This month we were honored to support Eastside Uplift — a grassroots program in Baltimore dedicated to helping families meet their most basic needs. From food and groceries to utility payments and transportation assistance Eastside Uplift is filling the gap with compassion and action.
Started just last summer by Arnetta and Kenneth Shelton Eastside Uplift was born from personal experience. The founders understand what it means to struggle — having experienced homelessness and utility shut-offs firsthand. That is why they are committed to showing up for others with no strings attached.
They work through a growing referral network across the city and often deliver food and essentials directly to families in need. Their impact is powerful and the gratitude they receive at each doorstep says it all.
To help support their mission Easterns Automotive Group presented a $2200 donation during a live broadcast of FOX45 Morning News. It is just one way we can say thank you and help carry the vision forward.
Thank you to the Eastside Uplift team for being the kind of leaders every community needs. We are proud to be a part of your story.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in building strong, inclusive communities. Through our Pay It Forward partnership with FOX 5 DC, we’re proud to support local leaders who are creating lasting impact — like Londyn Jackson, founder of The Language Arc Learning and Wellness Solutions in Woodbridge, Virginia.
The Language Arc is a nonprofit dedicated to improving communication and connection for neurodivergent children. From therapy services to school partnerships, their work is rooted in understanding and adapting to the unique needs of each child they serve.
Londyn’s inspiration came from a deeply personal place. After watching her cousin navigate life with Tourette’s syndrome and witnessing the challenges her family faced in getting proper support, she felt called to take action.
“I’ve always been around children who need support and need proper support,” she told FOX 5. “I was really motivated to start something that was going to support them in a way that I felt was necessary.”
To help further their mission, we donated $2,200 to The Language Arc. We know that when we invest in the right people and programs, we’re investing in a stronger, more inclusive DMV community.
Thank you, Londyn, for creating a safe space where every child can thrive. We’re honored to support your journey.
At Easterns Automotive Group, community is at the heart of everything we do. That’s why our Pay It Forward partnership with FOX 5 means so much to us. It gives us the chance to lift up organizations making a real impact across the DMV.
Recently, we met the incredible Boone family in Oakton, Virginia. After tragically losing their 3-year-old daughter, who had Down syndrome, to medical complications, they turned their grief into something powerful: Great Vibe Events.
This inspiring program was created to provide a safe, welcoming space for adults 18 and older with disabilities to build community, express themselves, and enjoy life. From social gatherings to inclusive events, Great Vibe Events brings connection and joy to people who are often overlooked.
We were honored to contribute $2,200 to help support their mission and the lives they touch. The Boone family’s strength and compassion remind us of the incredible good that can come from even the most difficult circumstances.
To the Boones and everyone involved in Great Vibe Events, thank you for spreading such powerful energy through our region. We’re proud to stand behind you.
At Easterns Automotive Group, giving back to our community is part of who we are. Through our Helping Hands partnership with ABC 7 News, we’re proud to highlight and support local organizations making a difference — especially during Autism Acceptance Month.
This month, we were introduced to DC Peers, a nonprofit in Northwest D.C. that provides a safe space for neurodiverse teenagers and adults to connect, build relationships, and support one another.
Founded eight years ago by Catherine Robertson, DC Peers began as a free, volunteer-led group focused on encouraging teenagers to socialize and grow together. Over time, it evolved into a nonprofit that welcomes middle schoolers, high schoolers, and adults up to age 60.
“What we’re doing is talking about neurodiversity, and that takes a little work, so I gave kids community service hours, and it grew from there into a social group,” Robertson shared.
Jacob Weisman, community manager for DC Peers, has been officially diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and spoke about how meaningful the group has been for him. “I found it really meaningful connecting to my community and fostering connections for people who didn’t learn social skills as I did growing up,” Weisman said. “I’ve been able to connect with people and help provide them with space that they can come together as a community.”
Robertson emphasized that the goal of DC Peers isn’t to change participants, but to help them thrive. “Neurodivergence is inherited and it’s neurological, and we need to accept and understand [instead of trying] to change and fix,” she said.
After learning about the powerful work DC Peers is doing, Easterns Automotive Group was proud to make a surprise donation to support their mission and continued impact.
We’re honored to support an organization that empowers individuals to be themselves, build confidence, and find community. To learn more about DC Peers, visit dcpeers.org.
Easterns Automotive Group is proud to support organizations that lift up others and create lasting change.
At Easterns Automotive Group, giving back is at the core of who we are. That’s why we’re proud to continue our partnership with 7News DC on their Helping Hands segment—this time to support Food For Others, a Fairfax-based nonprofit that’s been a safety net for thousands of families in Northern Virginia since 1995.
7News’ Kellye Lynn recently visited Food For Others’ 27,000-square-foot warehouse to meet Executive Director Deb Haynes and learn how the organization is addressing the growing need for emergency food in the region.
“Last year we had about 64,000 unique individuals in Fairfax County,” Haynes shared. “We operate as a food bank, a food pantry, and we run a weekend backpack program for school children. Some of our programs have increased by 30% since 2022.”
