Category Archives: Community

Pay It Forward: We Are Artistic

Community
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMg3ZCij7_M

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in making a difference, and through our partnership with FOX 5 Washington DC’s Pay It Forward initiative, we have the opportunity to spotlight amazing organizations doing impactful work in our community. Recently, we had the pleasure of meeting Edie Young, the inspiring founder of We Are Artistic.

We Are Artistic is a vibrant community dedicated to supporting artists, art enthusiasts, and individuals who believe in the power of art to uplift others. Founded by Edie Young in 2019, the organization partners with Cards for Hospitalized Kids, hosting card-making events that spread joy to children in hospitals. Edie, now preparing for her senior year of high school, has built a nurturing space where art is not only appreciated but used to bring positivity to those who need it most.

Edie’s passion for both traditional and digital art fuels her creativity, allowing her to experiment and share her love for artistic expression. Supported by dedicated friends and teachers from her school, Edie leads a movement that extends beyond just making art—it’s about making a difference. However, the organization faces challenges in keeping up with the demand for art supplies, often running out of materials during their events due to limited donations.

During her visit to the FOX 5 studio, Edie was surprised with a $2,200 donation as part of the Pay It Forward program. Her joy was undeniable as she enthusiastically exclaimed that the funds would be put to great use, particularly for their upcoming card-making event at Mount Pleasant’s Art All Night. This event invites the community to join in and help create cards that will brighten the lives of hospitalized children.

Easterns Automotive Group is proud to support Edie and her organization as they continue to harness the power of art to spread kindness. We encourage everyone to get involved and attend the Art All Night event to experience firsthand the impact that creativity and compassion can have.

Stay tuned for more stories of local heroes as we continue to Pay It Forward, one act of kindness at a time!

Let me know if you’d like any further adjustments!4o

Pay It Forward: Mother of Light Center

Community
https://youtu.be/OJfYbsp39eU?si=2Rir3SevG_Egaqax

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in giving back to our community and supporting organizations that make a real difference. Recently, we had the pleasure of partnering with Fox 5’s Maureen Umeh to visit Mother Of Light, a remarkable non-profit founded in 2019 in Alexandria, Virginia.

Mother Of Light is dedicated to providing food, supplies, and love to those in need in the Alexandria area. Founder Matilde Alvarado shared their mission with us, emphasizing the importance of serving food, family, and faith to their neighbors. They assemble packages to deliver directly to people’s doors, provide clothing, and find ways to best meet the needs of their community. Beyond these essentials, they offer a safe space and strive to build a strong, supportive community.

One of their standout programs is Shine and Read, which provides children with books and bean bags to create a comfortable and encouraging reading environment. This initiative fosters a love for reading and supports the educational development of young minds in the community.

In partnership with Channel 5, we were thrilled to surprise Mother Of Light with a $2,200 donation to support their Shine and Read program. Matilde was not expecting it at all, thinking they were only going to be part of a news spotlight. Her reaction was heartwarming and reinforced the impact of their work.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are proud to support Mother Of Light and their incredible efforts to serve the Alexandria community. Together, we can help them continue to spread love, support, and opportunities for growth.

For more information about Mother Of Light and how you can help, visit their website. Join us in supporting this amazing organization and making a difference in our community.

Helping Hands: ZCAF Mobile Woodshop

Community

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are dedicated to supporting initiatives that make a positive impact in our community. Recently, we had the pleasure of joining 7News’ Brian van de Graaff on a tour of the Zenith Community Arts Foundation (ZCAF) Mobile Woodshop, a unique program bringing hands-on carpentry skills to D.C. students.

The ZCAF Mobile Woodshop is a 20-foot woodshop on wheels equipped with tools and materials to teach lifelong lessons. It serves students at Ballou STAY High School, other schools, and local events throughout the metropolitan area. The pre-apprenticeship program offers professional skills training to individuals pursuing a career in carpentry. Graduates receive certificates that enhance their competitiveness in union-sponsored apprenticeships or other building trade jobs. This investment in vocational training is crucial as the carpentry workforce faces a significant number of retirements and job vacancies.

“It’s important because, according to the National Association of Homebuilders, 50% of all carpenters are going to be retiring in the next five years. So we’re trying to train a new generation of carpenters,” said Margery Goldberg, founder of ZCAF’s Mobile Woodshop.

