Frederick, MD May 2024

“My

Nicole T., Lafayette Federal

Laura Grabowski, NMLS #428701 Mortgage Loan Officer

“My focus is

from start to finish.”

Rogers,MBA

The Best is Yet to Come

The Women’s Edition

Hello again, dear reader. I hope this letter finds you grateful for spring and the new growth it brings.

There is something about this season that often ignites a desire for change and a fresh start. Out with the old, in with the new—spring cleaning that goes beyond our closets and into those more vulnerable spaces. Maybe you are feeling a renewed spark and readiness to speak life into some big goals and dreams that have been tucked beneath the surface for a while? I encourage you to lean in and share with someone you trust who could help you determine what those first few baby steps are.

In this year’s Women’s Edition, you will be uplifted and encouraged by many local ladies who have taken those steps forward and believed they had something to offer that could be a blessing and make a difference. And we’re so glad they did!

As you read through the stories, you will notice the women we feature all have two very distinct commonalities: giving back and building community. We are truly fortunate to have so many outstanding women around us with hearts the size of Texas!

In a big small town like ours, there could easily be rivalry and competition. While it’s sure to exist in some instances, the successful women of Frederick have found that part of the secret to success is being able to call out the gifts and greatness in others. It is profoundly beautiful to see women celebrating women and rooting for their success. It is a notable piece of what makes this community great.

On that note, a big Happy Mother’s Day to all the women out there who love well and serve selflessly. We see you and we celebrate you!

If you are looking for a way to show a deserving woman in your life a little extra gratitude, we would be thrilled for you to support the local businesses who make it possible to bring you Frederick Lifestyle every month. From jewelry and home decor to fitness studios and hair care, let the pages ahead inspire you with creative ways to say thank you this year.

As you step into the beauty and sunshine of springtime, I hope joy and fresh perspective follow. It’s a good time to remember that flowers grow back even after the harshest winters.

Bloom where you are planted, Frederick!

AMBER SMITH, PUBLISHER @FREDERICKLIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Amber Smith | Amber.Smith@CityLifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kristen Wojdan | Kristen.Wojdan@CityLifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Sierra Stults | Sierra.Stults@CityLifestyle.com

INTERN

Maddie Wojdan

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Emily Dickey, Julie Gaver, Jennifer Gerlock, Emily Holland, Danielle Rizzo

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Arliss Veldhuizen, Chris Martin of Convoy Creatives, Jennifer Rosaria Film & Photography, Kristi Lynn Photography, Stadtkind Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Owner, Brian Preuss (left), of Green Home Solutions educates about indoor air quality. 2: The Frederick County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to kick-off the weekend. 3: Danielle Adams, FCBIA Executive Director, and Kristen Wojdan, Founder and Editor of Frederick Lifestyle, enjoy the Expo. (FrederickExpo.org) 4: Brendan Casey, Owner of Casey Fence & Deck, sports his refurbished truck at the vendor show. 5: Dave Hawkins of Hawkins Landscaping oversees the student landscaping competition. 6: Habitat for Humanity shared their mission to build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. 7: Nick Wade, FCBIA President of the Board of Directors and VP of Ryan Homes, shared a few remarks to open the Expo. FrederickBuilders.org

Photography by Kristen Wojdan

city scene

1: Jennifer Varriale, Owner of Jennifer Rosaria Film & Photography, smiles for the camera! 2: Representing their predominantly female team, Breann Day and Ashley Goldsborough smile in front of their downtown office. 3: Meaghan Delawter, Founder of d|law, runs her law practice with kindness and humility. 4: Nikkie Byrd, Owner of Sage Cakery, enjoys the art of creative expression, decorating a custom cake. 5: Vanessa Durrant, Founder & Director of Kindred Tree Healing Center, believes we are all wired for connection, healing and growth. 6: Salon Allure’s eco-friendly hair care values your health, your hair nd our beautiful Earth. 7: Stacey Krantz, Owner and designer of Inbloom Jewelry, creates a custom ring.

