"No one should face breast cancer alone". | |
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About Breast Cancer Awareness
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international health campaign that’s held every October. The month aims to promote screening and prevention of the disease, which affects 2.3 million women worldwide. Known best for its pink theme color, the month features a number of campaigns and programs — conducted by groups ranging from breast cancer advocacy organizations to local community organizations to major retailers — aimed at: supporting people diagnosed with breast cancer, including those with metastatic breast cancer educating people about breast cancer risk factors encouraging women to go for regular breast cancer screening starting at age 40 or earlier, depending on personal breast cancer risk fundraising for breast cancer research Within the month of October, there are also specific dates designed to raise awareness of specific groups within the breast cancer community.
Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day (October 13) October 13 is nationally recognized in the U.S. as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. About 168,000 women in the U.S. are estimated to have metastatic breast cancer (cancer that spreads beyond the breast to other parts of the body). Researchers estimate that about 30% of early-stage breast cancers eventually metastasize. The day, which began in 2009, is meant to educate the public about the need for more money to go to the study of metastatic breast cancer and the development of new metastatic cancer treatments.
Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week (October 17–23) Although breast cancer is much more common in women, breast cancer affects men, too. In 2021, President Joe Biden designated October 17 to October 23 Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week. According to the American Cancer Society, 2,790 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024, and about 530 are expected to die from the disease. But lack of awareness and stigma can be barriers to detection and care in men, trans men, and non-binary people.
This information is provided by Breastcancer.org
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For over 35 years, Breast Cancer Awareness, Inc (formerly Breast Cancer Awareness - Cumberland Valley, Inc) has been supporting local breast cancer patients in our service area.
We provide FREE mammograms for men and women who have little or no insurance and cannot afford to be screened. BCA also offers many FREE programs to local breast cancer fighters, thrivers, survivors and their families to aid in supporting them through their entire breast cancer journey.
BCA offers hope! Thousands of women live full lives after a diagnosis of breast cancer. We can explain your treatment option information, help you to frame your questions for doctors, and arrange for you to meet with others who are facing the same questions and concerns. Breast Cancer Awareness, Inc. is a non-profit organization. Our office is staffed with individuals that can give you the tools to fight your diagnosis. We are familiar with the anxiety and questions a diagnosis of breast cancer can cause and we are here to share our knowledge in order to help.
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, or know someone who has and could use our help, we encourage you to give us call. We would love to share our programs and offer any support we can.
BCA currently serves the following counties in Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia:
- Washington County, MD
- Frederick County, MD
- Franklin County, PA
- Fulton County, PA
- Berkeley County, WV
- Morgan County, WV
- Jefferson County, WV
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To Donate to BCA, Inc.
(formaly Breast Cancer Awareness Cumberland Valley)
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Live United
Urgent Needs/United Against Hunger Grant Awards
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Each month, the United Way of Washington County is pleased to partner with various organizations that provide critical services to our community. | |
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Our Urgent Needs Grant is a low-barrier grant designed to assist nonprofits experiencing unplanned expenses due to unanticipated program needs, emergencies, or underlying situations while our United Against Hunger Grant addresses needs specific to food insecurity within our community.
For additional information contact Kelli Tencer at 301-739-8200 ext.104
Both applications are due on the 27th of the month.
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In a display of community spirit, teams from Meritus and the Western Maryland Consortium came together on the Day of Caring to enhance the United Way's new
on-site warehouse.
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Their dedicated efforts in cleaning, painting, and making essential repairs have transformed this space into a vital resource for local inventory and hygiene supplies. These improvements not only elevate the functionality of the warehouse but also reflect United Way of Washington County's mission to inspire partnerships that foster community well-being.
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Thanks so much to the volunteers whose contributions will directly support essential programs, ensuring that we can maintain operational excellence and transparency in serving our community. | |
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Scenes from one of our absolute FAVORITE community partners, Hagerstown Area Religious Council . So many children in our community are benefiting from the incredible work of MicahsBackpack.
