At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in making a positive impact on the communities we serve. One initiative that has captured our hearts is Blessings in a Backpack, a mission dedicated to ensuring no student in Fairfax County goes hungry over the weekends.
Every week, a group of dedicated volunteers assembles at Mount Vernon Community School to pack small bags filled with essential food items. These bags serve as a lifeline for students facing food insecurity, providing them with nutritional support during the weekends.
Rebecca King, a teacher at Mount Vernon Community School, has witnessed the impact firsthand. She shared, “I have got to see the joy on students’ faces when on Fridays they get a little bit something extra to take home on the weekends for nutritional support that they need.”
Blessings in a Backpack started with a modest goal of supporting 40 children but has now expanded to over a hundred students. This year, they took a step further by including fresh fruit in the snack bags.
Easterns Automotive Group, through our Helping Hands initiative, was thrilled to surprise Blessings in a Backpack with support to continue their incredible work benefiting children in the community. Joel Bassam expressed, “It is great to see the kids on Friday look and see what is in their bag, and it brings a lot of joy to the students when they see you are providing a lot of support for them and their families.”
We are proud to stand alongside Blessings in a Backpack, reinforcing our commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
At Easterns, we’re committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve. Our latest collaboration through the 7News Helping Hands initiative brings us closer to The Linner Foundation—a beacon of hope in Southeast D.C.
Oliver Linner Roy, the foundation’s founder, is on a mission to combat youth violence and uplift the community. Starting with a focus on supporting dads with children with disabilities, The Linner Foundation has grown to include The Family First Resource Center in Ward 8. Oliver aims to provide essential programs, from job readiness to domestic violence prevention, to empower residents.
In early 2023, despite financial challenges, The Linner Foundation’s team has hit the ground running, addressing the urgent need for positive activities and job opportunities for the youth. Oliver envisions a future where the foundation not only provides resources but the right resources tailored to each family.
To amplify their impact, 7News and Joel Bassam from Easterns Automotive Group have extended a 7News Helping Hand. This support will assist The Linner Foundation in spreading awareness, reaching families in need, and offering additional support services for the youth.
As part of our commitment to community well-being, we’re actively involved in Oliver’s vision for the next six months—an aggressive campaign to curb youth violence. While challenges persist, we stand united in our efforts to make a lasting difference.
Stay tuned for updates as we work together with The Linner Foundation to foster positive change and uplift the spirits of our neighbors. #EasternsCares #CommunityPartnership #TheLinnerFoundation”
At Easterns Automotive Group, our commitment to our community goes beyond providing exceptional vehicles. It’s about making a meaningful impact where it counts. That’s why we’re proud to support organizations like All Ages Read Together, a dedicated Fairfax County nonprofit on a mission to ensure that no child is left behind, especially when it comes to early education.
The heart and soul behind this noble cause is Michelle Sullivan, the Executive Director of All Ages Read Together. She understands that the students of today are the workforce of tomorrow, and to secure a prosperous future for Virginia, every child deserves a fair start.
In Northern Virginia, where there is no universal preschool system, the need for organizations like All Ages Read Together is crucial. As Michelle Sullivan aptly puts it, “Most people don’t realize that the largest preschool income exists here.” Many children and families in the area face unique challenges, and this nonprofit is bridging the gap.
All Ages Read Together is doing remarkable work by providing free preschool programs to children in need. By focusing on early education, they are empowering young minds, helping them grow into well-rounded individuals who are ready to take the next steps in their educational journey.
Their curriculum, centered around a “book of the week,” incorporates science activities, arts and crafts, and skill-building exercises. It’s designed to not only prepare children academically but also foster their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
In particular, the nonprofit serves a significant number of families where English is a second language, making their work even more vital in ensuring that all children receive a quality early education.
We at Easterns Automotive Group stand alongside All Ages Read Together in their mission, and we’re committed to making a difference in the lives of young learners throughout Fairfax and Loudoun counties. Together, we can ensure that no child is left behind, and every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Join us in supporting All Ages Read Together and their remarkable efforts to close the preschool gap in Northern Virginia. Together, we can create a brighter future for our community.
At Eastern Motors, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting organizations that make a difference. One such organization that has been doing remarkable work in Washington, D.C. for the past two decades is the Brem Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer and improving the lives of those affected.