Photography by: Chris Martin of Convoy Creatives (Photos #2-5 and 7)

@KINDREDTREEHEALINGCENTER

@JENVARRIALE

@SALONALLURELLC

@SAGECAKERY

@FHTRUSTCO

@INBLOOMJEWELRY

@DLAW_FREDERICK

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LaTisha Boyd-Potts Leads GLC Mental Health and Emotional Wellness

LaTisha Boyd-Potts is the founder of Grouplady Lifeskills Consulting, LLC (GLC), whose mission is to keep mental health and emotional wellness at the forefront. With over twenty years of experience, LaTisha has a profound compassion for mental health education centered around positivity, growth and gratitude. LaTisha is also the co-author of  On Purpose Woman, The Complete Holistic Guide for Spiritual Entrepreneurs. She gives back to the community as a mentor of the  2023 Cohort 30, Women-to-Women mentoring program of Frederick County.  GroupLadyLifeSkills.com

Photography: Julie Zeger Photography

Soles of Love in the Garden

Celebrating 14 Years of Giving Back

ARTICLE BY JULIE GAVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTI LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

One of the joys of being a gardener is bearing witness to new miracles every day. For  seed to reveal  blossom and blossom to bear  fruit is perhaps one of Nature’s most wondrous gifts.

For the past 14 years, women in the surrounding area have gathered in the garden to celebrate the  esprit de corps that continues to grow since I first planted the seed.

Soles of Love provides new shoes and winter boots for children living in Frederick and Washington Counties. Each year prior to the beginning of school, our signature event and community-wide shoe drive fills the hearts and “soles” of children who understand the reality of unmet needs.

Our mission of providing children with these shoes with an accompanying affirmation card is our way of allowing each child to feel seen, to understand the feeling of fitting in, in hopes that they experience a greater sense of pride and belonging.

Although shoes are distributed through ten local nonprofit agencies offering a wide variety of other child and family services, our efforts bear fruit in so many ways. The many levels of involvement demonstrate the miracles that bloom when we are in community with one another.

Individuals and companies sponsor collection drives that contribute thousands of shoes. Guests of the signature event garden party attend laden with robust bags of donations accompanied by stories of the “sale that was too good to pass up.” Volunteers, vendors and sponsors who love the cause come forward ready to give.

“THE BEAUTY OF A GARDEN INTERTWINES WITH THE HEART AND SOUL OF A COMMUNITY WHO ANSWERED THE CALL... FOR SEED TO BECOME BLOSSOM AND FOR BLOSSOM TO BEAR FRUIT.”

— JULIE GAVER

As gardeners of the soul and spirit, we also understand the importance of raising the next generation of philanthropists. Our young people learn the importance of giving back through their own signature event called “First Bloom.” Our youth leadership team is already hard at work planning an event that will produce exemplary results.

As the founder of Soles of Love, I am humbled and inspired by the love demonstrated on so many levels. Every year once our gathering is in full swing, I allow myself a moment of reflection when I step back and simply witness the magic around me. The beauty of a garden intertwines with the heart and soul of a community that answered the call….. for seed to become blossom and for blossom to bear fruit.

And I am grateful.

This year’s event will be held at Surreybrooke Gardens on Friday, July 26th from 7-9 pm. The First Bloom companion event will be held Sunday, July 28th at Meadow Branch Farm from 6-8 pm. Call for Sponsors begins in May 2024. SolesOfLove.org

JOIN TODAY AND REAP THE BENEFITS!

U n l o c k a w o r l d o f c o n n e c t i o n s , p r o g r a m s a n d

r e s o u r c e s w i t h m e m b e r s h i p t o t h e F r e d e r i c k

C o u n t y C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e .

T o g e t h e r w e w i l l c r e a t e a c u l t u r e o f

i n n o v a t i o n a n d c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h i n t h e

F r e d e r i c k C o u n t y b u s i n e s s c o m m u n i t y !

COLLABORATION

CONNECTION

RESOURCES

INFORMATION

REPRESENTATION

EXPOSURE

DEVELOPMENT

CREDIBILITY

ARTICLE BY DANIELLE RIZZO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTI LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

givingback THE POWER OF YOUR BUSINESS

MARIELLE AGENCY CEO DANIELLE RIZZO SHARES

FOUR KEY BENEFITS A BUSINESS WILL REAP WHEN GIVING BACK

While anyone can certainly participate in community service, and every contribution is important, I believe businesses can and should make a larger impact than single individuals in their communities.  Here are four key benefits a business will reap when giving back:

Building strong community relationships:

Giving back helps businesses build strong relationships with the communities they serve. By actively supporting local initiatives or community programs, businesses demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of the community. This can lead

By actively engaging in philanthropic activities and supporting social causes, businesses can create a positive impact, enhance their brand reputation and build stronger relationships with customers, employees  and communities.

to increased community support, positive word-ofmouth and mutually beneficial partnerships with other local organizations.