First food distribution of the new school year for Micah’s Backpack! About 70,000 of food distributed to sponsoring churches and organizations. Deliveries begin to schools next week! Thank you to Specialty Granules employees and Kiwanis members for helping! And a big THANK YOU to our grant funders and donors who enable us to purchase this food through our partner, the Maryland Food Bank. Grant funders include the Fletcher Foundation, United Way of Washington County, BCT - The Community Bank, the Nora Roberts Foundation, God’s Grace Fund (via HARC Hike), and many more. Thanks also to Brenda & Chris Horsch for coordination of this mass food distribution. It’s quite a production - and they make it go smoothly.
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We are deeply grateful for the generous support we received from The Flip Side, not only in the form of financial contributions but also through the spotlight shone on our community-focused initiatives during the recent episode. Pictured (L to R): Jim Miller, Heather Guessford, Tereance Moore
This partnership has not only enhanced our visibility but has also reinforced the trust and collaboration that fuels United Way's mission to improve lives in Washington County. Together, we can ensure that the contributions and recognition we receive translate into real, tangible benefits for the members of our community, underscoring our commitment to transparency and accountability in all we do.
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17850 Garland Groh Blvd
Hagerstown, MD 21740
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The United Way of Washington County MD extends our sincere appreciation to Walmart for their generous donation of essential school supplies, a vital contribution that impacts our local students and families.
Their support resonates deeply with our mission to enhance educational outcomes and bolster community support.
We are especially appreciative of the dedicated volunteers who devoted their time to transport and unload these supplies and lent a hand to organize supplies in our hygiene closet. The true spirit of collaboration. Our partnership with the Garland Groh Walmart exemplifies the positive change we can achieve together.
We invite everyone to join us in future initiatives that further strengthen these invaluable partnerships and elevate the well-being of our community.
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Did you know that your United Way actively supports or partners with 90 organizations and many individual Washington County residents annually?
All donations made here...stay here.
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Our donors, partners and volunteers
make it possible for us to have a
major impact on our community!
If you would like to help the United Way
make a difference in Washington County please click the DONATE button today!
Thank you so very much for your continued support!
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United Way of Washington County, Maryland, Inc. has been evaluated by Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator, and earned a 100% Four-Star Rating! This is the highest possible rating on Charity Navigator.
Charity Navigator’s third-party accreditation validates our organization’s operational excellence.
You can learn more about Charity Navigator and our rating here:
https://charitynavigator.org/ein/520691704.
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The United Way of Washington County recently earned a 2024 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency!
Check out our nonprofit profile to keep up to date with our impact.
https://
www.guidestar.org/profile/52-0691704
Keep this link handy; we want to ensure you always have the information you need to support our work with trust and confidence.
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Check out these links for information on non-profits in Washington County. | |
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Spotlight~ Success Story
Housing Stabilization -
Community Action Council
After experiencing domestic violence in 2023 and getting evicted from her home, Sarah found herself living in a shed with her toddler daughter. Sarah was then able to get into St John’s shelter and later transitioned to the shelter through the Local Homeless Coalition. While at this shelter Sarah engaged with case managers from all organizations to help stabilize their life and gain resources to help them become stable. Sarah had difficulty working due to not having childcare for her toddler. Sarah connected with case managers to remove barriers that she was facing, preventing her from finding housing.
Sarah had evictions on her record and no income to show landlords willing to give her a chance. With help from her case managers Sarah was able to apply to the Housing Authority, however, due to her background, she was denied. Sarah worked with the Housing Manager to come up with a game plan for an appeal and in turn gained the strength and knowledge to be her own advocate. Sarah went into the appeal confident and ready to fight not only for herself, but for her daughter. Sarah prepared a letter showing all of the progress she has made so far and her plan moving forward. After the appeal was completed, Sarah experienced success when she found out that all of her hard work paid off and she was ultimately approved for an apartment with the Housing Authority.
