The nonprofits to which The Film Biz Happy Hour donated money include:

The Grandfathers Group

Based in Alexandria, Virginia, The Grandfathers Group is an award-winning project of The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program and The Campagna Center, whose programs strengthen families and create safe havens where children can flourish.  

The Grandfathers Group recruits and trains senior African American men (age50+) to serve a minimum of one year as volunteer "Grandfather" mentors for African American boys, ages 6 to 12, whose fathers are not available.

The mission of The Grandfathers Group is to promote and enhance positive youth development for young African American males whose fathers are absent from the home by recruiting senior African American male mentors to offer a stabilizing influence through serving as positive role models.  This intergenerational approach to mentoring has impacted the external and internal developmental experience of these young boys by providing a supportive framework of empowerment, encouragement and esteem-building activities focused on character education and life skills.

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for The Grandfathers Group's special events programs for the children.  Special events include taking the children to cultural enrichment programs such as going to The Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap, museums and other sites.  The Grandfathers Group's annual budget is $50,000, so your contribution to them will make a tremendous difference in the lives of the children they serve.

For more information about making a difference with The Grandfathers Group, please contact their Coordinator, Joan Dale, at 703-549-1607.

Food & Friends

In Honor of Brian Dragonuk, a local actor and web site hoster who has been fighting Leukemia and is currently undergoing chemotherapy. 

Founded in 1988 by Reverend Carla Gorrell, Food & Friends makes a significant and meaningful difference in our region.  Food & Friends states their mission this way, "For people living with HIV/AIDS and other life-challenging illnesses, the battle is far from over. We just make sure no one has to do it on an empty stomach." 

Food & Friends prepares, packages and delivers meals and groceries to nearly 1,000 people living with HIV/AIDS and other life-challenging illnesses such as breast, lung and colon cancer throughout Washington, DC, and 14 counties of Maryland and Virginia.  For more than 14 years, Food & Friends has provided food and companionship to their clients, their loved ones and caregivers. 

Currently, Food & Friends provides meals and groceries to nearly 1,000 clients each month; more than 200 are children.  Since 1988, they have served over 7 million meals to over 10,000 clients.  This year alone, Food & Friends will deliver over 1 million meals. 

Food & Friends provides meals, groceries and nutrition counseling to people living with life-challenging illnesses such as AIDS and cancer.  Determination of eligibility is entirely health-based.  Food & Friends has no requirements for income or insurance coverage.  To be eligible for service, a person must have a qualifying primary illness, compromised nutritional status, and a limited ability to prepare their own meals due to factors such as disability, illness, or medical treatment. 

Food & Friends services are specially designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS and other life-challenging illnesses.  They offer 17 daily menus that meet their clients special dietary restrictions.  Food & Friends provides a full day’s worth of nutritious meals. 

Food & Friends services are made possible with the help of nearly 1,000 volunteers who have fun while lending just a few hours of their time on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. 

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for Food & Friends' Client Day, which is a biannual, half-day seminar for clients and their loved ones to come together for yoga, nutritional assessment, information on healthy eating and food preparation, as well as issues related to dealing with their particular disease.

For more information about making a difference with Food & Friends, please contact their special events director, Courtney Stamm, at 202-269-2277. For general information, simply email Food & Friends at info@foodandfriends.org.

The Family Place

The Family Place is a local nonprofit that was founded 25 years ago.  With an annual budget under $600,000, The Family Place helps 300 families per year with eight staff members and some volunteers.  Based in the heart of Mt. Pleasant, The Family Place is a community drop-in center for families.  Set in a multi-cultural and multi-racial environment, their programs include: case management, prenatal education, parenting education, Even Start, family literacy, domestic violence, job readiness, teen parenting, and early childhood education.  

The Family Place helps meet emergency needs, provides information and education, enhances long-term family stability and promotes the growth of a community of support among parents.  They focus on expectant parents and families with children through age five.

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for The Family Place's after-school educational programs that focus on reading and writing as well as their family literacy program, in particular funding for their early childhood supplies.

For more information about making a difference with the The Family Place, please contact their executive director, Camille Fountain, at 202-265-0149.

Please note:  As of July 14, 2004, Film Biz had given over $50,000 to local nonprofits. 

The DC Creative Writing Workshop

The D.C. Creative Writing Workshop is a local non-profit that was founded by Nancy Schwalb in 2000.  Winner of the "Shayne" Nonprofit Leadership Award in 2002, Nancy has created a beautiful program for inner-city children to learn about writing and about their own creative abilities.  The program introduces at-risk youth to self-expression and the written word.  Five main areas are covered, including: in-class creative writing instruction, teacher training and support, an after-school writing club, an after-school drama club, and an after-school Literary Magazine Club.  It is the only inner-city public middle school in the nation that publishes its own literary magazine.  

The D.C. Creative Writing Workshop works with over 600 students at the Charles Hart Middle School, which is located in the Congress Heights neighborhood in Southeast Washington.  Out of the 600 students, over 350 participate in the various writing instruction programs with tutors and mentors and the literary magazine.

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for the D.C. Creative Writing Workshop's after-school writing programs and their incredibly moving and beautifully written literary magazine.

For more information about making a difference with the D.C. Creative Writing Workshop, please contact their founder/executive director, Nancy Schwalb, at 202-297-1957.

Community Family Life Services, Inc.