Employee engagement and morale:

Engaging in charitable activities can boost employee morale and engagement. When employees see their company actively making a positive impact, they feel proud to be associated with it. Volunteering or participating in philanthropic initiatives also provides employees with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, fostering a positive work environment and employee loyalty.

Enhancing brand reputation:

Giving back can significantly enhance a business’s brand reputation. When a business is involved in philanthropic activities or supports causes that align with its values, it is viewed as a responsible and caring entity. This positive perception can improve customer loyalty, attract new customers and differentiate the business from competitors.

Creating positive media attention:

Philanthropic activities often garner media attention. When a business engages in charitable endeavors, it can generate positive publicity through media coverage, press releases or social media mentions. This can lead to increased brand visibility, reach and recognition.

Giving back is the foundation on which we are built. You don’t have to go through a life-altering experience in order to create a scenario where you or your business finds giving back to be important. It can simply be because it makes you and all those who surround you feel good!  By actively engaging in philanthropic activities and supporting social causes, businesses can create a positive impact, enhance their brand reputation and build stronger relationships with customers, employees and communities.

Danielle Rizzo is the CEO of Marielle Agency, a strategic business consulting and growth marketing agency. She helps modern entrepreneurs achieve their business goals through streamlined processes and procedures, as well as through innovative marketing ideas. She is the proud mother of four amazing children! MarielleAgency.com

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN WOJDAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARLISS VELDHUIZEN

Green Roof Dough House

Arliss Veldhuizen Opens Her Cottage Bakery with Delicious Treats

Perched on the side of East Frederick Street in Walkersville is an old, sturdy house with a cheerful rainbow fence and a green metal roof. Inside is the little family of five and their newly-opened cottage food microbakery, Green Roof Dough House. Serving up freshly-baked cookies, scones and organic sourdough bread, customers head to the welcoming “Pickup Porch” to snag their orders every Saturday from 2:30-5:30pm.

Opposite: Sourdough loaf made with organic whole wheat and bread flour...and a lot of love.

Above:

tender

A

Chocolate Almond Scone with sweet almonds tucked throughout.

Right: Arly’s Favorite Cookie featuring milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips and Dark Milk Pretzel Toffee chocolate from Tony’s Chocolonely.

Raised in Charlottesville, Virginia, Arliss was born to a food-loving mother who spent (and still spends) many evenings testing out new recipes. This adventurous love was passed down to Arliss, first displaying itself in her college years, and taking shape with each new stage of life. During her husband Tyler’s Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program, baking became both her specialty and a way to bless Tyler’s classmates, whom they hosted often. This continued into motherhood as she welcomed her firstborn, Alia, upon moving to Frederick. Today, it’s become a way to contribute to their family financially while enabling her to stay at home full-time with her three young children and bless her local community with her passion for baking. Follow along on social media!

@GreenRoofDoughHouse Hotplate.com/GRDough

Opposite: A perfectly flaky Cinnamon Sugar Scone with layers of cinnamon sugar tucked between.

“Green

Top: The Toffee Bit Scone is buttery, flaky and the perfect amount of sweetness.

Left: A gooey Salted Maple Browned Butter Blondie that you can enjoy all year long.

Right: This Chocolate Olive Oil cookie has dark chocolate in the batter and milk chocolate chips throughout. Think brownie meets cookie!

EMPOWERING women, ENRICHING COMMUNITIES

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER GERLOCK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE FREDERICK COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

In the heart of Frederick County, a quiet evolution is taking place—one that celebrates the strength, resilience and ingenuity of women in the business world. Behind the scenes, a dedicated Women in Business committee at the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce is championing this movement, focusing on empowering females in the entrepreneurial and professional space in order to drive economic growth and shape the future of business in the county.

For the volunteer members of this committee, their efforts are not just about business; it's also about support, collaboration and the creation of opportunities for women to thrive and succeed in their professional endeavors.

“Being involved with this amazing community of women is not just about empowerment, but about reshaping the narrative of opportunities for women in Frederick County,” said Laurie Ward, Vice President for Marketing and Communicatons at Hood College and co-chair of the Women in Business committee. “Every woman's success adds to the collective strength of our community; and by championing them, we contribute to the vibrant and diverse tapestry of our local business landscape."

“EVERY WOMAN’S success ADDS TO THE collective strength OF OUR COMMUNITY; AND BY CHAMPIONING THEM, WE CONTRIBUTE TO THE vibrant and diverse TAPESTRY OF OUR LOCAL BUSINESS LANDSCAPE.”

