Turning Dreams Into Realty!

Voting is open!
01
Tree 01

A nonprofit set up in memory of Libby Goodwin with a mission Give kids a chance: * To live without cancer . . .
Instead of “Why did this have to happen?” the founders asked “How can we keep this from happening to someone else?” Of course, none of us are cancer researchers, and we can’t – on our own, at least – come up with enough opportunities for all of the kids who want to volunteer in their communities. What we can do is try to get necessary resources to the people who need them. To that end, we’ve identified two specific goals:
(1) Raise funds to contribute to organizations that fight childhood cancer, especially the one that took Libby from us.
(2) Build a platform that will help young people find local opportunities for community service.
So that’s what they intend to do. And, it being them, they are going to have as much fun as possible along the way. #LiveLikeLibby
Sponsored by:



VOTE HERE NOW!
Voting is now open for our annual Christmas tree decorating contest.
Vote securely online through the "Donate" button located
below your favorite trees shown below.
Online voting begins December 4 at 6:00 PM
and ends December 15 at 5:00 PM.
REMEMBER: $1.00 = 1 vote
Thanks for helping us share in the Lights of Kindness
this holiday season!
Tree 02

Maryland Veterans Trust Fund
The Maryland Veterans Trust Fund provides financial support to veterans and their families who are experiencing temporary financial difficulties. This support can cover urgent costs like rent, mortgage payments, utilities, car insurance, and vehicle financing.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the fund provides one-time grants to Maryland veterans, military families, Gold Star parents and spouses, and members of the Maryland National Guard who are facing temporary financial hardship.
Currently, more than 200 households are awaiting support. Demand has risen sharply during the government shutdown, with 30% of current applicants directly affected. This fundraising effort aims to reduce the backlog by prioritizing assistance for rent, mortgage payments, and essential utilities.
Sponsored by:
AMS Management Services Corp.
Providing "One Stop" Association Management Services
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 03


South River High School Interact Club
Interact is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young people ages 14 - 18 or secondary-school-aged students. The program gives young people an opportunity to participate in fun, meaningful service projects while developing leadership skills, and meeting new friends. Through service activities, Interactors learn the importance of (1) Developing leadership skills and personal integrity; (2) Demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others; (3) Advancing international understanding and goodwill.
All Interact clubs carry out at least two service projects yearly -- one that serves the school or the community and another that furthers international understanding. Every Interact club is sponsored by a Rotary club, which provides guidance on a continuing basis. In addition, Interactors often form a service partnership with the sponsoring Rotarians, lending their enthusiastic support to a variety of Rotary projects.
Interact benefits its young members, the sponsoring Rotary club, and the community that the Interactors serve. Through Interact, young people develop initiative, leadership skills, and lasting friendships. The Rotary club gains a service partner, as well as an opportunity to prepare its community's youth for future leadership.
Sponsored by:
Blair Smith Memorial Fund
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 04


The Wellness House of Annapolis provides free services and programs to those affected by cancer. They offer support groups for children, teens, and adults, as well as healthy living services like yoga, reiki, meditation, and therapeutic art classes. The goal is to help individuals and their loved ones find strength and support during recovery and healing.
In addition to these offerings, the Wellness House of Annapolis regularly hosts educational workshops and wellness events designed to empower participants with knowledge and practical tools for coping with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Volunteers and professionals collaborate to create a welcoming environment where members can connect with others who understand their journey, fostering a sense of community and hope throughout each step of the healing process.
Sponsored by:
Tamra & Jim Sherrick
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 05

South County Youth Association
South County Youth Association aspires to be an outstanding educational-athletic organization that provides a high-quality experience to every athlete. A high-quality experience is one in which every athlete:
-
Is coached using the principles of Positive Coaching.
-
Has fun at practices and games.
-
Feels like an important part of the team regardless of skill levels.
-
Learns “life lessons” that have value beyond the playing field.
-
Learns the skills, tactics and strategies of the game and improves as a player.
We recognize that coaches are the people who most directly make this all possible. It is our goal to provide every coach with the tools to succeed as a Positive Coach. We are committed to creating a positive culture, in which coaches, parents, fans, officials and athletes work together to achieve our mission.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!