ZCAF’s programs focus on enriching hands-on skill development, ensuring that manual skills are preserved in the digital age, especially during a time of acute labor shortages in the building trades.

To support this valuable initiative, Easterns Automotive Group, in collaboration with 7News Helping Hands, presented ZCAF with a $2,200 check. This donation will help ZCAF continue to bring woodworking to more students in the District.

“Joel Bassam at Easterns Automotive Group wanted to make a donation to your foundation so that you can bring woodworking to more students in the District,” said 7News’ Brian van de Graaff.

Margery Goldberg was thrilled to receive the surprise donation, exclaiming, “Oh my goodness, I’m flabbergasted. This is so great!”

We at Easterns Automotive Group are proud to support ZCAF and their efforts to equip the next generation of carpenters with the skills they need for a successful future.

Giving A Lift: City Ranch

Community

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in giving back to our community. That’s why we partnered with Fox 45 News on the “Giving A Lift” initiative, a program dedicated to supporting community groups and non-profits making a difference. One organization we’re proud to support is City Ranch.

City Ranch is a non-profit committed to making horseback riding accessible and affordable for Baltimore’s youth. Through their horsemanship programs, they help children develop self-confidence, responsibility, and pride. Whether through after-school programs, summer camps, Recreation & Parks offerings, or trail rides, City Ranch provides educational and engaging experiences for kids from all walks of life.

Ahesahmahk Dahn, the executive director of City Ranch, shared how the program began. “City Ranch came into existence while I was teaching elementary school in Baltimore City,” Dahn explained. “I taught fifth grade, and when they were getting ready to move to sixth grade, they would have a day off to do things, so I decided let’s do something really different.”

The first horseback riding experience was a hit, inspiring Dahn to expand the program and offer more Baltimore children the chance to ride and learn.

To recognize and support the incredible work of City Ranch, Fox45 surprised them with a $2200 check through our “Giving A Lift” initiative. This contribution will help City Ranch continue its mission of enriching the lives of Baltimore’s youth.

For more information about City Ranch and their impactful programs, visit the City Ranch website. We’re honored to support such a fantastic organization and look forward to seeing the positive impact they continue to make in our community.

Giving A Lift: Blue Star Mothers of America

Community

Blue Star Mothers of America (BSMA) is a remarkable organization dedicated to providing support for mothers with children in active military service. Their mission not only involves supporting each other and their children but also promoting patriotism across the nation. On this significant day, marking our country’s anniversary, they joined FOX 45 to discuss the vital work they are doing for mothers throughout Maryland.

Christeanna Levesque, President of BSMA, highlighted that the organization has been active across the country since World War II. Maryland has seen three chapters of BSMA over the years, with the current chapter proudly serving the community for the past decade.

Nicole Gourdine-Kelly, Vice President of BSMA, shared her personal experience, emphasizing how the organization has brought her peace of mind regarding her children’s service. She said, “When I’m talking to different service members, I realize it’s a family organization. Even though they aren’t with immediate family, the military is a family of its own.”

In recognition of their outstanding support for the community, FOX 45 and Easterns Automotive Group surprised BSMA with a $2200 check. This generous gesture is part of the Giving a Lift initiative, which supports community groups and non-profits that uplift their neighbors through various programs and outreach efforts.

We at Easterns Automotive Group are proud to support Blue Star Mothers of America and their invaluable contribution to military families. Their dedication and patriotic spirit are truly inspiring.

Giving A Lift: Athletes Serving Athletes

Community

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are always inspired by organizations making a real difference in our community. One such organization is Athletes Serving Athletes (ASA), which started in 2007 by a group of Baltimore athletes inspired by the father-son racing team of Rick and Dick Hoyt.

ASA’s mission is to advance the quality of life for individuals with limited mobility by empowering them to train for and participate in mainstream running events. Their focus on inclusion connects ASA Athletes with community runners through their Wingman Program, fostering the spirit of “Together We Finish!”

David Slomkowski, the Executive Director of ASA, highlights the extensive work they do for Baltimore’s differently-abled athletes. “We serve 12 communities throughout the Baltimore Metropolitan area,” says Slomkowski. “We’ve been able to offer our program free of charge for the last 14 years.”