LAURIE WARD, VP FOR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

HOOD COLLEGE/ CO-CHAIR OF THE WOMEN IN BUSINESS COMMITTEE

At the core of the Women in Business’ efforts is a commitment to education. Workshops and seminars are tailored to equip women with the knowledge, skills and resources they need to confidently navigate the competitive business landscape. Whether it's honing leadership skills, conquering roadblocks or mastering mental strategies, these educational opportunities lay the foundation for success for women in all stages of their careers.

But education is only part of the equation. Networking is another crucial and necessary component. Through the strategic creation of opportunities, women have access to invaluable networking avenues where they connect with fellow entrepreneurs, potential mentors and collaborators. These connections go beyond mere business transactions; they form the basis of enduring relationships that lead to partnerships, mentorship possibilities and access to new markets and resources.

Mentorship and support are also integral to Women in Business activities. Seasoned business leaders offer guidance, wisdom and encouragement to aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals, helping them navigate their challenges, overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. This mentorship not only accelerates professional growth but also instills a sense of confidence and empowerment in women as they chart their paths forward.

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the Women in Business committee’s efforts is its impact on the community as a whole. By empowering women, fostering economic growth and encouraging connectivity, the program enriches the fabric of Frederick County, creating a ripple effect that inspires professionals to dream big, take risks and pursue their passions. FrederickChamber.org

UPCOMING WOMEN IN BUSINESS EVENT:

S.H.E. WEEK 2024 will be held the week of August 5th - 9th and will include a conference day, SHE Pitch competition and networking reception / SHERO Awards ceremony. Tickets will go on sale June 1, 2024. For more information, visit SHEWeek.org

Photo

C H ANGING THE WORLD with a s tone

FREDERICK WOMEN’S MANY RIPPLES HAVE BIG IMPACT

ARTICLE BY EMILY HOLLAND | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNETTE JOHNSON OF STADTKIND PHOTOGRAPHY

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.”

— MOTHER TERESA

SEVEN

Dina Carole

Most of us think of radio as a very public medium, but host Dina Carole of Frederick’s Key 103.1 radio station has a different perspective. Her favorite thing about radio, she says, is the intimacy it offers and how it enables her to speak to people “one-on-one.” “When I’m doing my morning show,” she says, “I’m always aware that it’s just me and that one person in the car, driving to work.” This is particularly exciting for her because it allows her to frame her programming around sowing into people’s lives. “Every day I’m asking myself—what can I say to make someone’s day better?”

Her Key 103 morning show, which she’s been hosting since 2020, is built to provide encouragement and positive fuel for days and lives Dina knows can be stressful. “A Cup of Joy,” for instance, is a segment of the show sharing uplifting news about people making a difference in the community. Another favorite segment, “Dear Dina,” serves as a radio advice column in which she can provide empathetic support so people “know they’re not alone.” Before every early morning show starts, she takes time to pray and ground herself so that she’s in the best frame of mind possible: “I ask to be able to bless my listeners each day.”

Her commitment to serving others has even led to a creative repackaging of personal time: she’s turned date nights with her husband, Troy, into “Decorating Date Night,” where they will give a room in someone else’s home the HGTV treatment (for free!). It’s picked up steam and the concept now has its own website. Creativity and authenticity are the key ingredients Dina uses to make others’ lives better. She finds her deepest fulfillment in spreading hope and joy.

Key103Radio.com

DecoratingDateNight.com

“Kind words are a creative force, a power that concurs in the building up of all that is good, and energy that showers blessings upon the world.” (Lawrence G. Lovasik)

“It’s the little things citizens do. That’s what will make the difference.”

(Wangari Maathai)

Désirée Tucker

Désirée Tucker, Executive Director of Frederick nonprofit Women Solve, has found a perfect example of the ripple effect in the organization’s program Seed to Roots. Started four years ago, she brought students together to broadcast a small holiday concert for a group of grandparents. This February, the program brought 107 students together across Frederick County for a major event at the Weinberg Center—featuring music, art and dance celebrating Black history. Ticket sales go to fund arts scholarships awarded by Women Solve; this year, the Chief of Staff from Governor Wes Moore’s Office of Community Initiatives was present to award every participant a certificate of achievement. To top it off, Frederick Mayor Michael O’Connor awarded Women Solve a grant to take all the students on a New York City trip to Broadway. Not bad for four short years of effort to bring diversity initiatives into local schools.

