CLEA LIVING M N
LEADING AS CO-CHAIRS OF THE LOMBARDI
WOMEN'S EVENT
COVER PHOTO BY MYRTLE ROY
Meet Jennifer Bognet & Meredith LaPier
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Publisher: Gloria Fonseca
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Designer: Hannah Argall
Social Media Administrator: Andrea Simon
Photographer: Myrtle Roy
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DEAR McLEAN RESIDENTS,
On this month’s cover, we have two incredible women—Jennifer Bognet and Meredith LaPier—who not only shine in their personal and professional lives but also serve as co-chairs for the Lombardi Women's annual event. Their leadership and commitment to the cause are a reminder that McLean is full of women who get things done.
This issue also celebrates the next generation of changemakers—like the local teens proving that age is no barrier when it comes to making a di erence. And we’re spotlighting companies that believe in giving back, like Manor Works, led by COO Lucia Tirondola, who proves that business success and community impact can go hand in hand.
We live in an amazing community. Let’s keep it that way by showing up— supporting local events, championing organizations, and backing the ideas of those who are brave enough to push for change.
See you out there,
BY ANDREA SIMON SOCIAL MEDIA ADMINISTRATOR
FROM THE SOCIAL DESK
Consider this your o icial invite: dive in, dog-ear the pages, and get comfy. This issue’s packed with sharp stories, standout style, and plenty to talk about. September looks good on you.
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
FURNITURE
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HOME SERVICES
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MASTER PEDICURIST & ONCOLOGY-TRAINED ESTHETICIAN
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PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
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REAL ESTATE
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RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
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INFANT FEEDING DIFFICULTIES & LASER FRENECTOMY
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BUSINESS BROKER
Erika Baez-Grimes | Business Coach Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional - The BPH Group, LLC 804.750.3008 | www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com
LEGAL SERVICES
Amy Griggs | Tysons Trial Law, PLLC 703-643-4021 | www.tysonstriallaw.com
Schedule your child’s dental check-up before school starts — and ask us about Zoom Whitening to start the year with a brighter smile!
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VOICES OF SERVICE AND INSPIRATION
MEET JENNIFER BOGNET & MEREDITH LAPIER
BY SOFIA ROMAN
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS BY MYRTLE ROY
Hello again, McLean!
We are so fortunate to call this place home, a community where dreams take root, families grow, and connections run deep. Each month, our mission is to share the remarkable stories of our neighbors; their courage, contributions, and the countless ways they enrich the lives around them. And while I often say each issue is special, it’s because every one truly is.
This month, our cover features two extraordinary women—longtime friends, accomplished professionals, and dedicated community members—who have committed themselves to a cause that touches so many of us: the fight against breast cancer. Whether you’ve walked through a diagnosis yourself, supported a loved one, or simply care deeply about the cause, breast cancer has touched our community in profound ways.
Meet Jennifer Bognet and Meredith LaPier, the dynamic co-chairs of the 19th Annual Lombardi Women Event. Their journey is one of friendship, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of coming together to make a di erence. Turn the page to discover how these two inspiring women are shaping lives, building connections, and leaving a lasting mark on McLean.
Meredith LaPier’s
Heart & Hope for Women’s Health
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For more than 30 years, Meredith LaPier has called McLean home—a place she and her husband, Dr. Terry LaPier, chose for its unparalleled location and enduring charm. “It’s truly at the crossroads of everything,” Meredith says. “Whether you need to be in downtown D.C., Old Town Alexandria, Bethesda, Tysons, or Reston, you can get there in about 20 minutes.”
The convenience, though, was just the beginning. What truly made McLean feel like home was the sense of peace and community it o ered, a quiet, tree-lined retreat that still provides easy access to a bustling metropolitan life. Over the decades, the LaPier’s have watched the area evolve while holding on to the qualities they value most: connection, continuity, and a spirit of neighborliness. Meredith and Terry have been married for 35 years, creating a life that blends purpose, activity, and shared passions. Terry, CEO and Founder of Cambridge College of Healthcare and Technology and Founder and Senior Managing Partner of Pierpont Group, has an accomplished career in education, business leadership, and philanthropy.
