THE UNITER
Do You or Your Department have TALENT?
Then sign up to perform at the UPO Talent Show on UPO Staff Day, Friday, August 16. Get ready to show off those skills, dance moves, voices, poetry, rhymes, tricks, and all that personality!
You have until JULY 26 to enter.
All submissions must be sent to Shelena Hollinger, and based on the number of entries, each act will have roughly 5 minutes.
You must be prepared with:
The name of your act or group
The music you need to give/get from the DJ
• Are you bringing your own instruments (let Shelena know what you are bringing)
Do you need props or a stage setup (think of everything)
Do you need a special type of microphone, cables, etc.
Get ready for fun!
PRESIDENT AND CEO'S LETTER
Andrea Thomas President and CEO
Dear Team UPO,
When I want to refresh, restart, and practice self-care, I purge. I release those things that I have been holding onto that take up space (both in my head and in in my physical surroundings). The clarity of mind and openness of space always invites a release of creativity and sheds light on what I’m doing and how it serves me.
I encourage you this summer to purge and refresh your mind and body. A walk, a standing desk, or drinking more water nourish us mentally and physically. Also remember to encourage each other to find better or new ways to achieve your personal and professional goals. Lifting and championing our teammates is good for the soul.
In this issue of The Uniter, you will read about milestones, learn more about our YoUPO Video Series, and please see p.26 for information about our Health Benefits Committee, which is devoted to helping all of us get healthier.
While we’re talking about benefits and HR, I have a reminder about our Safe Harbor retirement plan. Here’s the best advice you’ll get all day: Be sure to create your Voya retirement account! As a benefit to you, UPO contributes 5.5% of your salary each year to your account. Sign up and create your account so the 5.5% goes right in!
And guess what? When you contribute your own money to your Voya retirement account, UPO will match up to 1% of your salary each year.
UPO’S COMMUNITY ACTION PROMISE
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.
So, between the 5.5% that UPO gives you as a benefit, and your money that you contribute (which is matched), you can get 6.5% of your salary ADDED to your retirement account from UPO! Don’t leave retirement money on the table — be sure to create your account! (If you need help, please reach out to HR/Benefits.)
And here's the most important thing to remember: We are all teammates so let’s help each other thrive. When we talk together about who we are and why we do our work, those are important reflections. All of us ought to make time to reflect … and see how it helps us to renew ourselves.
Thank you for everything you do!
Andrea Thomas UPO President and CEO
APPRECIATION CELEBRATION
We know what it takes to make an impact: A community must come together. And our beloved District did exactly that — we joined together at UPO’s annual Appreciation Celebration. We honored some of the hundreds of people and companies who give time, talent, and treasure to lift our community.
Our volunteers, for example, gave 1879 hours of their time last year, with a value of $35,905.
Among the award winners was our youngest donor, 5-year-old
Royce Benjamin Reid (aka Royce da Voyce, Dr. Dinosaur, and Dr. Socks), who accepted his award from Ruthven R. Phillip Esq., Chair of UPO’s Board of Directors.
Royce, already a veteran of sock and water drives for Shelter Hotline, has plans to distribute books and toys to his peers. Clearly, Royce is an emerging star!
Here is a link to the photos in the theater, and here is a link to the photos in front of the step-andrepeat backdrop.
A million thanks to the Appreciation Celebration team, including:
Tyrone Bailey
Ayana Bias
Janine Coaxum (vocalist)
Bernardette Ferrell
Dianna Guinyard
Andrew Harris
“VOLUNTEERS, PARTNERS, AND DONORS, YOU ARE OUR LIFEBLOOD.”
Laurette “Elle” Hilliard
Alice Jordan
Robin Myers
Shirley Price
Janiya Proctor
Daniel Ofori-Addo, PhD
Margo Reed
Florence Robinson
Beverly F. Smith (the MC)
Andrea Thomas
AFFORDABLE HOUSING: GRAND OPENING OF 2ND BUILDING
UPO President and CEO Andrea Thomas was delighted to help cut the ribbon at the Grand Opening of the glorious new MDXL Flats building at 1530 First St. SW
UPO partnered with premier developer TM Associates on this 101-unit building and the sister community next door, the 76-unit MDL Flats. All of these homes are affordable for households who earn up to 50% of the area’s median income, including 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom apartments.
DC’s Dept. of Housing and Community Development said the project’s combination of high quality and affordability is “unprecedented” and “we look to this as a model” for the District.