Women Solve was founded in 2021, based on Désirée’s observation of just that: “Women coming together to solve a single issue can make major progress.” After she moved to Frederick in 2017, she quickly got involved in community activism. She noticed that meetings tended to bounce from issue to issue without dedicating significant time to drill down into each one. Women Solve brings together groups of women who can make a major difference in specific areas. For example, the nonprofit’s program Get Fit Frederick is aimed at cultivating health and fitness as a lifestyle, and Y.E.T. (Your Every Tomorrow) is a public relations campaign to discourage vaping and smoking among youth.

The most rewarding part of Women Solve, Désirée says, is empowering so many women to create change. “Women sometimes think there’s a special qualification needed to step up and get involved. I had no previous nonprofit experience—I’ve just taken the next step, and the next, to get to where we are today.”

WomenSolve.org

Jasmine Sneed

Jasmine Sneed has been blessed to see the ripple effect of her previous work really coming to fruition as the Frederick Rescue Mission’s Director of Partnership Development. “I had never wanted to be a development director,” she says, laughing. “But then I realized that cultivating relationships is what development is actually about.”

Jasmine had done exactly that for years before coming to the Rescue Mission. She served as an event and strategic planning consultant for numerous nonprofit organizations and small businesses and got to know just about everyone in town along the way. Over the past few years, both COVID and her mother’s passing shook up her life and schedule, and after readjustment, she knew she was ready for something new.

In the Rescue Mission, she found an organization that truly resonated with her desire to serve others, and her Christian faith. Jasmine relates that most people she meets have at least heard of the Rescue Mission, but don’t know the full breadth of what it does. The cafeteria, for instance, serves breakfast and lunch to those in need 365 days a year. The Mission distributes groceries and clothing, in addition to its longstanding role providing residential programs addressing substance abuse for men and homelessness for women and children.

She has long seen herself as a professional dot-connector, so to speak, and finds grace in the fact that the network she’s created is being used to serve those most in need. Jasmine’s gift for forming connections has brought the faith, nonprofit and business communities together around sharing hope and love. TheRescueMission.org

“Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” (St. Francis of Assisi)

“To whom much is given, much will be required.” (Luke 12:48)

Carleah Summers

Carleah Summers is no stranger to the negative ripple effect that can occur when people’s lives are ravaged by addiction. She proudly relates that March 28th marked 18 years of her own sobriety. Since getting clean, she has dedicated her life to helping other women heal from this disease and start on the path to wholeness—her own journey has made her painfully aware that there are “a million ways to tear a family apart.”

However, at Andrea’s House, the women’s residential treatment facility she founded, Carleah has sought to create a space where residents “recover as a family.” Currently housing seven women and their children, it’s a place where at-risk women are enveloped with support. The facility attends to addiction treatment, mental health, spirituality, parenting, legal counseling and job placement. Andrea’s House was named for Carleah’s late aunt, who supported her through her healing process. The facility is a testament to the fact that we live and thrive in community with others to cheer us on.

Carleah is keen to emphasize the fact that many Andrea’s House residents face one of the most painful things a woman can face: having to extricate her children from the foster care system after confiscation by CPS. Carleah was determined that her recovery facility would be a place where families are truly put back together, and she says that the most important and rewarding victories she celebrates are when a woman’s children are able to come home. Aside from the formal support structures, Carleah feels that the recovery community she’s been able to cultivate is the most life-affirming feature of all. The positive relationships the women gain, she says, long outlast their move to independence, and provide incentive for progress for years to come. AndreaHouseInc.com

Debbie Streeton

Debbie Streeton has a special capacity that not everyone can claim: she is a true ambivert. Most people—extroverts or introverts—feel worn out with too much socializing or alone time, but Debbie makes use of both to feel refreshed. Privately, she maintains a gratitude practice and prioritizes personal development, and this has only increased the joy she’s been able to derive from connecting with others. “It has always come naturally for me to be around people. I love getting to know them and hearing their stories,” she says.

Frederick is lucky, then, that Debbie has found a position so well suited to her gifts and goals: Member Services Manager at the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. She provides a welcoming and enthusiastic presence at an organization that is all about helping business owners connect. Debbie says that her role at the Chamber has only continued to open her eyes to how vibrant and giving a community Frederick can be, and she takes special pride in helping local businesses develop networks and gain resources. She loves the engagement she’s able to take part in through organizing the Chamber’s many events.

