2024 Employee Giving Program
Learn more about the organizations that Foundation staff have chosen for this year’s Employee Giving Program — and the story behind their selections — below.
To find out more about the Weinberg Foundation’s work, visit the Grants page.
Filter Grant Recipients
Purpose:
To support the general operations of this organization, which provides job training, wellness programs, and financial assistance for children and families.
Why I chose this organization:
I am passionate about A Wider Circle’s vision and mission to advance equity in the Washington, D.C., region so that people have what they need to thrive and be self-sufficient. I have witnessed many friends and family members endure poverty and homelessness and always felt compelled to offer support to assist with their current and basic needs. A Wider Circle does so much more than provide clothing, food, furniture, and career support; it also works toward addressing the root causes of poverty.
Purpose:
To support the general operations of this organization, which provides out-of-school-time programs that include homework assistance, mentorship, social and emotional learning opportunities, and tennis instruction.
Why I chose this organization:
I enjoy playing tennis. It’s a great form of exercise, and I appreciate the accountability and self-reliance it teaches. Additionally, I believe that this organization’s focus on social and emotional learning is fundamental to a child’s academic success. In Baltimore, student and parent survey results show satisfaction with the program, increased trust with ACE Project coaches, and the successful development of social skills among participants.
Purpose:
To support this organization in scaling its after-school programming, which teaches youth how to cultivate self-worth and discipline through mentoring and martial arts.
Why I chose this organization:
The Agoge Project is dedicated to improving the lives of young boys and girls, providing a safe and nurturing environment for them to learn and grow. Its mission and values align with my personal beliefs and values, and I believe in its work and impact on the community. It tackles significant issues that are relevant to me, such as education, mental health and wellness, and community development. I have seen how this organization inspires and enables individuals to create positive change. Its tireless efforts have made a real difference in the lives of many.
Purpose:
To support the care and services provided by this chapter to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Why I chose this organization:
My mother and father-in-law are both experiencing dementia, and the Alzheimer’s Association has provided resources for my family as we learn how to navigate this disease. I have come to realize the tremendous impact it has on family members who find themselves caring for loved ones who are shells of their former selves. I have already lost my mother as I knew her; she was my best friend. I have no choice but to stand by and watch her fade away, which is truly heartbreaking. The Alzheimer’s Association is a global leader in providing care and support for people and caregivers affected by dementia.
Purpose:
To support the general operations of this organization, which provides programs, mentorship, and cultural trips that enable youth to explore the arts and encourage them to use their creative abilities to positively influence their communities.
Why I chose this organization:
Living in inner-city environments for most of my life, I strongly believe an investment in youth is paramount to their success. Growing up, particularly for males of color, it seemed there weren’t many opportunities if you weren’t interested in sports or rapping. The Arts Project is committed to providing youth with experiences they ordinarily wouldn’t have through art, education, and creative expression. I love that this is a small organization led by individuals who are from the South Baltimore community they serve, with firsthand knowledge of what youth need.
Purpose:
To support the general operations of this organization, which uses breathing techniques and mindfulness practices, health education, and performing arts to help heal girls and women of color who have experienced sexual violence and other forms of trauma.
Why I chose this organization:
As a young adult and an adult, I have learned about and experienced firsthand the benefits and healing powers of breathing techniques and mindfulness practices, among other practices that help interrupt patterns of stress, anxiety, and fear. They have helped me a great deal in navigating and managing my own chronic health issues. Ballet After Dark blends a creative outlet with the vital work of creating safe, healing spaces for people who have experienced trauma — two things that I am deeply passionate about and that give me a little bit of hope in our world.