.jpg)
Tree 06


St. Paul’s Christian Children’s Center provides a safe and supervised environment that keeps children active through creative learning and fun activities. Its professionally designed Christian curriculum provides daily theme-related, age-appropriate, lesson plans for classrooms.
Learning experiences are centered on literacy, art, music and movement, science, math, and dramatic play.
Sponsored by:
Bedrock Foundations, Inc.

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 07


Carrie Weedon Early Education Center offers a safe and nurturing environment with a focus on developing strong relationships and a love of learning for all students through work and play.
Together, our families, community and staff ensure that every student who enters our doors will leave with the social, emotional and academic foundation for kindergarten success.
At Carrie Weedon Early Education Center, we strive to create a learning community that nurtures the whole child to become resilient, independent, respectful, cooperative and prepared to contribute positively to a global society.
Sponsored by:
Rick & Betsy Derrick
Jeff & Kathy Smith
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 08

The Mission of the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club is to promote the development of healthy bodies and spirits, to support recovery from breast cancer and all other cancers — in both men and women — and to grow friendships and teamwork.
The Club promotes and develops the sport of dragon boating as a means of building physical strength, endurance, and confidence with an emphasis on recreation, synchrony, and harmony while on the water . . . the beautiful Spa Creek.
The Annapolis Dragon Boat Club is run by the Annapolis Dragon Boat Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization.
Sponsored by:


Friends of Annapolis Dragon Boat Club
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 09


South River Music Boosters, Inc. is a 501c3 charitable organization that supports the music programs at South River High School in Edgewater, MD. Our organization is composed of the Music Department staff, South River administrators, and the parents of the students we serve. We spend our resources (time, money, and talent) to provide our kids with amazing music experiences. We step in where the school board funding stops. We make sure the Marching Band uniforms fit and get dry-cleaned. We don our gloves and handle pizza and snacks when students stay after to prepare for concerts. We pay for instrument repairs, t-shirts, transportation, and supplies, and do the legwork to make those things happen. We facilitate special recognition for our graduating seniors and outstanding students. We cheer from the sidelines, literally and metaphorically, every time our kids perform. We show up.
Many of us have wonderful memories of our own time participating in music programs when we were students. We work hard to make sure our South River students are building their own solid foundations as musicians.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 10

.jpg)
No neighbor shall go without needed health care
Bay Community Health provides affordable premium health care services to a wide variety of patients in our community. We offer health services to ALL income ranges whether you are insured or uninsured. Our sliding fee scale allows us to provide health services to underserved members of the community, particularly those who have low income or are uninsured.
We are a Federally Qualified Community Health Center through a partnership with the Johns Hopkins Health System. Federally Qualified Health Centers are community-based health care providers that receive funds from the HRSA Health Center Program to provide primary care services in underserved areas. They must meet a stringent set of requirements, including providing care on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay and operating under a governing board that includes patients.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 11

The mission of Chrysalis House Inc. is to provide comprehensive recovery services that empower women to build a better life for themselves and their children.
Chrysalis House is one of ffour residential treatment centers in
the state that allows women to bring their children with them, thereby
removing a barrier to seeking treatment. Women with children or
women without children are eligible to participate in our unique program.
Chrysalis House only accepts clients with Medicaid insurance.
Chrysalis House provides substance use and mental health treatment services for women 18 years of age and older, while allowing their children to live onsite during their mother's program of recovery. We are located in Crownsville, Maryland and serve women from across the state.
We offer a residential treatment program, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for women seeking ongoing outpatient treatment support, and aftercare in four supportive homes in the area. Sobriety, family preservation, parenting skills, dual diagnosis services, and employability are central focuses of Chrysalis House’s treatment services for women with substance use disorders.
Sponsored by:

