At Easterns Automotive Group, our mission has always gone beyond cars. We believe in driving hope, lifting our community, and standing by those who need it most. That is why we are honored to support the incredible work of the Sweet Julia Grace Foundation.
Recently, 7News Helping Hands introduced us to Sara Knight, a mother who turned unimaginable loss into a lifeline for others. In 2014, after losing her 12 year-old daughter Julia Grace to a rare genetic condition, Sara launched a foundation in her honor.
Through her grief, Sara saw a clear purpose. She wanted to walk alongside families of medically fragile children and ask one powerful question: how can we help?
The answers are never the same. Sometimes it means granting a wish. More often, it means meeting basic needs that other systems cannot always support. And it is not just about one-time help. These families need consistent support and connection with others who understand their journey.
When we learned about Julia’s story, we knew we wanted to be part of it. As a small gesture, we presented Sara with a donation of 1,100 dollars to help keep their mission going strong.
Her response said it all.
“Wow, thank you so much, you surprised me.”
To learn more about the Sweet Julia Grace Foundation and how you can support their work, visit sweetjuliagrace.org
At Easterns Automotive Group, we’ve always believed that confidence drives success on the road and in life. Recently, we were moved by the incredible work of a local nonprofit making a life‑changing impact in Arlington: The Clothesline for Arlington Kids.
This organization was born out of a simple but heartbreaking observation. Co‑founder Ellen Moy noticed a little boy at her child’s school arriving every day in the dead of winter wearing only a blanket, flip‑flops, and socks. He couldn’t join his classmates for recess. He didn’t have what most of us consider basic clothing.
Ellen donated her son’s clothes to him, and overnight his world changed. He came to school with a coat, shoes, and the freedom to learn and play.That act of kindness became a mission. Together with Ben Sessions, Ellen co‑founded The Clothesline for Arlington Kids, a store‑like space where children from low‑income families can shop for a week’s worth of clothes. Privacy and dignity are at the heart of the experience. These children aren’t just handed garments—they get to choose what makes them feel good, strong, and ready to thrive in the classroom.
When we heard this story, we knew we had to step in. Easterns Automotive Group proudly extended a Helping Hand with an $1,100 donation to support their mission. It’s about more than clothes—it’s about giving kids the confidence to show up and shine.
To learn more about how you can help, visit clotheslinearlington.org. Let’s keep building brighter futures together.
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, 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!
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.
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.
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”
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.