Sarah now has a safe environment for her daughter to live in and is now able to focus on getting the right resources in place to ensure that her daughter has a bright future.
~ Submitted by Dr. Mark Sewell
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VOLUNTEERS WANTED
United Way of Washington County MD is currently seeking additional members of the community to serve on both the Revenue and GIVE (Give. Invest. Volunteer. Educate) Committees. We ask interested parties to commit to at least once-a-month hybrid committee meetings in return for having a voice in how UWWC can maximize our reach within our community.
For more information, please reach out to Heather Guessford at heather@uwwcmd.org or 301-739-8200 ext.102.
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Our Books United program, founded in May of 2022, has 26 active partner locations. In just over two years time,
we have collected and redistributed over 56,000 books!
In addition to book distributions, we also host multiple reading clubs,
including one at Coffman Nursing Home and
Lasting Change Recovery Solutions for Women.
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As always, a special thanks to our wonderful Books United volunteers,
Sharon Giles, Beth Johnston, and Jo Ellen Allenberg!
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The Book Nook is Now Open!
The Book Nook, nestled in the JC Penney end of the Valley Mall, serves as a vital resource for families seeking to inspire a love for reading in their children. The Valley Mall has been part of our community for over 50 years!
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This welcoming space not only offers a variety of free books through the United Way's Books United Program but also creates an inviting atmosphere where children can explore the joys of literacy.
We are immensely grateful to Julie Rohm and the Valley Mall for their continuing support, which exemplifies the power of community partnerships in enhancing educational resources for our youth.
Together, we are making a difference, and we invite all community members to visit the Book Nook, ensuring that every child has access to the reading materials they deserve. Your engagement and support are crucial in fostering a brighter future for our children through literacy!
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Set up was completed during the United Way Day of Caring by the Sunrise Rotary volunteer team. | |
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The team from Reach of Washington County participated in the 33rd Annual Day of Caring, sorting and labeling books from Fiserv.
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We currently serve 2,308 people and our numbers are GROWING by the day. Our closets are on-campus and discreetly benefit low-income students and their families who lack transportation and/or those wishing to keep their demonstrated needs private. Our most requested hygiene items include shampoo, deodorant, and body wash. We have experienced growing requests for laundry pods and feminine pads and liners.
Requests for specialty items include lice kits and body wipes for those living in our rural communities who lack sufficient running water...yes, there are many!
If you wish to learn more about either program or become a partner location please contact Stacey Abeles - stacey@uwwcmd.org or Kathy Harple - kathy@uwwcmd.org.
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United Way currently has 12 active hygiene closets across Washington County!
- Cascade Elementary School
- Clear Spring Elementary School
- Greenbrier Elementary School
- Hagerstown Community College
- Hancock Elementary School
- Maugansville Elementary School
- Parkside Community Center
- Pleasant Valley Elementary School
- Rockland Woods Elementary
- Soul Haven Wellness & Recovery Center
- Washington County Technical High School
- Zion Reformed United Church of Christ
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The United Way is happy to welcome Greenbrier Elementary School as our most recent addition to our Hygiene Closet Program. | |
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We are also thrilled to announce the launch of our newest endeavor...
n on-site hygiene closet/warehouse situated at
the drive-thru/walk-up area on Court Place at the rear of
our offices at 83 W. Washington Street.
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This innovative initiative is a testament to our commitment to meeting the basic needs of our community members. Operating in cooperation with our community closets, the hygiene warehouse functions through a voucher distribution system, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation.
By providing essential hygiene products through a structured and inclusive approach, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who rely on these resources.
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Our "Closet Bags" are filled with basic needs hygiene and our inventory not only provides for our on-site closet but also provides resources for our 12 hygiene closets throughout the County. | |
Another generous show of support by our friends at Edward Jones.
These hygiene products will be added to our inventory to be distributed through our on-site closet.
