Calvary’s new home in Anacostia will be completed this spring, and we plan to move our programs by May. You can see more of our progress in photos (here).

We are grateful to have received more than $300,000 in pro bono support for this project from some of the city’s best firms.  In addition to the donors and foundations who have also invested their resources so generously, the pro bono support from the community has helped make this project possible.

We are also looking forward to making a positive contribution to the Anacostia community. Our leadership met with members of the community on January 7th. We have begun to create a monthly “Community Update” to share with our new neighbors, and you can read the first one on our website. We are excited to be a part of a community that is committed to economic development and improving the neighborhood for all of its residents.

Of course, we will continue to provide other updates, too, as Calvary’s new home progresses. You can always stay connected to Calvary through Facebook, Twitter, and of course this blog to make sure you have the latest on our program expansion project!

We look forward to your continued involvement and support of Calvary and the women we serve during this exciting time.

Barbara Koroma reinforces this message of hope to the women at Pathways and Calvary Women’s Shelter during her self-esteem groups. As coordinator of the Life Skills educational program at Calvary Women’s Services, I feel extremely lucky to have someone like Barbara a part of our program. Every week I hear messages of thankfulness for having “Barbara EYES” here to exemplify the possibilities in life.

Barbara Koroma

Barbara herself has “been there.” She has been homeless several times in her life and grew up in an abusive home. However, she is an example to residents that challenges can make you stronger, and that you can overcome your pain to find yourself able to have a positive self-image, healthy relationships, and achieve your goals, no matter how unattainable they seem to be.  Every week, many residents prepare 15 minutes early for her class. Everyone – staff included – look forward to her monthly “Expressions Night” where residents share a poem, dance, craft, or a personal object that means something special to them.

Now Barbara would like to share about her experience volunteering at Calvary:

How did you first hear about Calvary?

I was sending out letters to homeless shelters that I was interested in reaching out and offering my self-esteem group information. Calvary was the first to get back to me!

Why do you volunteer at Calvary?

I love helping people. Helping people in need, and or giving back. I’ve received many blessings recently, and I want to give back.

How have you felt your impact as a volunteer?

My hope is that I am making an impact in what I do. I know I am making an impact because they let me know. The residents set goals. They have followed through with the exercises, and they help.

We use affirmations to let women know that they can achieve. “I can do it, yes I can” is our motto. I use material from newsletters from people who motivate and inspire, and I pass down the information and explain progress. Additionally, I have speakers call in to speak to the residents. For example, I recently had someone was living in the projects and became a millionaire. Another woman started her own publishing company and has published 3 books after overcoming a lot of obstacles. Another, Gail, is a minister and motivational speaker. Silver Rae Fox, a DJ from Texas who is a motivational speaker.

Every month we have an “expressions night” – to give them an opportunity to share their talents and things that matter to them – earrings they make, singing, and reciting poetry. One memorable event happened last month when a woman read a monologue about her personal experience living in a shelter, and how she got there. It was so good that everyone stood up and clapped.

What has been your most memorable experience at Calvary?

Every time I come. A particular day was when a resident shared a prayer and worship dance at expressions night. Some were moved to tears, and were also moved to share.

What do you like best about your work with Calvary?

I like the interaction with the women, also sharing my life experience with them and hearing their feedback. Ask questions, make comments, and provide feedback that this means a lot to them. They care about the information they’re receiving and applying it to life.

• Every five days a woman moved from Calvary into her own home.
• Women at Calvary achieved educational goals like GED’s, started treatment for mental illnesses, got sober, learned new skills like cooking and financial management, and much more.
• The Life Skills educational program at Calvary continued to grow. Classes this year included health education, yoga, financial literacy, self-esteem, stress management, as well as creative classes like art and poetry.
• Our successful volunteer program continued to grow.  Volunteers led classes, served meals, supervised programs overnight, helped with special projects, held fundraising events and much more.
• We premiered a new video, where you can hear from women in our programs about how Calvary changed their lives.
• Calvary held our 10^th annual Hope Awards Dinner. This year, we honored Mayor Vincent C. Gray and raised $150,000 for Calvary’s programs through the event.
• The Holiday Give Back returned this winter, raising over $12,000 to support Calvary’s Good Hope Kitchen project. Two members of Congress spoke at this year’s Holiday Give Back, and we were also joined by five NFL Alumni! (photos here)
• We had another record-breaking Help the Homeless Walkathon in November, with over 630 Calvary walkers. Our team of Calvary family and friends raised over $50,000 through the Walkathon this year!
• Our work was covered in local publications including Street Sense.
• We kicked off our Good Hope Kitchen campaign with Chef Geoff as our spokesperson. The diverse range of events held by our supporters included an Iron Chef Calvary cook-off, a fashion show, and a poker tournament. This year, you can get involved too!
• Calvary began construction on our new home on Good Hope Road. We are grateful to have received over $300,000 in pro bono support from the local development community to make this project possible. You see the progress at the new building here!

We are grateful to everyone who made this fantastic year possible, especially our volunteers and supporters. As we move in to 2012, the year promises even more excitement as we move to our new home and expand our programs to serve more women.  Keep a close eye on the blog this year to find out the latest news and learn how you can get involved!

All photos by Katie Bradley

How did you first hear about Calvary?

A friend of mine was a board member several years ago.  I was looking into different volunteer options and Calvary was the best fit for me.

Why do you volunteer at Calvary?

I enjoy being a part of a program that not only provides assistance for those in need, but that also works to help the women move forward.

What has been your most memorable experience at Calvary?

I would say the first time I attempted to make coffee during my first solo overnight stay.  My first couple of pots were pretty brutal and it became a running joke.  It was the first time I felt like part of the group and not just the lady there to turn on the lights and set out food in the morning.

What do you like best about your work with Calvary?

I like that Calvary is not just a band-aid for the problems women have, it is a part of a solution.

What would you tell someone considering getting involved with Calvary?

I would tell them they should not hesitate.  Everyone I have worked with has been amazing and the women are great.  To help provide a safe environment that allows the women to get their lives back in order is incredibly rewarding.