Arlington Thrive Celebrates 40 Years of Service in the Community
Arlington Thrive was founded in 1975 to help Arlington residents who experience a financial crisis, such as temporary unemployment, illness or death of a family member, making it difficult or even impossible to pay basic bills.
To mark its 40th anniversary, Arlington Thrive is hosting a Celebration and Fundraiser on November 18, 2015 at the Army-Navy Country Club. Members of the community are invited and welcome to attend. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.arlingtonthrive.org, email [email protected] or call 703-558-0035. The deadline to RSVP is October 30. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.
Arlington Thrive is the only organization in Arlington that provides same-day, direct financial assistance for rent, utilities or medical services.
“Our number one goal is to help residents so that today’s financial crisis does not become tomorrow’s personal catastrophe.” said Executive Director Geraldine Shannon. “Our funds effectively provide a ‘safety net’ that allows those who receive them to get back on firmer financial footing.”
With a small part-time staff and a cadre of dedicated volunteers, Arlington Thrive (formerly Arlingtonians Meeting Emergency Needs) takes requests for assistance from Arlington County social workers and other nonprofit social service agency partners, responding the same day. For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015, Arlington Thrive provided $730,000 in direct assistance to 1482 households, serving 2754 individuals, including 895 children. Families with children have always been – and continue to be – a priority for Arlington Thrive. Nearly 80% of program expenditures were for rental and utility assistance. The nonprofit’s funding comes from a mix of generous individuals, foundations, businesses, civic organizations, faith communities and Arlington County.
Shannon added, “Arlington has changed dramatically in the last 40 years, but I am sure that it will continue to be what it has always been–a caring community. Arlington Thrive will continue to be there to help our neighbors in crisis, so they can be secure in their jobs, health, and homes and thrive in a caring community.”