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We are almost to the end of our 100 household cleaning supply buckets, which were generously donated by Home Depot. Lasting Change, Holly Place and Gatekeepers were happy to receive them!
Thanks to our volunteer extrordinaire James Muth for all his help!
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WHO IS ALICE?
With the cost of living higher than what most people earn, ALICE families have income above the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), but not high enough to afford a basic household budget that includes housing, child care, food, transportation, and health care.
The United Way ALICE Report provides a framework, language, and tools to measure and understand the struggles of the growing number of ALICE households in our communities.
This research initiative partners with state local United Ways such as those in Maryland, to deliver research-based reports that can stimulate meaningful discussion, attract new partners, and ultimately inform strategies that effect positive change.
To learn more about ALICE visit:
https://www.unitedforalice.org/
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Community Resources Alert!
We're blessed to live in a community where help is
always just a phone call away. You are never alone!
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If you have events or information you would like to include in our monthly newsletter please contact Kathy Harple at kathy@uwwc.md.org | | |
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The Family Center - Do you love holding babies? Do you enjoy interacting with toddlers? The Family Center is seeking volunteers to work in their childcare rooms with infants and toddlers (Up to age 4). Flexible daytime hours Monday-Thursday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. A background check and fingerprinting is required at no cost. For more information, please contact Rhonda Forrest at 301-790-4002 or rhonda.forrest@maryland.gov
Big Brothers Big Sisters – With the renewed inspiration and energy ushered in by the New Year, there is almost no better time to consider making the commitment to share your time and talents with others. The special friendships formed between Bigs and Littles positively change the trajectory of the lives of all involved. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washington County has a waiting list of kids and needs your help! There are various volunteer opportunities that will fit almost anyone’s availability. For more information, please contact their enrollment & matching coordinator, Kerry Fair, at 301.375.0939 or k.fair@bbbswcmd.org. Let the New Beginnings of this time of year be your call to Be the Change. Visit volunteer need here: https://volunteer.unitedwayfcwc.org/need/detail/?need_id=654044
Girls Inc. – Qualified and willing volunteers are always welcome to join and assist with projects. The girls love meeting new people and will act as a positive role model to them. To express interest, visit: https://www.girlsinc-md.org/volunteer
Boys and Girls Club – Volunteer in many different ways like on-site engagement, advocacy, and more. Fill out an application here: https://www.bgcwc.org/volunteer
Discovery Station – Volunteers help in every area of the museum in positions like exhibit docents, admission's office clerks, gift shop salespersons, creative development members, program leaders, and more. Visit volunteer need here: https://bit.ly/VolDiscovery
Horizon Goodwill Industries – Volunteers help in many diverse ways ad can include mission support, community outreach, job connection services, administration, court ordered community service, to name a few. To learn more, visit: https://horizongoodwill.org/volunteer-opportunities/
Literacy Council of Washington County – You don’t need experience to be a tutor with LCWC. Training is provided and FREE. You do need to be fluent in English, have enthusiasm, and patience. To learn more, visit: http://www.literacyofwcmd.org/become-a-tutor/
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Hagerstown Rescue Mission – Sorting volunteers at the donation center are always welcome. To learn more: https://www.hagerstownhopecenter.com/volunteer
Faith Step Ministries - is seeking volunteers to assist with their Saturday morning breakfast ministry that connects with over 150 community members on a weekly basis on
the West End of Hagerstown. They are seeking volunteers from 7:30 am – 10:30 am at 451 Salem Avenue, Hagerstown to help prepare breakfast, serve the public, and
clean up. A minimum of 6 volunteers are needed each week, and they always
welcome extra hands to help! Interested individuals should contact Josue Orellana at
josueorellanaguevara@hotmail.com with any questions or to sign up.
English & More, Inc. - Stay safe while serving your community from the comfort of your home. English tutors for ESL populations are needed. Shadowing opportunities are available for both new and seasoned volunteers. To express interest or learn more, email: virginia.wilson1277@gmail.com.
