mclogo
OFFICE OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS NEWSLETTER
"Together we can accomplish great things!"
County Executive Ike Leggett
November 2014 - Issue: 79
2014 General Election Information
Tuesday 
November 4, 2014
7am to 8pm


Visit  www.montgomerycountymd.gov for important information on the following:
  • Early Voting Information
  • Voter Services Information
  • Election Judges
  • Absentee Voting Information
  • Upcoming Deadlines
HOLD THIS DATE!

Inauguration of the Montgomery County Executive & Councilmembers

Date: Monday, December 1, 2014
Time: 11:15am
Location: Richard Montgomery High School

Off-site parking and shuttle service (locations to be determined)
No on-site parking
Volunteer Center
Community Service Week 2014 Kicked Off Effort to Make Montgomery County a Hunger-Free Zone

Nonprofit organizations, the faith community and thousands of volunteers came together during Montgomery County's 28th Community Service Week. This year's projects helped launch an effort to end hunger in Montgomery County. From October 18 - 26, volunteers collected food to re-fill the shelves at area food banks and student backpack programs, cooked food for families lacking food security and also prepared soil to grow food. At other projects, individuals attended volunteer orientations to learn how to engage year-round in literacy, housing and health, cleaned local streams, helped elderly homeowners handle big chores, staffed fairs to raise money for local nonprofits, sorted clothing for people here and abroad, and much more. Please visit www.montgomeryserves.org
to find ways to volunteer all year. And don't forget to mark your calendars for our next day of Service, Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 19, 2015.


Volunteers at Giant Food Drive for Manna Food Center. Theresa Testoni, Commissioner with Governor's Commission on Service; Alyssa Aafuang; Alexa Paat; Jackie DeCarlo, Director of Manna Food Center; Nimah Nayel; Sophia Kestell; Jessica Aafuang; Ike Leggett, County Executive; J. Pepsie Michel
Newsletter Volunteer Needed!

Do you like this newsletter? A lead volunteer is needed to produce it each month. Work in collaboration with Bruce Adams and the team at the Office of Community Partnerships and help us build and strengthen our community in Montgomery County. Applicants should have good computer skills including some experience working with web-based tools and programs. Click here for more information.

Help Make Montgomery County A Hunger-Free Zone

 

Did you know that hunger is a huge and growing problem in Montgomery County? Learn about the incredible work of nonprofits fighting hunger in our community, as well as, about new ideas and collaborations that are forming. Be part of the solution!

 

Go to www.montgomeryserves.org to find out more. 

Gilchrist Center

The Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity Welcomes a New Team Member!

 

Abeje Chumo joined the Center as a fulltime Program Specialist to manage the information and referral, quality assurance, volunteer programs and strengthening the integration programs and services to Montgomery County's multicultural residents. Abeje brings to his new role more than ten years of experience in migration management, refugee protection and integration program management.

 

Before joining the Gilchrist Center, Abeje worked with the International Rescue Committee, Church World Service, the World Bank and the International Organization for Migration both here in the U.S. and in East Africa. Abeje has extensive experience in designing and implementing strategic plans, business plans, implementation structures, contracts, reports, and quality control mechanisms analyzing key strategic and business issues, trends and opportunities that affected the programs.

 

Abeje studied international law at the United Nations Mandated University for Peace in San Jose, Costa Rica, focusing on the peaceful settlement of disputes. He completed his undergraduate studies in 2000 in Political Science at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia.

 

Abeje is a strong believer in the power of social media to bring about change. He has served on a number of human rights, peace and justice technical teams, media campaigns and blogs as a subject matter expert and blogger, with a particular focus on East Africa.

 

In his words, "I am grateful for the opportunity to work for Montgomery County. I am passionate about giving back in every possible way." Abeje is a resident of Silver Spring.

U.S. Citizenship Community Fair in Gaithersburg!



On Saturday, October 25, 2014, a citizenship fair was held for Upcounty residents who are interested and/or in the process of becoming US Citizens. The all-day fair had over 100 visitors and over 30 applications were processed by the team of volunteers available including; 20 lawyers, 14 law students and 5 staff/volunteers and staff. It was a great event and a needed ongoing service to county residents. The event was made possible between the collaboration of our partners; CASA de Maryland, AILA, Equal Justice Workers, Gilchrist Center and Montgomery County Public Libraries. It was a fun and serious community fair for County residents as they made an important and necessary decision.
Each One Teach One
Literacy Council Logo
The Literacy Council has 150 individuals waiting for tutors, and receives requests from more prospective learners every day. The Council needs to expand the tutor base in order to help these motivated adults obtain critical literacy skills.
  • Are you a member of a church, synagogue, mosque, or other religious organization?
  • Does your neighborhood have a listserv?
  • Are you active in a local alumni association?
  • Are you out and about in the community running errands or shopping?
  • Can you post flyers?
  • Do you use social media?
You have access to materials that you can easily download and share. Visit the website here for more information and resources. Also, please let us know if you have other ideas. please contact Shelley Long at 301.610.0030, ext. 219.
African American Community
National Center for Children and Families Centennial Celebration