Bob Margolis, Owner/CEO of TM Associates, said, “We are honored to partner with UPO in Washington, DC — together we are building and servicing the finest affordable and permanent supportive housing in the city for renters at or below 50% of the area’s median income.” These apartments set a new standard for affordable luxury housing, with modern interiors, vibrant community space, and views overlooking Nationals Park and the Capitol.
For tenants who are emerging from homelessness, UPO’s Permanent Supportive Housing team offers onsite wraparound services to help residents succeed in their new homes and
achieve the highest possible selfsufficiency and quality of life.
The day was filled with celebrations, including speeches held in the building’s unfinished first floor. Future plans for this space are yet to be determined but they will certainly support the local community.
President Andrea Thomas said, “Housing is a persistent concern for DC residents, so UPO is proud to be a partner in providing housing stability to people with low incomes and supportive services to those who were unhoused. Most importantly, we are excited to hear the new residents declare, ‘I’m home.’”
A delicious meal was prepared and served by (l. to r.) Jamel Vines, a graduate of our 2022 Culinary Training Program; Wayne Manigo, a graduate of our 2013 UPO/Vet Affairs Culinary Training Program); and Chef Jerald Thomas
1ST PLACE FOR UPO DANCERS DURING COMMUNITY ACTION MONTH
Team UPO was well represented at the Maryland Community Action Partnership (MCAP) Conference in Ocean City, Maryland. Several staff members lent their expertise by facilitating workshops, and Team UPO won the 1st Place trophy in the “Community Action’s Got Talent” contest, which had a 1970s theme.
This event, held in May during Community Action Month, was a competition among the 17 member organizations participating at the conference. Enjoy the video!
Our fabulous dancers represented DC by moving to the songs Bustin’ Loose, Welcome to DC, What’s Goin’ On, and Go-go Swing. The most important part was that we did it as a team — everyone participated! Teamwork always makes the dream work.
When you tell others about it, you can say, “When we’re not dancing up a storm, you’ll find us helping District residents lift themselves into economic security. And when they reach their full potential, we invent new dance moves!”
MONTH OF THE YOUNG CHILD AND TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK
This Spring, we celebrated the young children (ages 0-3) in UPO’s Early Childhood Education Centers and their dynamic educators! UPO is the District’s largest Early Head Start provider: We operate 18 centers and oversee 14 others.
Here are pictures from a few of our centers: C.W. Harris Elementary, Eagle Academy Public Charter School, Frederick Douglass, Malcolm X Elementary, and Paradise.
UPDATES ACROSS UPO
BONES’S RETIREMENT PARTY
Vincent “Bones” Blackson is indeed a legend. He began working for UPO’s Shelter Hotline over 20 years ago because his father, a supervisor here, said he needed help. Bones quickly became passionate about the work, first as a Driver/Outreach Worker, then as Transportation Logistics Manager.
He was woven into the fabric of our work (protecting the health of people experiencing homelessness).
His retirement party was a joy and he will be missed!
SNEAK PEEK OF UPO’S FOOD TRUCK
Please welcome the Taste of UPO food truck! Soon you will see it on DC streets, serving great, fresh, healthy food to us and our neighbors.
What makes our truck unique? In addition to offering wonderful meals, this new venture will show what UPO does for our entire community. The phrase “Eating Well, Doing Good” will spark interest in how we Unite People with Opportunities … including through Culinary Arts training at the UPO Workforce Institute.
The anticipation is building for the “soft launch” (before the public launch) when the truck will travel to our Petey Greene, Anacostia, and Headquarters locations.
Watch for the schedule, coming soon! You will be invited to enjoy the food and review it! The Food Truck’s social media accounts are:
www.facebook.com/tasteofUPO
www.instagram.com/tasteofUPO
www.tiktok.com/@tasteofUPO
A truckload of thanks to Chef Jerald Thomas, Laurette "Elle" Hilliard, Cook/Driver Kelvin Edgar, Jr., our partners at Compass DC, and the members of the Food Truck committee:
Charles Akinmade
Kevin Bryant
Dr. Charity Ezenwa-Onuaku
Dianna Guinyard
Andrew Hulett
Christopher Jones
Giselle Logan
Pamela Meade
Zohar Rom
Marques Ross
Chi Vo
Andrea Thomas
LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY AND COMMUNITY ADVOCACY & VOLUNTEER SERVICES
UPO IS ALL ABOUT ADVOCACY!
In March, UPO held an Advocacy Retreat that brought together staff across the agency to develop a shared understanding of what advocacy means for UPO, to learn more about the work of the Legislative Advocacy and Community Advocacy divisions, and to strategize how to build advocacy into all parts of UPO. Advocacy recognizes that economic security will not be accomplished one person at a time; it requires a systemic approach across UPO.