Though they don’t have children of their own, Meredith is deeply devoted to her six nieces and one nephew. “I’m proud to say I’m the favorite aunt,” she says with a smile. She’s marked milestones with special trips, like taking a niece to Ireland after her high school graduation, and o ers guidance and encouragement as they navigate their careers. One niece has even joined CBRE, creating a full-circle moment in Meredith’s professional life.
Closer to home, the LaPier’s enjoy long walks through the Langley area, evenings catching up after busy days, and the occasional trip into Georgetown for dinner and shopping. Some of Meredith’s favorite local spots include Mayflowers, where she’s been sourcing beautiful arrangements for more than two decades, and The Organic Butcher, where personalized service and community charm keep her coming back. Capri, Pulcinella, and Nostos are regular dining destinations, where friendships with the owners have transformed meals into cherished traditions.
With more than 35 years in the commercial real estate industry, Meredith serves as Vice Chairman at CBRE, specializing in
tenant representation and strategic portfolio management for national and global corporations. Her work has helped shape the commercial landscape of the region, and in 2012, The Washington Post dubbed her and her business partner “the duo behind the region’s biggest lease deals.”
Meredith also co-leads one of the first and only female-led, nationally focused tenant advisory teams in the country, a 10-member group known for both its expertise and supportive culture. Mentoring younger professionals is a hallmark of her leadership. “Helping them grow into confident, capable leaders is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role,” she says.
Her dedication to excellence has been widely recognized, including with CBRE’s prestigious Edward S. Gordon Award, honoring integrity, client service, and professional achievement.
Meredith’s professional and personal lives share a common thread: a belief in the power of investing in people. She and Terry actively support initiatives focused on women’s health and education, particularly programs that help individuals earn nursing degrees and improve access to healthcare and education in underserved communities.
That commitment is what drew Meredith nearly 20 years ago to the Lombardi Women Celebration, an event benefitting the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. It began with a dinner among friends in the commercial real estate industry, many of whom had been touched by breast cancer, including Meredith’s dear friend, Linda Rabbitt, whose strength and leadership became an inspiration.
For Meredith, the fight against breast cancer is both personal and forwardlooking. Having lost both of her parents to cancer, she channels her energy into creating a future where her nieces and all women can live without fear of the disease. Over the years, Lombardi Women has grown from a small gathering at The Palm in Tysons to an annual event that has raised more than $5 million for breast cancer research. Meredith has played a key role in that growth, serving for many years as co-chair of the sponsorship committee alongside her friend Jennifer Bognet before stepping into the role of event co-chair in 2024.
LEADING THE 19TH ANNUAL LOMBARDI WOMEN CELEBRATION
This year’s event marks another milestone—a return to its longtime home at the Ritz-Carlton, where between 400 and 500 guests are expected to attend. Meredith is especially proud of expanding access by o ering individual tickets, allowing more women to participate and form tables of their own. “It’s a beautiful example of how grassroots support can grow into something powerful,” she says. She is equally excited about the new leadership committee, made up of 20 up-and-coming women leaders who are bringing fresh ideas and energy to the cause. Mentoring them, she says, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her role this year.
The evening will include the beloved “Wine Dudes” tradition, a Spirit of Life honoree, and a powerful panel discussion with Dr. Claudine Isaacs of Georgetown Lombardi, moderated by Lesli Foster of WUSA 9. “Every story we hear—whether from survivors, doctors, or supporters, reminds us why this mission matters,” Meredith reflects. “I hope guests leave the Lombardi Women Celebration feeling inspired, hopeful, and empowered,” she says. “Every ticket, every conversation, every dollar raised moves us closer to a world where breast cancer is no longer life-threatening. By showing up, you’re helping to create change.”
Jennifer Bognet
BUILT ON FAITH, ROOTED IN FAMILY, DRIVEN TO GIVE BACK
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For Jennifer Bognet, McLean isn’t just a place to live; it’s a community where connections flourish, opportunities to give back abound, and neighbors truly know one another. After 21 years in Vienna, Jennifer and her family moved to McLean in 2020, drawn by their children’s ties to The Potomac School and the friendships they had built along the way.
