In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Andrew Steele, Chief Development Officer at Global Refuge, an organization dedicated to ensuring that refugees and immigrants are protected, embraced, and empowered within welcoming communities. 

Andrew reflects on the monumental challenges of resettling refugees during moments of global crisis—including the historic 2021 evacuation of 80,000 Afghans, when Global Refuge resettled 14,000 people in just three months, a number typically seen across an entire year.

We explore the concept of a "long welcome"—supporting refugees not just upon arrival, but over the months and years it takes to truly rebuild a life—especially critical in a time when the U.S. refugee admissions program faces indefinite suspension. We also challenge common myths: refugees and immigrants are not only legal residents, but in an era of declining birth rates, may be key to revitalizing local economies and sustaining our future.

Finally, Andrew gives a candid look at what’s ahead for Global Refuge as they navigate difficult transitions—closing programs, letting go of staff—but also finding new, innovative ways to continue serving and welcoming new neighbors.

This is a powerful conversation about compassion, resilience, and reimagining what it truly means to welcome the stranger.

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In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Kristyn Peck, CEO of Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA), for a candid conversation about the shifting landscape of refugee resettlement in 2025. Following a change in federal administration and a sudden stop work order issued in January, LSSNCA was forced to pause critical services and reevaluate how to continue its mission under extraordinary pressure.

Kristyn shares how LSSNCA has responded—through creativity, partnership, and a commitment to the core value of welcome. She explains how the organization is diversifying its services to meet the evolving needs of immigrant and refugee families, especially those in dire circumstances. From legal aid to emergency support, LSSNCA is adapting in real time to ensure no one is left behind.

Kristyn also raises a serious concern: recent changes in immigration policy have left many people vulnerable to deportation or long-term detention. Instead of being welcomed, some are now facing life-altering consequences. It's a call to action for communities to come together, fill the gaps, and walk alongside individuals and families during these challenging times.

She offers practical ways community members can get involved—reviewing resumes, driving clients to medical appointments, mentoring youth, and even fostering unaccompanied immigrant children fleeing war and trafficking among other opportunities.

This episode is a moving testament to the power of compassion, the importance of advocacy, and the ongoing need to show up for our newest neighbors.

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In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Dr. Amber Burton, veterinarian, CEO, and founder of Wolf Trap Animal Rescue (WTAR). What began in her home with 30 puppies has grown into a life-saving operation that has rescued and rehomed over 12,000 animals in just ten years. WTAR specializes in transporting at-risk puppies and kittens—primarily from Mississippi—out of overcrowded, under-resourced shelters where they face euthanasia due to illness, overpopulation, and lack of adoptive homes.

Dr. Burton shares the heartbreaking realities of animal overpopulation in rural areas and how WTAR’s veterinarian-led model sets them apart, focusing first and foremost on the health and well-being of each animal. We dive into the power of short-term fostering (just a three-week commitment!) and how community members can become part of this rescue mission. Whether you're a pet lover, animal advocate, or someone looking for meaningful ways to give back, this conversation will move and motivate you.

Tune in to hear Dr. Burton’s journey, the incredible work WTAR is doing, and how you can help save lives—one pet at a time.

Learn more at: https://www.wtarescue.com/

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In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Maralee Gutierrez, Founder and Executive Director of Comunidad, a grassroots organization grounded in the values of human dignity and thriving community. Maralee shares how these core beliefs shape every aspect of their work—from food distribution and education programs to computer literacy, mentoring, elementary reading support, and family dinners.

We dive into what success looks like beyond the numbers, hear powerful stories of hope and joy, and explore the challenges that come with building a more compassionate world. Maralee also reflects on the importance of being a voice of kindness and how each of us can live out values rooted in love—the biggest way to help.

Tune in to be inspired, and learn how you can volunteer with students and families by visiting Comunidad’s website.

https://www.comunidadva.org/

#NonprofitLeadership #HumanDignity #BeTheChange #VolunteerVoices  #CommunityEmpowerment #Comunidad

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In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Kamilah McAfee, President and CEO of Wesley Housing, one of the nation’s top 50 affordable housing developers. With a powerful mission to provide safe, quality, and affordable housing across Virginia and Washington, D.C., Wesley Housing is celebrating 50 years of impact.

Kamilah shares the inspiring history behind the organization’s growth and success, the variety of dedicated housing solutions they offer, and the holistic programs that go beyond housing—from food assistance and seasonal support to after-school care and educational resources for local youth. In 2024 alone, Wesley Housing served over 1,500 families and built more than 850 affordable units, changing lives and strengthening communities.

Kamilah also opens up about the economic and political headwinds the organization faces in today’s housing landscape—and how listeners like you can get involved through volunteering or donations to help sustain their vital work.

