Local Nonprofits You Should Know
by Lynne Streeter Childress
PlayAnnapolis Many children in Annapolis have experienced declining participation in sports and recreational opportunities due to the expense of fees, gear and travel costs. PlayAnnapolis was founded in 2023 to ensure that every child in Annapolis who wants to play can take part in sports and recreation year-round, regardless of their family’s financial situation. Noting that participation in those activities benefits quality of life, PlayAnnapolis is working to inspire collaboration, build resources and facilitate partnerships toward a shared vision of recreation for all. To contribute to their scholarship program, and to RSVP to their upcoming tailgate at the July 6 Annapolis Blues Soccer Game at the Navy Stadium from 5-7pm, visit playannapolis.org. STAIR: Start the Adventure in Reading STAIR believes that the ability to read, write, and speak confidently is essential for full participation in society. Their literacy programs partner first and second graders with volunteers who work with students one-on-one to help them improve their reading skills. STAIR operates at 12 locations in Annapolis and the surrounding county. STAIR’s efficacy is impressive! Last fall, every student that entered the program was reading below grade level, and by the end of the school year 96% improved their reading skills with 70% reading at or above grade level. STAIR welcomes your financial support and is always looking for volunteers to tutor students. To find out more about information sessions and tutor training for the upcoming school year, visit stairannapolis.org.
PlayAnnapolis Eastport Elementary Soccer Team. Photo courtesy of PlayAnnapolis.
Annapolis Immigration Justice Network (AJIN) AIJN was founded in 2017 when community leaders joined with law schools, legal firms, faith organizations, and the business community to support vulnerable, unaccompanied, immigrant children, families fleeing violence, and other indigent Anne Arundel County residents. The AIJN provides access to legal counsel and related support services helping those experiencing unjust deportation and family separation. Their work provides hope, stability, and long-term solutions to ensure “[e]qual justice for all people, irrespective of citizenship status.” AIJN is in need of volunteers for their accompaniment program which provides transportation and escort services for their clients to travel to immigration court hearings and legal appointments. To get involved, email them at info@aijnetwork.org or visit aijnetwork.org for more information. Senior Dog Sanctuary The Senior Dog Sanctuary of Maryland (SDS) rescues, rehabilitates, and re-homes senior dogs, who are the most vulnerable in community animal shelters. In addition to providing a safe space for older dogs, SDS’s Seniors 2 Seniors program helps local senior citizens keep their pets at home by providing pet food and supplies.To find out more about how you can volunteer, donate, or attend events like September’s Troopers and Tails Golf Tournament, go to seniordogsanctuary.com.
STAIR graduation class. Photo courtesy of STAIR.
SUMMER 2024 | 13
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