The retreat participants discussed, among other things, the ways that UPO staff already engage
in advocacy on behalf of our customers, including encouraging customers to advocate for themselves. We discussed ways to organize UPO customers to engage in advocacy and how to use the deep experience of UPO staff to help set our advocacy goals. The group also discussed ways to share advocacy updates across UPO.
Our President and CEO Andrea Thomas opened the retreat with an anecdote of a mom who would seek rental assistance every November. Upon reflection, Andrea realized that the mom wanted to give her kids a nice
LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY UPDATE
UPO staff and customers engaged in a variety of activities this spring. A UPO contingent attended Mayor Bowser’s Budget Engagement Forum to offer our input on the DC budget directly to her and her staff. UPO staff also joined The Coalition for Nonprofit Housing & Economic Development’s Advocacy Day to call for better funding for housing.
And UPO staff weighed in big time for early educators: 8 staff testified to ask the DC Council to restore funding for the childcare Pay Equity Fund, and several attended rallies to support the fund. In the next Uniter, we’ll share the budget outcomes!
Christmas and couldn’t set aside enough money on her own, so getting rent help in November freed up some money for Christmas. Andrea used that story to remind us to put ourselves in our customers’ shoes and to understand what it takes to survive under severe economic constraints. The story also reminds us that advocacy for policies that create better jobs or strengthen the safety net can help such families achieve economic security.
COMMUNITY ADVOCACY UPDATE
In March, UPO’s Community Advocacy & Volunteer Services division proudly partnered with the Community Impact division to officially re-launch the Community Leadership Academy at the Greenleaf Senior Building, welcoming participants from all of the Community Impact Zones we serve in Wards 5, 6, 7, and 8.
This dynamic 5-day training session empowered a primarily senior group to:
• discover the leader within
• master effective listening skills
• foster intergenerational community-building
• craft and execute a shared vision for our city
The vibrant and engaging trainees made this an ideal group to re-launch the CLA, creating a lively space for open dialogue and collaborative vision development. Attendees left with CLA certificates, $150 gift cards, and valuable tools they will use to advocate for themselves and their community. Stay tuned to witness how they transform and shape their community through Advocacy.
UPO PRESENTS AN EQUITY FORUM ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING
UPO’s recent Equity Forum focused on the growing affordable housing challenges faced by DC residents with low incomes. Among the problems:
• Homelessness has increased each of the past 2 years.
• Compared to a decade ago, 10,000 more households are spending half of their income on rent.
• Thousands of residents have been pushed out of DC by gentrification and rising rents.
The forum featured panelists with deep and varied experience: tenant organizers, legal services attorneys, and an affordable housing financier.
L. to r.: Daniel Ofori-Addo, PhD, UPO Executive VP & CIO; Ramon Jacobson, Executive Director, LISC DC; Daniel del Pielago, Housing Director, Empower DC; moderator Ed Lazere, UPO Legislative Advocacy Director; Awad Bilal, Tenant Organizer, Latino Economic Development Center; Rachel Rintelmann, Legal Director of Systemic Advocacy and Law Reform, Legal Aid DC; Brittany (Brit) Ruffin, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless; and Ruthven R. Phillip, Esq., Chair, UPO Board of Directors.
“Equity Forum Panel and Speakers”
Several speakers noted that while addressing affordable housing is complex, it is possible, and that the circumstances we face today reflect choices our leaders have made regarding:
• How much affordable housing to build?
• Who it is “affordable” for? What rights do tenants and people experiencing homelessness have?
The panelists talked about 2 unique DC housing policies and how to strengthen them.
• The District Opportunity to Purchase Act (DOPA) authorizes the District to buy apartment buildings that are for sale and keep them affordable, but it has never been used!
• The Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) allows tenants to buy their buildings when they are for sale or to negotiate with potential buyers. In one TOPA deal, tenants got the new landlord to freeze rents for 3 years But some landlords are trying to weaken the TOPA law,
and panelists stressed how important it is to protect it.
The forum also focused on poor housing conditions and limited enforcement of the housing code. Rachel Rintelmann said that many fines levied on landlords are never collected so landlords don’t have to worry about fixing the problems. One panelist noted that many landlords simply go bankrupt and abandon their buildings if code compliance is too expensive.
One panelist noted that many tenants across the city are behind
on rent, and that some nonprofit affordable housing providers are having trouble maintaining their buildings as a result. Other panelists noted that some people don’t pay rent when needed repairs are not made and that the city needs to invest more in Emergency Rental Assistance (ERAP).
