JUNE 2026 STL

JUNE 2026

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STAFFORD

Built From the Inside Out: THE STORY OF MAGGIE MCINTYRE

Photo by Karen Presecan Photography

Living

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WELCOME TO THE JUNE ISSUE OF STAFFORD LIVING,

School’s out, and summer is here! This month, we have tons of tips for how to protect your home, your hair, and your pets from the summer heat. We’re also thrilled to introduce you to Ms. Maggie McIntyre, who brings her own sizzle to the skincare and esthetics industry in Stafford.

Beyond that, though, she’s a mother and entrepreneur who decided to follow her calling and build the life she always knew she was meant for.

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Cherice Taylor Contributing Writer

Karie Owens Contributing Writer

Kira Pohwala Contributing Writer

Michelle Rojas Contributing Writer

Stephanie Cox Contributing Writer

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

08

Cover Story Built From the Inside Out: The Story of Maggie McIntyre

05

Expert Contributor Protect Your Hair from Summer Elements

06

Parents Education Corner What’s the Summer Academic Plan?

07

Expert Contributor Beat the Heat: Home Performance Tips

12

Pet Corner The Invisible Essentials: Keeping Your Pet Safe This June

13

Home Improvement Corner The Best Return on Investment for Home Improvement Projects

14

High School Highlights Student Athletes Reflect on Another Successful Year

15

Calendar of Events Upcoming Events June- July

16

Charity Spotlight From Donations to Careers: How Goodwill Is Powering Workforce Opportunity in the Fredericksburg Area

18

Kids Corner Inspired Art Project from the Book A Stick is an Excellent Thing By Marylin Singer

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BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

June2026 3

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PROTECT YOUR HAIR FROM SUMMER ELEMENTS

By Kat Halstead

Summer is almost here, and I know I’m just as excited about the sun, pool, and all the outdoor activities as the next person; however, overexposure to the elements without proper protection can leave hair susceptible to environmental assault. Let’s talk about how things like the sun and chlorine can affect hair the way bleach does.

The sun’s UVA and UVB rays can affect hair when exposed in excess. This exposure can affect natural and artificial hair color by exposing the hair’s underlying pigment. This is going to mimic what bleach does, in that your hair may feel warmer/lighter over time. It can even give the hair a “sunburn” feel, making it feel dry and brittle.

Chlorine not only affects the color of your hair, but also the texture. Chlorine is a chemical found in pool water and, at times, in city water, and, like chemicals used behind the chair, it affects the hair’s color, texture, and porosity. Having any chemical residue on the hair at your appointment can leave you susceptible to “chemical warfare,” as now you have chemicals working against each other, and your stylist might not even be aware until it’s too late.

There’s good news, though! There are products and procedures you and your stylist can practice to prevent unwanted results. At Kat’s Beauty Lounge, I use Cleanse Mist from Keune Hair Cosmetics to prep the hair, especially for chemical applications.

This product was created to remove heavy metals and impurities from the hair to ensure optimal performance during your appointment and is followed up with Revive Balm to replenish the hair shaft from the inside out while adding color and heat protection. Revive Balm and other retail products, like masks/deep conditioners and bond-building products, are available for purchase for at-home use to maintain results until your next appointment.

Simple steps, such as wearing a hat or keeping your hair out of highly treated water, can also help prevent some of these concerns. If we’ve never met, ask your favorite stylist for information about things you can do to help them help you this summer!

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corner © Best Version Media WHAT’S THE SUMMER ACADEMIC PLAN?

PARENTS EDUCATION

By Cherice Taylor Cherice Taylor, M.A. Education Administration, is a Part-Time Career Advisor for Germanna Community College. She is the 2022-2023 Past President of the Rotary Club of Stafford and a Charter Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Psi Psi Omega Chapter. She is a relationship builder, poet and a former educator with over 10 years experience at the preschool through high school levels. Cherice earned her Bachelor’s degree from UCLA and her Masters in Education Administration from California State University- Dominguez Hills. She is married to LCDR Eric Taylor (retired) and a mother of four sons. A positive attitude and the belief that sharing pearls of wisdom along with the Golden Rule allows for everyone to improve and reach their personal goals. This is demonstrated in the podcast show that she hosts, Time Matters Podcast! Cherice believes that if we all do better, then we all do better, and that is why Cherice is involved in the community.

