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August 2017 - Issue 112
NEWS & EVENTS AROUND THE REGION
Montgomery County Friendship Picnic

Sunday, September 17 from 1 - 5 pm at the Wheaton Regional Park, 2000 Shorefield Road, Wheaton. Bring your family and friends to make new friends and build a better community. Kosher, halal, vegetarian and traditional cuisines and drinks will be provided. Kindly bring one non-perishable food item for donation to the Manna Food Center. RSVPS are encouraged! Click here for further details and to register.

MCPS's GIVE BACKpacks campaign

Last year nearly 18,000 backpacks were donated to students in need thanks to the generosity of the residents in our community. This year, MCPS is hoping to raise $200,000 reaching at least 20,000 students. The real need is supporting nearly 55,000 students. For just $10, you can purchase a backpack filled with school supplies for one student. Every donation truly counts. Click here if you wish to join this cause as we GIVE BACKpacks. You can donate by check, by credit card online, or by using a new text feature by simply texting 'Backpac' to 301-329-2238 and following the prompts on your cell phone.

Montgomery County's Business Portal

The business portal is a gateway to county government services and information related to doing business in Montgomery County. It is modeled after national best practices and based on input from an extensive survey in 2016 on improving government services for businesses. Integrating information from multiple county departments, the business portal is a single point of entry that aims to further streamline county services and operations to make it easier to start and grow a business here. Visit website to learn more.


Trawick Foundation Supports Nonprofits of the Night
Five hundred Montgomery County nonprofits have been featured at Bethesda Big Train summer college baseball games over the last nine seasons because of the support of the Jim and Carol Trawick Foundation. Each night at Big Train baseball at Povich Field two or three of the nonprofits that make Montgomery County special are featured. Each nonprofit gets 100 free tickets, a table on the main concourse to promote their cause, and a chance to say a few words about their organization before throwing out a ceremonial first pitch. Big Train founder Bruce Adams says "I'm really grateful to the Trawick Foundation for supporting this program since 2009 as a way to reward our nonprofits for all they do to strengthen our safety net and enrich our quality of life." Fund for Montgomery leaders Jim Neustadt and Gail Nachman joined Bunt, Carol Trawick with grandson George, and Big Train founder Bruce Adams before the Saturday June 17 game. To sign up to become a Nonprofit of the Night in 2018, please email Bruce.



Mark Your Calendar!
Silver Spring Thursday Night Concerts from June 15 - August 3
The Silver Spring Summer Concerts are free and take place outdoors on Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building on Veterans Plaza, at Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive. These summer concerts are family-friendly, with dancing, face painting, games for the kids and music in a variety of styles. For more information, call (240) 777- 0311 or visit website.

MCPL Presents Performances on the Life of Harriet Tubman
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will present two performances about the life of Harriet Tubman. Friday, August 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the Silver Spring Library at 900 Wayne Avenue. The second performance will be held on Sunday, August 27 at 2 p.m. at the Marilyn J. Praisner Library, 14910 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville. The one-woman play depicts Harriet Tubman, her escape to freedom on the Underground Railroad, and her emergence as one of the most famous Underground Railroad conductors. For more information about the program contact Mary Ellen Icaza at 240-777-0006.

Montgomery College Single Parent Conference
Saturday August 12 from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Rockville Campus, Science Center Building, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville.Conference and parking are free. Lunch will be provided for participants. Free respite care will be provided only for children ages 4-8. Space is limited-and children will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Complete registration must be provided online (for yourself and any children ages 4-8) before the conference.  Click here to register and receive more information.

Long Branch Leadership Training Program
August 15 & 16 from 9 am - 4 pm, Silver Spring Civic Building, Spring Room, One Veterans Place. This FREE 2 day leadership training program is for residents who are interested in and committed to issues impacting older adults.  To register, send email to Events@NHCOA.org or apply online by August 7. 
Please note that the training will be conducted in Spanish.

Empowering Communities to Age with Dignity
Thursday, August 17, Breakfast at 8.30am,  Program runs 9am-1pm at Great Hall - Silver Spring Civic Center, Maryland (Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, 8525 Fenton Street, Silver Spring). Please RSVP essential to Christine Perez at events@nhcoa.org or 202-347-9733 before August 10. Breakfast & refreshments will be included.

This event by NHCOA (National Hispanic Council on Aging) will address important issues affecting Hispanic older adults, their families and caregivers.