On October 21st, Arne and Ruth Sorenson and the National Center for Children and Families (NCCF) had their Centennial Celebration at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC.  Civic and social benefactors attended to support NCCF's 100 years of growth, hope and success with friends, fantastic food, and captivating entertainment, with Celebrity Comedian/Actor Chris Tucker on hand for the cause.  Let's hope there is another 100 years of NCCF's service to children and families in Montgomery County and region-wide! Congratulations to NCCF executive director Sheryl Brissett Chapman who also serves as the chair of County Executive Leggett's African American Advisory Group.
The African American Health Program Appoints new Co-Chairs

The African American Health Program's (AAHP) Executive Committee has appointed Anthony Morrison and Terrence Dupree  as Co-Chairs of its Black Males Health and Wellness Collaborative.  This new collaborative group will ensure that AAHP addresses the health and wellness concerns of Black males (young and old) in Montgomery County. They will work with AAHP staff and other Program Collaboratives to help ensure that AAHP includes emphasis for Black males in our six existing program areas as well as the planned Mental/Behavioral Health program area. This Collaborative will work to see that AAHP services, messaging, and events address health disparities that plague Black males as well as issues that our Black men feel are critical.
Asian Community
Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett Hosted a Vibrant Diwali Celebration

On October 28, Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett hosted the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a holiday observed worldwide between mid-October and mid-November by people of Indian and South Asian heritage.  The observance marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness.  The free community program featured remarks, a lamp lighting ceremony, Indian dances and a reception with traditional Indian sweets. Maryland Delegates Aruna Miller, Sam Arora and Kumar Barve were in attendance along with representatives from the Governor's office, Congressman Chris Van Hollen's office and Indian Embassy. For more information on Diwali, please contact Asian Liaison Diane Vu  or call 240-777-8320.
Caribbean American Community 
Caribbean American Advisory Meeting Promoting Civic Engagement

The Montgomery County Caribbean American Advisory Group will meet on Tuesday, November 4th 2014, 7:00pm, at the Silver Spring Civic Building. Members are inviting more people to attend this meeting since the location is one of the election sites in the County.
Interfaith Community 
Interfaith Prayer Service for Ebola Relief in West Africa

Save the Date!

Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Silver Spring Civic Center

Donations of dried beans, rice, canned food, medical supplies, masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, etc. which will be taken and shipped to West Africa to help those in need.

Monetary donations with checks made out to "ISWA" can be sent to: Islamic Society of Washington Area, 2701 Briggs Chaney Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20905
35th Annual Interfaith Concert

Save the Date!

Date: Thursday, November 20, 2014
Time: 7:30pm - 9:00pm
Location: Washington Hebrew Congregation

Enjoy Music and Dance from the Baha'i, Buddhist, Islamic, Protestant, Roman Catholic and Zoroastrian Communities

Tickets: $40 reserved; $25 general admission; $20 senior and student

Click here to purchase tickets online or to make a donation to the concert.
Understanding the ISIS Threat to the Homeland Event

On October 8, 2014, the Montgomery County Faith Community Working Group (FCWG) and WORDE co-hosted "Understanding the ISIS Threat to The Homeland." Over 110 people, including representatives from local, state and the federal government, came together to hear an international expert panel discuss the recruiting tactics of ISIS and other terrorist groups and explore innovative strategies for empowering the community to intervene. Speakers included Montgomery County Police Chief J. Thomas Manger, WORDE President Dr. Hedieh Mirahmadi, WORDE Senior Fellow Mehreen Farooq, Rabia Chaudry from the Safe Nation Collaborative, Angus Smith Senior Special Advisor in the National Security Policy Directorate Canada, Nathalie Filion Manager of the Cross-Cultural Roundtable on Security at the Department of Public Safety Canada, Charlene Larose Director of Citizen Engagement at the Department of Public Safety Canada, and Hussein Hamdani, a lawyer and appointee to Canada's Cross-Cultural Roundtable on Security. Speakers discussed the history and ideology of ISIS, the online presence of the group (especially in social media), and explored ways the community can intervene in order to prevent youth from joining terrorist organizations such as ISIS. In addition to parents and community members, the audience included Montgomery County Council Vice President George Leventhal, Bruce Adams and Reverend Kasey Kaseman from the Montgomery County Executive's Office of Community Partnerships, and Montgomery County Assistant Police Chief Darryl McSwain and MCPD Officer Luther Reynolds.
Latin American  Community
Hispanic Heritage celebration and screening of Harvest of Empire for County employees and community at EOB
  On October 7, 2014, County Executive Ike Leggett celebrated Hispanic Heritage month with county employees and residents by holding a screening of Harvest of Empire: The Untold of Story of Latinos in America. The award-wining documentary connects the dots around the U.S. Foreign Policy towards Latin America and the effect it had on the 20th century and today around immigration. Eduardo Lopez, co-director of the documentary and local Montgomery County resident, received a certificate from the County Executive on his leadership and work. After the screening, a panel discussion was held with Councilmember Nancy Navarro, Eduardo Lopez and Jilma Lasso, Immigration attorney around the documentary and immigration. At the event, a Salvadoran family from Gaithersburg performed the traditional dance of El Carbonero in beautiful traditional customs. The event was a joint effort between the Latin American Advisory Group to County Executive Ike Leggett and the Latino Health Steering Committee of Montgomery County. It was a wonderful and unique celebration!
Hispanic Heritage Celebration with Governor Martin O'Malley