Summer is finally on the horizon. I remember sometimes being almost more excited about school being out for the summer than the kids. The day-to-day routine was finally getting a break, which meant we were getting one, too. The before- or after-school obligations were on pause for some of us and ramped up for others. I used to plan our family vacations a year in advance to get the best flight and hotel deals for our family of six or to work around my husband’s active duty schedule before he retired. That was no easy task. Some years, the summers were open and without structure.

Other years, there was too much going on, and it flew by, and the backto-school commercials were playing, and we felt like we missed out somehow on our summer break. Vacation and sports training plans are in full effect. You’ve planned them for months, and now the time is finally here. Did your student’s school year end as successfully as he or she hoped or planned? If not, what are the next steps?

Academic bumps in the road can upset the apple cart, and adjustments have to be made. Are we going to pretend things don’t need to be addressed, or are we going to weave in an academic plan to better prepare our students for the next school year? It’s important to address the elephant in the room, if you will. If the grades weren’t what they needed to be, it is important to set your plan of action to fill those gaps during the summer break and prepare for a successful start to the new school year in the fall.

Here are a few things you can do to improve reading comprehension, math facts, etc: • Pick a book to read and discuss as a family. You can have your student write about their favorite part of the book. Check sentence

structure, grammar, and spelling together. Look up words your student doesn’t understand.

• Have math facts flashcards for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. You can practice on road trips, on the plane, on the train, at the beach, at the lake, at your grandparents’ house, etc.

• Have your student do a couple of pages each day in a Summer Bridge Book (get one at a local bookstore or online) for the upcoming grade.

• Use free online resources to review subjects like Algebra, English, and SAT prep on khanacademy.org or collegeboard.org for PSAT and SAT prep, or to search for college information.

• Ask your student’s teacher or counselor if they have any resources.

Just as important is keeping the students who did reach their academic goals engaged to avoid learning loss that comes if you do absolutely nothing all summer long. The recommendations above can also help keep the student on grade level or even get ahead for the next school year.

I remember thinking, as we went from AAU track meets up and down the state of Virginia, that the money and time spent, although a sacrifice, was the same money we needed to allocate for tutoring and additional academic help.

It is important to prioritize the student part of the student-athlete, so that if they are able to play their favorite sport in college, they can meet the rigor of college academics. I’ve learned over the years that children need to learn to accept those bumps in the road, seek help and guidance to address them, and improve. Self-advocacy is a soft skill that will take them far.

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materials, and long-term structural BEAT THE HEAT: damaged issues. Basement and crawl space waterproof-

HOME PERFORMANCE

TIPS

By Dan Bomar • Photos provided by Comfenergy

Home comfort isn’t something that stays the same all year long. As the seasons change, the demands placed on a home change as well.

What keeps a home warm and efficient in winter may not accurately match the challenges that arrive with spring and early summer. At Comfenergy, we view home performance as an ongoing process—one that adapts throughout the year to create a healthier, more comfortable living environment in every season.

Managing Water and Moisture As summer approaches, moisture becomes one of the most common concerns for homeowners. Increased rainfall, melting snow, and rising groundwater can introduce water into basements and crawl spaces, often in ways that aren’t immediately visible. Without proper water and humidity control, even small amounts of water can lead to musty odors,

ing systems, combined with reliable sump pump installation and routine maintenance, help manage water before it becomes a larger problem in the future.

Moisture doesn’t just affect the structure of a home; it impacts the air throughout it. Damp basements and crawl spaces can contribute to poor indoor air quality, allowing allergens, odors, and humidity to move upward into living areas. Properly sealing these spaces creates a protective barrier at the foundation level, helping keep out mold, dust, pollen, insects, and even rodents. In addition to helping homes stay comfortable and dry, improvements to basements, crawl spaces, and attics can also support long-term value by bringing older homes closer to modern performance standards. This is especially important during allergy season, when outdoor irritants can easily find their way inside your homes.

Dehumidification plays a critical role during this time of year as well. Removing excess moisture from the air makes a home feel cooler and more comfortable, while also helping reduce conditions that support mold growth and airborne allergens. Cleaner, drier air can

make a noticeable difference in how a home feels and functions on a daily basis.