Community Family Life Services (CFLS) is a local nonprofit that has been working to improve the lives of low-income and homeless families since 1969.  CFLS helps over 12,000 individuals in our community every year.  Their Youth Education and Advocacy Program seeks to build a strong foundation for youth living in CFLS’ transitional housing programs in an atmosphere that fosters healthy academic and social growth.

During the summer months, over 100 inner-city youth take part in daily summer camp activities and outings to museums, festivals, a waterpark and other venues that allow them to have fun in the sun and learn something at the same time.  During the school year, excited youth never tire of asking when summer camp will begin.  Since 1988, over 1,000 children have been able to experience summer camp at CFLS.

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for the children of CFLS to go to a waterpark and enjoy a day out of the summer heat in the city, only one part of a larger summer program that CFLS offers the inner-city children.

For more information about making a difference with Community Family Life Services (CFLS), please contact their development associate, Alicia Horton, at 202-347-0511, ext. 415.

College Bound, Inc.

College Bound is a nonprofit that is committed to "making college a reality for DC public school students."  College Bound prepares public school students in the greater DC area to enter college and earn their degrees.  

Since October 1991, College Bound has served hundreds of public school students in a tutoring/mentoring program, awarded over 70 College Bound scholarships and boasts a 95% college matriculation rate for College Bound scholarship students.  College Bound has mentoring, an academic enrichment program, a college prep and SAT prep course, and scholarships and financial aid for college.  

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for books and supplies for College Bound's after-school programs, one of which is their college prep courses.

For more information about making a difference with College Bound, please contact their executive director, Rustin Lewis, at 202-842-0858.

Tahirih Justice Center

Founded in 1997, the Tahirih Justice Center is a nonprofit that promotes justice for women and girls worldwide.  The Center was founded to address the acute need for legal services of immigrant and refugee women who have fled to the U.S. to seek protection from human rights abuses.  Since 1997, the Tahirih Justice Center has assisted over 4,000 women and girls.  

The Center's founder, Ms. Layli Miller-Muro, created the Center after she was besieged by requests for legal assistance following her involvement in a high-profile case that set national precedent and revolutionized asylum law in the United States.  Tahirih (pronounced Ta-he-ray) was a poet and a scholar who fought for women's rights in an oppressive Middle Eastern society in the mid-19th century. 

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for emergency counseling needs for children who have been traumatized.  Often the women and their children escape a brutal situation and need immediate counseling.  Film Biz will support that effort. 

For more information about making a difference with the Tahirih Justice Center, please contact their director of development, Nuvyn Peters, at 703-575-0070.

The Reading Connection

Founded in 1992, The Reading Connection is an inspiring and award-winning nonprofit that provides reading motivation programs for children who are in a housing crisis.  Based in Arlington, Virginia, The Reading Connection has served well over 11,000 children in crisis and distributed to them over 40,000 books.  Each year, 200 volunteers provide over 4,000 hours of direct service to children in need.  Another 700 community volunteers support the work of The Reading Connection each year by conducting book and school supplies drives, participating in special events, and providing general office and clerical support.  As The Reading Connection's motto states, "Books make bonds that last forever."

Film Biz always earmarks the monies, and Film Biz will earmark the funds for school supplies that The Reading Connection will give to the children.  Most of these children have never had their own new school supplies or their own books.  The Reading Connection makes all that possible and spends time reading with the children and showing them how much fun it is to read -- a gift for life and a gift that changes a youngster's life!

For more information about making a difference with The Reading Connection, please contact their program director, Judy Hijikata, at 703-528-8317, ext. 14.

Casey Cares Foundation

Founded by Casey Baynes in 2000, the Casey Cares Foundation is a Maryland-based nonprofit that provides uplifting, recreational programs for critically ill children and their families.  Casey Cares strives to aid families find a sense of normalcy by providing help during a very difficult time.  Casey Cares has created special activities for the children and their families, including going to the zoo, movie and pizza nights, as well as birthday celebrations.  

Film Biz monies will sponsor special outings for the critically ill children.  In particular, Film Biz will support a Casey Cares Foundation's special outing for the children and their families (parents and siblings) around the upcoming Valentine's Day holiday.  The Saturday morning "party" will include a movie screening, lunch and party favors.

For more information about making a difference with the Casey Cares Foundation, please contact their director of development and special events coordinator, Patti Campbell, at 443-568-0064, ext. 222.

Kids R First

Founded by retired teacher Susan Ungerer in 1998, Kids R First is an all-volunteer non-profit that is based in Reston, Virginia, and is committed to helping students (grades K-12) realize their potential.  Ninety-nine percent of all financial donations to this non-profit goes to programs for the students.

Dedicated to education, Kids R First has helped over 36,500 needy children receive new school supplies since its founding in 1998.  In the past six years, 375,000 units of supplies have been custom ordered and donated to schools in Herndon, Reston, Sterling/Ashburn, Centreville and Chantilly.  This year alone, Kids R First has provided school supplies to 9,500 students in 58 schools in these Northern Virginia communities.  

In addition, 850 high school students within these communities have received assistance with special mini-scholarships through the Kids R First's College and Career Bound Program.  Kids R First's program provides funds for SAT tutorial courses and college application fees.

Though Northern Virginia is one of the wealthiest regions in our nation, the Fairfax County Department of Family Services last reported in May of 2002 that 33,000 students out of the 155,000 students enrolled in Fairfax public schools were on free or reduced lunch.