Resilience Fund of Greater Washington Community Foundation
The Resilience Fund steering committee would like to hear from a wide range of stakeholders about how federal policy shifts in international travel, immigration, and deportation are affecting the community. Click to learn more


Community Action Board Accepting Applications For Free Advocacy Training Program
The Community Advocacy Institute is a free program that will teach residents basic advocacy skills and it provides hands-on opportunities to advocate for important issues in the community. Sixteen residents participated in the first program held in 2016.To qualify for the program, participants must be Montgomery County residents with household incomes of $54,000 or less. Click here for additional information and registration link. Applications are due August 25.


Future Link Self-Advocacy and Career Development Seminar
Wednesdays, 4:30 - 7:00pm from September 6 through December 20. Enrollment open for 15-week non-traditional seminar class which meets every Wednesday at Montgomery College - Rockville Campus. Complete the online application here. Deadline is Friday, August 25


Free 50+Expo Returns to Silver Spring
Sunday, Sept. 10 from Noon - 4 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Center. Free admission and free parking. The expo will feature informative government, nonprofit and business exhibitors, health screenings, flu shots (free with Medicare card), entertainment, giveaways and door prizes. For more info, or to exhibit or volunteer, call the Beacon at (301) 949-9766 or visit website.

Audition for World Jazz Choir
World Jazz Choir is Strathmore's dynamic, multi-generational, and community-based choir based in eastern Montgomery County. Singers with a range of musical experience sing together a repertoire of world music and jazz. Click here to know more and to access audition forms.

The Board of Elections Seeks Feedback on Proposed Early Voting Centers
The County Board of Elections (BOE) is reviewing proposed recommendations for early voting centers in the 2018 gubernatorial election and your input is wanted. The BOE is planning to add an 11th early voting location for next year's election.

Email the Board if you have a suggestion for another site. The Board of Elections is accepting comments on the site at its upcoming meetings on Sept. 18. Find out more about that process and where to email your comments here.

Get Involved: Join a Board or Commission

County Executive Ike Leggett seeks applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability, and ethnicity to serve on the county's boards and commissions. Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. County Executive Leggett's appointments are generally subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process. 

Access complete list of vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions  here .

Breaking through a barrier to political participation
Promoting Citizenship to 60,000 Eligible County Residents

As someone who grew up in Montgomery County, I stand in awe of the courage and initiative of the people who have come here from every corner of the globe. One third of our one million plus residents were born in other countries. When we include children living with immigrant parents, the percent increases to 43. We all know how our new neighbors have greatly enriched our community in countless ways.

In June of 2016, I had the honor of stepping in for the County Executive to welcome new citizens at a naturalization ceremony at the Gaithersburg Library. I was struck by how meaningful this step is. The new citizens swear: "I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic..." That's commitment. My only advice to them was to make sure they register to vote. Becoming a citizen is the ultimate step in overcoming their greatest barrier to full participation in our political process.

More than 60,000 residents of Montgomery County who are eligible to become citizens have not yet taken that step. They live in every community of our county and come from every region of the world. Forty-four percent of the 60,000 have come from Central and Latin America, 29% from Asia, 15% from Africa, and 10% from Europe. Not all of those eligible will want to become citizens, but we as a welcoming community should be doing more to help those who do.

Sadly, our country is deeply divided over immigration. But there should be no disagreement between Democrats and Republicans or liberals and conservatives about the value of promoting citizenship to those of our neighbors who are eligible. People who become citizens increase their income and our economy is strengthened. People who become citizens care more about the place they call home and our communities are strengthened.

In May, County Executive Leggett joined with nonprofit partners to launch a county campaign to encourage eligible residents to begin the process of becoming citizens. The campaign will include ongoing collaboration and citizenship workshops around the county, citizenship resource corners at various county facilities that are community hubs, and hosting naturalization ceremonies around the county. In addition, County Executive Leggett announced that Montgomery County has joined Cities for Citizenship, a national initiative to promote and encourage eligible permanent residents to become U.S. citizens.



