magazine
VOL. 07
Sep 17, 2026
THE UNITER
UPO's All Staff Day - Aug 2026
01
All Staff Day 2026 - Page 2
02
Public Forums - Page 9
03
MLK42 - 2026 - Page 14
NEWSHOUR
LAUNCHING OCT. 1 Get ready for The UPO Newshour!
Many staff members have said that Team UPO needs to get together more often. One result of that feedback: We are launching a quarterly All Staff meeting on Teams!
The first one will be on October 1, the start of UPO’s fiscal year. You will see details soon from your supervisors, via emails, etc.
PRESIDENT AND CEO'S LETTER Dear Team UPO, We went through fire and made it to the other side. We suffered through a government shutdown which caused so much stress, then through other funding cuts. In the face of that, we brought people together over and over: • At our public forums, our neighbors discussed and developed community-driven solutions to important problems.
Andrea Thomas President and CEO
• Since volunteers, donors, and partners are our lifeblood, we held an Appreciation Celebration to thank and honor them. • We honored our newest Beavers Scholars, who are heading for college knowing that UPO has their back. • At every turn, we welcomed DC residents who asked for help — and we showed them how to be the change agents of their lives. We know challenges will keep coming our way. UPO’s executive team and our Board will carry us through all of them. More than anything, I want to say I’m here for you and with you. I’m not going anywhere. And Community Action is not going anywhere. We will be helping people and changing lives long into the future. Please keep your eyes on this: Your work is worth your time and we can see the difference we make in our neighbors’ lives. We will thrive as we help others thrive. Thank you for everything you’re doing to Unite People with Opportunities. Warm regards,
UPO’S COMMUNITY ACTION PROMISE
Andrea Thomas
UPO President and CEO
Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
1
STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAY: BUILDING OURSELVES UP Our annual Staff Development Day was full of learning, joy, collaboration, and connection. Andrea Thomas, our President and CEO said, “Thank you 1,000 times over, HR! … The vibe, music, food, and Journey2Well teachers were the perfect treatment for our HUMAN service professionals who provide compassion, strategy, coaching and service every single day. We had a moment to think about how we work as a team to serve our internal and external customers, but also how to be intentional about taking care of ourselves. DJ One Luv was a perfect addition who set the tempo and reminded us that clapping, laughter, and dancing are all therapy.” Rosalind Pinkney, our VP of Human Resources, said, “Many thanks to Shelena Hollinger, Employee Relations Specialist for her ability to consider staff needs, her thinking beyond the normal, and her attention to detail which were all instrumental to an exciting and meaningful day! “Many thanks to those who supported and worked in the background, specifically the HR Team, Donna Anderson, Finance, Communications, Facilities, Transportation, the Registration Team, those who showed up early to help set up and those who helped to clean up! The work you did to make the day smooth and move like a well-oiled machine was perfect and appreciated. “Also, many thanks to our President and CEO, Andrea Thomas, for establishing an atmosphere whereby staff knew they could relax, laugh and smile, reconnect with their colleagues, sing and dance … Again, thanks to each of you for the part you played in making the day a successful event!”
2
UPO Magazine The Uniter
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
3
4
UPO Magazine The Uniter
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
5
6
UPO Magazine The Uniter
CONGRATULATIONS TO 5 NEW CERTIFIED COMMUNITY ACTION PROFESSIONALS -by RJ Mendez, Director, Youth Services Division We had an incredible trip to St. Louis, where the National Community Action Partnership created an empowering space for its annual conference.
EXECUTING THE STRATEGIC PLAN Every 6 months, the executive team meets with office and division directors for a daylong meeting to talk through the progress we’ve made to implement UPO’s Strategic Plan, and we negotiate and plan our next steps. Our next meeting will be held:
It was an honor to stand alongside Shanae Blunt, Daniel OforiAddo, Ph.D., Kanea Stover, and Cynthia Senefiawo-Amedoda as we officially received our pins and certifications as UPO’s newest Certified Community Action Professionals (CCAP). This is a national credential for leaders in Community Action who help people thrive (see p. 1 to read the Community Action Promise). We can proudly join UPO’s Ivan Laney, who previously earned his certification. Now we have 6 CCAPs on staff! Special congratulations to Dr. Daniel whose independent writing assessment was officially inducted into the CCAP Hall of Fame and archived in the Lois J. Carson Library of Excellence as a permanent national resource — a truly monumental achievement!
