Recently ranked the #3 Most Generous City of All Time by GoFundMe, Silver Spring is nationally recognized for its culture of care, compassion, and community action. That generosity doesn’t happen by accident—it’s driven by the people and organizations who show up every day to support, serve, and uplift others.
That spirit was on full display this past Monday, when the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board (SSCAB), in partnership with the Silver Spring Regional Service Center, proudly hosted the third Nonprofit Providers Spotlight—a powerful platform to celebrate, connect, and elevate the work of nonprofits serving our region.
Held this past Monday, May 12th, this special event brought together over 30 nonprofit and community partners, each with a shared commitment to improving lives across Silver Spring. From housing and health to arts, food access, and youth development, the room was filled with organizations doing vital work—and the energy was electric.
Participating groups included:
Interfaith Works, Shepherd’s Table, Impact Silver Spring, Identity Inc. (DYOC), Carpe Diem Arts, Spirit Club Foundation, SEEC, CareerCatchers, Renters Alliance, NAMI Montgomery County, Docs In Progress, Grace Episcopal Church, Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, Silver Spring Progressive Action, Heard Creative Co., Youth Sports Collaborative Network, International Rescue Committee, Pathways to Housing DC, EducArte, ArtStream, Leadership Montgomery, Montgomery County Food Council, Ethiopian Community Center in Maryland, Manna Inc., Montgomery County Recreation, and more.
Each presenter shared a brief spotlight presentation—highlighting their mission, programs, and powerful calls to action. County leadership was in the room to listen and engage directly, offering an invaluable opportunity for nonprofits to raise awareness and build relationships that matter.
The event also featured a special recognition ceremony honoring five individuals whose leadership, collaboration, and commitment to the downtown Silver Spring community embody the spirit of public service. Awards were presented by Jacob Newman, Silver Spring Regional Services Director, Councilmember and Council President Kate Stewart, and the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce.
Honorees included:
- Carson Henry – Chief of Operations, Silver Spring Urban District
- Liz Krueger – Director of Homeless Services, Interfaith Works
- N'Jeri Henry – Deputy Director of Homeless Services for Emergency Shelters, Interfaith Works
- Officer Nicoletta “Nikki” Hawkins – Montgomery County Police Department, 3rd District
- Tinsae Adugna – Social Services Program Manager, Shepherd’s Table
Each was recognized “in appreciation of your unwavering commitment to Silver Spring and the countless community members who live, work, and visit our downtown.” Their tireless efforts in support of the community—including leadership in collaborative working groups—have played a vital role in ensuring downtown Silver Spring remains clean, safe, welcoming, and compassionate for all.
We’re deeply grateful to all who participated and helped make this event such a success. The Nonprofit Providers Spotlight continues to grow as a space for inspiration, relationship-building, and shared action—and we look forward to what’s next.
Council President Kate Stewart