While emergency food assistance used to be viewed as a short-term solution, the pandemic shifted the landscape.
“We’re seeing a chronic need now,” Haynes explained. “Unemployment is low, but housing costs are extremely high. When families are struggling to pay rent, food becomes the first thing they cut back on.”
After hearing about the incredible reach and impact of Food For Others, we knew we had to step in and support their mission. Through our Helping Hands partnership with 7News, we were honored to present a $1,100 donation to help them continue their critical work.
“I am so happy to tell you that 7News is going to give you a Helping Hand,” said Lynn. “We have this check we want to present to you from Easterns Automotive Group in the amount of $1,100.”
Haynes was thrilled by the surprise gift.
“Thank you so much! This is really exciting. Thank you, and thank you, Easterns Automotive!”
We’re proud to stand beside organizations like Food For Others, who work every day to ensure no family has to go hungry.
To learn more about how you can support their mission, visit foodforothers.org.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in uplifting the communities that have supported us for decades. That’s why we were honored to partner with 7News DC for a HelpingHands segment to support Olney Help, a nonprofit that has provided food and financial assistance to local families for more than 50 years.
Recently, 7News’ Kellye Lynn visited Olney Help to see firsthand the dedication of its volunteers, who were busy packing food boxes for families struggling to make ends meet. With rising costs of basic necessities, many of those seeking assistance are doing so for the first time.
“We’re packing non-perishable items for our family clients who are in need of food supplies because they’re short on money, not able to meet their rent or other medical expenses, but are desperately in need of food,” said George Yanisko, a volunteer at Olney Help. “All of this food has arrived because of the community—from churches and scouting groups to individuals—so we don’t have to purchase it.”
Easterns Automotive Group Lends a Helping Hand
Recognizing the tremendous impact Olney Help is making in the community, we wanted to show our support in a meaningful way.
“Because your organization has been making such a tremendous difference since 1969, we wanted to do what we could to assist you,” said Kellye Lynn of 7News. “It’s really a privilege to offer you this check from Easterns Automotive Group in the amount of $1,100.”
Expanding Resources for Families in Need
The need for food assistance has more than doubled in recent years.
“We had 62 families prior to COVID. We are now averaging 128 families per month, so we could use this!” Yanisko shared.
Organizations like Olney Help ensure that families don’t have to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. Their work is made possible by volunteers and generous community donations, and we are proud to contribute to their mission.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we are committed to making a difference beyond our dealership doors. If you or someone you know needs assistance, or if you want to supportOlney Help, visit their website to learn more.
For more stories on how Easterns is giving back to the community, stay connected with us.
At Easterns Automotive Group, community is at the heart of everything we do. Through our ongoing partnership with WTTG Fox 5’s Pay It Forward segment, we have the incredible privilege of shining a light on local organizations making a lasting impact. This month, we had the honor of recognizing Building Bridges Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit serving female trauma survivors.
Founded in 2008 by Marsha Woodland, Building Bridges Foundation was born out of her own experience as a survivor of domestic violence. After facing unimaginable challenges and struggling to find support, Marsha made a commitment: no survivor should have to navigate the road to safety alone. She built Building Bridges to offer trauma-informed services tailored to the unique and complex needs of women who have experienced domestic, community, or interpersonal violence.
Through their programs, Building Bridges Foundation provides not only resources, but also a sense of community and understanding, ensuring that survivors feel seen, heard, and supported by people who truly understand their journeys.
Marsha and her team are also working to break the cycle of violence before it begins by educating youth about teen dating violence. Through their youth programs, they equip young people with the tools to recognize red flags and warning signs early in relationships. By teaching teens about healthy relationships, they’re empowering the next generation to make safe, informed decisions and understand where to turn for help.
Parents also play a critical role in prevention. Marsha encourages families to pay attention to behavioral shifts in their children — such as losing interest in activities they once loved — as potential signs of isolation or unhealthy relationship dynamics.
Marsha and her team are also working to break the cycle of violence before it begins by educating youth about teen dating violence. Through their youth programs, they equip young people with the tools to recognize red flags and warning signs early in relationships. By teaching teens about healthy relationships, they’re empowering the next generation to make safe, informed decisions and understand where to turn for help
Parents also play a critical role in prevention. Marsha encourages families to pay attention to behavioral shifts in their children — such as losing interest in activities they once loved — as potential signs of isolation or unhealthy relationship dynamics.
At Easterns, we believe in investing in organizations that uplift and empower — and Building Bridges Foundation embodies exactly that. We are proud to stand with them as they continue to create a brighter, safer future for women and youth across the DMV.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in giving back to the communities that support us. That’s why we were honored to donate $1,100 to Sitar Arts Center, a nonprofit in Northwest D.C. dedicated to making performing and visual arts accessible to all children, regardless of their cultural or economic background.
Recently, 7News‘ Kelly Lynn visited Sitar Arts Center to learn more about how this incredible organization has been enriching the lives of young people for 25 years. From painting and graphic design to music and theater, Sitar provides a safe space for students to learn, express themselves, and build confidence—all under one roof.