Film Biz's donations will support Kids R First's remarkable success at providing school supplies to students in need.

For more information about making a difference with Kids R First, please contact their founder/executive director, Susan Ungerer, at 703-860-3639.

OutdoorCreations

Founded by Dewayne Hudson in 1999, OutdoorCreations is an environment-based non-profit organization that provides students with the skills to build confidence and esteem, using an experiential education model.  OutdoorCreations is committed to exposing urban youth to the beauty of the outdoors.

Working with over 125 students weekly at various schools and centers across the D.C. area, OutdoorCreations also works with many of the city's top non-profits, including Martha's Table and The Fishing School, both of which are past Film Biz charities.

OutdoorCreations’ Woodz’n the Hood program is a year-round, environmental science enrichment program designed to expose students to the outdoors while developing their character.  The program has indoor and outdoor learning components that:  provide mentors and tutors; give students individualized attention and build confidence.  

Film Biz's donations have been earmarked to fund a OutdoorCreations' team-building day, in which the children will participate in an "indoor" rock-climbing experience.  We will also fund a whitewater rafting trip in Harper's Ferry, WV, in the spring.  All these activities are preparing the students for a trip to Colorado's Rockies. 

For more information about making a difference with OutdoorCreations, please contact their founder/executive director, Dewayne Hudson, at 202-269-0196.

City Year

In Honor of Steve LeHuray (1943-2003)

(Founder/Publisher of ICOM)

Founded in Boston in 1988, City Year has grown into a national phenomenon.  An Action Tank for national service, City Year seeks to demonstrate, improve and promote the concept of national service as a means for building a stronger democracy. An 'action tank' is both a program and a 'think tank' - constantly combining theory and practice to advance new policy ideas, make programmatic breakthroughs, and bring about major changes in society.

City Year's vision is that one day, the most commonly asked question of a young person will be, "Where are you going to do your service year?"

City Year works toward the full realization of this vision through three core activities:  running a full-time youth service corps; engaging citizens in service; and leading discussions about the development of national service policies and initiatives.  Washington, DC's chapter was launched in September 2000.  

Film Biz's donations will be earmarked to stay local and help the DC chapter work with young people who live in Southeast Washington.  Specifically, the Film Biz funds will support City Year's Young Heroes Team, in which middle-school students will learn the value of teamwork, will establish common ground, and will break down social barriers -- expressing their ideas of inclusiveness through various art projects.

This particular Film Biz was a cold, rainy night, and the exciting baseball playoffs were on television.  But many folks came to schmooze and pay tribute to their friend and mine, Steve LeHuray (1942-2003), who passed away recently.    

This Film Biz night was dedicated in honor of Steve, who was not only the founder/publisher of ICOM and InMotion, but was also a stalwart friend to one and all in the film and video industry of the DC region over the past three decades or more.  It is impossible to calculate how many individuals and businesses Steve helped through his quiet efforts and through press coverage in his publications.  His friendship, guidance and wry humor will be sorely missed.  

For more information about making a difference with City Year, please contact their executive director, Chris Murphy, at 202-742-7371.

Please note:  As of October 16, 2003, Film Biz had given over $45,000 to local nonprofits.  

The Arlington Community Temporary Shelter, Inc.

The Arlington Community Temporary Shelter, Inc. (or TACTS) is a non-profit organization that offers a safe place for abused, homeless, and at-risk women and families.  TACTS has an emergency homeless shelter, a domestic violence safehouse and a thrift store.  The assistance they provide helps their clients to develop the tools and resources necessary to become self-sufficient individuals once more.  For over 25 years, TACTS has provided shelter and services, and has been an effective advocate.  They have also educated the community, built coalitions and influenced policy.  

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for the children of TACTS' shelter and safehouse.  Their Children's Fund provides assistance for the children's special needs, including funds for summer camp, sports programs, school supplies and uniforms -- all in an endeavor to give the children an opportunity to be engaged in constructive activities. 

For more information about making a difference with TACTS, please contact their executive director, Linda Dunphy, at 703-522-8858.

Mary's Center for Maternal & Child Care, Inc.

Mary's Center is a phenomenal non-profit that was established in 1988 with joint funding from the DC Mayor's Office on Latino Affairs and the DC Commission of Public Health to address the demand for Spanish-speaking maternal and pediatric services in the predominately Latino areas of Ward One.  Today, the Center serves a multicultural population residing in every Ward of the city, with a focus on families who work in jobs where health insurance is not available.  

On an average day, Mary's Center provides 200 medical visits to people who wouldn't have any other medical care.  Mary's Center does so much with so little, providing medical care and a whole range of support services in the most caring manner.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds to purchase two new dopplers, which will enable the doctors and midwives to check the fetus' heartbeat.  

For more information about making a difference with Mary's Center for Maternal & Child Care, please contact their director of development, David Bender, at 202-483-8319, ext. 341.

Horton's Kids, Inc.

In 1989, Karin Walser, Horton's Kids' founder, met some children at a gas station pumping gas for tips.  The children lived at the Capitol City Inn, formerly Washington's largest homeless shelter.  Karin made a promise to come back and visit the children.  She began going to the Capitol City Inn once a week to create activities for the children and take them on outings.  After the Inn was closed, the children's families were moved to shelters and apartments around Washington, but Karin continued to visit the children and plan events for them.