November 17 Anacostia Community Services Center.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
7
CONGRATULATIONS TO 3 STAFFERS ON THEIR AWARDS EVERYTHING YOU WOULD HOPE FOR IN A TEACHER Elizabeth Sanchez teaches at UPO’s Edgewood Early Childhood Education Center. Her passion for teaching led her to fall deeply in love with the work and everything it entails: “My teaching philosophy is grounded in love, respect, and collaboration. By working hand-inhand with families, embracing cultural diversity, and connecting children with resources that support their overall well-being, I aim to create an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.” - Elizabeth Sanchez Here is gratitude from a parent: “I can confidently say that she is everything you would hope for in a teacher: loving, dedicated, consistent, and truly invested in each child’s growth and well-being. From the moment you meet her, it’s clear she treats every child with the same love and care as if they were her own. My children absolutely adore her and feel safe, seen, and supported in her classroom every day. Her communication is clear and thoughtful; she truly sees the importance of a strong partnership between parents and educators. You can tell this isn’t just a job to her — it’s a calling. Her classroom is a warm, nurturing, and enriching environment where children thrive."
Elizabeth Sanchez with her two children and her sister.
- Hannah Greer, mother of Quincy and Naila Here is praise from Elizabeth Sanchez’s supervisor: “Ms. Sanchez has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and compassion. She works closely with families to build strong, trusting relationships, helping parents feel confident that their children are in safe, loving and enriching hands. Ms. Sanchez has shown a remarkable ability to connect with children on a personal level, creating a classroom environment that is both emotionally supportive and intellectually stimulating. She embodies the qualities of an exceptional educator.” - Laura Sampson, Center Director, UPO’s Edgewood Early Childhood Education Center
8
UPO Magazine The Uniter
(l. to r.) UPO teammates Gericka Brownlee, Elizabeth Sanchez, and Gisela Hurtado.
UPO's Office of Early Learning is delighted to announce that Elizabeth Sanchez was chosen by the DC Head Start Association for a 2025 Teacher of the Year award and Glenda Diaz was chosen by the DC Action Renaissance Awards as the 2025 Home Visitor of the Year! UPO’s Advocacy & Volunteer Services division is proud to announce that Ms. Shirley Price was awarded the DC Office of the People’s Counsel award as Consumer Advocate of the Year at the 2025 DC Federation of Civic Associations awards ceremony.
LIFE-CHANGING SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES Glenda Diaz is kind, patient, and devoted as she supports expecting parents and families with children from birth to age 3 through the Early Head Start Home-Based Program. DC Action is a nonprofit organization that works hard to help all kids grow up safe, resilient, powerful, and heard. They were delighted to learn how Glenda helps families strengthen bonds, build parenting skills, and prepare their children for school. In Glenda’s regular visits to families, she emphasizes the importance of reading, play, and learning at home. She leads workshops on safe sleep practices and child abuse prevention, while she connects families with resources. Her work has a profound impact. One parent shared: "I didn't know what resources were available in my community. Glenda explained everything clearly and helped me sign up. She invited me to workshops and socialization events that gave me useful parenting tools. The activities she brought helped my son grow, and I learned how to support him at home. She also helped me find health insurance, food, clothing, and more. She listens to me and always checks in on my family goals. Her support has changed my life." Glenda builds lasting trust with families, empowering them to feel confident and capable. Her work ensures that children are growing strong and that parents have the tools they need to succeed. Glenda's impact is both deeply personal and farreaching. Families who once felt isolated now feel supported, children are thriving, and parents feel hopeful about the future. She embodies the heart of home visiting — meeting families where they are, lifting them up, and helping them build brighter futures.
L. to r.: Yanet Hernandez, OEL’s Home-Based Manager; Glenda Diaz with her daughter Brittany; and Griselda Herrera, an OEL Home Visitor who cheered Glenda on!
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
9
A STRONG, COURAGEOUS CHAMPION OF OUR COMMUNITY For 34 years, Ms. Shirley Price has proven that UPO stands for help, hope, and another chance. She’s our Senior Community Liaison and has served as Director of Community Services, Branch Chief, and Center Director. “Ms. Shirley Price is truly a beacon of light and a source of hope,” said Ayana Howard-Bias, UPO’s Director of Advocacy & Volunteer Services. “This award from DC’s Office of the People’s Counsel [OPC] recognizes her lasting impact as a powerful and steadfast advocate for residents. “Ms. Price goes above and beyond, working closely with OPC to secure utility assistance and negotiate payment arrangements to help families get their power turned back on. She has personally transported people to appointments, bought food and coolers to prevent spoilage during outages, and ensured that families had food, blankets, and essential items. Her actions reflect a deep commitment to dignity, compassion, and true advocacy for our community.”
UPO teammates (l. to r.): Executive Vice President and CIO Daniel Ofori-Addo, Ph.D.; Director of Advocacy & Volunteer Services Ayana Howard-Bias; awardee Ms. Shirley Price; and Vice President of Operations and COO Dianna Guinyard.