It was a natural transition. “We love the convenience of being close to the school, downtown McLean, and the places that matter most to us,” Jennifer says. From long walks along Georgetown Pike to weekend breakfasts at the McLean Family Restaurant and Thursday night dinners at El Tio, the Bognet’s have fully embraced their new neighborhood traditions. Favorite stops like The Preppy Pink Pony, Mesmerelda’s Gifts, and Dolce Vita salon round out the family’s local favorites.
Jennifer and her husband, Jim, will celebrate 27 years of marriage this December. Their son, Rocco (22), recently moved to New York City after graduating college, while their daughter, Gianna (17), is entering her senior year at The Potomac School. With just one year left before they o icially become empty nesters, Jennifer reflects on how much they’ve enjoyed deepening their ties in the community, whether through neighborhood gatherings or projects like their company, Bognet Construction, being selected as the general contractor for the next phases of Chain Bridge Estates.
Jennifer’s career began with Marriott International, working first at the Key Bridge Marriott and later in the company’s information systems division in Bethesda. She then transitioned into the tech industry with Oracle Corporation before joining Jim full-time at Bognet Construction, a leap that would shape both her professional and community life.
For over 27 years, Bognet Construction has been creating award-winning o ice spaces for many of the region’s most respected corporate and public organizations. Jennifer has also taken on leadership roles in the commercial real estate industry, including serving as President of CREW DC (Commercial Real Estate Women). Since 2019, she has been on the Board of Directors for Old Dominion National Bank.
At the core of Jennifer’s personal and professional journey is her Christian faith, which she describes as the cornerstone of her life. Sundays at McLean Bible Church, followed by lunch at Patsy’s, have become a cherished family tradition. “It grounds us for the week ahead,” she says, “and keeps us connected.”
Her values naturally align with causes that uplift women and children, support veterans, and serve those facing hardship. She has attended and supported events like Women Giving Back and the Heroines of Washington gala, contributing to their missions. Through her company, she has been a proud sponsor of the Breakthrough T1D Real Estate Games for over 25 years, with her team actively participating each year—always seeking opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
Jennifer was immediately drawn to its mission and the community of women behind it. Over the years, her involvement grew—from joining the sponsorship committee to co-chairing alongside her friend Meredith LaPier. In 2024, the two transitioned into the roles of event cochairs, stepping into the shoes of longtime leaders Barbara McDu ie and Janet Davis.
Her dedication deepened when, in 2024, Jennifer herself was diagnosed with breast cancer following a routine mammogram. When she was first diagnosed, she sought a second opinion on her treatment plan from a place she knew well—Lombardi. Thanks to her long relationship with the center, Dr. Weiner quickly arranged for her to meet with their top breast cancer surgeon. “Walking into Lombardi for the first time as a patient, I felt both fear and peace,” she recalls. “The care team met me with kindness, clarity, and unwavering support, helping me understand my treatment options.” While her treatment was ultimately completed elsewhere, the compassion she experienced at Lombardi left a lasting impression. That same spirit of care was mirrored at home. “When I was diagnosed last summer, the women in my neighborhood surrounded me with extraordinary kindness and encouragement,” she says. In a gesture of solidarity, they formed a table for this year’s Lombardi Women celebration, proudly rallying under the name she created for them—The Haute Pink Langley Ladies. “I am profoundly grateful for their friendship and can’t wait to see their bright, smiling faces in the audience at our October celebration.”
A LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO LOMBARDI WOMEN
Eighteen years ago, Jennifer attended what was then a small gathering of 30 women in the commercial real estate industry, hosted at The Palm in Tysons. The event, now known as the Lombardi Women event, benefits the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and its groundbreaking breast cancer research.
Now, she approaches her role with an even greater sense of purpose—working to expand the event’s reach beyond commercial real estate and to inspire more women from all industries to get involved. “If that day ever comes when a woman hears the words ‘you have cancer,’ I want her to know there is a place like Lombardi where she will be supported and cared for with the very best treatment possible.”