.png)
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 12

The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens.
Every day almost 200,000 kids in Maryland leave school with nowhere to go. They risk being unsupervised, unguided and unsafe. These hours are a critical time for all youth -- a time of risk to youth's health and safety, or a time that can represent an opportunity to learn and grow through quality after-school programs.
It is so important for young people to engage in positive behaviors that nurture their own well being, set personal goals and live successfully as self-sufficient adults. Our programs focus on helping kids eat a more balanced diet, become more physically fit, and engage in healthy relationships.
Through tutoring and homework help, access to technology, college and career readiness programs, and skill development, clubs have an outstanding record of helping young people make academic strides. The success of our programs can be measured by the achievements of our youth, as they head towards high school graduation with a solid plan for the future.
Helping youth become responsible, caring citizens and acquire skills for participating in the democratic process are the main goals of these programs. They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, contributing to club and community and celebrating our national heritage.
Sponsored by:


VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 13


The Bernie House provides survivors of domestic violence and their families transitional housing and services to promote financial stability.
The Bernie House allows families the necessary time to heal and build confidence as they start their transition to permanent housing. Families stay with The Bernie House for up to two years and live in a genuine family environment. The Bernie House provides individualized important support structures for victims to secure a job, go to school, become economically stable, and achieve a safe and healthy return to their community.
The family is up lifted with support from several agencies and organizations that provide counseling, job training and placement assistance, adult education, child advocacy and day care.
The adult is required to make monthly payments on utilities and a minimal program fee. All program fees collected are returned upon successful completion of the program.
In addition, the family is invited to take the furnishings and items in the home. This provides a solid foundation as they move on to a more permanent house.
Sponsored by:
The Kamm Family
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 14


What better gift can you give to the next generation than inspiring confidence and a strong sense of self?
“Girls on the Run made me more confident and not afraid to express myself. I also learned how to be a good friend and stand up for myself and others. I learned so much from GOTR, and I think it is very important for all girls to have that opportunity. Girls on the Run made a huge impact on me!” Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake participant, age 10.
Girls on the Run of the Greater Chesapeake offers positive after-school programs that inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through our evidence-based curriculum. We provide enriching youth development programming for over 2,600 3rd-8th grade participants throughout a thirteen-county territory in Maryland.
We began in Annapolis 20 years ago and are honored to have positively impacted over 26,000 girls’ lives. Our program directly addresses the social and emotional needs of elementary and middle school girls with lessons that support girls at a critical age when confidence and physical activity decline. We’re committed to ensuring program access for all girls, and your help will make that possible.
Sponsored by:
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 15


The Anne Arundel County Food Bank is dedicated to fighting hunger and ensuring that all residents in need have access to food and basic necessities.
Amanda Fields is the Food Drive and Volunteer Coordinator at the food bank. She plays a crucial role in working directly with volunteers to sort and box donations, as well as helping with Mobile Food Pantry distributions. Amanda also collaborates with community groups to encourage greater participation in hosting food drives.
Sponsored by:

Providing custom solutions in Performance Management, Project Management, and Systems Engineering.
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 16


Light House
A HOMELESS PREVENTION SUPPORT CENTER
The Light House rebuilds lives with compassion by providing shelter and services to prevent homelessness and empower people as they transition toward employment, housing, and self-sufficiency.
We serve hundreds of community members daily through fresh meals, pantry items, case management, housing and diversion services, clothing, showers, laundry, and other basic needs. Our employment programs and services provide our residents and community clients with the tools they need to achieve sustainable employment.
The Light House is a national model for how a community cares for its neighbors experiencing homelessness. We strive to break the cycle of homelessness by providing a place of belonging, life-changing programs, and a broad continuum of support to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
We specifically tailor our services for each client who comes through our doors. The integrated care provided at The Light House helps clients stabilize their health, maximize income, and secure safe and stable housing. Beyond providing food, clothing, and shelter, we also address the underlying causes of homelessness such as lack of marketable job skills, addiction, and the debilitating effects of both mental and physical health issues.
Sponsored by:
Tongues of Fire
Davidsonville United Methodist Church
VOTE HERE NOW!