SANDRA MATTAVOUS-FRYE, PEOPLE'S COUNSEL FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, SAID: “The OPC [DC Office of the People’s Counsel] Consumer Advocate of the Year Award is a special honor reserved for people who exemplify the highest standards of advocacy, integrity, and commitment to uplifting and empowering DC residents. Ms. Shirley Price is the embodiment of these values. OPC selected Ms. Price because of her unwavering dedication to our mutual constituents. Over the years, she has been a trusted partner, helping to bridge the gap between government services and community needs. Her advocacy has helped ensure that residents — especially those in underserved communities — are informed, protected, and supported, and most importantly, able to pay their utility bills. Ms. Price exemplifies the characteristics we seek in a community partner: vision, integrity, persistence, and a deep-rooted commitment to justice. Her work has made our city stronger, more inclusive, and more responsive to the needs of its people. It is a great honor to present her with the 2025 OPC Consumer Advocate Award.”
10
UPO Magazine The Uniter
ADVOCACY DIVISION
APPRECIATION CELEBRATION Each year, we bring our community together to honor volunteers, partners, and donors who make UPO’s impact possible. Our MC was Chasity Greene, granddaughter of the late Ralph Waldo "Petey" Greene, the legendary DC activist and radio and TV host. Since he was UPO’s Community Liaison for many years, this was a full-circle moment! After a musical tribute by Janine Coaxum, we gave awards to people and companies who donate their time, talent, and treasure to uplift our community. Here are the categories and presenters: · Program Support Volunteers – Janiya Proctor, Community Outreach Coordinator · Tax Prep Volunteers – Rebecca Webb, Tax & Financial Literacy Program Manager · Foster Grandparents – Laurette “Elle” Hilliard, Project Director, Strategic Initiatives · Partners – Ms. Shirley Price, Senior Community Liaison · Spirit of Community Action Honorees – Ayana HowardBias, Director of Community Advocacy & Volunteer Services Then the party and dancing continued! We were delighted to show how each person and organization create the collective power of our beloved community.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
11
FGP SENIOR PROM 2026 - THE MOST TALKED ABOUT EVENT OF THE YEAR! -by Laurette “Elle” Hilliard, Project Director, Strategic Initiatives
Friday, June 26, 2026, will forever be remembered as the day our seniors truly went out with a bang! Senior Prom 2026 was a spectacular celebration filled with elegance, laughter, music, and unforgettable memories for UPO’s Foster Grandparents — senior volunteers who mentor children. The event began with our seniors making their grand entrance down the red carpet, where they were welcomed as celebrities. Cameras flashed as they stopped for on-the-spot interviews, sharing heartfelt reflections about their UPO experiences, favorite memories, and what the prom meant to them. The energy soared when the entertainment kicked into high gear with a lively rap battle inspired by Rapper’s Delight. Soon the entire room joined in, transforming the rap-off into an unforgettable karaoke session that had everyone singing, laughing, and cheering each other on. A highlight was our electronic voting system, where seniors
12
UPO Magazine The Uniter
cast their votes for Prom King and Queen. Excitement and anticipation filled the room as the winners were announced by Dr. Daniel Ofori-Addo and Ms. Dianna Guinyard.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible team of people who worked behind the scenes to make the event an overwhelming success. A heartfelt thank you goes to:
Congratulations to our 2026 Senior Prom King, Douglas Raspberry, and our 2026 Senior Prom Queen, Cheryl Johnson! They proudly accepted their crowns before sharing a memorable photo.
Andrea Thomas, Dr. Daniel OforiAddo, Dianna Guinyard, Ayana Howard-Bias, Yvette Thompson, Rell Cobb, Nikki Williams, Janiya Proctor, Regina Woodson, Naomi Chambers, Larry Jones, Tyrone Bailey, Robin Myers, and my amazing squad of friends and family who always show up whenever I ask. Your dedication, teamwork, and commitment helped create a day our seniors will cherish for years to come.
From that moment on, the dance floor stayed full! Our seniors danced until the last second of the evening. They line danced, did the Soul Train line, hand danced, and celebrated together with smiles that lit up the room. Every song brought new excitement — this was an affair no one wanted to end. The fun continued with a photo booth that captured priceless memories, exciting games, and door prizes that kept everyone engaged throughout the day. Everywhere you looked, there was dancing, joy, friendship, and celebration.
Senior Prom 2026 was a celebration of friendship, accomplishments, resilience, and the incredible journey our seniors have shared. It was truly the most talked about event of the year, and one thing is certain — a time was had! >> Next event loading!