Washington County Commission on Aging - Volunteers welcome as Meals on Wheels delivery drivers. All those interested must be fully vaccinated. More information here: https://www.wccoaging.org/volunteer
Children in Need – Sorting and serving opportunities are always ongoing for community members, organizations, high school students, and more! Learn about getting involved by visiting: https://childreninneedwashingtoncounty.org/volunteer/
Easterseals - Virtual volunteer opportunities are available for anyone with a special talent to share virtually on Zoom. It could be singing, sharing a craft (we can get the supplies), magician, dancing, reading a story etc. If anyone is interested, they can contact Debbie Lauricella, Assistance Center Director, to coordinate. dlauricella@eseal.org
Easterseals Adult Day Services
Many volunteer opportunities are available for anyone with a special talent to share. It could be singing, sharing a craft (we can get the supplies), magician, dancing, reading a story etc. If anyone is interested, they can contact Emily Hankewycz, Activity Director, to coordinate. ebrecht@eseal.org or call 301.745.3828
Habitat for Humanity - Join a team of invaluable volunteers at the ReStore! Multiple positions to fit any skill/interest level. Volunteer Benefits: Flexible schedule / 20% store discount / Rewarding work / Plus, for a limited time receive $20 a month in ReStore cash for up to 6 months. Flyer.
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Use JustServe for your volunteer needs
and opportunities!
Looking for volunteers to serve in your ministry? Or are you looking for volunteer opportunities for yourself and/or your group? JustServe is a website where volunteer needs meet volunteers. All nonprofits, houses of worship and faith-based organizations are welcome to use this service to post your volunteer needs - just contact Ashlee Harris to get started at jon2ash@gmail.com or text 801-860-1301. Those searching for volunteer opportunities can simply search the database by city, state or zip code or even look for ways to volunteer by remote.
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Washington County Family Center
221 McRand Court, Suite 300, Hagerstown, MD 21740
The Family Center provides GED and ESL (English as a Second Language) classes for expectant parents and parents with children ages
0-3. Childcare, meals, parenting education, and case management services are provided. Transportation is available on a case-by-case basis. To register or learn more information, please contact Christina McCauley at 301-790-4006 or christinamccauley2@maryland.gov
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UPDATED Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list
The Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list was just updated significantly. Please replace copies you may already have and share it with anyone in need. Updated Resource List. The most recent list can also always be found on the HARC website. If you know of any additional changes, please contact Kathy at director@harccoalition.org or 301-842-4272.
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WORKFORCE ALLIANCE
We are looking for
Young Adults 18-24.
Get your MD High
School Diploma,
Career Guidance and Work Training!
Must meet eligibility criteria and be a Washington County Resident.
We are a Recovery Friendly Workplace.
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Funds, Furnishings, and Volunteers Needed for Refugee Families
Recently, there has been an influx of refugee families in Washington County. Refugee Welcome Network (RWN) needs funds, furnishings, and volunteers to help stabilize them while we work with them toward self-sufficiency. In the last two weeks, the RWN settled two new families into housing, with a third currently waiting for housing and help. Read more and see our list of needs. Donate funds. Contact us to volunteer.
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Walking 2 Wellness - Wednesdays
Every Wednesday, 12:00 pm
The Athletic, Recreation and Community Center (ARCC)
Hagerstown Community College
11400 Robinwood Drive, Hagerstown
Trying to fulfill your New Year's Resolution in getting healthier? Let's get healthy together! Be part of Prime Time For Women's "Walking 2 Wellness" community … meet new people, connect with longtime friends, and develop a regular exercise regime that is good for you. Even better, it’s fun! Prime Time For Women Website / Facebook.
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Bereavement Toolkits Available
The Hospice of Washington County Bereavement Team announces a resource "toolkit" for grieving children and teens! This "toolkit" is a box full of multiple resources, comfort items, workbooks, and materials that have been designed to match a student's developmental level. Toolkits are available for the following age groups: Pre-K/Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School aged students. Each toolkit provides educational and helpful materials to help a student and family navigate grief and loss. English and Spanish resources are available. Information Website. Request a Toolkit. Information Email: Bereavement Counselors Stephanie Nalley and Jennifer Morningstar. Check out a video to preview these toolkits.