Some of her favorite successes so far have been facilitating the National Civics Bee with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, building on the Frederick County Public Safety Awards and rebooting the Chamber’s popular Golf Scramble event, which connected 144 members in 2023. Her efforts with the Chamber team following COVID have helped bring the organization’s member tally from 755 to 930 today.

Her Chamber connections, she says, have led her to other avenues for local service, such as the Carroll Creek Rotary, Frederick Health, WISH—Women Inspiring, Supporting, Helping and Mission of Mercy (among others). Overall, it’s the “genuine” people she’s met every day who continue to bring meaning to her purposeful life. FrederickChamber.org

“Courage and self-compassion allow us to embrace vulnerability, which leads to joy and meaningful connections with others.” (Brené Brown)

Rose Chaney

Rose Chaney has a long and varied history of community involvement, but it’s possible her greatest ripple effect will stem from a project yet to be released: AARCH Society’s African American Heritage Center. As the current major activity of AARCH Society, this museum under construction will one day house both permanent and rotating collections bringing to life the history of Frederick County’s African Americans. The facility, at the corner of South Carroll and East All Saints Streets, will also include multimedia exhibitions and a room for genealogy and research. Finally, the story of this community within our wider community will have a place of pride for years to come.

Rose was a founding member of AARCH along with the late Alderman William O. Lee, Jr., whom she says developed the vision for AARCH and began the collection of museum artifacts. It’s taken a few years to carefully build the collection and generate funding, but Rose looks forward to the museum’s opening in 2025. The space is being renovated, AARCH has engaged an architect, and a collections development firm to frame and produce the exhibits. It’s amazing to consider what future generations will have access to as a result of this effort.

Rose, a retired art teacher, has served elsewhere in Frederick on the boards of I Believe in Me and the Religious Coalition. A lifelong member of Asbury United Methodist Church, another major focus has always been helping the homeless. She also keeps busy with Alpha Kappa Alpha (a service sorority), the Frederick chapter of the Negro Business & Professional Women’s Club and the Frederick Art Club. She may have left teaching in 2004, but her legacy in the community was only just beginning. AARCHSociety.org

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.)

“Grab the hands extended to you to build your solid foundation and extend your hands to do the same.” (Anonymous)

Theresa WilliamsHarrison

Theresa Williams-Harrison has found a path to impact through versatility, and by sharing from her own personal strengths. She understands that sometimes the simplest acts can have the most far-reaching effects, even throughout a life of appreciable success. Her specialty is encouragement, both personal and professional: “If there’s a need,” she says, “I’m going to see how I can help.”

She’s a small business and youth mentor through both The Bow Collective, a women’s business organization, and Delta Sigma Theta, a public service sorority in Frederick County. Aside from that, she’s built Just A Kind Note, a nonprofit aimed at lessening the growing effects of loneliness. Engaging with volunteers, Just A Kind Note allows people to handwrite kind letters to the elderly, police officers, hospital patients and others in need of love. Theresa recalls hearing of a time when the message in one of their delivered notes stopped a man from relapsing into drug addiction.

Her own victory over breast cancer, after a three-year battle, has inspired another venture to make a difference. In being open about her diagnosis and treatment, she attracted the attention of others fighting cancer, and now she says she receives a few “support referrals” every week. Theresa doesn’t view herself as a counselor in these cases, but as a listener. “People want to be able to talk to someone who knows what they’re going through,” she says. She feels blessed to be able to speak to them from a position of courage and hope.

Theresa herself is the founder and senior managing partner of George Street Services, Inc. a tech company specializing in digital transformation and digital services, DevSecOps, IT and cyber security solutions. Finally, she looks forward to walking in 2024’s Paris Fashion Week—a model to boot, Theresa proves a life well lived shouldn’t be put in a box. GeorgeStreetInc.com

Heartly House Provides Hope and Healing

ARTICLE BY EMILY DICKEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER ROSARIA FILM & PHOTOGRAPHY

Top: Inga James, President and Executive Director

Bottom: Katherine Robinett, Director of Clinical Services and Head of Counseling Services | Amy Benton, Director of Development

“It takes the whole community. It is important that we all believe that we can make a difference.”

— Inga James

Some of the strongest women never let the world see the capacity of their resiliency. Instead, they keep it hidden behind a tough exterior hoping they might be able to find the help they need to escape violence and build a new life.

According to Inga James, President and Executive Director of Heartly House, “This issue crosses all income levels, all socioeconomic statuses.”

Located in Downtown Frederick, Heartly House is a non-profit agency whose mission is to provide free, comprehensive services (i.e. shelter, counseling, advocacy and other resources) to survivors of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and child abuse.