Prepare Now for Summer Heat Spring is also the best time to get ahead of summer heat. Evaluating your home’s performance before temperatures rise allows homeowners to address problems and any surprise hiccups early. Tools like blower door testing and thermal imaging help identify air leaks and areas where conditioned air escapes, providing actionable insight to improve comfort and lower energy costs. By taking a seasonal, proactive approach, Comfenergy ensures that homes are ready to perform at their best all year long.

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RESIDENT

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cial education in Fairfax and Stafford County public schools—a demanding, meaningful job.

During that time, she earned a master’s degree from the University of Virginia.

She was good at it. She cared deeply. And yet something kept tugging at her.

Built From the Inside Out: THE STORY OF MAGGIE MCINTYRE

By Mallory Hardgrove • Photography by Karen Presecan Photography

Sometimes, the life you’ve built no longer matches who you’ve become. For Maggie McIntyre, this shift was gradual. A marriage ended. Her career wound down. All the while, a neglected calling grew louder. Change happened through intentional choices made over time. Each decision was built on the last until Maggie eventually found where she was meant to be.

She Was Always Meant for More Than One Thing Maggie grew up in Northern Virginia. Ambitious and curious, she attended Mary Baldwin and George Mason University and later began her career in education. For six years, she taught spe8 StaffordLiving

“The pull toward nursing and esthetics that excited me early in college persisted,” she admits.

“I loved education and deeply respect those in the profession. Still, I grew disenchanted with some aspects of public education and wanted to create and build something for my family, myself, and my community.”

Her desire for independence was a statement of intent, not a complaint. Maggie didn’t leave teaching; she chose to author her professional and personal story.

Divorce, Disruption, and the Decision to Start Over As her career shifted, so did things at home.

After years of relationship workshops, marital self-help books, and couples counseling , her 14-year marriage ended, and brick by brick, she had to rebuild.

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While raising three young children, her priorities were stability, proximity, and routine. During this period, she continued to move forward, expanding her medical spa, Rejuvalase. She later launched two esthetics licensure programs through her school, Nova Laser and Esthetics Training.

A decade later, she walked away from an abusive spouse and second marriage, leaving their dream home for the safety and peace of an apartment in the kids’ same school zone. This time, the growth was inward, focused on building a solid foundation and finding a permanent home.

While completing her nursing degree and preparing for a return to her service provider role at Rejuvalase, a new community was being built down the street from her apartment.

Charlie, 20, surprised his mother by joining the Army before graduating high school—”a decision I wasn’t excited about at first,” she says, “but one perfect for him.” He advanced quickly, graduating from multiple programs, including AIT and jump school, and discovered a passion for indoor rock climbing. He loves weekends at the beach with his friends, and, while visits home are rare, they’re definitely treasured. “Seeing him thrive makes the distance worthwhile” in Maggie’s mind.

Catherine, 16, lives at home and is civically engaged like her mother.

She leads and volunteers with school and community organizations and works with canines at a local training and boarding facility. She and Maggie work out and travel together, creating cherished routines and memories.

“I wanted to own a home again,” she says simply, “so when this opportunity presented itself, I knew I had to take it.”

“Doing this with my daughter is great for our health and time together,” she says. Even in daily routines, Maggie weaves connection into everything she builds.

That home is Potomac Church Farms—a neighborhood she describes warmly. She enjoys watching neighborhood kids play outside, which reminds her of her own childhood, and appreciates the security provided by neighbors in law enforcement. For Maggie, rebuilding her sense of safety and stability, this belonging mattered deeply and also extended into her personal life.

The Businesses She Built And what she’s built, professionally, is considerable. While Rejuvalase is her flagship business, her esthetics school and, most recently, her podcast, The Tox Drop, carry their own brand and success. Rejuvalase and its sister companies aren’t just businesses. They are the materialization of everything Maggie decided to bet on when she stepped away from

Her partner Steve, a former LEO and investigator, entered her life through a real-life meet-cute. Mutual friends Tony and Jennifer had encouraged them for years. A belated birthday dinner, casually arranged

by Jennifer, finally brought them together.

“I wasn’t looking, and neither was he,” Maggie recalls, “but we hit it off immediately.”

Capturing special moments

with family, pets and more.

Three Kids, Three Completely Different Stories Maggie’s greatest pride is her children: three individuals who, though siblings, have uniquely different journeys.