Breaking Barriers to Art Education
For many families, financial constraints can make access to the arts difficult. That’s why Sitar Arts Center ensures that 80 percent of its students come from households below the median income. The center’s mission is simple: no child should be denied the opportunity to explore their creativity because of financial limitations.
“The Sitar Arts Center is a creative community of belonging for youth in D.C.,” explains Maureen Dwyer, Executive Director of Sitar Arts Center. “When they walk in our doors, they have all the arts under one roof… it’s a safe place of learning.”
Easterns Gives a Helping Hand
At Easterns, we understand that investing in the arts means investing in the future of our youth. That’s why we’re thrilled to contribute to Sitar’s mission.
“You’re making such a difference in the community,” said Kelly Lynn of 7News during her visit. “We thought it would be a great idea to give you and your organization a ‘helping hand.’ Today, it’s my privilege to give you this check in the amount of $1,100 from Easterns Automotive Group.”
Expanding Opportunities for Young Artists
As Sitar Arts Center celebrates its 25th anniversary, it is preparing for a major expansion—adding 50 percent more space in an adjacent building. This new creative hub will feature:
A recording studio
Additional art studios
A video production area
More career training programs
“We’re going to be able to do even more creative career training there,” says Dwyer. “It’s really going to help our kids grow into young adults and stay in the arts.”
At Easterns Automotive Group, we are proud to support organizations that make a difference. We look forward to seeing how Sitar Arts Center continues to inspire and uplift young artists in D.C. for years to come.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in supporting our community and investing in the next generation. That’s why we teamed up with7News Helping Hands to surprise The Eastern Ridge School in Great Falls, Virginia, with a special donation.
A Unique Approach to Education
The Eastern Ridge School takes a nature-based approach to learning, giving children the opportunity to explore, create, and grow in an outdoor environment. Even when the snow falls, this school remains open, allowing students to embrace the weather by sledding and building snowmen together.
As Director Julie Liddle explains, their philosophy is simple:
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.”
Rather than relying on traditional manufactured toys, Eastern Ridge encourages students to play with natural elements like wooden planks and tires—materials that foster creativity, problem-solving, and physical strength. This hands-on approach allows children to develop coordination, teamwork, and an appreciation for the natural world around them.
The Helping Hands Surprise
7News’ Kellye Lynn recently visited The Eastern Ridge School to learn more about this incredible learning environment. During the visit, she had a special surprise in store—a Helping Hands donation of $1,100 from Easterns Automotive Group!
“It’s so impressive to us that we want to support your mission here and share what you’re doing with our viewers, as well as offer you a little bit of financial help,” said Lynn as she presented the check.
Director Julie Liddle was beyond grateful, sharing that the donation will help rebuild their art barn, making it more accessible to children. It will also allow the school to offer workshops for public school teachers, spreading their unique educational philosophy to even more students.
Investing in the Future
At Easterns Automotive Group, we’re honored to support organizations that are making a real difference. The Eastern Ridge School is shaping young minds in an innovative way, and we’re excited to be a part of their journey.
As the new year inspires many to focus on self-improvement, one local nonprofit is taking the lead in empowering women throughout the DMV to prioritize holistic health. It Takes a Village Collaborative is making a meaningful impact by fostering community conversations and raising awareness about wellness.
7News’ Joy Wang recently interviewed the leaders of this inspiring organization to learn more about their mission and the stories behind their work.
“[My sister and I] co-founded the organization in 2019. I’m younger than her, and we were both going through life transitions, and it was centered around our health without us knowing,” shared co-founder Shoareged Phillpotts. “We were both like, ‘We need to do something about this.’ We wanted to do something for our community because we have colleagues who are struggling and friends who are going through the same thing.”
It Takes a Village Collaborative is dedicated to promoting wellness habits, particularly among historically underrepresented groups in the DMV. Through retreats, wellness circles, and community cohorts, the organization provides safe spaces and resources to help individuals navigate their mental, physical, and emotional health.
“It is very important for us to focus on our mind, body, and spirit in a holistic way as individuals in this community, where we have a lot of trauma, stress, lack of community, and lack of communication,” said Sydni Turner, the organization’s board chair.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in supporting organizations that uplift and strengthen our community. When we learned about the impactful work of It Takes a Village Collaborative, we wanted to show our support by making a $1,100 donation to their cause.
“This is the perfect start to our year,” said Phillpotts. “We have a goal to transition and fully lean into this work, so this is a great kickstart for us and just motivating to know that the work we’re doing is important, and that we have to keep doing it.”
At Easterns, we’re proud to contribute to the important work being done by It Takes a Village Collaborative. Their commitment to fostering holistic health and supporting underserved communities aligns with our belief in creating a better future for everyone.
We look forward to seeing how their efforts continue to transform lives across the DMV. If you’re inspired by their mission, we encourage you to learn more about how you can support their work or get involved in your community. Together, we can all make a difference.
Here’s to a healthier, stronger, and more connected DMV in 2025!