“We provide services for anyone who needs it,” said Katherine Robinett, Director of Clinical Services and Head of Counseling Services at Heartly House. “If someone is in need, we are here to help, advocate and offer unconditional support.”

“We provide hope to someone when they might not have anyone else to turn to,” added Amy Benton, Director of Development.

Founded in 1979, Heartly House not only offers an emergency shelter for people who are fleeing an unsafe situation, but also crisis services, individual and group counseling and a 24-hour hotline.

Using an “empowerment model” of counseling and advocacy, staff meet with clients “wherever they are whether they are at the beginning or in the midst of the process, or if they are dealing with the aftermath years later,” Katherine explained.

“We have more than a dozen therapy groups as well as short-term counseling services, which are available in-person or online. Our counselors are well-versed in treating the impact of trauma,” Katherine said. “We want to help clients regain a sense of themselves.”

“We meet with clients and help them with coping skills, stabilization and safety,” said Inga. “We offer a continuum of care. That makes us different from everyone else.”

Survivors can also utilize medical accompaniment services and legal representation at no cost.

“We are a safe person who can sit with someone in the hospital if needed. We are here to listen to their story, help them make a plan, heal from their pain and support them,” Amy said, adding that donors from Frederick County make all of this possible. “Our funders believe in our mission. They understand the importance. We couldn't do it without them.”

In addition to providing services for survivors, Heartly House offers community awareness programs and prevention education. “We want to educate our community to help prevent and stop the violence,” said Jenn Metcalf, Director of Community Engagement and Prevention. Heartly House has officially partnered with Frederick County Public Schools. Using grant money from the state of Maryland, they will begin violence prevention work in middle and high schools, eventually trickling down to the elementary level. Integrated into the health curriculum, the partnership will focus on teaching youth about topics such as healthy relationships, consent, cyberstalking and bullying. The funds may place more child case managers and counselors into the schools as well.

Heartly House staff have always worked to make sure these free services and resources are available every day of the year even when the rest of the world was shutting down.

“During the Covid pandemic our numbers skyrocketed,” Inga explained. “Despite all the

challenges, we were able to stay flexible and identified what resources we needed which allowed us to continue without any lapse in services. Our community was also so generous during Covid, so we could keep everything running.”

Since the pandemic, the need for Heartly House services has not declined. There was a 78% increase in the total number of clients served between 2019 and 2023, according to Heartly House data.

“Our numbers are not going back down, which has caused us to run out of space in our current building,” Inga said. “In order for us to meet these needs, we have to grow. The next step is to build.”

As a result, plans were drawn up to construct the Heartly House Community Resource Building, a new building where administrative offices and community engagement programs will be housed. This will free up room in the current site and allow the shelter and counseling services to remain at the present location. Architect Bruce Zavos drew up plans for the new structure, which they hope will be funded through state and

federal grants so that Frederick community donations will continue to be used for client needs and community outreach. “Our priorities are our clients and the community programming. This building will help us better meet those needs,” Inga explained.

As staff continue to show up with the needs of the survivors at the forefront of their minds, they took a minute to reflect on why their work is so vital.

“Seeing the impact we can have even on the hard days is so rewarding. It is an honor to be a part of this and to be trusted by our clients,” Katherine said.

“I love the Frederick community so much,” Jenn agreed. “It is incredible that we are able to help parents and kids have safer lives.”

“It is amazing the work that is being done that many will never see,” said Amy. “Our staff is able to save and change people’s lives.”

“We all can do our part to prevent violence,” Inga said. “It takes the whole community. It is important that we all believe that we can make a difference.” HeartlyHouse.org

Special thanks to Jessica R. Underwood, Esq., founder and principal of JR Capital Build, who opened her model home at Mews on Maxwell for this special photoshoot. This new boutique luxury property in historic Downtown Frederick features five breathtaking townhouse units, each spanning four floors. The design concept was based on traditional English mews-style architecture with a modern, luxe vibe. Typically found in some of London’s most exclusive neighborhoods, a traditional mews house evolved from 18th century carriage houses. JR Capital Build has a full 360° turnkey capacity from lot acquisition and architectural review to custom build and furnishings. JRCapitalBuild.com

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 4TH - 5TH

Frederick Running Festival

Frederick Fairgrounds

The Frederick Running Festival is one of the hidden gems of the running community. The festival features four races, which all finish at the Frederick Fairgrounds. Runners can experience a big time race with small town charm with the added value of off-site packet pick-up in the suburbs of Maryland. Choose between a half-marathon and two-person team relay on Sunday or the 5K and Kids Fun Run on Saturday. FrederickRunFest.com

