9, 2015 by Spur Local

This week, the Catalogue for Philanthropy “7 Questions” series welcomes Rebekah Mason, of Legal Counsel for the Elderly, an affiliate of AARP. Rebekah is an LCE Staff Attorney who works on their Veteran’s Advocacy Project, which reaches out to elderly, low-income veterans to make sure they are receiving the benefits owed to them. 2015 marks the 40^th anniversary of Legal Counsel for the Elderly. Today, they continue to provide free legal and social services to DC’s most vulnerable seniors. Welcome, Rebekah!

1. What motivated you to begin working with this organization?

I have always been motivated to work for causes that bring justice to the most vulnerable populations. Many members of my family suffered greatly due to Hurricane Ike and were displaced. As a fellow at the National Low Income Housing Coalition, I was fortunate to be an advocate on behalf of vulnerable low-income folks who needed access to safe and decent affordable housing after being displaced by a natural disaster. When reviewing opportunities for poverty law in the District of Columbia, Legal Counsel for the Elderly, an affiliate of AARP, stood out to me. LCE serves DC’s most vulnerable seniors in a way that motivated me to make DC a permanent home. Continue reading →

Around Town: 11/20-11/25

Posted on November 19, 2015 by Spur Local

Lace up your running shoes! Two Catalogue nonprofits are ready to help you get your pre-Thanksgiving exercise this weekend. Read on to get the details! Around town template

Saturday, November 21st and Sunday, November 22nd

Girls on the Run – Northern Virginia 5k
The Girls on the Run 5K is more than a run, its the celebration of a season of work for thousands of local girls who’ve participated in this life changing program. Come run alongside our participants, families, and alumni, or sign up to volunteer and ensure each girl can cross this important finish line.

When/Where: Sat Nov 21 2015 (8:30am) – Pfitzner Stadium, 7 Country Complex CT, Woodbridge, VA 22192, and Sun Nov 21 2015 (8:30am) -Rosslyn, 1700 N Kent St Arlington, Arlington, VA 22209
Volunteer Info: Volunteers are needed in a variety of roles including registration, course management, water stations, finish line, and much more.
Contact: Emily Davis, (703) 273-3153

Sunday, November 22nd

Run for Shelter 10k, 5K and Fun Run with Carpenter’s Shelter
Ready, set, Run for Shelter! Carpenter’s Shelter’s 5th annual Run for Shelter will be held just steps from the US PTO Madison Building on Eisenhower Ave. in Alexandria, VA. The event includes a 5K, 10K, and Fun Run to suit all skill levels and ages. Proceeds from the event benefit Carpenter’s Shelter and go towards ending homelessness in our community! Visit http://www.carpentersshelter.org/run-for-shelter for more information and to register today! We hope to see you there!

When: Sun Nov 22 2015 (8:00am)
Where: United States Patent and Trademark Office, 600 Dulaney St, Alexandria, VA 2231
Fee?Yes $5 suggested donation at door to benefit Bethany House of Northern Virginia
Contact: Kelly McDermott, (703) 548-7500
For more information: Click here

7 Questions: Susan Punnett, Family and Youth Initiative

Posted on November 19, 2015 by Spur Local

Susan Punnett, Executive Director, DCFYI

In honor of National Adoption Month, we’re proud to feature Susan Punnett, Executive Director of Family & Youth Initiative (’15-’16). DCFYI is the only DC area organization focused exclusively on helping teens in foster care make lifelong connections with caring adults.Susan has twenty years of experience in child welfare and related social services. Prior to founding Family & Youth Initiative, she served for five years as Director of the Kidsave Weekend Miracles DC program, piloting a new approach to helping older children in foster care find adoptive families with funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Read on to learn more about Susan and DCFYI!

What motivated you to begin working with your organization?

Five years ago I was the project director at a non-profit, helping teens in foster care find adoptive families. When that organization decided to end the program a number of us were unwilling to walk away from the teens who had not yet found family. So we started Family & Youth Initiative to keep the program going. I was motivated then as I am now by the amazing teens I have gotten to know. I consider myself privileged to play a part in this very critical time in their lives.

How is your organization recognizing National Adoption Month?

Actually much of what we do this month is the same as what we do year round talking to people about teens in foster care and bringing teens and adults together so they can form what will become lasting relationships. National Adoption Month gives us a bit of a bigger platform because of the added publicity from events like National Adoption Day (in DC, Adoption Day in Court).

Continue reading →

Around Town: 11/13-11/19

Posted on November 12, 2015 by Spur Local

Looking for events and volunteer opportunities for you, your family, or your friends and co-workers? Catalogue nonprofits have something for everyone. Read on to get the details!

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