Jae, 23, is a biochemistry major at VCU balancing salon work, a close group of friends, and time spent enjoying music, galleries, and nights out in Richmond. In high school, he organized charity drives and joined multiple clubs. Grad school applications are next, but he’ll take a year off from school to continue working.

Karen Presecan, M.Photog.,CPP

karen@kpresecanphotography.com www.kpresecanphotography.com

June2026 9

© Best Version Media the classroom: her instincts, her training, her vision for what beauty, wellness, and business could look like in her community.

Several neighbors are clients, but they’re also friends and part of the village she’s created. “I want my neighbors to know I’m here to help. If they need a meal, a child walked home from the bus stop, or a ride to pick up a car, I’m here.”

The same sense of belonging she sought while rebuilding her life guides her professional practice.

And the community has recognized this: Maggie was recently named Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneur of the Year at their 35th Annual Awards and Gala.

The Woman Behind All of It When not working or parenting, Maggie enjoys dining out, live outdoor music, and weekend escapes to coastal towns. Her favorite memory with Steve is a spontaneous, sunny weekend on Solomon’s Island with tiki bars, pizza, quaint shops, and boating. “The weather was perfect, the island gorgeous, and we didn’t want to leave.”

She volunteers with the Fairy Godmother Project, often sponsoring events and fundraisers, and plans to grow that commitment this year. Her dogs—Doodle, a laid-back 13-year-old, and Chippy, a hilarious 8-year-old—add personality to the household.

Maggie McIntyre isn’t a comeback story. She’s a woman who saw what she wanted, named it, and did the daily work to build it—again and again. The businesses, community, and relationship didn’t arrive fully formed. Each was chosen, piece by piece, as she laid a new foundation.

That’s the thing about creating the life you want: it requires seeing and seizing opportunities. It’s about laying a strong foundation and building on it. Delays, repairs, and inspections are what keep it standing through life’s biggest storms. Maggie McIntyre shows what’s possible when you align choices with values: you can consciously build your dream life and change both your life and the lives of those around you.

Maggie McIntyre is the founder of Rejuvalase Medspa and Nova Laser and Esthetics Training, located in Stafford, Virginia. She can be reached at maggie@rejuvalase.com.

10 StaffordLiving

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PET

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THE INVISIBLE ESSENTIALS: KEEPING YOUR PET SAFE THIS JUNE

By Dr. Katrina Spies, DVM, CHPV, CCRV, CVA, CVPP

Every summer, I see the same pattern. A family comes in shaken after their dog slipped out during a backyard cookout or collapsed on what seemed like a perfectly pleasant afternoon walk.

These emergencies are rarely dramatic at first.

More often, they start with quiet risks that are easy to miss in the middle of an otherwise happy summer day.

That’s what I call the invisible essentials: the simple preventive steps that don’t seem urgent until they suddenly are. This June, I want to focus on two of the most important ones: your pet’s digital identification and the Virginia heat.

A Microchip Is Only as Useful as the Information Attached to It June is National Microchipping Month, which makes it a perfect time to check one detail many pet owners overlook. The microchip itself is permanent, but the contact information connected to it is only helpful if it’s current.

Summer is the prime escape season. Gates get left open, families host backyard gatherings, and thunderstorms can send even normally calm dogs running. A microchip is one of the best safety nets you can give your pet, but if you’ve

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12 StaffordLiving

moved or changed your phone number since registration, that safety net may not work the way you expect.

Take ten minutes this month to log into your pet’s microchip registry and confirm that your contact information is up to date.

Local shelters in Stafford and Fredericksburg rely on that data to reconnect lost pets with their families, sometimes within hours.

And keep a clear photo of your pet and their microchip number saved in your phone. If your pet goes missing while you’re out, having both available immediately can make the search much more efficient.

Heat Is More Than a Summer Nuisance We all know Virginia summers can be intense, but pets experience heat very differently than people do. Dogs can’t cool themselves efficiently through sweating. They rely primarily on panting, and when humidity rises, that cooling system becomes much less effective. A dog can move from comfortable to dangerously overheated faster than many owners realize.

Before any walk, try the five-second rule: Press the back of your hand to the pavement. If you can’t hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. On those days, skip the downtown sidewalks and head somewhere shaded. Government Island’s boardwalk stays noticeably cooler, and the canopy along Alum Spring Park makes a real difference.