And while the Lombardi Women Celebration is one chapter of her story, it’s a reflection of something much bigger: a belief that when a community comes together—whether in joy, in challenge, or in service—it can change lives.
Longtime Lombardi Women Executive Committee member Sherrie Beckstead of Liljenquist & Beckstead donated the stunning Chopard blue motherof-pearl heart necklace with pavé diamonds for the event ra e. Visit the website to purchase tickets.
Convenience on Call
Enjoy the Good Life at Vinson Hall Retirement Community
BY STEPHANIE LAWRENCE
Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Life is a journey, not a destination.” Vinson Hall Retirement Community o ers both: a destination that gives you a home base to dream, explore, and reflect on a life well-lived—while experiencing new things, whether it’s taking up chess, learning a new language, or painting a masterpiece.
Good health is a cornerstone of living how you want. That’s why Vinson Hall Retirement Community o ers the best of both worlds. As your home base for adventure, you have a full calendar of social and cultural activities, from lifelong learning classes and happy hours to outings throughout the D.C. area and beyond.
To support this vibrant retirement, the community hosts a variety of health and wellness services on campus, making it
easy to pop over for a quick checkup or lab work on the way to something more exciting. LPNs are on call 24/7 for emergency support, and outside providers, such as primary care physicians, internists, and podiatrists, host weekly o ice hours.
Beyond medical care, the resident-led Health and Wellness Committee organizes engaging lectures on diverse topics, while the dining program features dietitian talks and chef-prepared samples to inspire healthy living. Spiritual well-being is nurtured through a dedicated chaplain, and the state-of-the-art fitness center is sta ed with personal trainers to help keep you active and energized.
At Vinson Hall Retirement Community, your health is buoyed by convenience and community. To get started on this lifestyle today, call 571-626-4388 or visit vinsonhall.org.
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MroyPhoto LLC
Wow, Can You Believe We Are Already Exiting Q3?
By ERIKA BAEZ-GRIMES Business Coach Certi昀椀ed Mergers & Acquisitions Professional
It’s no secret that the close of the third quarter is more than just another date on the calendar—it’s a critical checkpoint. Whether you’re preparing for an exit or simply want to strengthen your business, the decisions you make now can shape your success in Q4 and beyond.
Here’s the good news: There are nine months of financial data available that tell a story. Now is the time to read it closely. Are your revenues meeting expectations? Are margins holding steady or slipping? Are there seasonal patterns you can prepare for? By analyzing your year-todate results, you can make strategic adjustments in Q4 to hit your targets or, at the very least, put your business on stronger footing heading into the new year. Ignoring the story your numbers are telling is like driving blind into 2026. Think of Q4 as your final chance to “polish the apple” before closing out the books. A business that looks stronger on paper at year-end is typically more attractive to lenders, investors, and acquirers.
But—the year-to-date reality check is not just financial; it’s also operational!
A business that runs only when the owner is in the building is less valuable. If you want your company to be attractive, you need to prove it can run without you. That means training your team, delegating key tasks, and documenting processes so operations are not dependent on a single person. This also benefits you now—it frees up your time to focus on growth, strategy, or simply reclaiming a bit of worklife balance. Reducing owner dependency is a long- and short-term win for your business!
If you’re interested in discussing “Where you are now, or future plans for the business,” please contact:
Erika Baez-Grimes Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional Founder,
The BPH Group, LLC www.TheBPHgroup.com 804.750.3008
MANOR WORKS PAINTING
TRANSFORMING HOMES, BUILDING TRUST
BY CASEY WHITMORE | PHOTOS BY JAMIE SUTERA PHOTOGRAPHY
For nearly 25 years, Manor Works Painting has been transforming Northern Virginia homes with a blend of expert craftsmanship, personal service, and deep-rooted community values. Familyowned and operated since 1998, founded by the Osbornes, the company specializes in interior and exterior residential painting, wood rot repair, and custom carpentry. With year-round foremen and skilled painters, every project is delivered with precision, professionalism, and a personal touch.