The panel discussions and audience questions offer lots of housing advocacy ideas for UPO to move forward on. We will continue to update you on this important topic.
OFFICE OF EARLY LEARNING (OEL)
THE JOY OF BALLOU’S MOVING-UP CEREMONY
We are so proud of the young students at our Ballou Early Childhood Education Center. They graduated during our Moving-up Ceremony and are now heading to preschool! Thank you to our families for participating in such an amazing event. Also, we congratulate our graduates from Ballou STAY Opportunity Academy and Ballou Senior High School.
OEL operates 18 Early Childhood Education Centers throughout the District. 7 of them are inside DC high schools: Ballou, Anacostia, Coolidge, Dunbar, H.D. Woodson, Luke C. Moore, and Roosevelt. Our educators use a family-led “whole family approach” to helping our customers, including teenage mothers, achieve their goals.
A MILESTONE FOR OUR EDUCATORS-IN-TRAINING
On June 13, the Child Development Associate (CDA) candidates in Cohort 13 completed Step 2 (120 instructional hours) in their journey towards an Infant/Toddler CDA credential.
They participated in teambuilding activities, learned the importance of “play” (sensory experiences), story time, field trips, and created Word Walls and ABC Feelings charts (for social-emotional learning). Each candidate received their DC Library cards as well as
professional development trainings with Donna Anderson and Merybel Lara Cruz. We are also grateful to the EECP team of Colbretta Wright and Keena Howse for their guidance, support and training skills.
And let’s give a special shoutout to the “Student of Cohort 13,” Brianna Robinson (a former parent at Eagle Academy) for showing her leadership skills:
• She was the first to ask questions if she didn’t understand something
• She came to class early every day to work on her assignments and portfolio
• She checked in every day with other students to ensure they did their assignments and supported them with their portfolios
UPO started the CDA Credentialing program because we saw the need to develop dynamic educators. Look for Cohort 13, coming to an OEL center near you to take their next steps!
INTERNAL CUSTOMER SERVICE: REQUEST SUPPORT ON SHAREPOINT
OFFICE OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
The Office of Facilities Management has made it super-easy for you to ask for anything. On SharePoint (UPO SharePoint -> Teams -> Quick Links -> Forms) you’ll find the OFM Work Request. It couldn’t be simpler. Please use this form for every request — that’s how you’ll get what you want!
Many thanks to the Office of Technology and Information Systems for this request form and even more improvements that are in the works.
OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS
The Communications Team is happy to assist with your communications needs. Since they track all work with Communications Request forms, you must send a form to get the ball rolling for your project. Please go to the link on SharePoint (UPO SharePoint -> Teams -> Quick Links -> Forms -> Communications Request Form) and here’s a folder with additional items that staff have requested, including:
• PowerPoint template
• Communications Request guidelines
• Virtual background - UPO step-and-repeat
• UPO letterhead
• Brand and content guidelines
Here are a few tips to keep in mind before submitting your Communications Request.
• Bake your communications needs into your initial planning.
• All requests must be submitted at least 1-4 weeks prior to the deadline. (See the guidelines.)
• When filling out your request, please be as detailed as possible. Assume that Communications is starting from scratch.
• If you don’t receive a response in 48-72 hours, please follow up. They won’t bite!
• Reply ALL and stay in the email chain. This enables another team member to fill in if someone is out the office for any reason. You can also reach the team at communications@upo.org
• You can create your own material, but then you must get it APPROVED by Communications (this includes PowerPoint slides for external use).
Watch a step-by-step video explanation of the Communications Request process here: COMMUNICATIONS GUIDE
WATCH, LEARN, AND CONNECT: YoUPO IS HERE!
Calling all UPO teammates!
Our exciting new video series, YoUPO: The People Behind the Mission, has officially launched! Have you seen it yet? If not, get ready to be inspired by the incredible individuals who make UPO what it is – all of YOU!
This series celebrates dedicated professionals driving positive change, passionate advocates inspiring others, and diverse team members like YOU, all contributing to UPO's mission: Uniting People with Opportunities.
What to Expect:
In each episode, you'll get a glimpse into the lives and experiences of the UPO team. They'll share their unique perspectives, the impact they make on our organization and beyond, and the motivations that drive their commitment. You'll be inspired by their stories, learn about the innovative projects they're involved in, and gain a deeper understanding of the many ways UPO makes a difference – all thanks to the power of YOU!
