Talent for Tomorrow: Transforming Youth Futures Through Nonprofit Collaboration in the DMV

In this episode of the We’re Good podcast, the spotlight is on Talent for Tomorrow, a powerful nonprofit alliance transforming the futures of young adults across the Washington, D.C. metro area. This coalition—comprising Genesis Works, Year Up United, New Futures, Spark the Journey, and PerScholas—works collaboratively to provide Opportunity Youth with career training, internships, mentorship, scholarships, and wraparound support, from high school through college, certifications and into careers.

The episode features firsthand insights from Axel Orellana, a program alumnus and now current UDC student, whose success story embodies the initiative's impact. Axel recounts how he discovered Genesis Works in high school and how each organization in the alliance played a pivotal role in guiding him to college and into a computer engineering major. His journey highlights how Talent for Tomorrow turns goals into actionable game plans, especially for students facing barriers to higher education and career access.

Selvon Waldron of Genesys Works and Lia Jones of Capital One, the alliance's founding funder, discuss the complexity and value of the collaboration. They emphasize the important and intentional steps TFT took to align on leadership, funding, and program strategy to meet their stated goal of bridging gaps in racial and economic mobility. Capital One’s involvement since 2018 has provided not just financial backing, but also pro bono branding, volunteerism, and long-term strategic support.

Now serving over 600 students in the DMV area, Talent for Tomorrow is proof that nonprofit collaboration is stronger together providing greater impact and stronger outcomes for the people they serve. This episode is a must-listen for educators, funders, and families looking to empower youth through coordinated, community-driven workforce development programs.

In this episode of the We're Good podcast, host Lee Ann Necessary Brownlee highlights the inspiring work of the Operation Renewed Hope Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping homeless veterans find stable housing. Despite the sacrifices made by our armed forces, over 32,000 veterans face homelessness, a number that may be even higher according to experts.

The foundation was founded by retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Deborah Snyder, who was motivated to help by the sight of the unthinkable, homeless veterans in Washington, D.C. After 22 years of military service, she recognized the need and began the nonprofit to provide housing and essential services to veterans in distress. Maria Grinstead, the program director, shared why she completely changed her career path in order to join the mission and became integral in case management.

This episode discusses the barriers some veterans face, including mental health issues, low income, and the high cost of living in the D.C. area, which complicates their ability to secure housing. Deborah and Maria emphasize the importance of the “Housing First” approach, which prioritizes getting veterans into homes quickly while offering supportive services to address challenges.

Listen in to learn how the Operation Renewed Hope Foundation remains a beacon of hope, demonstrating that by working together, we can create a more positive world for those who have served. 

Know a veteran in crisis? Call the Department of Veterans Affairs homeless hotline at 1-877-424-3838. 

In this episode of We're Good, we spotlight a partnership reshaping what’s possible in affordable housing. True Ground Housing Partners, a nonprofit on the frontlines of the DMV's housing crisis, joins forces with Arlington Presbyterian Church in a powerful collaboration rooted in community.

You'll hear facts: over half of American renters are housing cost-burdened. Even those making $60K struggle to afford living near their jobs. With a 7-million-home shortfall nationally, this story proves change is possible.

Led by visionary CEO Carmen Romero, True Ground isn’t just building homes—they’re building ecosystems. From workforce development to food pantries, their model blends housing with wraparound services and policy advocacy. When Arlington Presbyterian made the decision to sell their land and shrink their footprint in 2016, they partnered with True Ground and together, they created Gilliam Place, a 173-unit affordable housing community that also houses the church’s reimagined worship space.

This episode dives into the why and how behind that decision, and the incredible journey it took to bring it to life. Pastor Ashley Goff shares how proximity—literally sharing a building with residents—has deepened the church’s ministry. Think free music lessons, a 24/7 food pantry, and on-site daycare. A true example of neighbors becoming collaborators.

One unforgettable moment: during the pandemic, when rent was overdue and futures uncertain, the church donated $200K in a single day—erasing debt for 80 families!