Tune in to hear how Wesley Housing is more than a place to live—it's a place to grow, thrive, and belong.

Learn More about Wesley Housing here: https://wesleyhousing.org/

#Affordablehousing #Nonprofitspotlight #WesleyShousing #CommunityDevelopment #SocialImpact

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In this inspiring episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Michelle Connors, the passionate Founder and Executive Director of Rustic Love, a grassroots nonprofit making a powerful impact in Northern Virginia. Michelle shares the heartwarming story of how a simple idea—selling charming, handmade heart signs—blossomed into a vibrant community movement helping fight food insecurity.

With over 100,000 people in the Vienna community facing food insecurity, Rustic Love has become a symbol of hope and support, especially for children in local public schools. Michelle opens up about the organization’s humble beginnings, the creative spark behind the iconic heart signs, and the heartfelt stories of lives changed through their mission.

Discover how you can get involved, donate, or proudly display a Rustic Love heart of your own—and become part of a growing community that’s leading with compassion and action.

Tune in and be inspired to spread love, one heart at a time.

Learn More and Support Rustic Love here: https://rusticlove.org/

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In this episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Monica Springman, Director of Programs, and Tom Powell, Executive Director of Caroline Furnace Lutheran Camp and Retreat Center. Discover what sets this unique summer camp apart—from its deep roots in Lutheran faith to the lasting impact it has on young hearts and minds. We explore how Caroline Furnace blends spiritual growth with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, and how that mission is reflected in everything from their daily programming to long-term initiatives. Tune in to hear how faith and creation care go hand in hand—and how you can get involved through summer camp sessions, volunteer opportunities, and even exploring their beautiful nature trails. 

Learn More about Caroline Furnace on their website: https://www.carolinefurnace.org/

 #FaithAndNature #LutheranCampLife #EcoMinistry #CarolineFurnace  #YouthFaithFormation 

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This week on Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Lu Cousins, the dynamic Director of the Vienna Arts Society. Prepare to be inspired as Lu shares the incredible impact of art in our local community, extending far beyond the gallery walls. She'll delve into the Vienna Arts Society's innovative approach to partnering with businesses and facilities across the region, transforming unexpected spaces into vibrant showcases for local artists. Lu also shares moving stories that vividly illustrate how art has profoundly impacted the lives of diverse community members, fostering connection, healing, and joy. Tune in to discover how the Vienna Arts Society is truly painting a brighter future for our community, one brushstroke at a time. 

Learn More about the Vianna Arts Society here: https://viennaartssociety.org/

#ViennaArtsSociety #CommunityArt #LocalArtists #ArtImpact #NonprofitSpotlight

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In this episode of NonProfit Spotlight, we sit down with Noel Durman, Executive Director of the Falls Church Community Service Council (FCS). Noel shares the vital work FCS is doing to support individuals and families in crisis—from emergency food and rent assistance to transportation and utility support.

We discuss the growing challenges nonprofit organizations face amid rising needs and the widening gap between the cost of living and stagnant wages. Noel gives us a candid look at what it takes to keep services running and how FCS is adapting to serve more people with limited resources in Northern Virginia.

Most importantly, we explore how you can get involved—whether by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word—to help ensure more of our neighbors have access to the essentials they need to thrive.

Listen in to learn how small actions can lead to big impact in your community.

Learn more or get involved at: https://fcswecare.org/

 #NonProfitSpotlight #CommunitySupport #FallsChurch #Volunteer #CostOfLivingCrisis #foodinsecurity

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In this powerful episode of Nonprofit Spotlight, we sit down with Maryn Olson, the Director of Lutheran Disaster Response. Join us as Maryn provides an insightful look into the critical work of LDR, addressing the devastating impacts of disasters in the United States and across the globe.

Maryn shares the immense challenges her organization faces in navigating today's complex political and economic landscape to deliver essential aid and support to vulnerable communities. From logistical hurdles to the emotional toll on both aid workers and those they serve, she offers a candid perspective on the realities of humanitarian work.

A key part of LDR's mission is their unwavering commitment beyond the immediate crisis. When the dust settles and the headlines change, LDR stays to provide ongoing assistance to those in need. Discover how LDR remains long after the initial news cycle fades, offering crucial long-term support for recovery and rebuilding.

Maryn also illuminates the incredible resilience of the human spirit, sharing moving and hopeful stories of individuals and communities rebuilding their lives in the face of unimaginable adversity. Discover how Lutheran Disaster Response brings tangible hope and long-term recovery to those most in need.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the vital role you can play in offering aid to those communities recovering from unforeseen disaster. 

Learn More and Donate at www.elca.org

#Disasterresponse #DisasterRelief  #LutheranDisasterResponse  #GlobalImpact #HopeAmidstCrisis 

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