Where to Watch and Get Involved:
Visit the YoUPO: The People Behind the Mission website on Sharepoint to check out the series. Don't miss the first episode featuring Vanessa Austin, a dedicated member of the Permanent Supportive Housing team!
But YoUPO isn't just about watching! The "Conversations" section on the website provides a space for you to get involved. Share your thoughts and feedback on the series, nominate departments and colleagues who inspire you (for future episodes), and connect with the amazing team that makes UPO what it is.
Let's celebrate the amazing work happening here! New episodes of YoUPO will be released regularly, so stay tuned!
UPO WORKFORCE INSTITUTE (WFI)
EXPLORING BEST PRACTICES WITH THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONALS
Shanae Blunt, Program Manager - Training and Lyndriell Smith, Program Manager - Placement attended the NAWDP conference in San Antonio, Texas.
The 40th Annual Conference was an enriching experience filled with invaluable insights, cutting-edge best practices and strategies, and collaborative opportunities.
PRESENTING UPO’S APPROACH AT THE HEALTH LITERACY SUMMIT
District residents are learning how to live healthier lives because of the Advancing Health Literacy Collaborative, which includes DC Health and community partners such as UPO.
At this year’s Health Literacy Summit, Ivan Laney, Division Director for the UPO Workforce Institute, introduced presenter Brenton Sanford, our Health Preparedness Coordinator, who highlighted our wins, challenges, and lessons learned. Our wins included:
• At our Vaccine Clinics, 54 DC residents were vaccinated.
• We coordinated Outreach Activities that led to think tanks, information sessions, and more.
• We built Partnerships:
- 2023 Health and Wellness Expo with Far Southeast Family Strengthening and Collaborative
- Metropolitan Police Department
- Giant Pharmacy
- Living Well Workshops with DC Health’s Cancer and Chronic Disease Prevention Bureau
WORKFORCE GRADUATION CEREMONY
In April, the UPO Workforce Institute was proud to hold a graduation ceremony for 45 students — a time of fun, excitement, and anticipation for a bright future. The graduates earned national certifications for these in-demand careers:
• IT Help Desk and Application Support Specialist
• Broadband Telecommunications Network Technician
• Building Maintenance Professional
• Child Development Associate (CDA)
• Commercial Driver (CDL)
• Culinary Arts Professional
• Plumbing Technician
The UPO WFI team wishes our graduates much success in their future endeavors — and right now, our Job Developers are placing them in jobs to launch their new careers.
Please note:
For DC residents who are eligible, our only requirement is a positive mindset.
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
2024 AWARD AS OUTSTANDING SCHOOL YEAR INTERNSHIP HOST
Please give Kenny Carroll a virtual round of applause!
Due to his commitment and dedication to Uniting People with Opportunities, UPO WFI earned the School Year Internship Program’s Outstanding Host Award.
Kenny is a mentor and guide to youth on Saturdays for the Career Exploration workshops at our Building Careers Academy (DC’s largest construction training facility). Youth are receiving exposure to the CORE level training curriculum of the National Center for Construction Education and Research; they also enjoy demonstrations and they are designing and building their own projects.
This award recognizes our “exemplary commitment to mentoring and supporting our interns, giving them valuable learning opportunities, and fostering their professional growth and development. [Our] devotion to creating a positive, enriching experience makes a significant impact on the lives of the youth who have had the privilege of interning” with UPO.
What is the School Year Internship Program?
SYIP is a locally funded initiative sponsored by the Department of Employment Services. SYIP provides District youth ages 14 to 21 (who are enrolled in grades 9-12) with enriching and constructive school year intern experiences through subsidized placements in the private and government sectors.
Through SYIP, UPO strives to provide youth with the opportunity to:
• Earn money and gain meaningful internship experience
• Learn and develop the skills, attitudes, and commitment necessary to succeed
• Gain exposure to various industries
• Interact with dynamic working professionals in a positive work environment
• Explore opportunities beyond high school; interns learn about post-secondary education, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and college acceptance plans
HEALTH EXTRAVAGANZA FOR OUR COMMUNITY
On June 25, we held the 2nd Annual Health & Wellness Expo, proudly presented by UPO, Martha’s Table, the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, and DC Health. Our DC neighbors arrived ready to work out, learn, and celebrate their well-being.
Many thanks to Brenton Sanford and his Health Education team at the UPO Workforce Institute for creating a wonderful, music-filled, joyous event!