Tree 17

Gradient Gives Back Foundation
The Gradient Gives Back Foundation helps the poor, distressed or underprivileged American families who are at risk of losing their homes.
Since its establishment, the Foundation has awarded mortgage or lease payments to numerous families across the United States and continues its commitment to actions that make immediate and real differences in the lives of families who have fallen on hard times.
The Foundation awards a full year of mortgage or lease payments to deserving families as part of its nationwide Gradient Gives Back Community Outreach Program. The Foundation hopes to relieve families of the significant monthly obligation of a mortgage or lease payment, thus alleviating anxiety and helping the family regroup and prepare for the future.
Whether this financial benefit allows families to dedicate time and resources to an in-depth job search or allows them to get caught up on medical expenses, getting back on their feet becomes more feasible with the support offered through the Foundation.
The Foundation has seen its actions touch not only the families it helped, but also their communities. From haircuts to a few groceries, to estate planning assistance, or even a vehicle, these independent efforts -- whether large or small -- all make a huge difference.
Sponsored by:


VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 18


West River Center
West River Center is a Retreat and Camping Ministry, owned and operated by the Baltimore Washington Conference of the United Methodist Church.
The center is a 45-acre retreat and camp facility with one mile of waterfront property for groups to enjoy. The Center is open year-round and is most happy to host your next event -- from 8 to 210 people, or anything in between -- youth groups, men’s/women’s ministry, quilting guilds, scout groups, private schools, or family reunions, and more.
We are indebted to all those persons whose vision, tenacity, hard work and generous gifts have allowed these grounds to be a place where lives are touched and hearts are changed. A place where folks can gather for fellowship, fun and see their faith grow in the “sweet communion” of God’s grace and love along the shores of the West River.
Sponsored by:
Galesville United
Methodist Church

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 19


The Sharing Foundation
The Sharing Foundation is a Nonprofit 501(c)(3) Organization whose purpose is to assist the working needy and special situation families in Anne Arundel County.
These are working families, so they do not qualify for government assistance. Despite their best efforts, many of these families are barely able to supply the basics for their children. Money is often hard to come by for the extras, such as children’s books, school supplies, nice presents to open on Christmas morning, and other small things that most of us take for granted.
With your assistance we can provide some of these extra items for these families that are trying so hard to help themselves. Through our partnership with the Anne Arundel County Public Schools and many businesses, organizations, and individuals in our community, we are able to provide school supplies and Christmas presents to over 500 children each year. 2022 marks the 29th year that The Sharing Foundation’s volunteers have worked to make life better for deserving local working familes.
Sponsored by:
Police Reserve
Foundation
VOTE HERE NOW!

Tree 20

20
Cards for Troops

“Cards for Troops” is a heartwarming initiative started by Pat Brodsky and her friends. The project involves creating and sending Christmas and all-occasion cards to deployed service members, so they can send holiday cheer to their loved ones.
The group, Making Cards for Our Troops, has grown significantly since its inception in 2016, and they’ve sent thousands of cards to military personnel in various locations, including Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Syria.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 21


Cancer Respite Sails
We provide meaningful experiences of relief from the challenges of living with cancer for nominated patients and their loved ones on free private
3-hour sails. We sail 2 times a day, 7 days a week. All ages welcome up to
6 passengers.
The organization operates out of Annapolis and the surrounding areas and beyond by providing 3-hour private sailing excursions led by experienced volunteer captains and countless crew who have all been touched by cancer. We use donated vessels and privately owned vessels to carry out our mission.
No matter where on the continuum of health and terminal disease a cancer patient’s prognosis may fall, the diagnosis of cancer and the treatments that follow bring with them commonly occurring experiences for the patient: stress, anxiety, depression, and unease. We seek to improve the quality of life and provide psychosocial support for this population.
Memorial Sails
Sail of Hope also honors loved ones lost to cancer by offering memorial sails to families who has lost someone to cancer in the past three years. With the wind, water, and sails as our guide, these sailing excursions are designed to honor those who have passed.
Help make a difference One Sail at a Time by making lifetime memories with those with cancer by nominating them for a free 3-hour respite or celebration of life sail with five of their loved ones at www.SailsofHopeChesapeake.org.
Sponsored by:
Crystal Barker
and Karen Steppler-Krieg