For Rachel Brem, the founder of the Brem Foundation, the mission to advocate for breast cancer awareness began at the tender age of 12. Her determination was fueled by a personal tragedy – her mother’s diagnosis with breast cancer at the age of 33, with a prognosis of just six months to live. Against the odds, her mother’s resilience allowed her to live for 44 years.
Rachel Brem’s personal encounter with breast cancer occurred while she was working as a director of breast imaging in the 1980s. In a twist of fate, she diagnosed herself while testing ultrasound equipment one evening.
This life-changing experience led her to establish the Brem Foundation, driven by the conviction that early detection and quality treatment could save lives. The foundation’s core principles revolve around education, access, and advocacy. They work diligently to ensure that women in underserved communities throughout D.C. have the necessary support and resources.
In Washington, D.C., a city with the highest breast cancer mortality rate in the country, the Brem Foundation strives to break down access barriers and provide free rides for women to attend critical appointments. Their work is a testament to their commitment to ensuring that no woman must choose between healthcare and basic necessities like food or rent.
Recently, 7News and Joel Bassam from Easterns Automotive Group joined hands to support the Brem Foundation. In the form of a $2,200 donation, this Helping Hands will enable the foundation to extend its services for early detection, ultimately saving women’s lives. The surprise donation exemplifies the Eastern Motors commitment to uplifting the community and fostering positive change.
At Eastern Motors, we stand by the Brem Foundation and its unwavering dedication to breast cancer awareness. Together, we believe in the strength of community support to make a difference in the lives of women affected by this disease.
As we gear up for another school year, Easterns Automotive Group is thrilled to shed light on a heartwarming story from the heart of Southeast Washington, D.C. In this community, the nonprofit organization, Friends of Ridge Road, serves as a beacon of hope and support, touching the lives of countless residents who view the Ridge Road Community Center as not just a place, but a second home and family.
At the core of Friends of Ridge Road’s mission is a passion for nurturing the community’s growth and well-being. Dedicated individuals like Barbara Greene have tirelessly contributed their efforts to this noble cause, focusing on the children, seniors, and the entire community.
“We are there to assist you when you need help, and we want to engage the community, not just the kids, but the entire community,” as shared by Barbara Greene, a devoted member of the team.
Working closely with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation and Willie Bennett, Friends of Ridge Road is always one step ahead, catering to the diverse needs of the Southeast D.C. community. From providing meals for seniors to supporting the youth, their dedication knows no bounds.
Recognizing the exceptional work of Friends of Ridge Road, Easterns Automotive Group took the opportunity to extend a Helping Hand. Joel Bassam, representing Easterns, lauded their efforts in supporting the Southeast, D.C. community. In the spirit of community support, Easterns donated $2,200 to further the organization’s vital work.
The gesture deeply touched Barbara Greene, who expressed her profound gratitude. In her words, “You never think you will be the one to receive it, so this really hits my heart. I never, ever thought one in Southeast D.C. or little old me, but the love that I have, thank you so much.”
At Easterns, we are inspired by the dedication of organizations like Friends of Ridge Road, and we remain committed to making a positive impact in our community. Together, we can keep doing amazing work and supporting our neighbors in need.
As we dive into the new school year, Easterns Automotive Group teamed up with 7News to make a remarkable impact on the local community. This time, we set our sights on Allenwood Elementary School in Prince George’s County. With the educational landscape evolving rapidly, access to digital resources has become crucial for students. Recognizing this need, we decided to surprise Allenwood Elementary School with a generous donation of much-needed laptops through the 7News Helping Hands initiative.
Principal Shawna Fagbuyi couldn’t stress enough how critical these laptops are for the success of their students. In today’s world, learning extends beyond the classroom, and these laptops will serve as a gateway to a wealth of knowledge. Whether used within the classroom or at home, they offer invaluable tools for both students and their families.
“These laptops will be phenomenal for our students. We have opportunities for them to engage in interventions at home; we use computers inside the classroom; so this will really give our students an opportunity to have their own devices at home that do not belong to the school and that they can share with their families,” Fagbuyi expressed.
The surprise didn’t just leave the students excited; it left them nearly speechless. Known for their spirited Wildcats mascot, the students showed their enthusiasm with an impressive roar. However, when the laptops were unveiled, the room was filled with awe and appreciation.