Here are some highlights of the expo, which was held at Sycamore & Oak:
• Dozens of Health-Based Resource Vendors
• Fitness and Yoga Sessions
• Fresh Produce Giveaways
• Raffles for Prizes
We will hold more events that bring the community together. Let’s discover how to live healthier lives and then practice what we learn.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
residents
are participating in ongoing UDC Nutrition Sessions, thanks to the Center for Nutrition, Diet, and Health at the University of the District of Columbia’s College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability, and Environmental Sciences.
Regina Murphy, UPO’s Community Impact Director (3rd from right) with
who
OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS (OTIS)
IMPROVED SYSTEM FOR SHELTER HOTLINE, THANKS TO 2 APPS FROM OTIS
Shelter Hotline is essential to the District. Every day and night, UPO’s Shelter Hotline team patrols the streets to protect the health of people experiencing homelessness. We reach out so they can get the help they need.
In 2023, our staff:
• Responded to 87,000+ emergency calls
• Distributed 197,000+ life-sustaining items (blankets, socks, sleeping bags, long underwear, etc.), including 66,000+ meals and 72,000+ water bottles
• Gave 31,000 free rides to shelter, healthcare, social services, and case management.
Until April 29, their work was being recorded and reported using paper records. That’s when Shelter Hotline (SHL) and our Office of Technology and Information Systems (OTIS) launched a mobile app and web app These were designed to completely transform SHL’s system to become a seamless electronic database for goods, transportation, care, and scheduling.
The initial results are in.
“The apps are game-changers,” said Dervin Brown, Program Manager for Shelter Hotline, which is part of our Community Health division. “We get more accurate results with far less time and effort, and we can nip issues in the bud. The apps have simplified and improved SHL’s flow. This is a huge step forward.”
“My day-to-day is much easier,” said Driver/Outreach Worker Vanessa Hoey. “The app eliminated the writing — I just punch in [my details]. I’m loving it.”
Niharika Sunkam, our in-house .Net Developer, created the apps with support and testing by her supervisor Carlos Garvizu. They collaborated on publishing the apps, whose requirements were set by VP of Technology Hyvron Jean. Note: The “launch” was the start of a new phase of continual improvements and additions, which is ongoing.
This project was by far the largest that Niharika has developed, even if you just look at the user interface and database … but her job didn’t stop once she created the software. Her next challenge was to retrain Shelter Hotline staff to use the apps and respond to their feedback. She would customize her code based on their changing requirements so that the apps would suit all of the different needs and use cases, including connecting with customers.
The only things that stayed consistent throughout the development were that the apps had to be easy to use — onebutton clicks for most mobile answers, for example — and they had to accommodate the work styles of Drivers/Outreach Workers, Dispatchers, Managers, and Supervisors.
“The whole experience was great and I’m happy the apps are making such a difference,” said Niharika. “It’s quite an achievement.”
Dervin agrees: “We asked for solutions to so many issues and OTIS listened to us. Now we have an ideal system — and Niharika trained us to get the most out of it.”
“I’m proud of Niharika for developing these powerful apps,” said Carlos. “Her skills and confidence grew every step of the way. We are so lucky to have her on our team.”
OFFICE OF FINANCE (FIN)
ACCOUNTING
• UPO’s annual audit for FY2023 is now complete, and we (in the Office of Finance) take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone who participated in making the process smooth and successful. Your steadfastness and cooperation are deeply appreciated.
• FMIS – Financial Management Information System Earlier this year, UPO’s Board of Directors approved the selection of Oracle NetSuite as our new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. The new ERP system will serve as the platform that integrates and manages what were formerly disparate financial reporting, procurement, and budgeting processes across all UPO Programmatic divisions and Offices. The FMIS implementation began in February 2024, and is expected to be completed in late September—just before the start of our new fiscal year.
FMIS - IMPLEMENTATION PHASES
• P-cards - If you are eligible to obtain a P-card and haven’t done so, please contact the UPO Procurement Team at procurement_internal@upo.org
Remember to submit your receipts for all purchases made with the P-Card weekly through the P-Card App on your phone.
• Payment Requests and Vendor Invoices must be submitted to payment@upo.org no later than noon every Tuesday to be included in the following check run. Payment requests should not be forwarded directly to an individual in Finance except as a copy.
REMINDER: Vendor invoices and related payments are processed within ten (10) business days of being received in the Finance Department’s payment request inbox — payment@upo.org
As of April 2024, we are glad to report that over 95% of all vendors are now paid digitally, using electronic funds transfers (EFT). This effort continues to improve our vendor relationships and reduce instances of purported late payment. EFTs also eliminate the chances of uncashed checks and can expedite research related to outstanding invoices.