When you head out, bring fresh water, a collapsible bowl, and a microfiber towel you can wet down and press against your dog’s chest and underarms. Small things to pack, but exactly the kind of preparation that matters when time counts.

Knowing the early warning signs of heat stress may be the most important thing in this article. Brick-red gums, glazed eyes, and heavy panting that doesn’t slow down when your dog rests are the signs I take seriously.

Get inside and get cool immediately– and if you suspect heat stroke, call your vet right away rather than waiting to see if it passes.

A Closing Thought My favorite outcomes are the ones that never require a clinic visit. Summer in Stafford and Fredericksburg should be something you enjoy with your pet, on the trails, on the patios, or at a FredNats “Bark in the Park” night. A few simple precautions taken now can make the whole season safer.

Next month, we’ll pick up the outdoor safety conversation with another hazard that surprises a lot of pet owners this time of year.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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THE BEST RETURN ON INVESTMENT FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

By Karie Owens • Photos Courtesy of NK Floors

Before picking up a hammer or calling a contractor, every homeowner asks: Will this pay off? Whether you’re preparing to sell or building long-term equity, not all home improvements are equal. Some projects recoup a fraction of their cost; others return more than you invest. After years of helping homeowners transform spaces, here’s our breakdown of the improvements with the best return on investment.

3. Garage Door Replacement This one surprises homeowners every time. Replacing an outdated garage door consistently ranks among the top ROI projects in Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs.

Value Report, often returning 90–95% of the investment. It’s pure curb appeal — and first impressions drive offers.

1. Hardwood Flooring Installation or Refinishing We may be biased, but the numbers support us. The National Association of Realtors finds refinishing hardwood floors can recover up to 147% of their cost at resale, among the highest-ROI projects. New hardwood installation follows at about 118%. Buyers list hardwood floors as a top priority, while outdated carpet is a common deal-breaker. If your floors are worn or dated, this is the most impactful pre-sale upgrade.

4. Entry Door Replacement (Steel) Replacing an old door with a new steel entry door is low-cost and returns about 88% of its value. Buyers also appreciate improved energy efficiency and security, both of which translate to perceived value.

2. Minor Kitchen Remodel A full renovation rarely pays off, but a minor kitchen remodel — cabinet refacing, new hardware, updated countertops, and modern fixtures — typically recoups 80–85% of costs. Kitchens are the heart of the home, and buyers are willing to pay more for fresh, functional spaces.

5. Deck or Outdoor Living Addition As outdoor living continues to trend, a well-built wood or composite deck can return 65–75% of costs while significantly expanding your home’s usable square footage. In competitive markets, outdoor spaces often tip the scales in favor of one listing over another.

The Bottom Line Smart improvement isn’t about spending the most — it’s about spending strategically. The projects above all enhance livability and signal quality to future buyers.

Not sure where to start? Start from the ground up.

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HIGH SCHOOL

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STUDENT ATHLETES REFLECT ON ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR

By Kira Pohwala • Photos by Kimmie D Photography & Rubeel Iqbal Kira Pohwala is a rising senior at Mountain View High School. She arrives as the chief of technology on the school’s literary magazine, Prowl Publishing, and is a member of the National Honors Society, National English Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the Spanish Honors Society. Outside of writing, she enjoys reading, volunteering at the local library, and has a strong passion for biology.

As the school year comes to a close, student-athletes across Mountain View High School are reflecting on months of hard work, competition, and unforgettable memories.

From early-morning practices to long meets and matches after school, athletes in every sport have spent the year balancing academics with their dedication to their teams. Now, with summer just around the corner, many are looking back proudly on everything they accomplished together.

Similarly, for members of the cross-country and track teams, endurance and perseverance defined the year. Taylor Christmann shared that the team’s close bond made every difficult practice worthwhile. “Even when things got tough, everyone kept encouraging each other,” she said. “That support made the season really special.” The team celebrated personal

records, strong finishes, and the friendships formed during long runs and weekend meets.

“Swimming can be exhausting, but it’s worth it when you finally see yourself getting faster,” he said. “Our team really became like a family this year.”

Track athletes experienced a similar sense of teamwork throughout the spring season. Aidan Rees explained how important consistency became throughout the year. “Track teaches you discipline,” he said. “You don’t improve overnight, but if you keep showing up and pushing yourself, the results eventually come.”