With the school year officially underway, these laptops are set to become indispensable tools for Allenwood Elementary School students. At Easterns Automotive Group, we’re committed to empowering our local communities and helping students access the resources they need to thrive in the digital age of learning. Education is the key to a brighter future, and we’re proud to support the educational journey of these young minds.
Stay tuned for more stories of how Easterns Automotive Group continues to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors.
As the back-to-school season approaches, the anticipation of academic achievement is coupled with the concern of meeting the financial demands that come with it. Families often find themselves grappling with the costs of school supplies, clothing, and other essentials that set their children up for success.
In Fairfax County, a beacon of hope shines through – the KOINONIA Cares Organization. This local nonprofit, which traces its roots back to the 1960s, is dedicated to supporting families in need throughout the year. Judy Davis, the executive director of KOINONIA, shared that their doors are open to around 40 families on a regular basis. Beyond offering essential food and clothing items, KOINONIA extends a helping hand that touches the lives of thousands of community members.
The name KOINONIA, meaning “sharing,” reflects the organization’s core principle – to share resources, kindness, and support with those who need it the most. One such family, represented by Angie, a mother of two young children, expressed deep gratitude for KOINONIA’s assistance. “My family is very happy because they help with food and clothing,” she shared.
This remarkable work is made possible by the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of the community. Donations of essential items help KOINONIA deliver tangible impact to the lives they touch.
Recognizing the vital role KOINONIA plays in the community, Easterns Automotive Group partnered with ABC 7 News to lend a helping hand. Joel Bassam, from Easterns Automotive Group, had the privilege of surprising KOINONIA with a $2,200 donation through the 7News Helping Hand initiative.
“This will be put to good use, and I have plans,” Davis exclaimed gratefully. “It will help us in a number of ways. First of all, more assistance to the families that need it. There are a lot of things that don’t get donated like meat, eggs and anything that is perishable.”
The impact of KOINONIA’s efforts is growing, and the organization is actively seeking a new space to accommodate its expanding reach. The dedication to fulfilling the needs of families in Fairfax County remains unwavering.
You can join hands with KOINONIA Cares Organization and make a difference. Discover more about their impactful work and how you can contribute by clicking here. Together, we can uplift our community and create brighter futures for those in need.
In the heart of Fairfax County, a local initiative is sowing the seeds of community nourishment. Stacey Evers, the visionary behind Hands On Harvests, launched this Northern Virginia nonprofit in response to the pandemic’s heightened food insecurity. Founded in May 2020, this grassroots movement aims to tackle hunger by providing fresh produce to food banks across Fairfax County.
The inspiration behind Hands On Harvests emerged from the dramatic spike in food demand during the pandemic. Stacey Evers, who also serves on the Fairfax Food Council Steering Committee, recognized the urgency to address the 400% increase in need. Evers knew that ensuring access to fresh and nutritious food was crucial for the community’s well-being.
The organization’s impact is felt not just in the increase of gardens flourishing across apartment complexes, but also in the lives they touch. Evers explains that each 4×8 plot is nurtured by local residents, fostering a sense of ownership and pride. With a growing waitlist and plans for two new community gardens, Hands On Harvests continues to expand its reach.
Yet, Hands On Harvests is more than just a garden project. In the past year, they supplied over 20,000 pounds of produce to 26 local food banks. Their commitment to addressing the needs of Fairfax County is unwavering.
Recognizing the significant work of Hands On Harvests, Easterns Automotive Group partnered with 7News to extend a Helping Hand. Joel Bassam, representing Easterns, highlighted the organization’s holistic approach and dedication to community development. “We want to donate $2,200 to your cause so that you can continue to help people gain life skills and do amazing things in the community,” Bassam affirmed.
Stacey Evers expressed her gratitude for the donation, envisioning the ways in which it could enhance Hands On Harvests’ impact. She acknowledged the profound significance of the contribution, emphasizing its potential to drive positive change.
Beyond community gardens, Hands On Harvests is also nurturing future generations’ connections with farming and agriculture through innovative programs. As the organization continues to cultivate fresh produce and hope, its dedication to uplifting the Fairfax County community remains steadfast.