VENDOR PAYMENTS
REMINDER: Credit Card Purchases and Payments must follow UPO’s Procurement Guidelines. Payment Terms – Net 30 Days Invoice Processing – 10 Business Days Paper Checks – Processed once per month
PROCUREMENT
• The volume of Micro Purchases - The UPO Procurement Team has processed approximately 35 Micro Purchases per week along with a few small and large purchases. About 85-90% of all procurements are processed as Micro Purchases via the business portal. It is important to note that procurement is not a single transaction, rather it is a comprehensive procedure involving several stages and activities.
• Procure-to-Pay (P2P) - As announced previously, the UPO Procurement Team has recently started following the Procure-to-Pay (P2P) process. P2P is the process that encompasses the entire, endto-end process associated with the procurement of goods and services. This process benefit UPO by carefully managing and tracking the three (3) primary phases of procurement: Permission to Buy; Evidence of the adequate delivery of a good and/or service; and Evidence of successful payment subsequent to the receipt of a tenable demand for payment (through an invoice).
Procure-to-Pay policies and procedure guidance were developed and made available to all parties on SharePoint.
The following procurement-related training modules have already been designed and offered to staff:
- An overview of the Procure-to-Pay process
- Basics of Procurement
- The Procurement Cycle
- Using UPO’s Business Portal
These virtual training sessions are available to all designated buyers or those staff members who are nominated by their respective departments/ divisions to serve as alternate buyers.
• The Procurement Working Group - To facilitate the need for cooperation among all divisions, a cross-functional working group was established. The primary purpose of this Team is to develop SOPs associated with UPO buying behaviors. The Team will use its insights to uncover areas where the current Procurement process is unclear, and will develop the guidance needed to address any relevant, recurring questions or concerns.
For Inquiries
To reach our Procurement Officers: Procurement@upo.org
To reach our Procurement Specialists: Procurement_Internal@upo.org
FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS (FP&A)
• The FY2024-25 Budget Planning Cycle - On March 19, 2024, we hosted the kick-off for UPO’s annual budget development process for fiscal year 202425. The process is virtually identical to what was done last year. Specific meetings have already been arranged with each Office and Programmatic area. The goal of these meetings is to create and conduct adequate listening sessions between every business unit and the Office of Finance. After all listening sessions have been completed, UPO’s FP&A Team will compile and aggregate all departmental data. The Team will also work with every Department and Programmatic Leader to craft a narrative that specifically speaks to the assumptions and strategic objectives that support each unit’s budget.
The budget preparation target for FY2024-25 is late June 2024. This is because the composite Budget Book will be presented to the Board for review and approval in July 2024. Once the budget development process is complete, Budget Owners will receive copies of their individualized, Programspecific or Office-specific budget.
• If you need a NEW COST CENTER NUMBERWe think you should know about our improved request process — hosted on the UPO SharePoint. When you go to the FORMS section of the UPO SharePoint, please select “Cost Center Request.” Using the fillable, online version, please enter all required information about your proposed new cost center; be sure to attach the supporting grant agreement or other justifying document(s); and then submit. After you submit the online form, the FP&A Team will review the form for completeness and will conduct a series of associated investigations. Once approved, your request will be forwarded to the Accounting Team. That Team will generate the new cost center number. The Accounting Team will notify you, via email, as soon as your new cost number is ready for use. Generally, this process should take about five (5) business days.
The FP&A team is always here to help. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
For Inquiries:
Revenue Inquires: Revenue@upo.org
Invoicing Inquires: Finreports@upo.org
TEAM UPO SPOTLIGHT
LINDA PRESCOTT
Accounts Payable Supervisor | Office of Finance
When did you join UPO?
On February 27, 2006.
Why did you join us?
When I lost my job, I needed assistance. The DC Department of Human Services sent me to UPO’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. A former employee, Ms. Drew, assigned me to work in the Office of Finance.
Why do you stay?
I love what UPO stands for and I love helping UPO’s customers. I like assisting my fellow coworkers/internal customers by providing great customer service. With my assistance, UPO’s customers get to keep their homes, utilities, and transportation.
HEALTH
BENEFITS
COMMITTEE UPDATE
What does your job involve?
Making sure UPO’s vendors get paid in a timely manner. Assisting internal customers with processing payment requests. If I don’t have the answers, I will research and find the answers.
What do you like most about what you do?
Being available to help whenever someone asks.
I appreciate all of the people who have been with me throughout this journey at UPO — my current teammates and folks who are no longer here. Thank you!
