The Nonprofit Spotlight

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 pres...

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...

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...

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...

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 commun...

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 sustaina...

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 fo...

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 ...

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 essentia...

Join us as we sit down with Lynette Sappe-Watkins, Executive Director of the Culmore Clinic. This remarkable non-profit healthcare clinic has been a beacon of hope for low-income adults in the Bailey's Crossroads community.

Discover how Culmore Clinic, powered by a dedicated team of volunteers and healthcare providers, offers compassionate medical care, counseling services, and essential referrals. Learn about their unwavering ...

In this episode of Non-Profit Spotlight, we delve into the critical work of FACETS, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing homelessness and poverty in Fairfax County. We sit down with Rena Alexander Lewis, a leader at FACETS, to discuss the impact they're making on the community.

Learn how FACETS is providing direct assistance to those in need, engaging the community, and advocating for long-term solutions to break t...

Join us as we shine a light on Global Refuge, a beacon of hope for those seeking safety and a new beginning. For over eight decades, this remarkable nonprofit has been a lifeline for refugees, asylum seekers, and unaccompanied children.

In this episode, we talk with Tala Al-Raheb and Sarah Kretschmann, leaders at Global Refuge, as they share their organization's profound impact on countless lives. Discover how Global Refuge pro...

Join us as we shine the spotlight on Lutheran World Relief!

In this episode, we sit down with Emma Wagner, a senior advisor at Lutheran World Relief, to discuss LWR's incredible work tackling global poverty. Learn how this organization is empowering communities around the world to overcome challenges and build sustainable futures. Discover the innovative ways LWR is addressing poverty, hunger, and displacement through collabora...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Linda Aufderhaar as we spotlight the incredible work of Gracing Spaces, a volunteer-led organization dedicated to transforming houses into homes. Discover how their unwavering commitment to the community has made a profound impact on the lives of those in need.

Learn about the challenges faced by individuals re-entering housing and how Gracing Spaces steps in to provide essential furnishing...

Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Barfonce Baldwin, the Executive Director of Home Stretch. Discover how this incredible nonprofit is transforming lives by addressing the root causes of homelessness for families with children.

Learn about the unique challenges faced by Home Stretch's clients and hear how their comprehensive services provide the support and resources needed for lasting change.

In this episode...

Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Tiffany Santana, the Executive Director of Bethany House, a nonprofit dedicated to providing safe haven and support for women and children escaping abuse. Discover the incredible work Bethany House does to help survivors rebuild their lives, the challenges these women and children face, and the transformative programs that empower them to overcome adversity. From providing esse...

Ever wondered how organizations make a real difference in their communities? In this episode, we sit down with Sue Mairena from Annandale Christian Community for Action (ACCA), a vital community resource dedicated to supporting low-income families in Northern Virginia.

Learn about the ACCA's mission, the various services they provide (from rental assistance to daycare and food), and their impact on countless lives.