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FREE Community Resources
Here are Resources that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints offers, either online or in person. They have specialists over each category who are willing to individually help people that might be interested in these programs. Please share this with anyone you feel it could be valuable/useful for.
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FREE Person-Centered Spiritual Visitation Course
A 12-week program that provides trainees with a combination of 50 of classroom and in-practice educational learning in Person-Centered Hospitals and Nursing Homes visitation. Flyer. For more information, contact: Chaplain Richard W. Bower at 301-745-4285, or email at rich.bower@maryland.gov.
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Make sure to keep up to date with everything going on in Hagerstown by following our announcements and staying connected with the pulse of the city. Whether it's festivals, concerts, or important announcements, we'll keep you in the loop. Don't miss out - stay connected and be part of the vibrant Hagerstown community!
https://www.visithagerstown.com/events
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Girls on the Run Volunteer Coaches Needed
Girls on the Run inspires girls of all abilities to recognize their individual strengths while building a sense of connection and confidence. They are seeking volunteer coaches who facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skills development to create opportunities for joyful movement and meaningful connections. Teams (elementary and middle school) meet twice per week over an 8- to 10-week season. At the end of the season, the team completes a celebratory 5K event, which provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset in motion. They are currently seeking volunteers to help as coaches in Washington County - particularly in Hagerstown at Bester Elementary, Pangborn Elementary, Hickory Elementary, Lincolnshire Elementary, and Eastern Elementary. Website / Facebook. / Flyer.
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WGP Movie Night: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire - October 4
Friday, October 4, 7:00 pm
University Plaza
50 W. Washington Street, Hagerstown
Join Washington Goes Purple for movie night. Moving playing is Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Free Admission.
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Community Unity Walk - October 5
Saturday, October 5, 10:15 gather, 10:45 prayer, 11 am walk
Starts at Asbury United Methodist Church
155 N. Jonathan St., Hagerstown
This walk of Christian Unity starts at the historic Asbury United Methodist Church on Jonathan Street, then heads north to Potomac Avenue, east to Potomac Street, south to Franklin Street, west to Jonathan Street, and returns to Asbury UMC.Participants are encouraged to sing along with leader Troy Gandy as they walk. Choir and awards presentation in front of the 3 crosses. Refreshments on the lawn, or inside if inclement weather. For more information, contact Troy Gandy at 240-468-6883, or just show up. Flyer to post and share.
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Fall Fest Fundraiser Yard Sale - October 5
Saturday, October 5, 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Bethel United Methodist Church
21006 Twin Springs Drive, Smithsburg, MD
A Fall Fest fundraiser with proceeds to benefit the Furnace Fund. A community wide Yard Sale with a Free Coat Giveaway to those in need. Clothes and household items. Sandwiches and drinks for sale. Donate items for the church to sell – dropoff anytime – call 301-733-8387. Event is free. Tables or spaces available for $10. Download a flyer.
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The McClinton Family
Recital of Prayer and Reflection - October 5
Saturday, October 5, 4:00 pm
Trinity Lutheran Church
15 Randolph Avenue, Hagerstown
Trinity Lutheran Church kicks off their 2024-2025 Music Concert Series with a Recital of Prayer and Reflection of violin, voice and piano by The McClinton Family. The recital of Prayer and Reflection will include music by J.S. Bach, Leonard Bernstein, David Lanz, Rebecca Clarke, Greg Maroney, Moses Hogan, Paul Simon and others. Flyer.