At Eastern Motors, we believe in the power of community and the positive impact that small acts of kindness can have. In Northern Virginia, a remarkable nonprofit called Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats is making waves by transforming the lives of young adults with different abilities, all while whipping up delectable dog treats in an Alexandria church kitchen.
As soon as you step into the Pawfectly Delicious kitchen, nestled within an Alexandria church, you’re enveloped in the comforting scent of ginger and cinnamon. Amidst the inviting aroma, the dedicated team of differently abled employees crafts each dog treat with care and enthusiasm, marking the beginning of something truly magical, according to Anne Tuccillo, the Executive Director of the nonprofit.
For Emma Franken, one of Pawfectly Delicious’ employees, the experience is about more than just baking dog treats. “I like working with other special needs kids and getting to know more people,” she shares with a smile. During their baking sessions, the church buzzes with activity as the team rolls, shapes, and bakes all-natural dog treats. These treats are beloved by both furry companions and their human friends.
Anne Tuccillo, along with her son Bryan, co-founded Pawfectly Delicious. Their vision goes beyond crafting delicious dog treats; it’s about providing meaningful employment opportunities to young adults with disabilities. “We have adult children who have aged out of the school system, and as hard as the school system has tried to transition them into some type of job, there aren’t a lot of employers willing to take the chance on training someone who is differently abled,” Anne explains.
Pawfectly Delicious started its journey in Anne and Bryan’s home kitchen, initially driven by volunteers. However, the demand grew, and in 2021, they achieved a significant milestone – generating enough revenue to start compensating their dedicated team. “Our biggest accomplishment was in 2021 – we had enough revenue we could start paying our people,” Anne proudly shares.
The heartwarming story of Pawfectly Delicious caught the attention of 7News and Easterns Automotive Group. United by a shared commitment to uplift the community, we collaborated to offer a 7News Helping Hand. Through a $2,200 donation, we aimed to bolster the impactful work that Anne, Bryan, and the entire team are doing.
“I’ll tell you after working so hard last night on submitting the grant, I was like, ‘Why am I doing this?’ Now I know why and it’s because of people like you and the community to help us make the world a better place, so thank you,” Anne expressed gratefully upon receiving the donation.
The support from Easterns Automotive Group is more than a monetary contribution; it’s a vote of confidence in the profound impact that Pawfectly Delicious is making. With this donation, Pawfectly Delicious will continue to provide employment opportunities for its current team members and potentially extend its reach to empower even more individuals.
At Easterns, we are honored to be a part of this incredible journey of empowerment and transformation. Through initiatives like the 7News Helping Hand, we strive to foster positive change in our community, one act of kindness at a time.
Prom season is a time of excitement and anticipation for many high school students across the DMV. However, for some, the cost of a prom dress can be a significant barrier to fully enjoying this special event. Uncut Youth has been on a mission to alleviate the financial burden of prom dresses by generously giving away dozens of free dresses to students in need. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, many young girls in the community can now attend prom with confidence and joy.
Volunteers like Shari Morris are at the heart of this incredible initiative, ensuring that girls of all sizes find the perfect dress. They’ve even included brand-new dresses that are waiting to make someone’s prom night extra special. Recognizing the importance of looking and feeling their best on this significant occasion, Uncut Youth has created a one-stop shop for high school girls to find everything they need for prom night. From dresses and shoes to accessories, they’ve thoughtfully curated a selection that brings smiles to the faces of young students.
Founder Laurese Gerald established Uncut Youth two years ago, driven by her passion to provide support and mentorship to teenage girls throughout the DMV. She knows that prom and graduation are pivotal moments in a young person’s life, and through Uncut Youth, she strives to be the trusted mentor many of them need.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we were deeply inspired by the impactful work of Uncut Youth, and we knew we had to contribute to their mission. As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, we surprised Uncut Youth and its volunteers with a 7News Helping Hand.
The 7News Helping Hand not only symbolizes our appreciation for their efforts but also enables them to expand their reach and serve more young people in need. By providing additional resources, we hope to support their community initiatives, outreach programs, and future endeavors. Thank you to Uncut Youth for making a positive impact in the lives of so many young individuals, and thank you to our dedicated team members and customers who make it possible for us to give back to the community we cherish.
At Easterns Automotive Group, we are not just about selling cars; we are about creating moments that matter and shaping a brighter future for all.
Stay tuned for more heartwarming stories of how we continue to uplift and support our community!