Throughout my semester as a fellow, The Women’s Foundation introduced me to the world of foundations and philanthropy (a professional goal of the Fellows Program as well as an academic goal as I pursue my masters). It has been incredible to see how as a grantmaker, they really impact so many groups and people. However, most importantly to me, was the personal education I have received from the team as individuals, as a staff and as a foundation—each changemakers in their own way. I learned so much about the issues and challenges facing this local community. Just a few days before my last day at the Foundation, this hit me in the most unexpected way when I was leaving the office and picked up the latest Street Sense newspaper.
You see, I had been helping staff research evictions and homelessness in the region, so it was very much on my mind when I left the office. It’s an issue that’s tugged at me in a lot of ways, and being in a bigger city like Washington, DC brings it up close and personal every day. I’ve been picking up Street Sense the last few weeks, especially given my route through Metro Center.
I flipped to the back page to find a profile on Veda Simpson, the Street Sense vendor who sings “O When the Saints Go Marching In” at the Metro Center corner. It was a really beautiful profile, and I was smiling reading about her life—and then I saw the end note that “Veda Simpson passed away on Monday November 24.” I had a lump in my throat immediately. I hadn’t interacted with her more than a hello now and then and buying the paper, but reading about her death hit me really hard, as she was the reason I smiled every day getting off the metro. There was more about her on the center fold, her accomplishments, her kindness and her struggles to get there.
So why am I walking you through my evening reading about Veda? Because while Veda was a strength and a character and a bright spot in DC in her own right, welcoming the busy commuters with a positive greeting every morning, it’s because of The Women’s Foundation that I now feel a stronger awareness, as well as a more meaningful connection to Veda and women like her. Women like all of us who work through a myriad of challenges, some more visible or more severe than others. The Foundation’s work and commitment demonstrates and validates the potential for societies to be more supportive and empowering for women and girls…to help them THRIVE. (That is the word in the mission that caught my attention the most during my initial research and application for the position).
I wasn’t sure when or how I would begin to feel connected to this area after I moved here last fall—and frankly, it is easy to stay in a grad school bubble. But this fellowship offered a unique and meaningful experience that has helped me grow academically, professionally and personally. I’m only sorry I couldn’t put in more time here with them, as they undertake a heavy lift to move the needle. But my goodness, if any team can do it, it’s: Jennifer, Nicole, Virginie, Jessica, Crystal, Lauren, Claudia, Donna, Sylvia—THANK YOU.
I’ve learned so much—not only the struggles, but what is being done to make a difference.
With gratitude,
Rebecca Scherpelz
Philanthropy Fellow
The Center for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership in the School of Public Policy at the University of Maryland at College Park