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 22


At Charting Careers, we help youth and families in Annapolis and beyond discover their strengths, achieve their goals, and thrive. Through enriching opportunities, transformative one on one mentoring, family partnerships, and community collaboration, we walk alongside students and families every step of the way — always at no cost to them. Together, we are creating brighter futures and stronger communities.
Contact us today for opportunities at ashley@chartingcareers.org.
Sponsored by:
VOTE HERE NOW!

Tree 23


We exist to bless children in need by empowering individuals to serve through their time, talents, and treasures. Our vision is to use the foundation’s resources to create a cycle of giving where our outreach inspires those on the giving and receiving end to lend a hand to others.
Walk the Walk Foundation focuses on making a difference in the lives of people and communities in need through our Backpacks for Kids, Christmas for Children, and Diapers for Babies programs. We partner with professionals, volunteers, donors, and other nonprofits whose focus fits our mission of creating a cycle of giving within the community. “We strongly feel that we have been blessed and we want to share that with others. Most importantly, we want to teach our own kids that they have a responsibility to "Give Back!”
We were all made for a purpose! Our faith has seen us through many trials, and we believe that these experiences have prepared us for this task, reaching out and helping kids in need.
Walk the Walk’s name is based on the Bible Verse, Joshua 22:5; “Love the Lord your God and WALK in all his ways!”
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 24

South County Reading Camp
The South County Reading Camp is dedicated to enriching children’s reading abilities while fostering a love for learning. This week-long program involves interactive reading sessions, enjoyable field trips, engaging arts and crafts activities, exciting games, and nutritious meals.
It primarily supports students from Lothian, Tracy’s, Deale, and Shadyside elementary schools who need that extra boost in their reading skills.
Sponsored by:
Bird Wackers
Badminton Club

VOTE HERE NOW!

Tree 25


Southern High School
Interact Club
Interact is a Rotary-sponsored service club for young people age 14-18 or secondary-school-aged students. The program gives young people an opportunity to participate in fun, meaningful service projects while developing leadership skill and meeting new friends. Through service activities, Interactors learn the importance of (1) Developing leadership skills and personal integrity; (2) Demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others; and (3) Advancing international understanding and goodwill.
All Interact clubs carry out at least two service projects yearly -- one that serves the school or the community and another that furthers international understanding. Every Interact club is sponsored by a Rotary club, which provides guidance on a continuing basis.
In addition, Interactors often form a service partnership with the sponsoring Rotarians, lending their enthusiastic support to a variety of Rotary projects.
Interact benefits its young members, the sponsoring Rotary club, and the community that the Interactors serve. Through Interact, young people develop initiative, leadership skills, and lasting friendships. The Rotary club gains a service partner, as well as an opportunity to prepare its community's youth for future leadership.
Sponsored by:
VOTE HERE NOW!
Rotary Club
of Upper Marlboro

Tree 26

Sail Beyond Cancer Annapolis celebrates its 4th year of operations on the Chesapeake Bay, thanks to the efforts of numerous volunteers. Sail Beyond Cancer Annapolis offers free 3-hour private sailing excursions for individuals challenged by cancer.
Our mission is to honor those being challenged by cancer by harnessing the healing powers of wind, water, and sail. Our mission sails offer cancer patients (called “Nominees” in our world) the opportunity to enjoy the experience of being out on the water with loved ones for “A Day Without Cancer.”
Sail Beyond Cancer Annapolis also offers memorial sails to anyone who has lost a loved one to cancer within the past three years. These sails provide the opportunity for self-care while celebrating the life of their loved one.
Sponsored by:


VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 27


The mission of Serenity Sistas is to provide serenity and hope to individuals suffering from the disease of addiction, by offering support and structure of a sober and healthy living environment. While our residents work to sustain long-term recovery, our mission is to bridge the gap into a positive, substance-free, daily living routine.
Early on we knew that newly recovering individuals needed a safe place to go after treatment. A dream was formed, and in 2012, the first Serenity Sistas women’s house opened. Based in Annapolis, Maryland, our homes are located on public transportation lines, allowing our participants easy access to any appointments, services and employment opportunities.
"Recovery Housing" provides a living environment free from alcohol and illicit drug use which is centered on peer support and connection to services that promote sustained recovery. Homes providing alcohol and drug-free environments for people who are pursuing recovery from addiction offer a safe space with peers in recovery, along with connections to other recovery services and supports.
Serenity Sistas has been certified by the Behavioral Health Administration, and holds a certification in good standing for all locations.
Thank You for considering Serenity Sistas for your financial support.
Sponsored by:
Lee & Ed Wachter
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 28


Arundel Rivers Federation is devoted to protecting and restoring a very special place -- the South, West, and Rhode Rivers of Anne Arundel County.
We use a science-driven, community-based approach to improve the water quality of our rivers -- and we’re not afraid to get our hands dirty and our feet wet. We pursue thoughtful restoration strategies to make our rivers and creeks safe for swimming and boating and to protect natural resources like fish, oysters and crabs. Our stream, wetland and shoreline projects create wildlife habitat, reduce flooding and help to slow stormwater pollution.
The South, West, and Rhode Riverkeeper acts as the eyes, ears and voices for our local Rivers. Our organization is wholly focused on achieving our vision of clean, healthy, sustaining waterways for our local communities.
Arundel Rivers Federation was created in January 2019 and is the result of the consolidation of South River Federation and West Rhode Riverkeeper, Inc.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 29

St. Francis of Assisi
Deaf Catholic Church
The Roman Catholic
Archdiocese of Washington
Department of Special Needs Ministry
The Center for Deaf Ministries in Landover Hills, MD houses St. Francis of Assisi Deaf Catholic Church which functions on a Parish Model. Because of the size of the Archdiocese of Washington, there are also many parishes which offer interpreted services for the Deaf; however, St. Francis Deaf Catholic Church is the only church in the Archdiocese created of, for and by the Deaf/HOH and serves as a “home” to all Deaf Catholics in the Archdiocese. St. Francis invites all Deaf, Deaf/Blind, and Hard of Hearing persons and their families, to experience throughout their lifespan, their essential belonging to the Body of Christ. We welcome, value, and encourage persons who are Deaf/HoH to belong fully in our church community as full and active participants.
All events at the Center for Deaf Ministries are offered in American Sign Language (ASL). Gallaudet University has been served by the Archdiocese of Washington for more than 50 years. Gallaudet is the only liberal arts college for the Deaf in the world and as such as a foundation for future Deaf Catholic leaders.
Thank you for your support of St. Francis Deaf Catholic Church.
Sponsored by:


VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 30

JOURNEY TO JOY RECOVERY HOUSE
JOURNEY TO JOY RECOVERY HOUSE provides an affirming and accountable sober living community where women recovering from substance abuse and their children will be nurtured into abundant life. There are recovery houses for men and for women -- but this is the only recovery house in South County where women can live with their children.
The recovery center will allow mothers who struggle with addiction to get the help they need without sacrificing their relationships with their children. Located in Edgewater, Maryland, the newly renovated four-bedroom facility will be home to women recovering from substance addiction and their children.
Residents of the recovery center have completed a residential drug treatment program and is eager to be reunited with her minor children. Residents pay rent on an "ability to pay" sliding scale and some scholarships are available. The in-house program includes mentoring and workshops on life skills, parenting, and communication. Residents continue attending support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and counseling on their own.
Sponsored by:


Tongues of Fire
Davidsonville United Methodist Church
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 31