On October, 15, 2014, Governor Martin O'Malley and the Governor's Commission on Hispanic Affairs held a reception in his house celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, as well as the achievements of the community in the state and the policies and laws that affect and benefit the Latino community. During the event, Latino leaders from across the state were awarded for their work in and activism in our communities. Montgomery County was well represented as Councilmember Nancy Navarro, Luis Cardona, HHS; Sonia Mora, HHS; and Nestor Alvarenga, OCP were given awards by the Governor and Commission.
Middle Eastern Community 
MCMF Zabiha Meat Distribution 2014


On October 11 & 12, 2014, the Montgomery County Muslim Foundation( MCMF) distributed raw meat weighing about 3600 lbs to 500  families in need residing in Montgomery County irrespective of their race, religion, color or creed. It is an annual event that MCMF undertakes in celebrating Eid-ul-Adha.

This year, we were able to purchase 9 cows with donations amounting to about $15000 collected from the Muslim community of the County. The meat was distributed in collaboration with IMPACT Silver Spring at Silver Spring, Adventist Support Services in Takoma Park, Edu care Support Services at Takoma Park, and Muslim Community Center at Silver Spring.

Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is observed by Muslims to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son obeying the instructions of God. During the three days of festivity, Muslims sacrifice a lamb, goat, cow or a camel and distribute the meat to the homeless, poor and less fortunate families living in their neighborhoods.
College Admission Workshop

Save the Date!

Date: Saturday, November 8, 2014
Time: 11:30am
Location: Montgomery County Muslim Foundation

Montgomery County Muslim Foundation (MCMF) and USPAK Foundation
are organizing a hands-on College Admission Workshop for High School Students (10th -12th
grade).  This event is open to all high school students. Parents are welcome to attend.
Islamic Society of Germantown
Grand Opening Event

Save the Date!

Date: Saturday November 8, 2014
Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Masjid, 19825 Blunt Road Germantown MD 20876

The Islamic Society of Germantown has extended  invitations to Elected Officials, County Representatives, and Community Members to attend their grand opening event. This will be the first Up County Masjid for community muslims. Tours of the space
and light refreshments will be provided. Keynote speaker will be County Executive Ike Leggett.
Artist Reception: With Pen and Camera, The Art of Ahmed and Ayah Belal

Save the Date!

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Sandy Spring Museum

Meet the artists.  A father-daughter show featuring the work of calligrapher Ahmed Belal and his photographer daughter, Ayah, exploring the geometry and lyricism of Islamic calligraphy and architecture through the eyes of two Egyptian-American artists.white mosque
Artist Kamila Barbour will talk on Islamic Design Principles at 5 PM.

For More information visit: http://www.sandyspringmuseum.org

Ali H. Alyami, Empowering Saudi Women Can Defeat Extremism in Saudi Arabia

Save the Date!

Date: Monday, November 10, 2014
Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Location:
Cost: $20 Members; $25 Non-members (one complimentary drink)

Please join us as we welcome founder and director of the Washington-based Center for Democracy and Human Rights in Saudi Arabia, Ali H. Alyami for an informative discussion on how Empowering Saudi Women can Defeat Extremism.
 
Ali H. Alyami is founder and director of the Washington-based Center for Democracy and Human Rights in Saudi Arabia, which focuses on the Saudi regime's domestic and foreign policies and their ramifications on Saudi society and by extension the international community.  
 
Born and educated in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Alyami worked for the Arabian American Oil Company (ARAMCO), and was awarded an ARAMCO scholarship to pursue his education in the U.S. Completing his studies on his own, he earned a PhD from the Claremont Graduate University in Southern California, with a doctoral thesis titled: "The Impact Of Modernization On The Stability Of The Saudi Monarchy." For decades, Dr. Alyami has argued that empowering Saudi women can defeat extremism and propel Saudi society into brighter, safer and peaceful future.
Sister Cities
Enjoy Fruits of the Harvest!
Rockville Sister City Wine Tasting / Fund Raiser

Save the Date!

Date: Friday, November 7, 2014
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Glenview Mansion
Tickets: $30 for tickets purchased at the door

All are invited to attend the Rockville Sister City fall benefit wine tasting. Sample several Champagnes and digestives - the perfect "before and after" of any party - in an elegant setting. Taste other wines appropriate to complement a variety of foods and occasions.

Hors d'oeuvres will be served.
Sister Cities Montgomery County and Moraz�n, El Salvador meeting with Former Governor Miguel Ventura

On Thursday, October 23, 2014, the Montgomery Sister Cities/Moraz�n, El Salvador committee held a meeting with Miguel Ventura, former Governor of Moraz�n, El Salvador, Montgomery County's first Sister City. Former Governor Ventura presented on the current socio-political and economic status of Moraz�n, the new governor and the status of the INCTAUES University campus as well as the ongoing coordination of the Sister Cities program. At the same time, the Sister Cities committee and former Governor Ventura reconfirmed their commitment and ongoing support between the people of Montgomery County and Moraz�n.


