There is a lot going on at OAR and we want to share some recent news with you!  In this issue of the OAR Newsletter you will learn about:
  • Important partnerships developed at OAR
  • Our plan for 2015 and beyond
  • Exciting new funding opportunities
  • New leadership on the OAR Board
  • and much more!
Computer Equipment Donated by the FBI
 

On June 6th, OAR received over 40 computers including monitors, computer accessories, and several color printers from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The gift is valued at over $6,800 and was made possible by Share Tech Solutions who connected OAR with the FBI for the donation.  

 

The mission of the FBI requires that they uphold and enforce the criminal laws of the United States. By supporting OAR with this donation they are also supporting the effort to reduce the likelihood of future criminal activity.

Read more!

 
OAR Strategic Plan 2015 - 2018
 

OAR has a new strategic plan in place that will guide the organization through 2018. The goals of the plan are to: 1) Increase organizational capacity to better serve clients, 2) Expand OAR's current model into the Loudoun and Prince William communities and enhance services in the Fairfax community, 3) Be recognized as the expert in our field and as the voice for promising practices in our industry.

 

The OAR Board of Directors and senior staff met in a retreat format in January to begin to craft a strategic plan. The challenges and opportunities facing the organization were identified and discussed to develop much of the content for the strategic plan during that session. The Board's Executive Committee and senior staff continued that work and a final plan was adopted by the Board in May. 

See details of the 2015 - 2018 OAR Strategic Plan.
OAR Partners with SkillSource to Prepare Inmates for Employment
  

OAR partnered on a grant proposal to the Department of Labor with the SkillSource and has been selected for funding. The Northern Virginia Success Through Education, Employment and Reintegration (STEER) initiative will provide 150 returning citizens job search, training and placement assistance, and supportive services both prior to and after their release. 

Learn More. 
2015 Jazz and Wine Fundraiser
 
Taking place at the historic Winery at Bull Run, OAR's 2015 fundraiser was a great success.  Guests enjoyed wine and appetizer pairings as well as a live jazz band, lawn games and door prizes.  Former Board Chair Randy Adams was honored and Charles Thomas, the incoming Chair was welcomed.  Read more and view pics!
New OAR Board Leadership
 

Randy Adams, OAR Board Chair, was honored at the 2015 OAR Jazz and Wine Fundraiser for his leadership. Randy served 3 years as the OAR Board Chair and provided exemplary guidance and direction for the organization. Charles Thomas will now serve as Board Chair. Learn more 

 
Meet the OAR Interns
Haley Spicer
Haley is a senior at George Mason University majoring in Criminology with a minor in Psychology.  She has always been interested in the ways in which a single bad decision can affect someone's life and has appreciated learning more about criminal justice from a perspective that is different from law enforcement.
Learn about becoming an intern.
Jasmine Jones
Jasmine will complete her Masters in Forensic Psychology at George Washington University this summer.  Her work with Reentry and Family Services has given her greater insight into clients' situations and motivations.
Allison Wiltberger
Allison is a senior in the Criminology program at George Mason University.  Her internship is a great stepping stone for her future plans and she particularly enjoys participating in the Violence Intervention Program (VIP) and seeing participant change the way they think. 
Dad's Play Day in Prince William County
 
On Saturday, June 13, OAR clients participated in the Prince William County Fatherhood Initiative's first "Dad's Play Day," a community event to celebrate Father's Day and encourage dads to spend more time with their children.  The event drew more than 200 participants who enjoyed indoor and outdoor activities with their children.  Read more

Volunteer Opportunities

 

What do you do in your free time? Imagine investing a few hours per week helping others. The time you spend could change someone's life. There are many opportunities available at OAR. You could:

  • Be directly involved with an OAR client through mentoring

  • Assist groups of clients at one time by facilitating a class or program

  • Provide assistance to first-time offenders as they appear in court

  • Provide administrative support at the OAR office

View the full list of volunteer opportunities.
You can help!

July 1, 2015 marks a new fiscal year for OAR. Support from community members that understand and believe in the OAR mission is critical for our success.

 
Would you like others to learn about OAR?  Contact us to set up a dynamic and engaging presentation about the role OAR plays in the criminal justice system.  We can create an interactive presentation during your company's staff meeting, at your place of worship, or during a civic group meeting.  We would be happy select a convenient day and time.   
 
Sincerely,
 
Brandon Cosby
Director of Development
STAY CONNECTED: 
Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View our profile on LinkedIn