By 1991, the outings had become regular events.  The non-profit instituted weekly evening tutoring for the children at a local library and continued Sunday educational, cultural and recreational field trips.  Today, Horton's Kids has over 100 volunteers meeting the needs of over 200 children in Washington, DC's Anacostia neighborhood.  

Their primary activities consist of weekly Tuesday evening tutoring sessions and Sunday afternoon outings to museums, parks, swimming pools, and other points of interest for children.  In addition, Horton's Kids provides doctor and dental visits, summer camp, scholarships and educational advocacy for those with special gifts or special needs.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds to support a Sunday outing at a local water park so that the Anacostia children will have a special day.  At the water park, Horton's Kids will have a birthday party for all the children's birthdays.

For more information about making a difference with Horton's Kids, please contact their founder/executive director, Karin Walser, at (202) 256-7194.

Urban Rangers Community Youth Service Corps

In 1993, Urban Rangers was founded by Katie Davis, a writer and broadcaster and longtime resident of Adams Morgan.  Urban Rangers weaves together community service and recreation in the hopes of creating an extended family for these children.  At first, it was small and helped a few kids get experience working on bikes in the neighborhood.  But Urban Rangers has grown and offers a whole array of choices for the children, including:  hiking, camping, gardening, and cleaning public parks.  Ultimately, the children learn how to fix what is broken in their neighborhood.  

All the proceeds from the door on June 10th will benefit Urban Rangers' summer camp and its oral history project, "Neighborhood Stories."

For more information about making a difference with Urban Rangers, please contact their founder/director, Katie Davis, at (202) 332-0774.

DC Action for Children 

In Honor of Phyllis Campbell Newsome (1962-2002)

Founded in 1992 by five concerned citizens, DC Action for Children (DC ACT) is an independent, non-profit, multi-issue advocacy organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and their families living in the District of Columbia.  Over one-third of the children living in DC live below the poverty line.  

DC ACT's work is guided by its vision that each child in the District of Columbia should be afforded the opportunity to reach his or her potential.  As such, DC ACT's mission is to "educate, publicize and organize in order to improve conditions for children and families in the District of Columbia."

All the proceeds from the door will benefit a new fund in honor of Phyllis Campbell Newsome, a tireless advocate for those less fortunate, especially children in need.  Since 1994, her work as the Director of Advocacy and Community Relations with the Washington Council of Agencies was vital to our community and will be sorely missed.  The Phyllis Campbell Newsome Fund will support DC Action for Children's program that trains young people to be advocates. 

For more information about making a difference with DC Action for Children, please contact their executive director, Ms. Angela M. Jones, at (202) 234-9404.

La Clinica del Pueblo

Begun in 1983, La Clinica del Pueblo is a bilingual, bicultural, nonprofit, community clinic that provides free, comprehensive health care and education services to uninsured and underinsured Latinos and others in need throughout the Washington, DC, metropolitan area.  The clinic is located in the heart of the neighborhoods of Mt. Pleasant, Adams Morgan, and Columbia Heights in the District of Columbia.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for La Clinica del Pueblo to purchase pediatric medical supplies.

For more information about making a difference with La Clinica del Pueblo, please contact their development director, Ms. Alicia Wilson, at (202) 464-0147.

Bright Beginnings, Inc.

Begun in 1991, Bright Beginnings, Inc. is a developmental child care center for homeless preschoolers whose families are in crisis shelters or transitional housing in Washington, DC.  The center offers free, full-day, year-round, and developmentally-appropriate care for approximately 130 children aged six weeks to five years old.  As one of two child care centers in the District of Columbia that offers free care to homeless children, Bright Beginnings is alleviating a desperate community shortage.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for Bright Beginnings' in-house educational program for the children living in shelters, specifically for pre-literacy supplies and art supplies.  

For more information about making a difference with Bright Beginnings, please contact their development director, Ms. Lindsey Waldrop, at 202-842-9090.

Please note:  As of March 12, 2003, Film Biz had given over $40,000 to local nonprofits.

See Forever Foundation

The See Forever Foundation is a local non-profit whose mission is to create learning environments in lower-income urban communities where teens, particularly those who have not succeeded in traditional schools, can reach their potential. 

Through the Maya Angelou Public Charter School and other See Forever programs, their students develop the academic, social, and employment skills that they need to build rewarding lives and promote positive change in their communities. 

See Forever operates a comprehensive program for at-risk and court-involved teens in Washington, DC.  See Forever teens take part in the non-profit's activities year-round, for up to 10.5 hours per day during the traditional school year, and for 6 to 8 hours per day during the summer.  They attend class at The Maya Angelou Public Charter School, work part-time at one of our two student-run businesses (which are called the Untouchable Taste Catering and the Student Technology Center), and participate in activities ranging from internships to summer programs to team-building exercises.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for See Forever Foundation's Summer Enrichment Program so that their teens can go to college prep programs over the summer. 

For more information about making a difference with See Forever Foundation, please contact their development associate, Ms. Lauren Struck, at 202-797-8250.

The Fishing School

The Fishing School is a faith-based, after-school family and child support center that provides a safe haven, intervention, and education for vulnerable children and youth. The Fishing School is inspired by the adage, "If you give a man a fish, you will feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will feed himself for a lifetime."  