Nestor Alvarenga, Latino Community Liaison; Neftali Granados, Sister City Montgomery/Moraz�n committee member; Karla Silvestre, Montgomery College's Director of Community Engagement; Miguel Ventura, former Governor of Moraz�n, El Salvador, Montgomery County's first Sister City; Evelyn Gonzalez, Sister Cities board and Sister City Montgomery/Moraz�n member; Isis Salmeron, Vice-president of Sister Cities Montgomery/Moraz�n committee; Jorge Granados, Sister Cities Montgomery/ Moraz�n committee member.
Collaborative Art Exhibit at Montgomery College

The Global Humanities Institute and Arts Departments of Montgomery College have organized a collaborative art exhibit with Xi'an University and the University of El Salvador. Running through November 14 at the Cultural Arts Center of Montgomery College Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus, the exhibit is entitled "Identity: Contemporary Interpretations of History, Place, and Culture." Xi'an China and Moraz�n, El Salvador are two of Montgomery County's Sister Cities. Photo from the October 23 opening reception for the exhibit (left to right): Karla Silvestre, Montgomery College's Director of Community Engagement; Sanjay Rai, Montgomery College's Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs; Miguel Ventura, former Governor of Moraz�n, El Salvador, Montgomery County's first Sister City; Vilma Herrera, Counselor for Cultural Affairs, Embassy of El Salvador; and Rita Kranidis, Program Director of Montgomery College's Global Humanities Institute.
Please Share Your Time, Talent, and Treasure 

On Monday October 20, we kicked off the 2014 Montgomery County Employee Giving Campaign with a nonprofit fair at the Executive Office Building in Rockville. County Executive Ike Leggett thanked the nonprofits in attendance for all they do to make Montgomery County such a special place and encouraged county employees to support our nonprofit partners by giving their time, talent, and treasure. October 18-26 was Montgomery County's annual community service week and thousands of county residents rolled up their sleeves and volunteered on projects ranging from helping our neighbors in need to beautifying our schools and parks. Volunteers working at Giant Food Stores throughout the county collected 16,000 pounds of food for the Manna Food Center on October 25-26.

These great nonprofits participated in our October 20 nonprofit fair (see photo of nonprofit representatives and Employee Giving Campaign departmental representatives):
  • America's Charities
  • amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research
  • A Wider Circle
  • Community Foundation for Montgomery County/Neighbors in Need Fund
  • EarthShare Mid-Atlantic
  • Family Services
  • IMPACT Silver Spring
  • Jewish Council for the Aging
  • Manna Food Center
  • Mental Health Association
  • Montgomery County Adult English Literacy (MCAEL)
  • Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless (MCCH)
  • Nourish Now
  • Rebuilding Together
  • Shepherd's Table
  • United Way of the National Capital Area

As we approach the holidays, many of our safety net community groups are organizing to help our neighbors in need. For more than 30 years, the annual Holiday Giving Project of Montgomery County has helped our less affluent residents celebrate Thanksgiving and the December holidays. Nine thousand families were served in 2013. Human service professionals, such as social workers and school counselors, screen and refer individuals and families needing holiday assistance. Find out how you can help by sharing your time, talent, and treasure: http://www.awidercircle.org 

 

 

signature

Bruce Adams

Director, Office of Community Partnerships

County News & Events
County's Human Rights Hall of Fame Inducts Seven, Including Our Own Kasey Kaseman

 

It comes as no surprise among Montgomery County faith leaders who work with the Rev. Mansfield Kaseman of Boyds that he was inducted into the county's Human Rights Hall of Fame.

 

"He brings a tremendous amount of experience, energy and passion to issues that we both care deeply about," said Hedieh Mirahmadi, founder of the International Cultural Center in Gaithersburg.

 

Kaseman was one of seven inductees this year who was honored by the county's Office of Human Rights at the public ceremony and reception in Germantown.

 

Pastor emeritus of the Rockville United Church, where he served 26 years, Kaseman is currently the county's community liaison to the faith community. He heads the volunteer Faith Community Advisory Council, which is part of the County Executive's Office of Community Partnerships. Read the full story at www.gazette.net

Get the Facts about Ebola

On Wednesday, October 29, 2014, the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services held a briefing on Ebola Preparedness. Dr. Ulder J. Tillman, MD, MPH, Health Officer Montgomery County, presented the facts and answered questions from the audience. Many agencies and representatives from community organization attended the briefing and took informational materials.

For more information, goto: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ebola
Silver Spring Thanksgiving Day Parade 2014

Save the Date!

Date: Saturday, November 22, 2014
Time: 10:00am
Parade Route: The parade begins at Ellsworth Drive and Veterans Place and proceeds South on Georgia Avenue, ending at Silver Spring Avenue.  See a map of Silver Spring

For more information including transportation, parking and photos from last year, please visit dc.about.com
Governor's Service Award Recipients

This year marks the 31st year a Maryland Governor has honored volunteers from around the State at a special recognition event. Nominations come in from all across the state. Honorees serving in Montgomery County were Samira Hussein in the Lifetime Achievement category and Girl Scout Troop 1369 in the Group category.

