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DASH will offer a series of interviews with our Board members about their service with the organization. This interview with Joseph Sclafani is the first.

1. How did you first find out about DASH? What stood out to you?

I first came to DASH as a member of the pro bono strategic planning team engaged through COMPASS in 2009/10.  Over the course of several months we were able to delve into its history, its leadership, its programs, its relationships with clients, supporters and other service organizations, and its vision of future possibilities.  Now, that’s a terrific way of learning about an organization in very short order!

I can’t say that there was any one thing about DASH that stood out to me.  Looking back, I think it was a combination of things.  The most obvious was that here was an organization that was well managed, reflected in the recognition that the next step in its impressive growth and development up to that point was a formal articulation of its vision and the strategies to achieve it.  Another aspect that stood out was the quality and passion of its leadership – Peg’s vision and energy, which clearly infused every aspect of DASH’s operations, and the commitment and dedication of board members, individually and as a group.  Most impressive to me was DASH’s unique “low barrier” and “voluntary services” approach in meeting its client population’s needs.  I think that’s what really sets it apart from others working with DV survivors.

2. How is DASH’s work and focus important to your community, family and friends? How can you see people in your life connecting with the organization?

First and foremost, of course, is the importance of DASH’s contribution to meeting the immediate needs of the clients it serves, as well as to improving their longer-term prospects for a safer and more secure life.  But, its work and focus is also important in their demonstration that an approach that truly empowers its clients, that does not in any way “blame the victim” or judges their choices, can and does work.  I can see friends and family similarly impressed with that work and focus becoming DASH supporters.

3. What are some of your personal interests and skills that you think are a good fit for DASH’s needs moving forward?

I bring a life-long interest in social justice issues, and in organizational dynamics.  I think that both are a good fit for DASH.

4. Is this your first time working with a nonprofit? If so, what stands out about DASH?

No.  Most of my working life has involved not-for-profits.  My PhD dissertation was an examination of the structure and operations of a labor union in West Africa.  In a decade’s work with UNICEF our most effective program partners were local not-for-profits, typically community-based.  More recent work, both domestic and international, also involved initiatives to strengthen the governance and operations of not-for-profit organizations providing health and related social services.  What stands out about DASH is what I mentioned earlier – it is facing challenges not uncommon for an organization at its stage of development, but with a leadership team that inspires confidence that those challenges will be effectively met.
5. What future plans of DASH’s are you excited about?

Using DASH’s fifth anniversary as an opportunity to publicize and advocate for its unique approach to serving its client community.

The Census Bureau recently released its 2010 Current Population Survey, which contained shocking information about the state of poverty in Washington, DC. According to the Census, DC’s poverty rate for 2010 was 19.2% – up .8% from the previous year, and 3.9% higher than the nation as a whole. Two regions facing greater poverty, according to study, were Louisiana and Mississippi.

The statistics on the child poverty rate were the most startling of all, indicating that last year in our nation’s capital, 30,500 children lived in poverty. These kinds of poverty rates and the recession prove deadly for domestic violence victims. A piece in the journal Color Lines, noted that what is happening in the outside world often exacerbates what is going on behind closed doors. Women and their children are less likely to leave an abusive relationship if they feel their economic security would be nil in an economy with few available jobs. Housing becomes another relevant issue, forcing many people to stay in situations or face homelessness if they leave.

This October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. DASH has taken great consideration in developing programs that incorporate financial planning and job readiness training for the survivors it serves. With generous support from donors, funders, and corporate partners, we are able to serve as a vital safety net for those who need it more than ever. In this city in particular, with abject poverty on the rise, our work is critical. Please consider making a gift today here in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The District Alliance for Safe Housing is honored to be featured in the Fall Issue of Bittersweet Zine, a publication by Bittersweet Creative. This issue focuses on human rights, and the interconnectedness of domestic violence and homelessness. DASH is honored to be among the organizations whose work is highlighted, and happy to partner with such a top-notch creative firm. The zine will be available in the next month, and there is a release party scheduled for Thursday, October 6th from 7pm to 9pm at Washington Project for the Arts Options 2011 Exhibit Site. RSVP is not necessary but is helpful: kate@bittersweetzine.com.