• Mitigate medical trend/lower the cost in 2025 and beyond
• Improve access to wellness programs through support/ resources
• Educate staff on how to effectively use their benefits
for workshops, well-being information, and all other options for staff to stay on track with their health.
At our executives’ direction, the Office of Human Resources created a Health Benefits Committee with the following focus areas:
• Deliver a robust medical plan at budget
• Ensure vendor partners are continuously working towards process improvements
Gallagher made an initial recommendation to stay with Kaiser and perhaps change the Plan design as a cost savings measure. The recommendation is based on our medical and pharmacy claims experience which does not make UPO attractive to other providers except with an astronomical cost.
The Health Benefits Committee’s work is ongoing. We will continue to give you updates.
• Lower employee contributions
Overall, the Committee wants to help increase our staff's health and reduce costs. Suggestions include re-establishing our intentional connection with our Kaiser representative
WELCOME TO OUR NEW HIRES!
MARCH - MAY 2024
Danielle Calloway Teacher I Office of Early Learning (OEL) - Randle Highlands
Claudette Cox CDA Intern OEL
Kelvin Edgar Jr. Food Truck Cook/Driver UPO Workforce Institute (WFI)
Tigest Gebrou Teacher III OEL
Shippel Milligan Teacher II OEL
Mabintou Ndiaye Early Learning Specialist OEL EHS
Atehawung Nguasong Early Learning Specialist OEL - Early Head Start
Quateshia Jordan Teacher I OEL - Randle Highlands
Shawntay Kent Community Coordinator Community Impact
Brianna Meadows Early Learning Specialist OEL – QIN HUB
Laqueena Rowe CDA Intern
OEL - Early Head Start
Tashona Simpson CDA Intern OEL - Early Head Start
Scott Ulen
Culinary Instructor UPO Workforce Institute
Letycia Braswell Pastrana Director Community Reinvestment
Johnnay Walker Teacher I
OEL - Early Head Start
Nichelle Perrineau Program Coordinator Youth Services
Daryl Winchester Custodian
Facilities
Lashonda Pettaway CDA Intern OEL - Early Head Start
Elonda Woodard Financial Counselor Community Reinvestment
Monique Phillips Case Manager UPO Workforce Institute
Larry Woods Driver/Outreach Worker Shelter Hotline
Allyson Rock Seasonal/Dispatcher Shelter Hotline
This past year, sadness overtook us when members of Team UPO passed away. We miss our colleagues and send our deepest condolences to their families.
If you need help dealing with grief, our Employee Assistance Program is always available for you at (800) 327-2251. Just let them know that you work for the United Planning Organization and they will take care of you.
LISA CLEVELAND
Job Developer
UPO Workforce Institute
UPO Workforce Institute Director Ivan Laney said: “Lisa had a special face, special smile and was a special someone who truly was rooted in her faith, family, community, and fashion. Lisa was committed and dedicated, and it came as a shock to all of us when she passed away. Day by day, we will let go of this loss, but we will never let go our love for Lisa.”
NIKEA HILLIARD
Job Developer
UPO Workforce Institute
“Gone from our sights, but never from our hearts,” said UPO Workforce Institute Director Ivan Laney. “Nikkie was full of love and light. She was forwardthinking, dedicated, and took pride in her work. Nikkie loved talking about her family and was the lead Pastor of her own ministry (Eagle Fellowship Ministries) – a women-run church that reaches out to people in underserved communities.”
ALBERT LEE
Driver/Outreach Worker Shelter Hotline, Community Health division
“Albert loved to help others,” said Ms. V, a UPO colleague who became a friend. “He was completely devoted to our customers. Honestly, he was so committed that he always showed up and gave his all. And he and I were the same height and weight, so he would joke with me about his being taller and I wouldn’t give an inch! We found ways to laugh … and we all miss him.”
TERRANCE LEWIS
Driver/Outreach Worker
Shelter Hotline, Community Health division
Last year, Terrance said, “I am a DC native who spent 7 years homeless. [Then I joined UPO.] I thank God that I’m doing what I’m supposed to do — help the less fortunate. When I was serving food to a man and his family in their leaking tent, I prayed about it, then ordered them a new tent. He was thrilled, and I got excited to see someone so humble and happy.”
FELICIA LONG
Card Production Specialist
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Program, Community Health division
“Felicia (‘Fee’) led with a kind heart, and she always wanted to help everyone she encountered,” said her manager, Shonda Cromartie. “Fee had a big personality that exuded with her laughter, sense of humor, and her colorful hair and nails. She left an impact on so many people and will be truly missed by us all personally and professionally.”