He added that some of his favorite memories include cheering for teammates during meets and seeing everyone improve together.

Meanwhile, the tennis team also demonstrated strong team spirit as they spent the spring season sharpening their skills and competing in close matches, ranking second in the district. Ninghao Zhan described the sport as both physically and mentally demanding. “You have to stay focused the entire match,” he explained. “One point can completely change momentum.” He said the team especially enjoyed traveling together for matches and supporting one another courtside.

The strong sense of community was just as evident among the swim team, who wrapped up the year with plenty to celebrate. Between practices before sunrise and competitive meets, swimmers dedicated countless hours to improving their performance in the pool. William Hottendorf reflected on how rewarding the season felt despite its challenges.

In the end, although the final bell of the school year marks the conclusion of another sports season, the memories built through competition, teamwork, and school spirit will last much longer. For many athletes, this year was full of more than just wins and losses, but also growth, commitment, and several connections formed along the way.

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CALENDAR

of events

Upcoming Events

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June- July

Thurs., June 11 Barks & Recreation: Doggy Ice Cream Social @Fredericksburg Dog Park Time: 6- 8pm 1448 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Sat., June 13 Cars & Coffee @Gari Melchers Home and Studio Time: 8- 11am 224 Washington St. Falmouth, VA 22405 Sat., June 13 Families Make a Clay Corgi! @Corgi Clay Art Center Time: 1:30- 3pm 15 Tech Pkwy.

Stafford, VA 22556 Sat., June 13 Kids Story Time- Second Saturday @Tales & Tails Time: 10- 11am 1010 Charles St. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Tues., June 16 Picnic in the Park: Prince & Princess Day @Memorial Park Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Fri., June 19 Give It a Spin! Workshop @Corgi Clay Art Center Time: 5- 6:30pm 15 Tech Pkwy.

Stafford, VA 22556 Tickets: corgiclayartcenter.com/ class-list

Fri., June 19 Sunshine Concert Series @Eden Try Winery Time: 6- 8pm 6818 River Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Sat., June 20 HYROX Simulations @F45 Training- Stafford Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 35 Walpole St., Ste. 109 Stafford, VA 22554 Tues., June 30 Beach Day @Memorial Park Time: 11:30am- 1:30pm 1401 Kenmore Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Fri., July 3 First Fridays Karaoke @Reclaim Arcade Time: 8- 11:45pm 2324 Plank Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401

Every Wednesday Trivia with Trapper @6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company Time: 7- 9pm 1140 International Pkwy.

Fredericksburg, VA 22406

Every Saturday HYROX Signature Series @F45 Training- Stafford Time: 11:30am- 12:30pm 35 Walpole St., Ste. 109 Stafford, VA 22554

Multiple Day Events

Every Wednesday Adventure Jeopardy @Adventure Brewing Company Time: 7:30- 9pm 33 Perchwood Dr., #101 Fredericksburg, VA 22405

Now thru Sun., June 28 Guys and Dolls @Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Various Times 95 Riverside Parkway Fredericksburg, VA 22406

Every Saturday Spotsylvania Farmers Market Saturday Market @VDOT Commuter LotSpotsy Time: 8am- 1pm 12150 Gordon Rd. Fredericksburg, VA 22407

Mon., June 8- Fri. June 12 Meet Me at The Met Summer Art Camp @Art Cart Kids Time: 10am- 12:30pm 77 Bells Hill Rd. Stafford, VA 22554

At the time this magazine went to print, all event times and locations were accurate, but please check event websites for the most current information. Some events may have been postponed or canceled.

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June2026 15

CHARITY

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spotlight

FROM DONATIONS TO CAREERS: HOW GOODWILL IS POWERING WORKFORCE OPPORTUNITY IN THE FREDERICKSBURG AREA

By Michelle Rojas, Contributing Writer • Photos provided by Rappahannock Goodwill Michelle Rojas is a social media marketer and multimedia journalist based in Stafford, Virginia. With over four years of experience in digital media and brand strategy, she creates and manages content for companies and organizations across digital channels. She is also the founder of @MichelleReports, a social media news platform covering local news in the Stafford area, with expanded coverage throughout Virginia and Washington, D.C. Michelle holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Business from the University of Rochester, where she built a strong foundation in audience insight and strategic communication that informs her work in digital media.