ADVOCACY INITIATIVES
COMMUNITY FORUM ON YOUTH SAFETY & MENTAL HEALTH Our Community Advocacy team amplifies the voices of DC residents who lead the transformation of their neighborhoods. We regularly hold Community Forums on crucial topics. “From Crisis to Community Solutions: Reimagining Youth Safety & Mental Health” To shape a safer, healthier future for our youth and our beloved city, UPO recently held a Community Forum with experts in Youth Advocacy, Behavioral Health, Youth Development, and Higher Education. Together, we explored practical community-driven solutions that can drive change and strengthen our neighborhoods. In addition, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) offered clarity on how their team engages youth, including summer public safety initiatives, community engagement efforts, and youth-focused prevention strategies. Following the panel discussion, our interactive breakout sessions sparked meaningful dialogue as groups shared ideas and developed collective community solutions.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
13
POLICY FORUMS ON HOMELESSNESS AND TANF Our Legislative Advocacy team helps people to fight for systemic changes and recently held 2 Public Forums on important DC issues. “Addressing Homelessness in DC” Homelessness, and the District’s response, has changed a lot over the past decade: From closing the DC General shelter to the expansion of supportive housing, to the rise of tent encampments and then their virtual elimination. Despite the progress, great challenges remain. At the forum, we learned from people with lived experience, practitioners, and policy experts about what is needed right now … including expansion of Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), a resource to keep DC residents from being evicted due to inability to pay rent. UPO wrote a white paper about why ERAP is essential.
14
UPO Magazine The Uniter
“TANF, A LIFELINE FOR FAMILIES THAT’S AT RISK” Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) plays an important role in supporting DC families with children. The monthly cash payments are designed to help these families achieve economic stability. We created a policy forum to discuss the deeply harmful program cuts scheduled for this year and to strategize together on ways to protect families and children who need TANF. Parents, people who work with families, and policy professionals showed us the history of DC’s TANF program, including steps taken in 2016 by DC’s leaders to strengthen how it helps families. Those actions were undermined by changes adopted last year, and they threaten to push 15,000 children deeper into poverty at the same time that federal cuts will reduce food and healthcare assistance for thousands of residents. Community members brought their voices to our forum and spoke out! To learn more, read UPO’s white paper on how and why to restore the 2016 reforms that improved families’ lives.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
15
LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY'S UPDATE ON DC'S BUDGET UPO’s Legislative Advocacy division partners with UPO staff and customers to identify systemic problems with economic security, recommend solutions, and act to make changes.
WISHING SUCCESS FOR ED LAZERE The latest news from the Legislative Advocacy division is that Director Ed Lazere has moved on: He will be working on District policy issues as part of DC Mayor Janeese Lewis George’s new administration.
16
UPO Magazine The Uniter
UPO organized advocates to highlight the collective cuts to DC’s safety net affecting 60,000+ residents — the largest cuts in a generation. Our effort built a new narrative about the safety net and a stronger collective effort, which led The Washington Post to write about it. The final DC budget shows that advocacy by UPO and our coalition paid off! The Council fully or partially restored many programs facing deep cuts including most of UPO’s priorities — child care, housing, TANF, and health care.
Health, Housing, and Safety Net Priorities in DC’s FY2027 Budget Health, Housing, and Safety Net Priorities in DC’s FY2027 Budget Final Budget
Issue
Description
Funding Sought (Millions)
Funding (Millions)
One-time/ Ongoing
Fully Funded?
Housing Vouchers
Prevent 1,200 households from losing a housing voucher by maintaining # of DHS & DCHA vouchers/turnover vouchers, replacing expiring federal Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV) at DCHA
$49.6
$28.2 to DHS/ DCHA vouchers, $7.4 for Rapid Rehousing
Ongoing
Didn’t fund $14 million in EHV vouchers
Housing Vouchers
600 new Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) vouchers (family & individual) to restore cuts from FY25 & FY26
$23.1
0
N/A
No
Domestic Violence
Restore cuts to Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG) + Domestic Violence Services in DHS
$5.3
$5.1 to OVSJG
One-time
All but $200K
Sustainable Energy Trust Fund
Restore cuts to Fund, which helps lowincome residents switch to healthy, affordable electric appliances
$21
10.1
One-time
No. Still in need of $9 million
Paid Family Leave
Restore cuts to Medical Leave. Prior to budget, program included 12 weeks leave – new parents, illness, caring for a sick family
$95
10 weeks Medical 6 weeks Family 12 weeks Parental
One-time
No
Pay Equity Fund
Restore the PEF salary component to ensure fair wages for early childhood educators
$82.2
$74
One-time
Mostly (no COLA)
Child Care Subsidy
Provide funding to serve all children, end the enrollment freeze and wait list (which began in May ’26), and keep reimbursement rates for providers the same
$63.2
$39 million
One-time
No enrollment freeze, but still a wait list
TANF
Eliminate time limit and enhanced sanctions. Fund cost of living adjustment for 45,000 parents & children
$20.5
$14.8
$14.4 One- No. Didn’t time fund COLA
Healthcare Alliance
Restore eligibility to 215% of the federal poverty level, allow newly eligible people to join & restore service cuts. 10,000 residents lost health insurance due to 2025 cuts.