Samara Husssein is dedicated to stopping bullying and expanding multiculturalism in the school setting and beyond. For over ten years, Samira was the Chair of Human Relations for the county's PTA and started a number of programs in schools. Samira also serves on the Gaithersburg Multicultural Affairs Committee and founded Arab American Heritage Month.

Girl Scout Troop 1369 is made up of 11 and 12 year old Girl Scouts. They participate in the Annual Frederick MS Walk, the Damascus 5K Freedom Run, Gaithersburg Harvest Festival, Relay for Life making luminaries, and more. During Christmas of 2013, Troop 1369 visited the residents at the Alpine Assisted Living to sing Christmas carols and hand out their homemade Christmas ornaments.

See more about the event and other honorees in the state: http://www.gosv.maryland.gov
Montgomery County Council Seeks Applicants for Grants Advisory GroupCounty Seal

The Montgomery County Council is seeking applicants for positions on its Fiscal Year 2016 Grants Advisory Group. The Council will appoint the volunteer community panel to review grant applications and advise it on proposals received from the non-profit community. Letters of interest from applicants must be received no later than 4 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 6.

The Council believes that a strong partnership with non-profit organizations is critical in meeting the County's needs. The Council has established a grants process in which the Council accepts applications from non-profit organizations seeking funds, forwards proposals to the Grants Advisory Group for advice and comments and then makes funding decisions during its spring budget deliberations.

It is anticipated that the Grants Advisory Group will be appointed in December and will be asked to report to the Council by the end of April 2015. The Council will designate the chair of the Advisory Group.

Panel members will need to attend training sessions and review relevant materials during late January and February. The applications review will take place between late February and April 15.

The Grants Advisory Group will be asked to provide the Council with written comments on each of the grant proposals. The workload will vary based on the number of applications received and panel members appointed. However, it is expected that each member would review approximately 20-25 applications. Panel members should anticipate approximately six to eight meetings between late January and mid-April, with the potential for weekly meetings in March.

Applicants for the Advisory Group may not be employees of, or members of a board of, a nonprofit group applying for Council grant funding. However, applications will be accepted from members of panels reviewing Community Development Block Grants or Community Service Grants, as well as from other advisory boards or community groups.

Interested applicants living or working in the County should submit their letter of interest with a resume to: Council President Craig Rice, Montgomery County Council, Stella B. Werner Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850 or via email to [email protected]
2014 State of the Schools Building Our Future Together

 

Save the Date!


Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Times:
7:30am - Enjoy a light breakfast and student performances and artwork throughout the Music Center.
8:30am - Dr. Starr presents his State of the Schools address.
Location: The Music Center at Strathmore

Superintendent Joshua P. Starr will deliver his State of the Schools address including his vision for how we can prepare all students for success in their future. We also will celebrate the outstanding students of Montgomery County Public Schools.

Foreign language and sign language interpretation will be available.

Please RSVP at www.mcpsstateoftheschools.org. The event is free and should conclude by 9:30 a.m.
Applications for School
Based Nonprofit YouthGrants
Now Being Accepted

In the FY2015 budget, the Gaithersburg Mayor and City Council approved funding to support nonprofit-school partnerships and services in middle schools and high schools with 10% or more City students. Qualifying area nonprofit agencies are invited to apply for funding for programs that will be conducted between January 1 and December 31, 2015. A total of $28,500.00 is available. Application submission deadline is Friday, November 14, 2014 at 4 p.m. Agencies receiving financial support from the City of Gaithersburg may apply, but programs that are receiving FY15 grant funding from this pool will not be eligible for additional funding. 

The mission of the Educational Enrichment Committee grants program is to support the implementation of improved educational processes and student development programs that have measurable results and support these key strategies:
  • Promotion of academic enrichment for students;
  • Promotion of  positive school environments that are conducive to learning;
  • Promotion of parent and community involvement in the schools; and
  • Promotion of mentoring and student support programs that enhance student well-being.
A memorandum of understanding with one of the following eligible schools must be submitted with each application:
  • Forest Oak Middle School
  • Gaithersburg Middle School
  • Lakelands Park Middle School
  • Montgomery Village Middle School
  • Ridgeview Middle School
  • Gaithersburg High School
  • Quince Orchard High School
  • Watkins Mill High School
The Gaithersburg Community Services Division will review applications for technical compliance, after which they will be submitted to the City's Educational Enrichment Committee for evaluation and recommendation.  The Gaithersburg Mayor and City Council will then consider the recommendations for approval.

