The Nonprofit Spotlight

In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Anees Merzi, Founder of 703 Warriors, an incredible Arlington-based nonprofit that is completely rewriting the playbook for youth sports.

For too many families, the traditional "pay-to-play" model puts competitive youth sports completely out of financial reach, sidelining talented and passionate young athletes. Anees shares how 703 Warriors is breaking down these barriers by providing elite travel soccer coaching, top-tier tournament opportunities, and high-quality uniforms for players at absolutely zero cost to their families.

But it’s about so much more than just what happens on the pitch. Anees dives into "The Warrior Way"—their holistic approach to building resilient leaders of character. From neighborhood street soccer to community fitness, 703 Warriors combines rigorous training with mentorship, life skills, and accountability to set kids up to win both on the field and in life.

Tune in to hear how this dedicated organization has already served over 1000 children, powered by thousands of volunteer hours and a deeply supportive community. It’s an uplifting conversation about passion, purpose, and the game’s power to change lives and build lasting confidence.

For more information, to register a player, or to support their mission, visit: https://www.703warriors.com/ 

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

High atop the Catoctin Mountains in Jefferson, Maryland, lies a place dedicated to the transformative power of the outdoors. In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Diana Edelblute, Executive Director of Mar-Lu-Ridge Summer Camp & Retreat Center to explore their mission of providing sanctuary, service, and community. 

As a year-round outdoor ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), Mar-Lu-Ridge serves as more than just a summer camp. We dive into the heart of their "With Open Arms" capital campaign, a major initiative focused on radical hospitality and accessibility, ensuring that their 500+ acres of sacred space are truly welcoming to all people, regardless of religion or physical ability.

Whether you’re a former camper looking for a bit of nostalgia or a nonprofit leader interested in how a mission-driven organization maintains its values across decades, this conversation captures the spirit of "going in peace" and serving others.  

Learn more about Mar-Lu-Ridge, its programs, and how you can offer support on their website: https://www.mar-lu-ridge.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Margot Greenlee, Executive Director, and Paula Manion, Founding Chair, of Our Stomping Ground (OSG).

For many adults with developmental disabilities (DD), the transition into adulthood can feel like "falling off a cliff," often leading to social isolation and a lack of affordable housing options. Our Stomping Ground is changing that narrative in Northern Virginia. By partnering with affordable housing developers, OSG creates inclusive, "interdependent" communities where people of all abilities live, work, and play together.

Margot and Paula share the inspiring story behind OSG’s "Housing First" model and how they provide over 100 hours of free monthly programming—ranging from supper clubs and fitness classes to advocacy training—to ensure that no one has to live a life of isolation.

Learn more about their mission, view their event calendar, or make a donation at: https://osgcommunities.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, Pastor Mike sits down with Cameron and Ellen Graham, the visionary family behind Every1 Can Work and its flagship enterprise, Cameron’s Coffee and Chocolates, and Cameron, the inspiration for Cameron's Coffee.

Driven by the mission to provide meaningful employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities, the Grahams share the inspiring story of how their family-run foundation turned a personal passion into a thriving community staple. We take a look behind the scenes at a "day in the life" of the dedicated workers—affectionately known as the "Chocolatiers"—and explore how the organization fosters independence, dignity, and skill-building through the art of fine chocolate and coffee.

From their early beginnings in Fairfax, Virginia, to their ambitious goals for the future, Ellen and Cameron discuss the transformative power of inclusive employment and what’s next for the foundation.

Tune in to discover how a simple cup of coffee and a handmade truffle are changing lives, one shift at a time.

Learn more about their mission: www.every1canwork.com

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Holly Seibold, the Founder and Mission Ambassador of BRAWS (Bringing Resources to Aid Women’s Shelters).

Imagine a young girl missing a week of school every month or sitting out on the sidelines during sports tryouts—not because of a lack of talent or interest, but because she lacks access to basic menstrual supplies. This is the reality of period poverty, and BRAWS is on a mission to end it.