$50
$38.3, eligibility at One-time 138%, many people cut off can return
No
School Based Mental Health
Restore cuts to program. Cuts mean more than 50 schools lose a mental health clinician
$5.4
$0
N/A
No
Emergency Reverse FY26/27 cuts, which reduced Rental Assistance funding to just $7 million. Evictions jumped 30% last year
$30
$0
N/A
No
Access to Justice
Restore cuts to fund that supports civil legal services for thousands of DC residents
$27.3
$27.3
One-time
Yes
Housing Production Trust Fund
Restore to $100 million
$37
$25.6
One-time
No
Youth Homelessness
Restore cuts
$0.75
$0
N/A
No
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
17
YOUTH SERVICES
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS AT THE MLK BREAKFAST “The Beloved Community: Living MLK’s Vision” was the theme of UPO’s 42nd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast. Every year at this event, we give Joseph A. Beavers Scholarships to 5 outstanding DC students to ease the costs of college. This year our scholars were Kayla Adames, Laila Davis, Khyri Gary, Si’yae Mable, and Xin-Tong Zheng. Over the years, our generous donors have invested over $1 million to support 200+ scholars through college. Our breakfast brought together 500+ supporters of our mission. Highlights included a rousing Keynote speech by Dr. Felicia DeHaney, Vice President for Strategy at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and a beautiful rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by The Desa Trio from Duke Ellington School of the Arts. We recognized and bade farewell to outgoing Board Chair Lafayette Barnes. Then his baton was passed to the new Chair, Dr. Jennifer Park and she was invited onstage to introduce the brilliant Dr. DeHaney. They are longtime friends who are equally committed to helping youth reach their full potential.
18
UPO Magazine The Uniter
ANNUAL MLK DAY OF SERVICE We began the MLK Holiday weekend with our MLK Breakfast. The next day we held UPO’s annual MLK Day of Service at our Petey Greene Community Service Center. Members of the Divine 9 — comprised of traditionally African-American fraternities and sororities — Blacks in Government, and other partners assembled hundreds of bags of food, clothing, and treats to distribute to our neighbors. WUSA9 TV reporter Alexis Wainwright spoke about the importance of this essential community support.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
19
From Struggle to Strength,
MLK'S LEGACY OF HOPE
BUY YOUR MLK BREAKFAST TIX We’d love to have you share the joy. Since you are part of Team UPO, you get a staff-only discount on tickets! For example, if you want to buy one ticket at $75, you can pay a smaller amount each pay day for the next several pay days. Please reach out to Regina at (202) 238-4693 rwoodson@upo.org for the Payroll Deduction Schedule and Employee Pledge Form.
FRIDAY RD
JAN 15 2027
8:30AM Annual
MLK JR.
20 memorial UPOBreakfast Magazine The Uniter
The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
CSBG PUBLIC FORUM ABOUT UPO’S IMPACT Over 30 customers and stakeholders testified about the impact of UPO’s work at a Public Forum held by the administrators of the federal government’s Community Service Block Grant (CSBG). The event was necessary because UPO is the designated Community Action Agency (CAA) serving Washington, DC residents with low incomes, so we receive annual CSBG funding to help people lift themselves into economic security. UPO was DC’s original CAA in 1964; because we keep proving that our work is effective, UPO continues to serve in this role. Many thanks to all of the people who shared the stories of how their lives changed because they connected with UPO!
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
21
YOUTH SERVICES
Prior to the 2025 Winter Break, CREATE elementary students embarked on an extraordinary educational field trip to the Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania. The day was filled with color, creativity, and handson learning that sparked imagination and joy across all grade levels. Students eagerly participated in interactive activities: creating custom crayons, exploring how crayons are made, engaging in guided art projects, experimenting with color blending, and using digital design stations to bring their ideas to life. Each activity encouraged selfexpression while reinforcing creativity through play and exploration. The students strengthened their fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and collaboration skills, complementing CREATE’s in-program activities facilitated by our Program Assistant, Monei Lyons. Her creativity and passion for art inspire students to take risks, express themselves authentically, and view art as both fun and educational. Parents shared their heartfelt appreciation: “Thank you for organizing such a great trip for them!” “The kids can’t stop talking about it. You made their festive season the best.” “Angel truly enjoyed herself, being with the UPO staff and her friends. Thank you!” “The kids had a blast. You guys rock and we thank you!” This trip reflects CREATE’s mission to deliver enriching, hands-on learning experiences supported by 21st Century Community Learning Centers and federal CSBG funding. Such grants make highquality OST (Out of School Time) programming possible, building a thriving community of learning and support that fosters academic growth and family engagement while ensuring that students are energized, proud of their creations, and inspired to keep exploring via art and imagination. The trip was organized by CREATE’s Program Coordinator, Nichelle Perrineau, showing her unwavering dedication to the program, its students, and the families we serve.