In recognition of their invaluable support to the community, Fox45 and Easterns Automotive Group were thrilled to surprise ASA with a $2200 check as part of the Giving a Lift initiative. This program supports community groups and non-profits that are “giving a lift” to neighbors through their impactful programs and outreach.

We are proud to support ASA and their commitment to empowering athletes and promoting inclusion in the community.

Helping Hands: CAMMO

Community,

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in the power of community and the transformative impact of music. Recently, we had the honor of supporting an incredible organization that uses music to inspire and heal individuals across the country. We teamed up with 7News to surprise the Center for American Military Music Opportunities (CAMMO) with a Helping Hand donation.

Cathie Lechareas, a proud U.S. Navy veteran, co-founded CAMMO with a vision to bring the healing power of music to those who have served our country. “I was a cryptologist, many years ago, nothing to do with music. Nothing at all,” Lechareas shared. Despite her early career in the Navy, music has become an integral part of her life and mission.

CAMMO manages artists and singing groups nationwide, all of whom are connected to the military community. Whether they are spouses, children, or veterans themselves, these performers find solace and inspiration in their musical endeavors. The organization was born out of Lechareas’ work with veterans struggling with mental health issues, recognizing the profound effect music can have on emotional well-being.

“Trying to find an alternative to just using medication, and music is what I used. So it made me feel better, so why not?” Lechareas explained.

What began as a small initiative has now grown into a powerful force. CAMMO’s performers have sung in front of thousands in stadiums and millions on television. Beyond managing their schedules, CAMMO also holds songwriting workshops to nurture future artists.

Stephanie Shaker, a Marine wife, rediscovered her passion for music through CAMMO. Now a member of the American Military Spouses Choir, Shaker said, “It was definitely a dream come true to have the opportunity. It was always something I wanted to do, but I was always told to be practical and find stability, and music may not be the way to do that.”

These artists help each other cope with the challenges and trauma that come from military service. “We are able to go into those environments and just present ourselves as instruments to help facilitate healing,” said Army veteran Caleb Green.

Through every performance, they continue to serve their country by inspiring others. “If it can happen to us, the same thing and we’re there, it can happen for you. Take that chance, roll the dice, get out there, and live life,” encouraged Army veteran Reese Brown.

To support CAMMO’s mission, Easterns Automotive Group and 7News presented a $2,200 check. Lechareas mentioned that this generous donation will fund their next songwriting workshop, benefiting many people by spreading messages of hope and healing. “That will benefit so many people because what’s written, what’s shared, it goes out to so many people. You never know who you’re going to touch,” Lechareas said.

We are proud to support CAMMO and their efforts to make a difference in the lives of those who have served our country. Their dedication to using music as a source of inspiration and healing is truly commendable, and we look forward to seeing their continued impact on the military community.

Helping Hands: Crimson Heat All Stars

Community
https://youtu.be/xIYppflemOA?si=CzdAbpmSJhlJRdSS

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in the power of community, and our latest Helping Hands with 7News DC, we were able to surprise the Crimson Heat All Stars. This Maryland-based nonprofit is dedicated to providing physical fitness, social development, leadership, and academic excellence to youth aged 4 to 18 throughout the DMV area, with the primary goal of making competitive cheerleading more accessible for the youth of Washington, D.C.

Coach Veronica Burton, a dedicated advocate for youth development, has been giving back for an impressive 24 years. For Burton, it’s not just about cheerleading; it’s about instilling life lessons that extend beyond the field. Whether mastering stunts or perfecting dance routines, Burton takes pride in the personal growth and achievements of her young athletes.

“Cheerleading is our tool, and it’s the instrument that we use to transform lives,” Burton expressed passionately. “Here we are 24 years later – working with kids and trying to be phenomenal people. It was important for us to give them a competitive athletic experience but using that as a tool to shape their future growth.”

Inside what they fondly refer to as the “fire house” at the Capitol Heights gym, the Crimson Heat All Stars train each afternoon. Their full-year program consists of six months of intensive training and another six months dedicated to competing. What makes this program truly special is that all the coaches are volunteers who have emerged from the very program they now support.

Recently, Easterns Automotive Group had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with 7News to surprise the Crimson Heat All Stars with a 7News Helping Hand. The financial support provided by Easterns Automotive Group aims to contribute to the children’s training space, travel opportunities, and the wonderful experiences that shape their growth.