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HARC Meeting: Dementia Friendly
Washington County - October 8
Tuesday, October 8, 12:00 - 1:30 pm
Otterbein United Methodist Church
108 E. Franklin Street, Hagerstown
We will hear from representatives of Dementia Friendly Washington County (DFWC) about their efforts to make Washington County a dementia friendly place to thrive. DFWC offers educational trainings, access to resources, a Memory Café, and more. DFWC is dedicated to raising awareness, decreasing stigma, and increasing public understanding. We will hear from a couple about their Alzheimer’s journey as well. Join us for lunch, fellowship, and the program. Lunch will be provided by Otterbein UMC with a free-will offering. Learn more. RSVP requested by Friday, October 4 at noon.
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FREE Training - Youth Mental Health First Aid - October 10
Thursday, October 10, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Brook Lane Community Room
13121 Brook Lane, Hagerstown
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach adults how to help adolescents (age 12-18) experiencing mental health challenges or crises. The free course helps adults recognize the signs of mental health and substance use challenges. Individuals will learn how to support those experiencing a mental health crisis and connect them with appropriate help. The youth class is beneficial for parents, teachers, pastors and volunteers working with adolescents. To register on learn more about Youth Mental Health First Aid, visit brooklane.org/events. You never know when the skills you learn in the training may just save a life
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Starry Night for Kids’ Sake - October 10
Thursday, October 10, 5:30 - 8:00 pm
Cortland Mansion
19411 Cortland Dr, Hagerstown
Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washington County for their Fourth Annual Starry Night for Kids’ Sake to celebrate their mission of DEFENDING the POTENTIAL of kids in our community. This gala-style, elegant evening is an opportunity to enjoy the company of friends and colleagues while partaking of a fine dining experience and entertainment. Individual Tickets: $75 (General Public) & $50 (Volunteers). Table of Eight: $550. Please contact Tom Kline at t.kline@bbbswcmd.org or 301.739.4711 for more information! Webpage. Purchase tickets link.
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Updated Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources List
The Food, Clothing & Personal Care Resources list for Washington County has new updates, including new requirements for a couple of big pantries and an additional diaper resource. Please delete your old lists and use this one instead! Updated Resource List: English Version /Spanish version.
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Moral & Ethical Dilemmas - October 14 (1st of 3 discussions)
October 14, January 13 and March 10 at 7:00 pm
St. John's Episcopal Church
101 S. Prospect Street, Hagerstown
(in Saint Mary's Chapel, enter from the parking lot behind the church at Antietam & Walnut Sts)
Do you find yourself wondering why the world seems crazy? Do you question the truth and what is YOUR truth? Do you find that big, complex ideas baffle your mind? Perhaps you are not alone. Join this discussion group to explore some important issues with others who are also on a journey for insight and understanding life's moral and ethical dilemmas. October and January discussions led by Rev. D. Stuart Dunnan. March discussion led by Dr. Orville Browne. Flyer with more details.
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Use Vote411.org
for your election information
In every community across our nation where the League of Women Voters has a presence, volunteers have asked candidates to respond to questions related to their races and those responses are available to you at https://www.vote411.org/. On the Vote411 website you can find out what is on your ballot and also see where you are to vote, register or check on your voter registration. In October the Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring candidate forums for Board of Education, Hagerstown City Council, Mayor of Hagerstown and 6th Congressional District and the videos will be available on the website of the Washington County League of Women Voters.
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Fall Fun Frenzy for
Faith Community Members - October 19
Saturday, October 19, 4-6 pm / 5-7:30 pm
Zion Reformed UCC
201 N. Potomac Street Hagerstown
You and your faith community members are invited to Zion’s Fall Fun Frenzy! For 5th graders and under, there will be snacks, crafts and games in the Fellowship Hall. For the “older and brave,” the older youth are hosting a Haunted House in the parsonage from 5-7:30 pm. YOUR older youths and adults are invited to come through and be kindly frightened.
Please RSVP or ask questions via pastorwinnette@gmail.com.