22
UPO Magazine The Uniter
POWER TEEN DEBATE TEAM COMPETES IN NEW YORK CITY
From December 5-7, 2025, POWER High Teens experienced more than a debate tournament—they saw what opportunity looks like when youth are fully invested in. Thanks to CSBG funding, private donations from TD Bank, and the critical support of unrestricted gifts from individual donors, UPO’s Youth Services Division provided a transformative experience: Students traveled to Mamaroneck High School in New York for the Fall Face-Off Invitational. In partnership with the Washington Urban Debate League, our teens competed alongside skilled debaters, strengthening their critical thinking, public speaking, and confidence as young leaders. Round after round, students tested new arguments, sharpened advocacy skills, and learned firsthand the power of their voices in academic and civic spaces. Beyond competition, many experienced New York City for the first time—exploring its culture, energy, and diversity while building peer connections and lifelong memories. This milestone was made possible by intentional investment in youth and the dedication of our team. POWER’s Program Assistant, Larry Jones—crucial to the Debate Club since its inception 2 years ago— chaperoned, coached, and supported teens at their first out-of-state tournament. His commitment shows the heart behind our mission: When we invest in youth, they rise, speak boldly, and claim their place on a national stage. Unrestricted private donations are especially vital because they provide the flexibility to respond to unique opportunities like this one—covering costs that grants alone cannot cover, and ensuring DC youth have access to high-quality, enriching out-of-school time programming that expands their horizons. Mentorship, travel, exposure, and skill-building experiences prepare young people to lead with purpose and possibility.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
23
UPO TEEN DEBATERS WIN 'MVP' AWARDS Tyius Franklin and Aur’ea Jones, two of our POWER High Teen debaters, earned 3rd place and two Speaker Awards as members of the Junior Varsity team with the Washington Urban Debate League. The event was the Season Opener at John Francis Education Campus on October 25.
Speaker Awards are the individual ‘MVP’ trophies of debates. They are given to debaters who are outstanding at: · Clarity and Organization · Quality of their Arguments · Refutation Skills · Persuasion and Presence · Strategic Awareness
UPO POWER debaters Tyius Franklin and Aur’ea Jones, whose talent was recognized by the judges.
24
UPO Magazine The Uniter
Tyius and Aur’ea have improved steadily with each debate, showing more confidence and skill. Watching them debate their opponents is like seeing basketball players spin past defenders and leap for a score. We are incredibly proud of the way they showed up: prepared, passionate, and ready to embrace every challenge with maturity and heart.
OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY & INFORMATION SYSTEMS
GET HELP FAST: CLICK ON UPO’S SERVICE REQUEST PORTAL
Save time and headaches! When you’re online: 1. Open UPO’s homepage on SharePoint 2. look for Quick Links 3. click on the Service Request Portal
Here, you can get so much help: • Office of Technology and Information Systems (OTIS) – for IT assistance, information, or service
It’s fast, easy, and keeps you updated on your request. The Helix Service Request Portal is here to help you. Use it often!
• Facilities • Early Learning (OEL) • Communications • Onboard a New Employee
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
25
UPO WORKFORCE INSTITUTE (WFI) The Training Division of the UPO Workforce Institute had a graduation ceremony to celebrate our vocational trade students. We had 60 graduates who earned national certifications for: • IT Help Desk and Application Support Specialist (which is an international certification) • Broadband Telecommunications Network Technician • Professional Building Maintenance • Commercial Driver (CDL) • Child Development Associate (CDA) • Plumbing Technician • Electrical Technician They completed their training programs and will now work with our Placement Unit to continue their job search. We are so proud of our graduates for all of their hard work and dedication to their education, and we are happy to continue working with them to achieve their goals. Please note: For DC residents who are eligible, our main requirement is a positive mindset. All trainings are provided at no cost to income-eligible DC residents. If you know someone who would see our training as a gamechanger, have them contact Darlene Booker (202) 231-7981
Text ICAN to 41444 or call (202) 231-7933 or email wfitraining@upo.org
26
UPO Magazine The Uniter
GRADUATION CELEBRATION!
SHOWCASING THE BCA TO NATIONAL VISITORS We are highlighting two notable events that brought people to see the trainees of the UPO Workforce Institute (WFI). This UPO division is a licensed institution of higher education with nationally recognized vocational programs in AI-proof, high-demand fields. (See the story about a recent graduation.) • The 2026 Economic Mobility & Opportunity Conference was held in DC. As part of the conference, WFI hosted a workshop at our Building Careers Academy (BCA), one of the city’s largest construction training facilities. • We held an Open House that showcased BCA’s impact and cultivated long-term partnerships. Among the attendees were representatives from Clark Construction, Bozzuto Construction, Cubed Partners, HomeAnswers, Akridge, real estate developers, and the DC Students Construction Trades Foundation. Our instructors gave an interactive tour that showed how UPO serves as a gateway to careers in the skilled trades, with a comprehensive approach to workforce development. Our laser focus on trainees includes supportive services, employer partnerships, credential-based training and job placement that prepare them for success.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
27
COMMUNITY HEALTH
LISA WEST INTRODUCES MAYOR BOWSER AT HYPOTHERMIA AWARENESS PLEDGE EVENT Mayor Muriel Bowser, the DC Dept. of Human Services (DHS) and the DowntownDC BID held an event to encourage residents to take the Hypothermia Awareness Pledge. The pledge is a commitment to look out for neighbors experiencing homelessness during the winter months. At the request of DHS and the Mayor’s Office, UPO’s Lisa West gave a speech about her experiences working for Shelter Hotline. Then she introduced the Mayor, who gave additional remarks. We are proud of Lisa’s dedicated, passionate service to our community and are delighted that she was given this honor.