For many people, Goodwill is best known as a place to donate clothing and shop for secondhand finds. What’s less visible is the work it does beyond the stores, using a portion of its sales revenue and federal funding to create career opportunities and support the local workforce. Rappahannock Goodwill creates convenient opportunities for residents to shop and donate with 2 e-commerce sites, 15 retail stores, and one of the largest Goodwill stores in Virginia, now open in Stafford’s England Run shopping center.

Behind the racks and registers is a workforce development mission supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a 2014 federal act designed “to help get Americans, including youth and those with significant barriers to employment, into high-quality jobs and careers and help employers hire and retain skilled workers.” While WIOA provides the framework and funding, its impact depends on local organizations that bring those resources directly to people who need them. The Bay Consortium Workforce Development Board administers WIOA funding locally, and Rappahannock Goodwill Industries has been an applicant and awardee

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for several years, providing services to members of the community through its Virginia Career Works Centers.

These centers operate as community hubs, offering career counseling, job readiness training, work experiences, and access to occupational skills training that aligns with local employer needs.

Beyond the Store: Goodwill’s Workforce Mission “The biggest misconception is that Goodwill is just a store,” said Stacey Linkenhoker, a WIOA Career Services Specialist at the Virginia Career Works Fredericksburg Center.

“What people don’t see is that every donation has a second life—not just on the sales floor, but in the form of education, training, and support that helps someone move forward.”

Through its oversight from the Bay Consortium Workforce Development Board, Rappahannock Goodwill delivers workforce programs that support adults, youth ages 16 to 24, and individuals who have lost jobs due to layoffs or economic shifts. At its core, the work is about removing obstacles that keep people from employment.

“Sometimes that barrier is a lack of experience. Sometimes it’s financial. Sometimes it’s transportation, childcare, or even just not knowing where to start. Our job is to meet people where they are and help them take the next step,” Ms. Linkenhoker explained.

Personalized Pathways for Participants That next step looks different for every participant. Some come in needing help completing a GED or building basic workplace skills.

Others already have education but need industry-recognized credentials or hands-on experience to break into a field. Increasingly, many are adults retraining after realizing their previous career no longer offers stability or growth.

“Life happens,” Ms. Linkenhoker said. “Plans change. Having a place you can go when that happens makes all the difference.”

With WIOA funding, Goodwill helps participants pursue training in high-demand fields such as healthcare, transportation, and information technology. Certifications like certified nursing assistant (CNA), commercial driver’s licenses (CDL), and IT credentials can open doors to sustainable careers. Equal-

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ly important, the program offers supportive services that help ensure participants can complete their training.

“We don’t just pay for a class and wish someone luck,” Ms. Linkenhoker said. “If they need help with gas, work shoes, scrubs, books, or testing fees, we help them. Those things matter. If you don’t address them, people can fall through the cracks…Community support, like rounding up a purchase at Goodwill, makes this possible.”

Collaboration: The Key to Success According to Jessica Weber, Manager of the Virginia Career Works Fredericksburg Center, collaboration is what allows the system to work effectively.

“WIOA gives us the structure and the funding,” Ms. Weber said. “But it’s the local partnerships—Goodwill, employers, local school divisions, and community colleges—that turn that into real outcomes for people.”

Last year, Germanna Community College and Rappahannock Goodwill Industries launched a partnership to expand internship and job placement opportunities for students. The program connects students with local employers, giving them paid hands-on experience and skills that prepare them for the workforce.

As workforce needs continue to evolve, local employers play an important role by partnering with Goodwill through work experiences, internships, and job placements. Even a single hire can represent a meaningful success.

“It might feel small on the business side,” Ms. Linkenhoker said, “but for us, every placement matters. Every success story adds up.”

From Donations to Opportunity Ultimately, the Rappahannock Goodwill Industries demonstrates how donations, public funding, and community collaboration can intersect to create real opportunity. What begins as a donated jacket or a visit to a career center can become a pathway to stability, independence, and a stronger local workforce.

For residents unsure of their next step, Ms. Linkenhoker offered advice: “You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to know where to go.”

Supporting Youth and Schools Youth services are a significant part of Goodwill’s impact. Through the WIOA Youth Program, the organization supports young people ages 16 to 24 who face certain employment barriers, helping them improve educational achievement, explore career pathways, and gain early work experience.