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Dinner Auction - "Ghostly Gala" - Oct. 25
(Ticket Deadline: Oct. 11)
Friday, October 25, 5:00 pm
Cortland Mansion
19411 Cortland Dr, Hagerstown
31st Annual Dinner Auction - “Ghostly Gala”. Don’t miss this fun-filled evening with dinner, mingling, silent and live auctions, and games! Step into a night of mystery and enchantment at the Ghostly Gala Dinner Auction, where Halloween meets elegance for an unforgettable evening! Dress in your most creative or spookiest costume and join us for a night of delicious dining, live entertainment, and exciting auction experiences. As the eerie ambiance sets the stage, you’ll have the chance to bid on exclusive items and one-of-a-kind packages during our silent and live auctions, all while supporting a great cause. Tickets $75 each. Sponsorships Available. Flyer. Sponsorship Levels.
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Save the Date!
Trunk or Treat Halloween Event - October 25
Friday, October 25, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Bethel United Methodist Church
21006 Twin Springs Drive, Smithsburg, MD
Trunk or Treat with Bethel Church, New Beginnings Church and the Chewsville Lions Club in a Halloween event for all ages. Free hot dogs, popcorn and drinks. Costume contest at 6:30 pm. Download a flyer.
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Trick-or-Treat: 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Costume Contest
Kids Contest: 6:30 pm
Adults Contest: 7:00 pm
Bounce House for Kids - DJ
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Save the Date!
Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike and Birthday Bash
October 26
Saturday, October 26, 9:30 am
Washington Monument State Park
6620 Zittlestown Road, Middletown, MD
Join the 5th Annual Grandma Gatewood Legacy Hike, Every year, Prime Time for Women honors the incredible legacy of Grandma Gatewood, the first woman to solo thru-hike the Appalachian Trail at 67 years old! She didn’t let anything hold her back, overcoming domestic violence and the expectations of others to conquer 2,091 miles from Georgia to Maine. Now it’s your turn to embrace that same spirit of adventure! Choose from a variety of hikes tailored to all skill levels, whether you're a seasoned trekker or a beginner. Explore the stunning autumn foliage, make new connections, and be inspired by the legacy of Grandma Gatewood, who saw challenges as adventures and believed in the possibility of achieving her dreams. Plus, your participation makes a difference! A portion of the proceeds will support The Elder Group, a nonprofit dedicated to ending elder abuse and providing essential services to seniors and displaced persons. Visit the website for more info: Grandma Gatewood Webpage. / Prime Time For Women Website. Let's hike in her footsteps, for a cause that matters! (P.S. Men and children are welcome to join too!)
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Save the Date! Stories in the Round - Renee Spears Emanuel - October 28
Monday, October 28, 7:00 pm
Unitarian Universalist Church of Hagerstown
13245 Cearfoss Pike, Hagerstown
Renee Spears Emanuel, native Baltimorean and now proud citizen of Hagerstown, member of the MD Griots’ Circle and the National Association of Black Storytellers, recipient of the 2023 “Women in the Arts Award” whose love for the spoken word inspired her career as a speech-language therapist and fuels her performances in libraries, schools, festivals, home concerts, and conferences - returns for her second appearance at Stories In The Round and an evening of folk tales, fairy tales and original stories. $12 in advance. $15 at the door. Children 12 & older welcome when accompanied by a parent or group leader. Contact: Fanny Crawford, 301-730-1638 or fanitsky@hotmail.com.
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United Way of Washington County, MD partners with SingleCare
(formerly FamilyWize) to provide community members with access to affordable prescription medications, ensuring greater health and financial stability.
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About the SingleCare
prescription savings card:
Always free to use by everyone
just show it to the pharmacist.
No registration or eligibility requirements.
Use it right away! ·
Save up to 80% on 10,000+
prescription medications ·
Accepted at major pharmacy chains nationwide ·
Sign up on SingleCare.com for additional member savings
(earn $1 per eligible script!!)
Works whether you’re insured or underinsured
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Unlimited uses
For more information and resources, visit: https://www.unitedwaywashcounty.org/singlecare
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