HERE IS LISA WEST’S SPEECH: “Good morning, everyone. My name is Lisa West, and I am a UPO driver and outreach worker. You know those white vans and buses you see with Shelter Hotline Transport in big red letters on the side? I drive those. That’s our van right over there. I’ve been a driver and outreach worker for 31 years, saving lives and helping people every day. We’re the eyes and ears of the city. Our goal is to get people inside to shelter where there’s additional support. We pick up people who are cold and need someplace warm. We pick up people who are hungry and need something to eat. We protect their health and bring them life-sustaining items, as if they were family. We’re good listeners too. People appreciate having someone to listen to their stories – and I’ve heard a lot of them. Nowadays, while I’m working, people will come up to me to say, “Thank you for helping me get off the streets.” I’m proud to save lives – and I’m proud to live in a city that supports this work. So on behalf of UPO, I want to thank the Department of Human Services for their partnership and invitation to speak today. And thank you, Mayor Bowser, for making the Shelter Hotline a priority. And now it’s my honor to say, please welcome Mayor Muriel Bowser.”
28
UPO Magazine The Uniter
WHY IS HYPOTHERMIA AWARENESS IMPORTANT?
Hypothermia is a medical emergency when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Then the heart, nervous system and other organs can’t work as well as usual. Left untreated, hypothermia can cause the heart and respiratory system to fail and can lead to death.
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
29
COMMUNITY IMPACT Our Community Impact division supports community-driven strategies that reduce the causes and conditions of economic insecurity in Wards 5 (Brentwood), 6 (SW Neighborhood), and 7 (Benning Terrace neighborhood). Here are some of the Ward 7 empowerment sessions that UPO hosted and events that UPO participated in. • Nutrition: Build-A-Salad - The seniors at Allen House Senior Apartments, with assistance from Dr. Tiffany Johnson-Largent from UDC, learn how to create tasty and healthy salads. Each salad focused on their specific health concerns and needs. They learned about different types of greens that could be used to create a salad, what vegetables could be added, what fruits could be added, and different types of dressings for different types of salads. • Computer Literacy: Smartphone Training - A 4-Part Smartphone Literacy Training Session with Mr. Adrian Sutton from DC’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) at the Allen House Senior Apartments. Seniors learned how to use their electronic devices to help protect them from scams and fraud. The training discussed topics such as wifi, Bluetooth, internet searches, scam emails, apps, ChatGPT, etc. for the seniors to be able to identify viruses and scammers. The seniors completed their training and were presented with Completion Certificates. • Health: Behavioral Health Vision Board and Ice Cream Social Many children in the Benning Terrace neighborhood were entering the adolescent phase and parents were complaining about changes in their behavior. Along with the staff from Cure the Streets, we hosted a social event to help the youth express their feelings, experiences, and moods to better explain their behavior. The vision boards helped us to better understand what the youth see for their futures and what expectations that had for themselves. • Back-to-School/ Community Event - We provided the children in the Benning Terrace Neighborhood with 24 bookbags and 24 hygiene kits. I also partnered with 2 local barbers who volunteered their services for the event. • Thanksgiving Dinner and Turkey Giveaway - While attending the Benning Terrace Neighborhood Thanksgiving Dinner, we gave away the turkeys.
30
UPO Magazine The Uniter
Since then, we've held other events in the Benning Terrace neighborhood: • Health Sessions focusing on Men’s and Women’s Mental Health. We work closely with Pastor John Davis, who’s hosted weekly Fatherhood Sessions. We also work with Dannielle Hamilton, President of the Resident Council, hosting weekly Women/ Motherhood sessions. • Health Sessions for Parents focusing on Behavioral Health were hosted monthly. They helped parents to better understand the changes occurring in their child’s body (hormones, physical changes, etc.) and the changes in their behavior. • Nutrition Sessions: Family to Feed monthly sessions were held by Dr. Tiffany Johnson-Largent from UDC. They are about affordable meals that will last 2-3 days and feed families of 3-6 people. • Computer Literacy: Smartphone Literacy for Seniors was hosted weekly. Many seniors struggle with virtual appointments, court hearings, and meetings, and these sessions educate the seniors to identify scams and fraud. The seniors learned how to use Google Meet, Teams, Zoom, wifi and Bluetooth. • Financial Literacy: Benefit Balance monthly sessions helped residents learn how to budget the money they receive from benefits (SSI, TANF, and SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps). The knowledge enables residents to see if they’re eligible to work a parttime job and how much they can be paid hourly or annually. • Benning Terrace Monthly Community Meetings were hosted to survey the residents, to determine if the current sessions are helping their progress and which other sessions they would like us to hold. Residents scheduled one-on-one sessions with the different programs on the property, and many people discussed their employment and housing (eviction issues, utility assistance, etc.).