When Lucia Tirondola and her husband were presented with the opportunity to purchase Manor Works in 2016, they saw it not just as a business move but as a calling. “We prayed on the decision,” Lucia recalls. With her husband’s experience managing a family business, her own background in marketing and design, and her mother-in-law’s expertise in o ice management, the family joined forces. “It truly became a family business where teamwork makes the dream work.”
As COO, Lucia thrives on connection. “I love building relationships and fostering collaboration, whether it's developing marketing strategies, connecting with clients, or engaging with our team and community. Serving others through our work is deeply rewarding.” With that philosophy at the forefront, Manor Works Painting has built its reputation by keeping home improvement simple and stress-free, delivering on three promises:
1. They show up on time.
2. Clients work with the same project manager from start to finish.
3. They stand behind their work with a comprehensive warranty. The company o ers far more than painting. Services include power washing, wood rot replacement, chemical stripping and restorative staining, deck staining, and custom trim and molding. Homeowners also enjoy complimentary color consultations and the assurance that every project is tailored to their needs, no highpressure sales, just lasting results.
GUIDED BY CORE VALUES
At the heart of Manor Works Painting are five guiding principles: family, faith, trust, quality, and community. These values shape
every interaction, from the first phone call to the final walkthrough. “Our mission is rooted in service, helping homeowners care for their homes while creating steady, meaningful employment for our team,” Lucia explains.
That mission extends far beyond their client list. The company actively supports nonprofits, including Ellie’s Hats and Savvy Giving by Design Virginia, where they’ve painted rooms for children battling cancer, creating bright, comforting spaces during
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BUSINESS PROFILE
For Manor Works, exceptional results mean delivering a standout experience, from detailed proposals and reliable communication to industry-leading warranties and skilled craftsmanship. “We provide peace of mind,” Lucia says. “Our team takes pride in using premium-grade materials and delivering quality that lasts.”
A REPUTATION BUILT OVER GENERATIONS
For Manor Works Painting, success is about more than the number of projects completed; it’s about the relationships built along the way. One of the highest compliments, Lucia shares, is when a client who trusted them years ago calls again to paint their child’s first home. “It’s a full-circle moment. It shows the depth of trust we’ve built.”
The company has also been called upon by grown children to care for their aging parents’ homes, a testament to their consistency, professionalism, and respect for the spaces they work in.
Manor Works uses only the highest-quality materials and maintains strict preparation and quality standards. Each job is overseen by experienced foremen and backed by a clear process, from proposal to final walkthrough. Team members take pride in their work and treat every home as if it were their own.
Much like their clients, Manor Works’ employees are treated like family. Many have been with the company for years, honing their craft under the guidance of experienced foremen. This loyalty allows the company to keep crews busy year-round, invest in ongoing training, and promote from within. “We love seeing crew members grow into leadership roles,” says Lucia.
LOOKING AHEAD WITH PURPOSE
Community involvement is central to Manor Works Painting’s identity. Whether sponsoring local events, donating services, or launching a foundation, they remain deeply rooted in giving back.
This year marks a milestone with the launch of Mishi’s Home, a foundation dedicated to supporting women escaping domestic violence. A portion of every project helps women find safety and begin new chapters in their lives. We believe every woman deserves not only a beautiful home, but also a safe one. “It’s a cause deeply personal to us,” Lucia says. “Entrepreneurship has given us the freedom to make a di erence.”
Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its team, promote more leaders from within, and continue setting the standard for quality in the home painting industry. Above all, they aim to remain an active, trusted part of the Northern Virginia community.
For Lucia, the reward is in the relationship. Quoting Maya Angelou, she says, “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel.” And that’s exactly the kind of experience Manor Works Painting strives to deliver.
“We’d be honored to be your go-to painter and a trusted, active part of the McLean community.”
To learn more about Manor Works Painting—and see how they can bring lasting beauty to your home—visit www.manorworks.com, find them on Facebook, or email luciat@manorworks.com.
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Dance as a Form of Art
By ALINA KARAMAN
Ballet is often associated with grand theaters, polished stages, and hushed audiences—but what happens when that same artistry appears in the middle of a subway station or on a quiet city street?