Through a variety of programs and services, they help children develop into independent, productive, and contributing members of society.  Tom Lewis, a retired District of Columbia police officer, started The Fishing School in 1990 to bring hope, skills, and faith to economically disadvantaged children and youth in Northeast Washington, DC.  While still on duty as an original "Officer Friendly" assigned to speak about citizenship in schools and other community forums, Officer Lewis saw so many children living in desperation and destitution that he felt compelled to act.  The Fishing School was born from his belief that the promise of America can only be realized if all of our children get the love and care that will enable them to mature into responsible adults and leaders of tomorrow.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for The Fishing School's Youth Enrichment Program, and specifically their field trips to businesses and museums.

For more information about making a difference with The Fishing School, please contact their founder/president, Mr. Thomas Lewis, at 202-399-3618.

Metro TeenAIDS

An article in The New York Times recently said, "Every day, 365 days a year, AIDS kills three times the number of people who died when the World Trade Center fell."

In D.C., there are between 2,500 and 3,500 teenagers who are HIV-positive, which is a far higher percentage than the national average.  Only about 100 of those teens are receiving care.  

Metro TeenAIDS is a local non-profit that provides resources to help young people fight AIDS and support each other.  Unlike any other organization in the Washington, DC, area, Metro TeenAIDS focuses all of its efforts on the special prevention, education, and treatment needs of young people.  Metro TeenAIDS advances community prevention efforts.  During its 12 years of service, Metro TeenAIDS has provided educational programs and prevention resources to over 150,000 young people, family members, and youth workers in the D.C. region.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for outreach and prevention in the D.C. schools.

For more information about making a difference with the Metro TeenAIDS, please contact their executive director, Adam Tenner, at 202-543-9355.

Calvary Bilingual Multicultural Learning Center

The Calvary Bilingual Multicultural Learning Center (CBMLC) is a non-profit based in the Columbia Heights neighborhood of DC.  In 1986, the CBMLC began offering child development services to 15 neighborhood children from the basement of a local church.  At present, CBMLC resides in its own 73,000 square foot building, donated in 1995 by Bell Atlantic, and provides comprehensive family support services to more than 400 children, youth, and families. During its 15 years of existence, the CBMLC has grown both programmatically and physically in order to meet the needs of its program participants, their families, and community members. The CBMLC’s mission is to create a community of learning for children, youth, families, and staff.

Film Biz's funds will go to the Learning Center's Family Institute, specifically their ESL Program (English as a Second Language Program) and their Literacy Program, both of which were recently launched.  These programs were created for the parents of the children who come to the Learning Center. 

For more information about making a difference with the Calvary Bilingual Multicultural Learning Center, please contact their development director, Julia Howell Barros, at 202-332-4200.

Hadley's Park, Inc.

Hadley's Park is a local non-profit organization that is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland, and whose mission is "to plan and construct exciting and accessible playgrounds that will benefit children of all ages and abilities in communities across the country."  

Hadley's Park, Inc. has also become an advocate organization for those who seek to build unique and fully accessible playgrounds in their area.  Hadley's Park can do everything from develop a plan with a community, design the park with community involvement, help fundraise, and manage the project through completion.  Hadley's Park is also helping raise awareness for the need of these parks all over the country.

Hadley's Park goes the extra mile, so to speak, and removes barriers, making the majority of the equipment fully accessible fun, and inclusive for all children through "theme play."  Often times, once physical play is mastered, children get bored and are ready to leave.  After adding theme play into a park, it expands the type of play and the cognitive development of a child's mind.  This is a wonderful source of play for children with developmental disabilities and those without disabilities.

Film Biz's funds will go to a Hadley's Park that is being created in Anacostia.

For more information about making a difference with Hadley's Park, please contact their founder/executive director, Shelley Kramm, at 301-770-2144.

BAPA's Imagination Stage:  The Imagination Quest Program 

The Imagination Stage is a 24-year-old community arts organization, located in the Washington, DC, metro region.  Their mission is to integrate the arts into the lives of children.  They are dedicated to making the arts accessible to all children.  The arts empower young people with the personal and professional qualities, skills, and resources necessary to succeed as adults.

Their Imagination Quest Program (IQ Program) is focused on taking their arts program to the D.C. public schools.  Film Biz earmarked its funds for the Imagination Quest program in the Mildred Green School in the District.

For more information about making a difference with BAPA's Imagination Stage, please contact their director of theatre education, David Markey, at 301-320-8008.

Community Harvest

Community Harvest was founded in February 1997 on the belief that all people should have access to good, healthy food, regardless of one's neighborhood or income level.  The mission of Community Harvest is to create a a locally-rooted and sustainable food system that meets the needs of both low-income communities and small farmers in the Washington, D.C., region.  In May of 2002, Community Harvest decided to merge with CEED whose mission is to educate, employ and empower youth in sustainable agriculture, environmental justice, nutrition, and hunger.  

Community Harvest produces healthy foods for low-income communities at its urban farm in Southeast D.C., educates the community on food issues, and provides leadership opportunities for youth.  They teach children and adults how to grow nutritious fruit and vegetables, the importance of eating such foods, and the opportunity to sell the foods at local farmer's markets.

Film Biz earmarked its funds to support Community Harvest's Living Learning Laboratory.  Our funds will purchase much-needed materials for the children's programs.  In addition, Jim Wareck made a huge donation; in that, he will be providing pro bono consulting services to the non-profit.

For more information about making a difference with Community Harvest, please contact their executive director, Tosha Thompson, at 202-667-8875.