This episode shows what is possible when communities unite.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we speak with Diana Ortiz, CEO of Doorways, and Joy Meyer, Chief Development and Strategy Officer, about the critical, life-saving work their nonprofit does in Arlington, Virginia.

Doorways provides holistic support to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and their families—serving over 2,000 households each year, including many children under 18.

Diana and Joy walk us through the 24/7 services Doorways offers—from emergency shelter and legal advocacy to housing and trauma-informed counseling. They share survivor stories that are both heartbreaking and hopeful, including one about a woman who was re-assaulted after fleeing to a hotel—only to later reclaim her life, career, and sense of joy.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:

• The vital role of first responders and the Lethality Assessment Program
• How children heal through art, play, and movement therapy
• A client success story that will stay with you
• The real-life consequences of funding cuts—and how urgent support can be the difference between safety and danger

You’ll also discover how you can help—whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness.

📞 Doorways’ 24/7 Hotline: 703-237-0881
Because everyone deserves to be safe.

In this episode we’re diving into the world of child advocacy with a focus on one of the most impactful volunteer programs you might not have heard of: Fairfax CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates.

We’re joined by two incredible guests: Darcy Hubbard, Executive Director of Fairfax CASA, and Paula Salguero, a longtime volunteer who has dedicated years to supporting vulnerable children in the court system. Together, they walk us through what CASA is, how it works, and why it matters so much.

CASA volunteers are trained advocates who stand up in court for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Though they are not legal professionals, they are the *consistent and compassionate voice* for children navigating the complex child welfare system. Darcy explains CASA’s origins in 1977 and its reach today—over 900 programs across the U.S., including 27 in Virginia. In Fairfax County alone, CASA has supported more than 9,000 children over 35 years.

Paula shares her personal journey into advocacy, from the powerful training program to the emotional depth of her volunteer work. With no legal background required, CASA welcomes volunteers driven by empathy and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of children.

The episode also highlights **impactful success stories**, including reunifications, adoptions, and family members stepping up with CASA’s guidance. CASA’s reports are adopted in court over 94% of the time—proof of their trusted insights. Amidst a recent surge in cases—over 400 children in the past two years—the need for volunteers has never been greater.

Through it all, CASA remains strengths-based and nonjudgmental, believing in each child’s potential and the power of second chances. If you’ve ever wondered how to truly help a child in need, this episode offers a heartfelt answer: volunteer. Listen in to learn more.

In this heartwarming episode of the "We're Good" podcast, we dive into the incredible work of Best Buddies, a nonprofit that’s changing lives by creating lasting friendships, offering job opportunities, and empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live independently. Hosted by Lee Ann Necessary Brownlee, the episode features an inspiring conversation with Molly Whalen, the State Director of Best Buddies Virginia and D.C., who shares the powerful story of how the organization started back in 1989 at Georgetown University and has grown into a transformative force in the community.

What started as a innovative friendship program has blossomed into a robust network of job training, placement, and independent living programs, helping people with IDD break through social barriers and find their place in the world. Molly opens up about her personal journey with Best Buddies, sharing how her children with autism sparked her deep commitment to this cause.

You’ll also hear amazing success stories, like that of Peter, who’s now thriving in the bakery department at Wegmans, baking delicious cookies and living independently, thanks to the support of Best Buddies' job coaching program. Peter’s journey shows just how life-changing this program can be.

The episode also highlights some of the fun and inclusive events Best Buddies hosts, including the Friendship Walk and the Homecoming Gala, which bring people together to celebrate diversity and inclusion. Peter, a devoted ambassador for the program, shares why giving back is so important to him.

Tune in for an uplifting conversation that will inspire you to support Best Buddies, whether through volunteering, donating, or just spreading the word about the amazing work being done. It’s a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of community and social change!

In this episode, Joel Dillion, CEO of Jill’s House, and Kelly Speck, author of Hope in the Heartache, and a Jill’s House mom, discuss the organization’s mission and impact. Jill’s House was inspired by the experience of Brenda and Lon Solomon, whose daughter Jill developed significant disabilities due to a genetic condition. After receiving respite care from a church member, the Solomons were motivated to create a similar service for other families. This led to the establishment of Jill’s House in 2010.