It takes years—sometimes a lifetime—to perfect the physicality of ballet. Every pointed toe and extended line is the result of endless repetition, discipline, and devotion. Yet this form of art is not always separated from daily life by velvet curtains or ticketed entrances. It exists quietly among us—in bodies that move with grace, whether on stage or walking beside us.
When a dancer takes to the street or subway, the contrast is striking: refined movement against a backdrop of concrete and steel, flowing costumes among hurried commuters. It’s a powerful reminder that art isn’t limited to elite spaces. Sometimes, it shows up in the most unexpected places— reminding us that beauty, expression, and intention are woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Photographer: Tatiana Dove
Art Director/Makeup: Artist Alina Karaman
Models: Katherine Beard, Sophie Bernstein
Accessories: MarinaAsta
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FASHION ON FIRE IN THE DMV
In 2024, Mandira Curtis a passionate collector of couture fashion, founded LeaseTheDress to o er everyone access to exclusive luxury styles at a ordable prices. At LTD designer styles are available for lease or purchase online and at our NEW SHOWROOM in McLean, VA. Contact us at www.leasethedress.com or 703-956-0739 for a custom fitting appointment at our showroom located at 1320 Vincent place, McLean VA 22101
DR. CEYLON MITCHELL, M3 MITCHELL MEDIA & MARKETING
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glamorous flair. Co-hosted by Aesthetic Artistry and set to the vibrant beats of DJ Dutta, this exclusive DMV fashion experience brought together a vibrant community, celebrating individuality and confidence through gorgeously unique pieces from LeaseTheDress. Guests were treated to looks designed to elevate memories and make a statement, proving that in the DMV, fashion is truly bringing the heat.
• Lash Extensions (Classic, Hybrid, Volume)
• Lash Lifts & Tinting
• Glow-focused Skin Treatments
DAWN OF THE GTS
By DANI BANEGAS
On Saturday, July 12th, Porsche Tysons Corner transformed into a stunning showcase of elegance and innovation for a red-and-white a air celebrating the Dawn of the GTS. Guests arrived in style for an exclusive evening that blended luxury, performance, and sophistication. The showroom glowed with ambient lighting, sleek Porsche models, and curated details that honored the legacy and future of GTS.
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From McLean to the Nation
By DANI BANEGAS
For most teens, free time means hanging out with friends or relaxing. But for 17-year-old Avani “Tara” Bansal, a student at The Potomac School here in McLean, it means building libraries— and not the kind you check books out of. Tara is the founder of Everyone’s Library, a youth-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit that installs free, 24/7-accessible outdoor mini-libraries in shelters, schools, and underserved communities across the U.S.
What began in 2021 as a Girl Scout project at the Katherine Hanley Family Shelter has grown into a national movement. Since formally launching Everyone’s Library in 2024, Tara has led the installation of more than 23 libraries across Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland, donated over 3,500 books, raised $28,000, and reached more than 13,000 people. Her grassroots mission has sparked a ripple e ect—21 other teens across the country have launched their own Everyone’s Library chapters under her mentorship—bringing the total to 35 libraries nationwide.
Operating on an innovative, sustainable model, the nonprofit collects gently used books from community members and recycles them into permanent neighborhood fixtures. The libraries are
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open day and night, with no membership requirements or return policies. “Books open endless opportunities for us all,” Tara shares. “That’s why our libraries are open 24/7 and freely accessible—so anyone and everyone is welcome to take a book or contribute one.” Beyond putting books in under-resourced areas, Tara’s mission is to strengthen communities through the generosity of donors and the growth of readers.
Her work has earned her prestigious recognition, including the Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award, the Girl Scout Silver Award, and a nomination for the Virginia Governor’s Volunteerism and Community Service Award.
Fueled by the support of educators, shelter and food bank directors, her family, and—above all—a generous and engaged community, Everyone’s Library continues to grow, inspiring more people to discover and celebrate the joy and power of books.
To learn more or get involved, visit www. EveryonesLibrary.org or follow along on Instagram @everyoneslibrarynonprofit.