Application forms and instructions are available online at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/services/community-services.  For more information, please call 301-258-6395 x1 or e-mail Maureen Herndon at [email protected].
County Seal Residents and Business Representatives Sought for Bus Rapid Transit Corridor Advisory Committees

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) and the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) are seeking volunteers -- residents, businesses and community organizations -- to serve on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridor Advisory Committees (CACs). The two agencies are seeking public input as they develop concepts for a Rapid Transit System (RTS), a network of BRT routes that is being studied along various County and State roadways. Over the next two years, four major corridors will be evaluated for RTS, including Georgia Avenue, US Route 29 (Colesville Road and Columbia Pike), Maryland Route 355 (Frederick Road, Rockville Pike and Wisconsin Avenue) and Veirs Mill Road. A CAC will be established for each corridor under consideration. Longer corridors may be broken into several CACs.

A CAC nomination form, due on November 21, is available online and details the structure, selection procedures, specific tasks, formation process, and operating guidelines for the CACs. Residents along the corridors under study are asked to send their nomination forms to the president of the civic/homeowner association that represents them. Each civic group along the corridor will select one representative to serve on the CAC for that corridor.

Businesses along the proposed routes are asked to send their nomination forms to their respective Chamber of Commerce, which will make recommendations on proposed business representatives. Links to all the chambers are available online.

Each committee also allows for a number of "at large" representatives who may not live or work directly along the corridor but have an interest in the project. Those forms, also due November 21, should be submitted by email to [email protected] or mailed to MCDOT Director's Office, 101 Monroe Street, 10th Floor, Rockville, MD 20850. Residents may nominate themselves or be nominated by others.

More information is available on the County's RTS website.
Celebrate the 150th Anniversary of Maryland Emancipation Day

A new state constitution freed enslaved people living in Maryland on November 1, 1864.  Join Heritage Montgomery, Montgomery Parks, and our partner sites as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Maryland Emancipation Day! Bring your family to enjoy special commemorative programs, food, games & crafts, demonstrations, music and more at sites around Montgomery County.  Programs are FREE unless otherwise noted.

Beall-Dawson Historical Park

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: Noon to 4:00pm
Location: Beall-Dawson House

Emancipation Day at the Beall-Dawson House will feature historic persona re-enactors, music by Washington Revels Jubilee Voices, exhibits and artifacts. Local residents who are descendants of those enslaved in Montgomery County will share stories of their forebears.

For more information on programs please visit MontgomeryHistory.org or call 301-340-2825.

 Button Farm Living History Center

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: Noon to 4:00pm
Location: Button Farm Living History Center

Bring a picnic to this living history center showing daily plantation life of the enslaved in the 1800s and hear emancipation stories, storyteller Diane Macklin, and enjoy children's games, butter churning, music, crafts, sack races, horseshoes, corn hole, and more!  An African American genealogist will offer tips and recommend resources for families researching their past.

For more information on programs please visit ButtonFarm.org or call 301-916-7090

Oakley Cabin African American
Museum & Park


Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: Noon to 4:00pm
Location: Oakley Cabin African American Museum & Park

The 18th annual Emancipation Day at Oakley Cabin features tours, hearth-cooking demonstrations, crafts & games, an archaeology dig, presentations by living history re-enactors, and music at this site that was home to African American tenant families in the late 1800s. Emancipation Day Program, 2-3:30pm. Parking only at Longwood Local Park, 19300 Georgia Ave with shuttle vans to Oakley Cabin.

For more information on programs please visit HistoryintheParks.org or call 301-650-4373.

Sandy Spring Slave Museum

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: Noon to 4:00pm
Location: Sandy Spring Slave Museum

Visit this museum focusing on African and African American history and culture with exhibits in the Great Hall, a cross-section of a slaving clipper ship, African hut, and log cabin. Special screenings on the hour of Heritage Montgomery's documentary, "Community Cornerstones: Historic African American Communities in Montgomery County." Food available for purchase.

For more information on programs please visit SandySpringSlaveMuseum.org
 
Harper Cabin at Brookside Nature Center

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014 &
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Time: 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Location: Harper Cabin at Brookside Nature Center

Open house at this 19th-century log cabin depicting the life of newly emancipated African American families in the late 1800s: "One Family's Journey to Success."  Learn the part apples and other crops played in preparing for the coming winter: apple cider pressing, corn grinding, preparing crops for storage, cooking with corn, honey gathering, seed mosaics, games and crafts, and more!

For more information on programs please visit
HistoryintheParks.org  or call 301-962-1480.
 
Sandy Spring Museum

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Date: Sunday, November 2, 2014
Time: Noon to 5:00pm
Location: Sandy Spring Museum
Admission Fee: $5.00

SATURDAY, 2pm: "Emancipation Proclamation: 150 Years Later."  An oral history performance featuring Harriet Lynn of the Heritage Theatre Artists' Consortium and six area residents who will share their personal stories and insights on the 150th anniversary of Maryland emancipation; music, poetry, and intriguing tales from past to present.

SUNDAY: Visit this museum that chronicles local Quaker and African American history in one of the oldest sustained communities of African American landowners in the nation.

For more information on programs please visit SandySpringMuseum.org or call 301-774-0022.
 
Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2014
Time: Hikes at 9:00am, 9:30am & 10:00am
Location: Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park

Hike the Underground Railroad Experience Trail.  Learn techniques freedom seekers used to elude pursuers hiking a 2-mile wooded, natural surface trail from Woodlawn to the historic Sandy Spring Friends Meetinghouse.  Shuttle vans will transport hikers back to Woodlawn Manor.