Ms. Linkenhoker, who previously worked in career and technical education in high schools, now serves as a bridge between schools and workforce services. Workforce staff visit high schools across the region to provide resume workshops, interview preparation, and career exploration activities.

“When students hear the same message over and over, sometimes it doesn’t click,” she said. “But when it comes from someone outside the building, suddenly it sticks. We’re here to support educators and give students a clearer picture of what comes next.”

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Building Community Impact These efforts help reframe what Goodwill represents in the community—not just a retail destination, but a workforce partner invested in long-term economic stability.

“When you help someone overcome barriers to employment,” Ms. Linkenhoker said, “you’re not just helping that person. You’re strengthening families, employers, and the entire community.” In 2025, Rappahannock Goodwill served 10,000 job-seekers and placed 1,700 community members into jobs, ranking #3 nationally amongst all Goodwill organizations with a starting wage that averaged over $22 an hour.

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June2026 17

KIDS

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corner

Inspired Art Project

June is a perfect time to create art outside and a stick is an excellent thing to use to create art. You can use it to make all kinds of art. Here are some ideas to get you started: e a Rock Star and make a microphone: Cover B it in tin foil and add something round to the end, perhaps a pom pom. See directions below.

from the Book A Stick is an Excellent Thing By Marylin Singer 2

ake a summer Christmas tree. Bury one end M in the ground so it stands on its own. Decorate it with leaves, flowers, etc. whatever you can find in the yard. ance Like a Fairy. Wrap your stick with ribbons D and leave some loose ribbons at the end so that they can fly around when you swing your fairy wand. You can also make a fairy crown with flowers. reate people/dolls. Find a stick with “arms and C legs” or tie multiple sticks together to form a body.

Next create clothes with paper, old mail or fabric scraps. Add some yarn for hair, or maybe find some pine needles. Use your people as puppets and put on a show. ake a Door Wreath. Create a larger shape by M tying sticks together, perhaps a star. Then decorate it with flowers, leaves, seed pods etc. halk Art: Tie a piece or even a few pieces of C chalk to a stick and then use it to draw a picture on the sidewalk. Does having a stick make drawing easier or harder? Did you add different colored chalk to your stick and draw with multiple colors at once? uild a Fort. Use multiple sticks stacked on top B of each other to create a fort. You can even add an old shirt or a bandana to a stick and have a special flag for your building.

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About Art Cart Kids: Art Cart Kids Enrichment Studio is a child-choice art space where creativity and confidence grow side by side. Located at 77 Bells Hill Rd, in Stafford VA, each child is given the freedom to make independent decisions, follow their imagination, and create artwork that is entirely their own. In this calm, supportive environment, children learn that mistakes are a natural and valuable part of the process. Small missteps become opportunities to problem-solve, adjust, and try again—building resilience and self-trust along the way.

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How to Make a Pom Pom Step 1 - Grab a skein of yarn.

Step 2 - Hold the end of the yarn between your thumb and pointer finger.

Step 3 - Wrap the yarn lightly, you don’t want to cut off the circulation, around your 4 fingers on the same hand. The more yarn you wrap, the fatter your pom pom will be. When you have wrapped it enough, cut the end of the yarn.

Step 4 - Carefully remove the wrapped yarn from your hand and lay it down.

Step 5 - Cut another piece of yarn long enough to tie around your wrapped yarn. Tie the new piece of yarn around the middle of the wrapped yarn.

Tie it as tight as you can.

Step 6 - Cut the loops of each string, on each side of the knot in the middle.

Step 7 - Puff it up to look like a sphere.

Other uses for pom poms: Use it as hair on the top of your person/doll. Make a bunch and pretend they are snowballs, you can protect yourself in your fort. Use them as decorations for your summer Christmas tree or to add to the decorations on your wreath.

What ideas do you have?

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As your child explores, chooses, and creates, confidence begins to take root. They discover that their ideas matter, that challenges can be worked through, and that they are capable of figuring things out. This is a place where independence is nurtured, creativity feels easy and open-ended, and every child leaves feeling more sure of themselves than when they arrived.

Ready to give your child a simple, creative space where imagination leads the way? Check out our classes, camps and parties at ArtCartKids.com.

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