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Bruce Adams
Director, Office of Community Partnerships

 AUGUST ADVISORY GROUP MEETINGS
Upcoming Meetings of County Executive's Ethnic & Faith Advisory Group

Middle Eastern American Advisory Group: Monday August 14, 7 to 9 p.m., Rockville Library (21 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, Suite 330 Mediation Room). Contact: Debbie Trent at dtrent@civilstrategies.net

Serve the Community Through AmeriCorps

More than 80,000 Americans serve nonprofits, public agencies, schools, and community and faith-based groups each year through AmeriCorps, an intensive service work program often referred to as the "domestic Peace Corps." In Montgomery County, several nonprofits are currently recruiting AmeriCorps members to serve the community in a variety of positions. Here is a sampling:

CASA de Maryland is looking for full- and part-time immigrant integration specialists to support eligible lawful permanent residents in applying for U.S. citizenship and to provide them with financial education and tax preparation assistance. Preference for those bilingual in Spanish, French, Korean, or Mandarin. To apply, send a current resume by email to Pablo Blank.

Interfaith Works seeks full-time vocational coaches to work directly with unemployed and underemployed individuals, equipping them with knowledge and skills to find and succeed in jobs and long-term career goals. The organization is also looking for full-time outreach coordinators to connect needy households to appropriate resources for which they are eligible, helping to support their path out of poverty. View position details here. To apply, submit a cover letter and resume by email to Lynn Arndt.

Project Change Maryland is recruiting several AmeriCorps members to serve at its partner agencies in Montgomery County. The full- and part-time opportunities include coordinating group dialogues on race and ethnicity for MCPS, providing after-school dance training for disadvantaged students through ClancyWorks Dance Company, and supporting school-day and after-school programs for YMCA Youth & Family Services, Montgomery Housing Partnership, MCPS, and more. View position details here. For more information, email Paul Costello

Volunteer Maryland seeks full-time volunteer program coordinators to develop or expand volunteer programs at nonprofit and public agencies throughout the state, including the following in Montgomery County: Conflict Resolution Center of Montgomery County, Hospice Caring, Mercy Health Clinic, Montgomery County Community Action Agency, So What Else, and Stepping Stones Shelter. View the position announcement here. Call 410-697-9282, email Volunteer Maryland, or visit the agency's website for an application.

AmeriCorps members receive job experience, training, and are paid a living allowance stipend throughout the course of their service. They may also be eligible to receive an educational award at the end of their service.

Updated Community Resource Guide for County Residents

The Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center has recently updated all of its comprehensive resource lists on its website. Providing a wealth of helpful information for immigrants and the general population, the lists cover the following topics:  citizenship application help, computer literacy classes, free or low fee dental services, job readiness programs, GED preparation classes, resources for small businesses, and Spanish language and literacy classes. Each list provides information about how to get help, where to go, costs, and other helpful tips. For those new to County services or unfamiliar with local providers, this information can serve as a starting point to find the appropriate services or programs. To access the printer-friendly resource lists, click here. To suggest any updates or edits to the information contained in these lists, contact gilchristcenter@montgomerycountymd.gov.  

IMMIGRATION SERVICES & INFORMATION 
Citizenship Application Workshop   

The Asian Pacific American Legal Resource Center (APALRC) and Advancing Justice | AAJC in partnership with the Montgomery County Office of Community Partnerships is hosting a Citizenship Application Workshop. The workshop will be held at White Oak Community Recreation Center at 1700 April Lane, Silver Spring on August 26th. The APALRC legal team and trained volunteers will assist participants with completing their naturalization applications (Form N-400) from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. There is no charge for assistance available through the workshop, which is open to all. For appointment and additional information, call the APALRC at (202) 393-3572 or register online.

Assistance will be available in Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Spanish and English. Please call to register in advance to ensure an interpreter will be available in your language. Individuals who require assistance in languages other than those listed should call in advance to request language support. Click here to access our flyers in Chinese, English, Korean, and Vietnamese..

2017 Annual National Night Out
 
The 2017 National Night Out annual observance will take place Tuesday, August 1st from 5pm - 8 pm at the Olney community at the Fair Hill Plaza shopping center, 18169 Town Center Drive in the area of the Harris Teeter parking lot. Contact Linda Cooper by Email - Linda.Cooper@montgomerycountymd.gov or Phone: 240-777-8411 to reserve a table/booth and chair for your organization. National Night Out, sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), is designed to generate neighborhood support and participation in crime prevention efforts and to enhance police and community relations. For more information, call 240-773-6800 or 240-777-8411 or click here.

LATIN AMERICAN COMMUNITY 
Latino Health Steering Committee Releases Blueprint for Latino Health in Montgomery County 2017-2026

The Latino Health Steering Committee of Montgomery County released its 2017- 2026 blueprint report. The report highlights the major health issues affecting the over 200,000 Latinos in the County and provides recommendations to improve the health of the Latino community. County Executive Leggett presented a proclamation to the Latino Health Steering Committee for their great work, commitment and dedication to improve the quality of life and health of Latinos in the County.  