For more information on programs please visit HistoryintheParks.org or call 301-650-4373.

Josiah Henson Park

Date: Sunday, November 2, 2014
Time: Noon - 4:00pm
Location: Josiah Henson Park

Tour the historic Riley farm where Rev. Josiah Henson was enslaved from 1795 to 1830.  Henson's 1849 autobiography inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin.  Tours at noon, 1 and 2pm. Emancipation Day program, 3-4pm, featuring a re-enactment of an 1860s-era debate, "The Question of Maryland's Secession," followed by a performance by Washington Revels Jubilee Voices.  Parking only across the street at Kennedy Shriver Aquatic Center, 5900 Executive Blvd.

For more information on programs please visit HistoryintheParks.org or call 301-650-4373.
2014 American Indian Heritage Month

Save the Date!

Date: Monday, November 3, 2014
Time: 11:00am - 1:30pm
Location: St. Joseph's Catholic Church

Come join the celebration. Enjoy guest speakers, cultural performances & presentations, free native food and information booths.
Montgomery County Public Libraries Offers Free Art Classes For Active Seniors at Three Branches

Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) is offering free art classes for active seniors (55 +) at Davis, Twinbrook and White Oak libraries. Artist Stephen T. Hanks, who has taught at MontgomeryCollege, Leisure World and SeniorCenters, among other venues, will teach all classes.

Registration is required for all six classes that will be held according to the following schedule:

Drawing Fundamentals

Davis Library
Day: Mondays
Dates: October 27, November 3, 10, 17, 24, and ending December 1
Times: 10:00am - 12:30pm
Class is limited to 18 participants.

White Oak Library
Day: Mondays
Dates: October 27, November 3, 10, 17, 24, and ending December 1
Time: 1:30pm - to 4:00pm
Class is limited to 18 participants.

Students will be introduced to the principles of good composition in a drawing, the basics of drawing -- including linear-perspective, semi-blind contour drawing, 3D shading, drawing basic 3D forms, etc.

Watercolor Painting

Twinbrook Library
 Day: Fridays
Date: October 31, continuing on November 7, 14, 21, (skipping November 28), December 5, and ending on December 12
Time:  1:00pm - 3:30pm
Class is limited to 12 participants.

Students will be introduced to the principles of good composition in a watercolor painting and will explore 20 different watercolor concepts and techniques and how to apply them in a painting.

All class materials will be provided. Each participant will complete at least one finished quality piece of work by the end of the class. Because the classes are repeats of those offered last spring, the series will be open only to new participants.

For more information and to register, visit MCPL website at http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov  or call the branches:
Davis Library, 240-777-0922; White Oak Library, 240-773-9555; or Twinbrook Library, 240-777-0240.
Help Craft the Future of Federal Immigrant Integration Efforts


This summer Welcoming America and the National Partnership for New Americans (NPNA) helped convene a number of stakeholders at the White House to discuss the creation of a national immigrant and refugee integration strategy. The President's staff and federal agencies are now considering the many ideas that were generated during the summit. As these ideas begin to take shape, we want to hear from additional perspectives and provide an opportunity for greater input and reflection on integration priorities.

Please take a few moments to share your expertise and help influence federal immigrant integration efforts and structure by clicking here. Thank you for being part of this exciting process.

Survey Deadline:
Thursday, November 6 at 8:00 pm Eastern/5:00 pm Pacific
Are you interested in learning about educational opportunities for a career in the health care field?

Save the Date!

Date: Friday, November 7, 2014
Time: Noon - 2:00pm
Location: Catholic Charities
12247 Georgia Ave Silver Spring, MD 20902

As of this year, Holy Cross Hospital and Montgomery College are partnering in a special scholarship program for those wishing to pursue a career in the field of health care.
Now Accepting Applications for
2015 it Award!


At C.Fox,  we use communications for a change. We work with organizations who can say "What we do, we do for the good of others." We help them move their missions forward through compelling storytelling that makes people stop, listen and act.  And in 2015, one organization will have the opportunity to access our services for free.

We're now accepting applications for the fifth installment of our inspired thought (it) Award--worth up to $50,000 in pro bono communications services. We hope you'll apply, or nominate a worthy organization.  

 

The it Award is open to any United States-based nonprofit with 10 or more full-time employees. There is no fee to enter. We just need you to tell us why your organization should be it. Questions? We're hosting an information session and conference call on Wednesday, November 5, at our Bethesda office. Whether you can join in person or by phone, meet the team and learn more about the it Award.

You can take a look at the award details and apply here.  If you have trouble accessing the application, please email [email protected]

 

Not a fit this year, or know someone else worthy of the award? Pass along these details, and feel free to reach out to us at  [email protected] with any questions during the application process.   

Conversation on Leadership:
Dr. Freeman Hrabowski
President of University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Save the Date!

Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Cultural Arts Center,
Montgomery College Takoma Park/Silver Spring

Cost:
$30 Basic, Current Core, Senior & Emerging Leaders Participants.   
FREE for Premium and L100, $45 for non-Members. Registration required, Dinner Included
Annual Luncheon & Awards Ceremony
CVC Annual Wards Luncheon logo

Save the Date & Buy Tickets Now!

Date: Friday, November 14, 2014
Time: 11:00am - 2:00pm
Location: Bethesda North Marriott

Tickets: CVC Members: $95; Non-members: $105

Join us at the 2014 Annual Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, where we will recognize three businesses with awards for outstanding volunteer efforts in the past year.
 
We will also present one organization or individual with the Andrea Jolly President's Award as selected by the CVC President for their exceptional commitment to service in Montgomery County.

We invite members of the Corporate Volunteer Council of Montgomery County and all of our friends to join us as we celebrate these award winners and the past year of corporate volunteerism.

For more information on the event and the speakers, please visit https://cvc-mc.org.
Artisan Gifts & Food Marketplace

Save the Date!

Date: Sunday, November 16, 2014
Time: 10:30am - 5:00pm
Location:Silver Spring Civic Center

Join us for a one of a kind shopping experience to help propel the businesses of local women entrepreneurs.

Discover unique artisan gifts from handcrafted Native American jewelry to inspiring purses from East Africa, original Iraqi art and poetry, beautiful pottery and handmade storybooks!

Savor delicious Egyptian deserts, gluten-free pastries and confections like divine chocolate mousse and sweet potato pie!

Listen to music, hear their stories, and watch engaging demonstrations of their craft!
Montgomery County's Fall Guide for Recreation and Parks Programs Now Available

The Fall issue of the Montgomery County Guide for Montgomery Parks logoRecreation and Parks Programs is now available.  Registration is opens for programs and classes.  

The guide features hundreds of activities and programs that make it easy to enjoy a healthier and more active lifestyle, including sports, therapeutic recreation services and active adult senior programming.     

Registration is available in one of four ways:  online, by mail, fax or in person at the Montgomery County Recreation Administrative Offices at 4010 Randolph Rd., Silver Spring.

Print copies of the guide are available at recreation centers, park facilities, aquatic and senior centers and public libraries. Residents who prefer receiving the guide by mail can pay an annual subscription fee of $5 and receive a full year of five issues (Summer, Fall, Winter, Summer Camps and Spring). To view the guide online, or to sign up for a subscription, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec.  

For more information, call 240-777-6840.
2015 Making a Difference Awards

The Nonprofit Village is committed to increasing the strength, capacity and effectiveness of nonprofits. Through onsite and virtual services, training and collaborative networking, we help organizations successfully achieve their missions and "make a difference." The "Making a Difference" awards are designed to celebrate an individual, nonprofit and a business whose standard of excellence and collaborative work helps to build and sustain a vibrant, community-serving nonprofit sector.

Every year, there are dozens of people who influence, shape, and change lives. And every year, the Nonprofit Village honors those community members at the annual  "It Takes a Village Awards Breakfast." If you know an individual, business or nonprofit that embodies the ideals of partnership to help the nonprofit community thrive, please complete a nomination today.  

Help us to recognize and thank those who make a difference in our community by nominating an individual, a business, or a nonprofit, for the "Making a Difference Award."

For those who have contributed countless hours to the enrichment, improvement, and advancement of our community, we offer a moment of our time to express our gratitude.

Nominate Today
Nominations close on December 1, 2014.

Visit our website for more information thenonprofitvillage.org
NEW Grant Opportunity
from the Chesapeake  Bay Trust and Montgomery County, Maryland 

A new grant program is being offered by the Montgomery County Government and the Chesapeake Bay Trust to support watershed restoration and outreach throughout Montgomery County. The goal of this program is to reduce stormwater runoff and pollutants through community-based restoration implementation as well as projects focused on public engagement through education, outreach, and stewardship. Please note that this is a completely new funding opportunity that is available for non profits in Montgomery County only, with grant awards of up to $50,000. More information is available below and on our website and we encourage you to contact the Trust to discuss any project ideas you might have.

Montgomery County Watershed Restoration and Outreach Grant Program: The Montgomery County Government and the Chesapeake Bay Trust grant program encourages on-the-ground restoration including RainScapes practices as well as outreach and engagement activities that reduce stormflow and pollutants and engage Montgomery County residents in the restoration and protection of the local rivers and streams of Montgomery County.
                   
Deadline: December 4, 2014 at 5pm
For questions contact the Grant Manager:
Sadie Drescher, 410-974-2941, ext. 103
Down County Providers Network Meeting

Save the Date!

Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Time: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Location: Wheaton Library, 1st Floor
RSVP to [email protected]

The Down County Provider Networking Meeting assists Montgomery County Providers: nonprofit organizations, schools, faith-based, and other community-based organizations, who are dedicated to working with all County residents. These quarterly meetings help facilitate collaborations, partnerships, information dissemination, and the convening of subject matter experts on specific topics of interest to County providers, which help all providers in delivering effective and efficient services to residents.
This Newsletter is published by:

Office of Community Partnerships
21 Maryland Ave., Suite 330
Rockville, Maryland 20850




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