Jill’s House provides short-term respite care for children with intellectual disabilities, offering 24-48 hour stays to give parents a break. The facility features fun, safe activities like a pool and climbing wall, while ensuring personalized care from professional nurses and highly-trained staff. This respite not only provides physical relief for parents but also emotional support, knowing their children are in a tailored, caring environment.

In this episode, Kelly Speck shares how Jill’s House has been a lifeline for her family, offering relief from isolation and burnout. She reads an excerpt from her book, reflecting on her emotional experience of leaving her son Bennett at Jill’s House for the first time and how their family now compares Jill’s House to a Disneyworld experience. 

Jill’s House is also focused on research, collaborating with Baylor University to assess the impact of their services on family well-being. Jill’s House operates largely through volunteer efforts and private donations, with over 80% of its budget coming from this support. Its inclusivity-based approach fosters a community that values families of children with disabilities, offering both care and connection.

In this inspiring episode, we dive into the transformative impact of the Year Up United program, which is closing the opportunity divide by ensuring that all young adults gain the experiences and support that will empower them to reach their potential through careers and higher education. The tuition free job training program combines technical and professional training with access to internships and job placement support.  Lisa Wiley, site director for Year Up United in the National Capital Region, and Emerson Ramos, a Year Up United graduate, now Vice President of Enterprise Client Services at The Carlyle Group, share their powerful stories and insights on how Year Up United is helping young people launch successful careers. 

Emerson’s journey from a chance encounter at a gas station to earning his way to a key role in a major corporation showcases the life-changing potential of the program. Lisa and Emerson highlight the importance of hands-on experience, mentorship, and networking, with Year Up United partnering with top companies to offer students real-world exposure and job opportunities. 

This episode reveals how Year Up United’s focus on developing both hard and soft skills prepares students for the workforce, helping them gain confidence and refine their abilities through coaching and feedback. Plus, discover how corporate partners benefit from Year Up United’s unique model, where interns get a chance to demonstrate their skills over months instead of talking about their skills in just one interview. 

Tune in to explore how Year Up United is expanding access to economic opportunity for young adults.  In this episode, we spotlight the critical role corporate partnerships play in helping ensure everyone has equal opportunity to achieve their full potential.  A must-listen for anyone committed to fostering workforce inclusion and making a lasting difference!

Year Up United Website

In this episode, Erika Ahdoot, CEO of Horton’s Kids, and Rahaman “Kil” Kilpatrick, Senior Manager of Community and Family Engagement, discuss the incredible work of supporting children and families in Washington, D.C.’s Anacostia neighborhood. From pre-K through high school graduation and beyond, Horton’s Kids is committed to building trust, fostering mentorship, and creating safe spaces for kids to thrive.

Erika and Kil talk about the challenges of working in communities that have faced systemic neglect and the importance of long-term, trust-based relationships. They share powerful stories of resilience, like one young man’s journey from overcoming adversity to preparing for a future in the Marines. Kil reflects on his 12 years with the organization, emphasizing that even when an interaction doesn’t yield immediate impact, each plants seeds for the future.

Horton’s Kids is also expanding with new community resource centers that provide essential services like food and diapers alongside their educational programs. In addition, they’ve launched their own podcasts, including HK Couch, HK Confessions (a teen-led podcast), and Surface Noise, which are sparking important conversations within the community.

Join us for this conversation that highlights the power of love, trust, and commitment. Learn how long-term engagement can change lives. Don’t forget to share these powerful stories, as the impact of this work echoes for years to come.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform. You can watch the Horton’s Kids episode on our YouTube Channel here.

Hope you liked this episode. Please leave us a review here - Subscribe, follow, share or tag us in your next post! Also, check out the Horton’s Kids website and listen to the HK Network.

Listen to the We're Good podcast to discover and plug into all the good that is going on around you! Host and former television news anchor Lee Ann Necessary interviews the people and organizations in our region already working to make a positive difference in our world. If you want good news and inspiration, join us for We're Good! Please, visit our website for more information: weregood.net.