"We are concerned about the health status of all of our county residents and the blueprint will be invaluable in providing guidance and direction in developing programs that will improve the health and human service outcomes for Latinos in our community," said Leggett.

For more information on the Latino Health Initiative of Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) visit LHI and read the full report here.



Join Us at the 2017 Salvadoran-American Day Festival 

Join us for the 8th Annual Salvadoran- American Day Festival on Sunday, August 6 from 11 am- 7pm. The festival will be held at Montgomery College (Rockville Campus parking lot), 51 Mannakee Street. The community celebration will include local and international bands from El Salvador, other cultural performances, and a health and service fair with activities for children as well. Come and enjoy the delicious Salvadoran specialties. For more information please visit website.


Save the Date for Montgomery County Executive Hispanic Gala

This Gala brings together stakeholders and organizations that are committed to assist Hispanic youth to achieve a high level of education while building strong, diverse and united communities in Montgomery County and throughout the State of Maryland. Bring your family, friends, and co-workers to celebrate the success of our scholars and to enjoy a night full of delicious food, music and dancing, and networking opportunities. Participate in this volunteer-run event on Thursday, September 7, 7pm-11pm at The Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. Buy tickets here.

Interfaith Works and Montgomery County Faith Community Join Hands to Form Interfaith Network of Montgomery County

Interfaith Works and the Montgomery County Faith Community Advisory Council are combining their strengths to unite and magnify the impact of the interfaith community through the creation of the Interfaith Network of Montgomery County. It is a public/private partnership bringing hundreds of faith communities together to build a healthy, resilient community where all residents feel respected, valued and supported. INMC will focus on fostering dialogue and providing faith-community solutions to crucial issues, including poverty, xenophobia and bigotry. 

Funding for the Interfaith Network of Montgomery County will be provided by a County grant with matching funds coming from a membership base of faith communities, organizations and individuals. To find out how you, your faith community and/or organization may become founding members, click here.

County Executive Ike Leggett in initiating INMC said " We are fortunate to have faith communities reminding us that we belong to one human family and working together for the common good." 



Security Grant for Faith-Based Organizations

The Security Grant Orientation hosted by the Islamic Center of Maryland drew faith leaders from 40 communities for learning how to assess their vulnerabilities, develop a master plan and apply for a grant from Montgomery County Government.

This one time supplemental grant program has been announced by the County Executive and County Council for faith based religious institutions that have experienced or are at risk to experience hate crimes. Only one application per organization, up to a maximum of $20,000 will be accepted. Applicants must provide a hard match of 50 percent of the amount requested. Interested agencies should submit an electronic application form with project budget by 5 pm on August 1. Only electronic applications will be accepted. Click here to access   application form.

MCMF Annual Community Cookout

Montgomery County Muslim Foundation (MCMF) on July 8th, held its Annual Community Cookout at the Black Hill Regional Park that was attended by several hundred people. This gathering was designed to thank and appreciate the volunteers whose efforts were essential to the Food Drive and all of MCMF work throughout the year. Volunteers were awarded Certificates of Appreciation for their efforts in helping families across Montgomery County. A number of Public Officials including Ike Leggett, Roger Berliner, George Leventhal, Nancy Floreen and Marc Elrich attended the event and acknowledged the importance of the work being done by MCMF. County Executive Ike Leggett commended the MCMF for all its charitable as well as interfaith activities that is making our county a better place for everyone to call home.



American Diversity Group Health and Wellness Education Fair 

Saturday, August 19th from  9am to 1pm at 18400 Cinnamon Drive, Germantown. The American Diversity Group and Germantown Park Homes Association f/k/a Cinnamon Wood Homes Association bring to you this free, large health fair which is open to all, and is especially geared towards serving the uninsured and the underinsured. Medical specialists from several fields, state and county health agencies, and a diverse array of voluntary charitable organizations will be participating. Click here for more information.


2017 "Know Your Neighbor" Unity Walk 

Sunday, September 10 from 12:30-5 pm, Resource Fair 12:30-1:30 pm, Walk begins 1:30 pm and starts at: Washington Hebrew Congregation. The message of friendship and unity is critical, today more than ever. Join Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington as they walk down Massachusetts Avenue, NW and visit houses of worship and other religious centers in a public celebration of solidarity among different faiths and cultures within our community. Register here.

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