MAY 4TH, 10TH, & 12TH

Frederick Flying Cows Home Games

BB&T Arena at Hood College

The Frederick Flying Cows is a professional basketball team competing in the Eastern Conference of the TBL (The Basketball League), a professional basketball league which consists of 50 teams across the United States and Canada. The team is dedicated to providing fun, affordable entertainment for Frederick citizens and beyond! GoFlyingCows.com

MAY 9TH, 16TH, 23RD, & 30TH

Alive @ Five

Carroll Creek Amphitheater

Alive @ Five is an outdoor happy hour every Thursday from 5-8pm in the Carroll Creek Amphitheater. This is Downtown Frederick Partnership’s largest fundraiser of the year. Events are made possible by a wonderful team of sponsors and volunteers, and all proceeds from Alive @ Five are reinvested into the Downtown Frederick community. (21+ only • $6 entry + $6 drinks; Food available for purchase.) DowntownFrederick.org

MAY 10TH

Pianoscapes with Angelica Sanchez

Frederick YMCA Arts Center | 8:00 PM

Frederick Experimental Music Association presents Pianoscapes, a three-concert series of solo piano concerts. Angelica Sanchez been recognized in national and international publications including Jazz Times, The New York Times and The Chicago Tribune. She was also the 2008 recipient of a French/American Chamber Music America grant, the 2011 Rockefeller Brothers Pocantico artist residency and the 2021 Civitella Ranieri Fellowship, Italy. Tickets are $20 at the door. FrederickYMCA.org

Frederick Skyline Home Games at Hood College

401 Rosemont Ave. Frederick MD 6:00 PM

The Frederick Skyline Club de Futbol brings Frederick together through the love of women’s and men’s soccer. Stemming from the phrase “Unite and Believe, the Sky is the Limit”, Skyline teams compete in the United Premier Soccer League playing Sure Sports FC on the 11th and Athletic United FC on the 25th. Purchase tickets today at FrederickSkyline.com

MAY 11TH

Maryland Craft Beer Festival

Carroll Creek Linear Park | 12:00 PM The Brewers Association of Maryland returns to the Carroll Creek Linear Park in Frederick for the 2024 Maryland Craft Beer Festival. Festival entry includes beer samples from dozens of Maryland breweries, pouring more than 200 unique beers. In addition, there will be live music from six bands on two stages and a selection of local food and craft vendors throughout the festival. VisitFrederick.org

events

MAY 17TH

Bike to Work Day 2024

Hood College | 6:30 AM

Get Ready to Roll! Transit Services is revving up—err, pedaling up—for Bike to Work Day! TransIT is excited to invite your organization or division to participate in this wheelie-cool community event. Join on the Ceremonial Ride and travel past schools, healthcare and neighborhoods, which departs from Hood College at approximately 6:45 AM, and arrives at Transit Center at 7:15 AM.  BikeToWorkMetroDC.org

MAY 18TH - 19TH

Maryland Iron Festival

Catoctin Furnace Historical Society

Celebrate Frederick County's history as an early center for iron making in the historic village of Catoctin Furnace. The Maryland Iron Festival features blacksmithing demonstrations, live music, vendors and food trucks. This FREE festival also includes a maker's market, guided garden and trail tours, a plein air art show, archeology presentations and a live iron pour. CatoctinFurnace.org

MAY 27TH

Memorial Day Event at Monocacy Battlefield

Monocacy National Battlefield

2:00 PM

Join Park Rangers as they discuss the history and importance of Memorial Day. Listen to patriotic music and participate in the National Moment of Silence as we commemorate those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms. Memorial Day ranger programs will begin at 2pm. Monocacy National Battlefield will also observe the National Moment of Remembrance at 3pm. Free. NPS.gov

DIY VANILLA ORANGE SUGAR SCRUB

Create your own DIY sugar scrub for a perfect gift for a special person in your life.

To make one 8 ounce mason jar of vanilla orange sugar scrub, you need:

• 1/4 cup of coconut oil

• 3/4 cup of sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 10 drops of orange essential oil

Soften the coconut oil in the microwave for a few seconds. Next add the vanilla extract and the orange essential oil. Then, stir in the sugar, a little at a time. Print off a fun label or attach a ribbon to the jar, and your gift is ready. Enjoy!