Sasha Bruce Youthwork

Sasha Bruce Youthwork (SBY) began in a church basement in Georgetown in 1974.  In 1977, the Bruce family donated funds for a runaway shelter in memory of Sasha Bruce, a young D.C. woman who spent much of her short life helping troubled teenagers.  The Sasha Bruce House Shelter continues to be the only open access shelter for homeless and runaway youth in Washington.  Today, SBY is a primary provider of family-centered services to troubled young people in Washington, D.C., and their families.  

As always, Film Biz earmarks the funds.  In July, Film Biz earmarked the funds for SBY's Summer Enrichment camp, which runs for six weeks during the summer and empowers up to 100 D.C. youth between the ages of 12 and 17.  The camp's nurturing environment and activities focus on teaching the youth how to make positive, constructive choices in their lives through educational, therapeutic, and life-skill building opportunities.

For more information about making a difference with Sasha Bruce Youthwork, either through volunteering or donation, please contact Chandra Montgomery, SBY's Development Associate, at 202-675-9340.

Fidos For Freedom, Inc.

In memory of Debra Gavelek (1955-2001)

At age 47, Debra Gavelek, the much-beloved founder/executive director of Fidos for Freedom, died in late 2001.  Film Biz rarely chooses a charity twice, but Fidos For Freedom is a wonderful local charity, and Debra was a true pioneer and spirited community leader.  She is certainly missed.  

Film Biz salutes Debra Gavelek and celebrates her remarkable gift for life and generosity.

Film Biz funds raised for Fidos have been earmarked for custom-leather harnesses for the service and hearing dogs when they get to go home with a client.  Funds have also been earmarked for much-needed street signage for the Fidos' facility.  

For more information about making a difference with Fidos For Freedom, either through volunteering or donation, please contact John Deitrich, the program's office manager, at 410-880-4178.

Dance Institute of Washington

The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW) is dedicated to building self-esteem, discipline and drive for excellence among at-risk children and youth through dance training and arts education. 

Film Biz funds raised for The Dance Institute of Washington on May 14th will be earmarked for dance attire for the at-risk youth in DIW's outreach program.  Dance attire includes:  leotards, tights and ballet slippers. 

Film Biz raised $900 on May 14th, and Fabian Barnes, the Founder/Artistic Director of DIW, matched dollar for dollar what we raised, making the grand total $1,800.  Fabian's generosity made Film Biz that much more meaningful.  

For more information about making a difference with the Dance Institute of Washington, either through volunteering or donation, please contact JoAnn Williams, the program director, at 202-371-9656.

Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic of Metropolitan Washington

For over 25 years in the D.C. metropolitan area, Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D) has been helping those with visual and/or learning disabilities.

Film Biz's funds that were raised for Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic totaled $971 and were doubled in a dollar-for-dollar match by a generous RFB&D Board member, therefore totaling $1,942.  

All the funds will be earmarked for special four-track tape players for inner-city D.C. schoolchildren.  These students have disabilities that prevent them from reading and understanding the printed word.  Film Biz's total contribution of $1,942 will be enough to purchase 20 of these special tape players.  RFB&D opens up the world of books to students.  And in April, Film Biz dollars went twice as far because of the dollar-for-dollar match that a generous board member of RFB&D made possible!

For more information about making a difference with Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic, either through volunteering or donation, please contact Betsy O'Connell, the director of development, at 202-244-8990.

Please note:  As of April 10, 2002, Film Biz had given over $30,000 to local nonprofits. 

Language, ETC. (the Language, Education & Technology Center)

Since 1993, Language, ETC has been committed to helping the growing demand for English and literacy courses within the immigrant community in the Washinton, D.C., area.  Language, ETC offers courses in ESL, citizenship, literacy, computer training, pre-GED, and GED preparation.  They have a job bank and a computer-assisted language lab.  Students come from 35 different countries, and all of the programs at Language, ETC are carried out by volunteers.  Last year, over 1,500 students participated in their programs. 

Above all, Language, ETC provides a sense of community for newcomers to our land, as well as a great deal of hope and belief in their future.  This organization serves as a reminder that in the past our nation was built on the strength and courage of people who emigrated from all across the world with little or nothing in their pockets and made our nation stronger for it.  One such immigrant was Fiorella LaGuardia, a poor immigrant who worked his way through college and law school and eventually became mayor of New York City.  Anything is possible when you have a dream and a chance at an education.  Language, ETC makes that dream a reality.

Film Biz's funds will sponsor 16 students to take GED classes at Language, ETC.  

For more information about making a difference with Language, ETC, either through volunteering or donation, please contact Pilar Laugel, the founder/executive director, at 202-387-2222.

Circle of Hope Therapeutic Riding, Inc.

Since 1997, Circle of Hope has been helping those with all kinds of disabilities.  Therapeutic riding is the rehabilitation of people with physical, mental, psychological, developmental and learning disabilities through equine-facilitated therapy.  Riding therapy offers much more than exercise; it helps with  balance, spasticity, self-esteem, confidence, and fine motor skills.  Circle of Hope works with riders who range in age from 3 to 60 and who are from all walks of life, professional and cultural backgrounds. 

Film Biz earmarked its funds to go to the Todd H. Shear Memorial Fund, which makes it possible for riders who cannot afford the program to attend.  During Film Biz, two filmmakers offered to volunteer their time to help the riders, and a documentary filmmaker spoke with Circle of Hope about making a film about their work.  