“Every penny counts! These dollars help these children have a great space to train and be able to travel and do the wonderful things that they do – we are so grateful. Wow, thank you!” expressed Coach Veronica Burton with heartfelt gratitude.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we’re honored to stand alongside organizations like the Crimson Heat All Stars, dedicated to molding future leaders and fostering positive growth within our community. As we continue to give back, we look forward to supporting even more initiatives that make a lasting difference in the lives of our youth.

Helping Hands: Leveling the Playing Field

Community,

Easterns Automotive Group has partnered with 7 News on this Helping Hands to support Leveling the Playing, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing sports equipment to students in the DMV.


Max Levitt, the founder of Leveling the Playing Field, has been helping P.E. Teachers across the region with sports equipment to ensure that no child is left out for ten years now. He expressed his passion for this cause, stating, “So many kids out there are not being given that opportunity. It is given so much to so many people, and the fact that socioeconomics plays a role in something that I think every kid should have the experience with.”


Max Levitt, highlighted the impact of removing financial barriers for families. “We have had many programs where we have seen participation increase specifically because the cost of equipment was removed as a barrier for families that just would have said no way,” said Levitt. “They get the lacrosse and they don’t have to spend $3,000 we are going to provide that for you, it’s more doable for families.”


Roger Garris, an athletics employee at Walker Mill Middle School in Prince George’s County, Md., emphasized the need for sports equipment in schools. “With most schools – you have kids that cannot afford things so Leveling the Playing Field helps them out with cleats and socks,” said Garris. “All of the things parents can’t afford.” Donation bins placed strategically across the region are making it easy for communities to get involved and provide students with the chance to experience the positive impact of sports.


By supporting Leveling the Playing Field, Easterns Automotive Group aims to champion the idea that every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and grow through the transformative power of sports.

Helping Hands: STATDC

Community, Uncategorized

In a small corner of Prince William County, a resilient family faced a life-altering moment earlier this year when a gas explosion engulfed their home, leaving one member severely burned. Dominic Walker, a burn victim, vividly recalls the harrowing incident that nearly claimed the lives of his family, including his 5-year-old daughter.

As Walker undergoes the arduous process of recovery, a local organization named STATDC has emerged as a beacon of support, working tirelessly to provide him with essential assistance during this challenging time.

Walker reflects on the traumatic event, stating, “He lit a candle and the whole house went up in flames. In that moment, I thought my daughter was outside with her mother, but she wasn’t, so I had to smash the window to get out and then go back inside to get my daughter.” His recounting of the incident is a testament to the strength and determination that has characterized his journey towards healing.

In the aftermath of the explosion, Walker spent three weeks in a coma, battling severe burns and uncertainty about his ability to walk and talk again. “I have pain in my hands, so every day it’s like, ‘When is this going to be over?'” he shares, shedding light on the physical and emotional toll of his recovery. Relearning basic tasks, such as showering, holding utensils, and eating, has become a daily struggle for him.

Recognizing the pressing need within the community, Tanya Whitaker, founder of STATDC, a local nonprofit focused on eradicating food insecurity and promoting labor-market fairness, stepped in to provide assistance. Whitaker, driven by a personal understanding of the struggles that accompany hardship, emphasizes, “There is a real need in the community.”

When asked to assist Walker during his time of need, Whitaker didn’t hesitate. “All I did was get a phone call and said, ‘Can you give someone food?’ I didn’t need to know the back story, nothing,” she explained. For Whitaker, the work of nonprofits like STATDC is deeply rooted in personal experiences. “If people were honest, most nonprofits are birthed out of pain. I have been hungry before, and no one should have to feel like that.”

In a heartwarming turn of events, 7News and Joel Bassam from Easterns Automotive Group surprised STATDC with a generous Helping Hand donation of $2,200. The unexpected contribution will significantly impact the organization’s ability to provide food to those in need.

“That means more people can eat. This is amazing, and this is an answer. I was just coming to give food,” expressed Whitaker in complete surprise and gratitude.

By extending a Helping Hand, they have not only contributed to feeding those in need but have also become a symbol of hope and solidarity during challenging times. Together, they exemplify the power of compassion and community support in fostering recovery and resilience.