Holly joins us to discuss how BRAWS provides new undergarments and menstrual products to thousands of women and children in shelters and underserved communities. We dive into the profound impact that these "basic necessities" have on a student’s confidence, education, and health. From their grassroots beginnings to their large-scale distribution efforts and the annual "Mardi Bras" event, learn how this organization is ensuring that no person is held back by a lack of access to essential hygiene products.

Visit the BRAWS website to find drop-off locations, view their Amazon Wishlist, or make a donation: https://supportbraws.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Scott Seaton, the visionary leader behind Arlington Bridge Builders.

Discover how this interdenominational network is transforming Arlington County by fostering deep collaboration between local churches, businesses, and civic agencies. Scott shares the organization's unique approach to "seeking the shalom" of the community—focusing on the holistic flourishing of every neighbor.

Whether you are looking for ways to get involved locally or are interested in how faith-based mobilization can address systemic needs, this conversation offers a powerful blueprint for community restoration.

Learn more and get involved: https://www.bridgebuildersva.org/

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Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

What if nature wasn’t just a peaceful backdrop—but an active partner in healing? In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Suzanne Cervarich and Laura Lang, co-directors of Imagine Well Being, to explore how nature-based therapy is transforming mental health and personal growth.

Through innovative programs that integrate the natural world into the healing process, Imagine Well Being helps individuals reconnect with themselves, process life’s challenges, and experience meaningful emotional growth. Suzanne and Laura share how their approach differs from traditional therapy, emphasizing connection, presence, and the powerful role nature plays in restoration and well-being.

We dive into:
 • How nature-based therapy supports mental health and healing
 • Why nature is more than a setting—it’s an active partner in growth
 • The impact of practices like sound baths, meditation, and creative expression
 • Online offerings including art gatherings and guided meditations
 • Real stories of transformation from individuals in their programs

Whether you’re seeking new pathways for healing, interested in holistic mental health approaches, or simply curious about the connection between nature and well-being, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and hope.

🌿 Learn more about Imagine Well Being and explore their programs: https://imaginebeingwell.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Charles Meng from Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC), a dedicated nonprofit committed to fighting hunger in Arlington County. Despite being one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, Arlington faces a stark reality: nearly 24,000 residents—almost 10% of the population—are registered for food assistance. Charles shares insights into AFAC’s impactful work providing healthy, nutritious food to those in need and discusses their signature community fundraising event, Empty Bowls, which raises awareness and critical funds to combat food insecurity. Tune in to learn how AFAC is making a difference in their community and how you can get involved in their mission to ensure no one in Arlington goes hungry.

 🔗 Learn more and get involved:  https://afac.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

In this episode, we sit down with Neal Lawson from the Jennifer Bush-Lawson Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving prenatal care and support for underprivileged mothers in our community. Inspired by Jennifer Bush-Lawson’s own challenging pregnancies and her fortunate access to high-quality medical care, the foundation is committed to breaking down barriers that prevent others from receiving the same vital support. Neal shares how the foundation works tirelessly to ensure that every expectant mother can access comprehensive care, emphasizing the importance of establishing relationships with care providers early in pregnancy—ideally within the first trimester. Join us as we explore how the foundation is making a difference by addressing disparities, fostering understanding that each pregnancy journey is unique, and championing equitable prenatal care for all.

Learn more and get involved: https://jb-lf.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Join us on the Nonprofit Spotlight as we sit down with Bobbie Sue Tunstall, a dedicated donor and volunteer at the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation. In this inspiring episode, Bobbie Sue sheds light on the vital work of the CKG Foundation in promoting youth mental health awareness and support.

We delve into how the foundation empowers young people to speak openly about mental health challenges and fosters a community of understanding. A key highlight of our conversation is the annual Speak Up 5K, an event that beautifully symbolizes the wellness journey. Bobbie Sue explains how the course, with its challenging hills and triumphant finishes, mirrors the ups and downs of mental health, while the vibrant community of participants and supporters embodies the crucial role of encouragement and connection.

Discover how the Cameron K. Gallagher Foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of young people and how events like the Speak Up 5K provide a powerful platform for hope and healing.

Learn more about their mission and how you can get involved by visiting their website: https://www.ckgfoundation.org/

Lifting Up * Reaching Out.
Learn more about Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.