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
31
TEAM UPO SPOTLIGHT REBECCA WEBB Tax and Financial Literacy Program Manager Community Reinvestment Division Please share your background with us. My background blends direct service, training, and program management, all rooted in a desire to make financial knowledge more accessible, relatable, and empowering for the people and communities I serve. I have always been passionate about financial empowerment and helping people gain the tools they need to build stability and confidence. Before joining UPO, I worked in financial counseling and community support roles where I focused on coaching people through budgeting, credit building, and long term financial planning. I’ve worked with diverse communities, seeing firsthand how access to financial education can transform someone’s future.
When did you join UPO? March 1, 2022
Why did you join us? I wanted to be part of an organization that is deeply rooted in community impact and committed to helping people build stronger, more stable futures. UPO’s mission aligns perfectly with my passion for helping people gain the tools to reach their financial goals. I [wanted] to support programs that not only address immediate needs but also create long term pathways to self sufficiency and generational change.
Why do you stay? I stay at UPO because I see the real impact our work has on individuals and families. Every day, I have the opportunity to support people on their journey toward financial stability and long term success, and that’s incredibly meaningful to me. I’m also grateful to be part of a team that is passionate, supportive, and genuinely committed to uplifting our community. UPO continues to give me space to grow professionally, build innovative
32
UPO Magazine The Uniter
programming, and contribute to initiatives that align with my values. Being part of an organization that consistently strives for empowerment and equity keeps me inspired and motivated to stay.
What does your job involve? My job involves managing UPO’s Tax and Financial Literacy Program, which includes direct financial counseling, developing workshops, and overseeing initiatives that help people strengthen their financial well being. I work with customers on budgeting, credit building, debt management, and long term financial planning, offering guidance and tools that support them in reaching their personal financial goals. I also collaborate with community partners, coordinate tax preparation and financial literacy events, and develop program strategies that expand access to financial education across the DC area. I ensure that our programs are not only effective, but also accessible, empowering, and responsive to the needs of our communities.
What do you like most about what you do? Empowering people with knowledge that can truly change their lives. Financial topics can feel overwhelming or intimidating for many people, and I love being able to break things down in a way that feels relatable, achievable, and encouraging. Seeing someone gain confidence, make progress, or take that first step toward a financial goal is incredibly rewarding. I also really enjoy the relationships I build — whether it's supporting a customer, collaborating with community partners, or working alongside colleagues who genuinely care about uplifting others. Being part of a mission driven space where I can combine education, advocacy, and community impact is what makes my work meaningful and fulfilling every day.
WELCOME TO OUR NEW HIRES! JUNE 2025 – JULY 2026
Anfeni Carroll Family Engagement Specialist-HUB Office of Early Learning (OEL)
Derrick Jordan Sr. Program Manager, Training UPO Workforce Institute (WFI)
Dominic Corban Weeks Job Developer WFI
Chambers, Naomi Program Assistant, P.O.W.E.R. Youth Services Division (YSD)
Knight, Bradley System Administrator Office of Technology and Information Services
Ralene White Legal Assistant OLA
Chelsey Cobb Benefits & Compensation Specialist HR
Michelle Yvonne Peyton CDL Driver SHL
Saddon White ADA Driver/Outreach Worker SHL
Jerell Cobb Program Specialist Foster Grandparents Program (FGP)
Joshua Simpson College and Career Readiness Coordinator YSD
Ronika Williams Operations Specialist FGP
Courtney James Dispatcher Shelter Hotline (SHL)
Tamara P. Stewart CDL Driver SHL
Camille Young Family Engagement Specialist-HUB OEL
Philip Johnson Contract Specialist Office of Legal Affairs (OLA)
Anglatette Maria Sultry Executive Assistant Office of Finance
Thomas Jonathan Zanders ADA Driver/Outreach Worker SHL
Vol.07 September 17, 2026
33
United Planning Organization 301 Rhode Island Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20001
WWW.UPO.ORG
Earned the National Award for Excellence in Community Action from the Community Action Partnership CFC # 90524 | DC One Fund Campaign #9881 | United Way NCA #9881