Sarah's House
Sarah’s House is a supportive housing program offering emergency shelter and project-based supportive housing with an array of other services for families experiencing homelessness in Anne Arundel County.
In 1987, Sarah’s House was established through a unique partnership between Anne Arundel County, Catholic Charities, and the U.S. Army. The mission was to provide shelter and opportunities to families experiencing homelessness in Anne Arundel County with the goal of restoring independence. Sarah’s House has served as a model of how non-profit and government agencies can work together to improve lives.
Today, Sarah’s House offers emergency shelter, supportive housing, and rapid re-housing services for families experiencing homelessness. Serving up to 125 people daily, half of whom are children, our goal is to effect positive change in families by providing a range of services and support.
Our guests are provided intensive case management, employment preparation, behavioral health services, transportation to/from work and doctor’s appointments, as well as employment and life skills classes. Our services have continued to keep pace with the requirements of achieving self-sufficiency in Anne Arundel County. Our dedicated staff is focused on supporting guests through the entire transition of living once again on their own.
Sponsored by:
.jpg)

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 32


South River
Pencils of Promise is a for-purpose organization that raises funds to provide quality education to the developing world by increasing educational opportunities. Since Pencils of Promise’s founding, it has built around 600 schools in Ghana, Laos, and Guatemala, providing safe infrastructure for learning. This organization trains teachers, provides water filters, and distributes learning resources while also building the schools themselves.
Pencils of Promise believes every child should have access to quality education. It creates schools, programs, and global communities around the common goal of education for all.
Since its founding in October 2008, the organization has built 554 schools across Laos, Guatemala and Ghana. There have been an estimated 521,847 students impacted, over 20,001 teacher coaching sessions held and 1,046 water filtration systems delivered along with sanitation and hygiene programs.
The club started recently at South River and is raising funds that go directly to Pencils of Promise. The club’s goal is to raise enough money to fully build a school through Pencils of Promise.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 33


The Maryland Natural Resource Police Reserve Officers Program is an auxiliary volunteer group that provides direct assistance to the Maryland Natural Resource Police sworn law enforcement officer corps. The program consists of a group of civic-minded volunteers who support the Natural Resource Police mission of preserving and protecting Maryland’s natural and cultural resources.
Reserve Officers are trained and provided the necessary equipment to handle non-law enforcement assignments, such as community outreach, boating and hunting safety education, search and rescue operations, and vehicle and vessel maintenance. They are not sworn law enforcement officials and do not have arrest powers, but they are considered first responders by the State of Maryland for public safety. The program is vital to sustain the life-saving and conservation-based missions of the Natural Resource Police.
Sponsored by:
Jack Power
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 34

Breadfast Club

The Breakfast Club is a summer program organized by Mt. Zion Church in Lothian, Maryland. The program provides free summer breakfasts for children, weekend grocery bags, and books to families in need in the South County area. These children attend Lothian and Tracy’s elementary schools, and often the only meals they get during their day are through free or reduced breakfasts and lunches provided at their schools.
This is the 11th year for the Breakfast Club Ministry and we are excited that it keeps growing. It has now become a ministry of many churches and organizations in our community. In addition to bagged breakfast meals, the ministry also provides a weekend bag of extra food to families who sign-up to receive them. Our goal is to make sure the families have sufficient food to carry them through the weekend.
Funding for the Breakfast Club Ministry comes from special church offerings, personal and community donations, and church monetary donations.
We thank you in advance for all that you can do to help as we feed God’s children.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 35


The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) is the premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease.
Huntington’s disease (HD) is a brain disease that is passed down in families from generation to generation. It is caused by a mistake in the DNA instructions that build our bodies and keep them running. DNA is made up of thousands of genes, and people with HD have a small error in one gene, called huntingtin. Over time this error causes damage to the brain and leads to HD symptoms.
HD causes deterioration in a person’s physical, mental, and emotional abilities, usually during their prime working years, and currently has no cure. Most people start developing symptoms during adulthood, between the ages of 30 to 50, but HD can also occur in children and young adults (known as juvenile HD or JHD). HD is known as a family disease because every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the faulty gene. Today, there are approximately 41,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease.
From community services and education to advocacy and research, Huntington's Disease Society of America is the world’s leader in providing help for today, hope for tomorrow for people with Huntington’s disease and their families. In the battle against Huntington’s disease no one fights alone. At HDSA — family is everything — offering Help For Today, Hope for Tomorrow!
Sponsored by:
VOTE HERE NOW!
Dave Vogel
Tree 36