DASH is working with Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light to be one of the nonprofits to participate in their next energy buy, which will result in our housing facilities running on green, renewable energy resources. This partnership brings together churches and nonprofits throughout the Washington, DC area, many of whom have to supply energy to large, cavernous buildings, who are interested both in saving money as a cohort and in using energy more efficiently.

Read more here.

In our new blog series, Celebrating Our Community, DASH is proud to count among its incredible organizational partners Anahata Grace. Anahata Grace is  a volunteer organization of wellness practitioners  who provide weekly sessions to our clients in  yoga, acupuncture, massage, journal writing, and more. These activities take place in our Wellness Center, a space on the third floor of our Cornerstone housing program funded by Verizon. DASH and its clients were recently featured in the organization’s website.

As a partner in the local campaign for Anahata Grace, DASH clients receive  the physical and mental health benefits of alternative mechanisms for healing through yoga and facilitating access to holistic and wellness services at no cost to the individual in need. Communities in need are groups of people who have survived trauma and/or do not have access to wellness services due to economic and location barriers. Anahata Grace is  primarily focused on serving at-risk/homeless youth, domestic violence survivors, homeless or sheltered adults, veterans with PTSD and front-line service workers. This video illustrates the impact yoga and wellness services can have on populations in need.

DASH is honored to be among Anahata’s Grace’s partners in Washington, DC. They are one of the reasons we are CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY!

DASH is pleased to announce a partnership with NEST-DC, DC’s one of a kind, socially conscious property management, relocation, and design firm. For the first week in August, NEST-DC, under the guidance of Chief Nesters Lisa Wise and Jim Pollack, has generously offered to pick up much needed food donations for the women and children who live at DASH at your doorstep!

NEST-DC believes that the modern dweller is part of a community, and the company commits itself to serving the community through donations, events, and connecting individuals. For more information, or to schedule a pick up or drop off for NEST-DC, contact their main office at 202-540-8038. DASH is grateful to have the support of community partners like NEST. Thank you, NEST!

 

DASH is proud to announce selection for inclusion in the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington 2010-11 issue.  A panel of 110 expert reviewers from area foundations, corporate giving programs, and peer non-profit organizations evaluated 270 applications; DASH is one of 70 outstanding nonprofits to be featured this year.

The Catalogue’s mission is to generate visibility and resources for the best community-based nonprofits. According to Barbara Harman, President and Editor of the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington, “We know that nonprofits have had another very difficult year, and the economy continues to create challenges: dollars are down and need is up. Individual donors can continue to make a real difference – as they did last year — keeping great organizations afloat during these tough times.”

The Catalogue raised $2.443,000 million in 2009-10, $1.5 million to date in 2010-11 (and counting), and nearly $14.7 million since its inception in 2003.

“Inclusion in the catalogue is really an honor for us,” Peg Hacskaylo, DASH Executive Director said.  “It is a sign of approval that tells donors they can invest in us with confidence, because the Catalogue vets its family of nonprofits with great care.  We are thrilled to be among the nonprofits chosen to be featured.”

25,000 individuals and hundreds of family foundations will receive copies of the print Catalogue in November, and others will visit the Catalogue website (cfp-dc.org) – the only regional philanthropy site of its kind in the country. It includes a gift registry, gift cards, a section especially for kids, and other great giving options. The website also connects donors with volunteer opportunities, events, news, videos, and more.

“Charities were selected for excellence, cost-effectiveness, and impact” Harman said. “These are certainly among the best community-based nonprofits in the Washington region.”

Click here to go to the Catalogue.

DASH HAPPY HOUR

Thursday, June 9th, 6-10pm 

On Thursday, June 9th, from 6:00-10:00pm, Bartending 4 Change will serve it up for DASH at the Stoney’s Bar and Grill at 1433 P. St. NW.  Join the DASH team and our wonderful friends at Bartending 4 Change and Stoney’s to share some great food and drink specials, and to help support the women and children that DASH serves! 

There will be an optional $5 donation at the door and all tips earned by the Bartending 4 Change charity bartenders will go directly to DASH.  Stoney’s will be offering great drink specials, including Absolut and Bacardi drinks for $4 and bud/bud light for $3, and will extend their happy hour food special for the entire event.

RSVP via facebook or to Dana Arneson.