For more information about making a difference with Circle of Hope, please contact Lesley Shear, the cofounder/executive director, at 301-294-4819.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

Of the 16 million Americans who have diabetes, over 2 million have juvenile diabetes.  Every year, approximately 30,000 Americans are diagnosed with juvenile (Type 1) diabetes, the severest form of the disease.  Most are under the age of 30.  Almost half are children.  JDRF is an international organization that is dedicated to finding a cure.

In memory of Allison Silberberg's cousin, Barbara Schulman, who had juvenile diabetes, and in honor of Marc Kantor's sister, who is courageously managing the disease, Film Biz has earmarked all its funds for JDRF's research into juvenile diabetes.  For more info, please contact JDRF's executive director, Pam Gatz at 202-371-0044.

The D.C. Central Kitchen

"Using food as a tool to strengthen bodies, empower minds, and build communities," the D.C. Central Kitchen, since 1989, has retrieved surplus food from restaurants and hotels around the region and fed over 3,000 people a day.  Honored for its vision and impact, the D.C. Central Kitchen also has a Job Training Program to train the unemployed in food preparation, and most graduates have jobs on graduation day.  

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for the Kitchen's Job Training Program.  For more info, please contact the D.C. Central Kitchen's Director of Development, Maryam Nock at 202-234-0707, ext. 113.

Capitol Hill Group Ministry

Since 1967, the Capitol Hill Group Ministry has been committed to serving at-risk families and children who live in a 12-block radius of our nation's capitol.  With their annual budget of $600,000, the CHGM has many outreach programs, one of which is their after-school program called Mission Possible.  This programs for the children focuses on studying, tutoring, guidance, non-violence programs, athletics, counseling and cultural activities.   

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for the children to learn about classical music and to go to a symphony concert at The Kennedy Center.

For more information about the Capitol Hill Group Ministry, please contact Emily Guthrie, the executive director, at 202-544-0631.

Survivors' Fund of the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region

Focusing on education and counseling, all monies will be earmarked to benefit the long-term needs of the surviving family members whose loved ones perished at the Pentagon on September 11th.  

Cancelled due to the unthinkable tragedies of September 11, 2001. 

The Academy of Hope

Founded in 1985, The Academy of Hope provides a community of hope and opportunity through high quality education and job skills training to low-income and at-risk adults in D.C.  With only a skeletal staff of six and over 90 volunteers, The Academy of Hope helps over 500 adults every year realize their full potential.

Sheila Watts, who attended Film Biz, was testament to the importance of The Academy.  She was on welfare, attended The Academy and earned her GED.  Now, Sheila works in the accounting department of a lobbying firm in D.C., and she is attending college.  Film Biz salutes the courage of Sheila Watts and the many success stories at The Academy of Hope.  

In Sheila Watts' name, Film Biz has earmarked its funds for The Academy of Hope's GED prep course.  The Film Biz funds will be enough to support one of their GED students for a year and a half.

For more information about The Academy of Hope, please contact Julie Arner, their Development Manager, at 202-328-2029.

The D.C. Children's Health Project

The D.C. Children's Health Project provides 3,500 medical visits per year at no charge to uninsured children.  If a child does not feel well, then he/she won't be able to learn at school, grow with their peers or excel.  The D.C. Children's Health Project gives these children a fighting chance.   

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for medical supplies, including: pharmaceuticals, immunizations, bandages, etc.  For more information about making a difference, their direct line at Children's Hospital is 202-884-3033.  

ALIVE!

In memory of Mrs. Casey Sheehan, friend to all and devoted volunteer to ALIVE!

Founded in 1969, ALIVE! is a nonprofit of volunteers from over 40 congregations and other concerned citizens who are devoted to helping those in need in Alexandria, VA.  ALIVE! serves over 8,000 Alexandrians with food, shelter, furniture, low-cost day care, financial help and support to self-sufficiency.  

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for children to go on a fun-filled field trip into DC to see some museums, the monuments and other sights with lunch on The Mall.

Miriam's Kitchen

Since 1983, Miriam's Kitchen, a volunteer-based non-profit, has assisted thousands of individuals in need in the Foggy Bottom community of Washington.  They provide a hot, nutritious breakfast in an atmosphere of dignity and respect to hundreds of homeless every day, and they provide a wide range of services to help the homeless become self-sufficient again, including:  case management, clothing, resume counseling, prescription glasses, and housing referrals. 

Film Biz raised $635 for their breakfast program, and an anonymous donor matched that total dollar for dollar, making the total contribution $1,270.  That means that 2.5 individuals will be able to receive a hot breakfast for a year.  

Mentors, Inc.

Mentors, Inc. has been helping inner-city youth realize their potential since 1987.  Leading from the heart, Mentors, Inc. changes lives.  Ninety-five percent of their students graduate from high school and continue on to college or military service.

Film Biz has earmarked its funds for a special weekend retreat where the children will go through a Life Skills Developmental Program.  

National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship

Nationally, NFTE helps over 10,000 young people learn entrepreneurial and business skills to give them a chance to realize their potential.  

In D.C., NFTE's local chapter touches the lives of over 1,000 inner-city teens through extensive entrepreneurial and mentoring programs.  Film Biz has earmarked its funds to provide essential materials for this training.  