South River High School
Key Club
The South River High School Key Club is a student-led organization sponsored by Kiwanis International. The club focuses on performing acts of service in the community, such as cleaning up parks, organizing clothing collections, and running food drives. Members also develop leadership skills by running meetings, planning projects, and holding elected leadership positions at the club, district, and international levels.
Sponsored by:
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 37


Historic London Town and Gardens is a fascinating 23-acre museum and park located in Edgewater, Maryland. It offers a blend of history, archaeology, and horticulture.
Explore the circa 1760 William Brown House, a National Historic Landmark, and reconstructed colonial buildings from the “lost town” of London. Wander through the eight-acre Woodland Garden with native and exotic plants along a one-mile trail, and enjoy the seasonal Ornamental Gardens overlooking the South River.
Experience the Visitor Center and Pavilion. The site offers various events, including guided tours, colonial cooking demonstrations, and seasonal activities.
Sponsored by:
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 38


The Fellowship of Christian Athletes is the largest Christian sports ministry in the world. Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has been challenging coaches and athletes on professional, college, high school, and youth levels to use the powerful platform of sports to reach every coach and every athlete with the gospel.
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes mission is to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.
We seek to make disciples by Engaging, Equipping, and Empowering Coaches and Athletes to know and grow in Christ and to lead others to do the same. Why?
Matthew 9:37 . . . "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.”
VOLUNTEER -- INTERN -- FULL & PART-TIME STAFF -- BOARD & DONOR OPPORTUNITIES. Contact: CDANNA@FCA.ORG
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 39


Arundel House of Hope is a non-profit, ecumenical organization dedicated to delivering emergency, transitional, and long-term affordable housing, as well as comprehensive support services, to individuals experiencing homelessness within Anne Arundel County.
We assist individuals experiencing homelessness or transitioning to stable housing by offering comprehensive support services, including a Resource and Day Center, Warming Center, Community Recovery Center, and additional programs. During the winter months, we provide emergency shelter to unhoused persons through our Winter Relief initiative.
Building on this foundation, we actively collaborate with local partners, faith communities, and volunteers to address the evolving needs of those we serve. Our ongoing efforts include outreach to vulnerable populations, advocacy for systemic change, and the continual development of innovative programs that promote self-sufficiency and stability. By fostering a compassionate environment and leveraging community resources, we strive to empower individuals and families on their journey toward independence and a brighter future.
Sponsored by:
Mark & Jeanne Bowser
VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 40


The Southern Alumni Scholarship Foundation is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to recognizing interscholastic and academic achievements by high school students at Southern High School.
Our stated mission is to assist deserving young men and women in achieving a post-secondary school education. We believe that education is the great equalizer, and that given fair opportunity and access to postsecondary education, the future will be brighter for the young people of Southern Anne Arundel County.
Since its founding in 2014, the Southern Alumni Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than $623,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors.
Sponsored by:

VOTE HERE NOW!
Tree 41


Gigi’s Playhouse is a one-of-a-kind achievement center for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. GiGi’s Playhouse was created to change the way the world views a Down syndrome diagnosis and send a global message of acceptance for all.
Centers provide free therapeutic, educational programs, and tutoring and support all ages, from families with a prenatal diagnosis through adult individuals with Down syndrome. Programs focus on a variety of skills, including gross and fine motor skills, literacy and math skills, social skills, and confidence, all with the goal of helping individuals with Down syndrome become their best selves.
We understand that many families are first-time parents, and they need us. Many young parents do not expect, or know in advance of their child’s diagnosis, and they need renewed hope and genuine acceptance from day one. At GiGi’s Playhouse, families are never alone. From a prenatal diagnosis to career skills, we make a lifetime commitment to remain by their side. Families are empowered with all the tools their child needs to succeed!
Sponsored by:
Irish Restaurant Company