The Georgetown Senior Center

In memory of Constance Allen, 1929-2000

The Film Biz evening was dedicated to the memory of Constance Allen, who recently passed away and was the sister and lifelong friend of the founder/executive director of The Georgetown Senior Center, Virginia Allen.  

Since 1981, The Georgetown Senior Center has provided a special place that is dedicated to caring for the elderly.  Seniors, who might otherwise be alone, enjoy a hot, home-cooked meal three times a week.  In addition to friendship, The Center also provides exercise classes, medical assistance and field trips, not to mention lectures, films and musical programs.   

Film Biz earmarked its funds for The Center's exercise programs.  For more information about making a difference with The Georgetown Senior Center, please contact the founder/executive director, Virginia Allen, at 202-338-2219.

Suited for Change

Suited for Change provides professional clothing and career education services to low-income women in the DC metro area.  Film Biz funds will be earmarked for their Personal/Professional Development Series for 2001, the goal of which is to form a community of support for their clients.  Seminars focus on resume writing, interviewing techniques, creating a personal vision, and goal setting.  

Latin American Youth Center

For over 30 years, the Latin American Youth Center in Mount Pleasant has helped thousands of children realize their potential through many programs, including tutoring and after-school activities and field trips.  Funds raised at Film Biz will be earmarked for after-school arts supplies.

Mt. Carmel House

Since 1980, Mt. Carmel House has provided housing and education for women.  

All monies will be earmarked for new beds for the House's residents.  For every $100 raised, they will be able to replace old army cots with a new bed.   

For Love of Children (FLOC)

In honor of Gil Schamess 1965-2000

FLOC has served children and families in D.C. since October 1965.  The evening was dedicated in honor of Gil Schamess and his gift for words, joy of reading, and commitment to literacy.  Funds will create The Gil Schamess Fund for Literacy at FLOC, which will support reading and tutoring programs for inner-city children.  

The total amount raised at Film Biz was $835.  Gil's wife, Lisa Schamess, and the whole Schamess family more than matched that amount, making the total contribution $1,835. 

S.O.M.E. (So Others Might Eat)

Founded 30 years ago, S.O.M.E. helps the poor and destitute of Washington, particularly the homeless and elderly.  Our funds were earmarked for school supplies for children staying at the Thea Bowman House, a facility for homeless and/or abused women and their children. 

The Autism Society (Baltimore/Chesapeake Chapter)

There has been a 500% increase in autism in our nation's children in the last decade.  Funds were earmarked for a special day trip to The Baltimore Zoo for the autistic children and their families.  

The Kingsbury Center

Since 1938, The Kingsbury Center has helped those with learning disabilities.  Early detection of learning disabilities and intervention are critical to giving children a chance to realize their potential.  Funds were earmarked for identifying and tutoring economically-disadvantaged students with learning disabilities.

Manna

Funds were earmarked for the Home Buyer Education Program for low-income families in the District.

A part of Community Ministry of Montgomery County (CMMC), Hand-to-Hand is committed to helping children and families in distress.  They have at least 10 programs at work in the community.  Film Biz funds were earmarked for Hand-to-Hand's Eviction Prevention Program.

Funds were earmarked for their summer 
camp program for the children from their ten shelters.

Funds were earmarked for after-school programs for needy children they serve through the year.

A non-profit committed to the prevention of child abuse.  Funds will be earmarked for parenting workbooks and training manuals for SCAN's Court-Appointed Special Advocate Program.

Funds will support  Cavalry's Life Skills Classes, an intensive 12-week class designed to help women re-learn basic life skills, receive educational opportunities, learn communication skills and rebuild self-esteem.

Earmarked funds for holiday meals for the needy.  For every $26 raised, Bread for the City was able to provide a holiday meal for a needy family. 

November   1999

Chosen in honor of the 40th anniversary of The Kennedy Institute and what would have been John F. Kennedy, Jr.'s birthday.  The Institute received funds earmarked for field trips to museums and parks for developmentally disabled and disadvantaged.

$535

A local non-profit that builds bridges between isolated seniors and the world around them, Emmaus is committed to helping the elderly who live below the poverty line in the District.  Funds were earmarked for Emmaus' Annual Holiday Party. 

This branch of the Levine School of Music serves residents east of the river in Washington, D.C.  Funds were earmarked for music books, supplies, and instrument repairs for the children.

Provides figure skating and ice hockey to inner-city kids.

For kids with special needs.

In memory of Linda Schloss

Over 1,100 inner-city kids participate in their camp programs every summer.  Film Biz raised $375 at the door, and Colorlab's Russ Suniewick donated $250 to this charity, making the total contribution $625.

A non-profit for special training of dogs for people with various disabilities.

For the surviving children of Guanaja, a village outside of Catacamas, Honduras, the $480 raised will be used for the sole purpose of rebuilding the children's school there.  As a tribute to honor the memory of the children who did not survive Hurricane Mitch, there will be a small plaque at the school.  

Update:  With Film Biz funds, the school in Guanaja was rebuilt and opened in spring 2000.

A non-profit for local families in need.

In honor of Veterans Day, funds were earmarked for high school programs on the Vietnam War and the Wall.

Funds were earmarked for needy children at the Washington Hospital Center's burn unit.

This foundation supports  breast cancer research.  All monies remained local and went to the Greater Southeast Health Care System, which will use the proceeds to provide free mammograms to African-American women in Southeast DC.

In memory of Laurel S. Buck

In memory of Rebecca Lilly