Ready, Willing & Working (RWW) is pleased to welcome long-time DC activist Carol Fennelly to our Board of Directors. For more than four decades, Carol has been a passionate advocate for the marginalized and underserved in the Nation’s Capital.

Carol’s dedication to social justice is reflected in her 17 years of service at the Community for Creative Non-Violence (CCNV) homeless shelters, where she not only worked closely with individuals experiencing homelessness but also played a key role in creating innovative programs and shaping public policy on housing and homelessness issues. In 1998, as the District’s Lorton Correctional Institution was closing and thousands of DC prisoners were relocated far from home, Carol founded Hope House. During her time there, the nonprofit helped thousands of incarcerated fathers stay connected to their children through its programs, ensuring that fathers can continue to play an active and important role in their children’s lives even from behind bars.

RWW President Patty Brosmer expressed enthusiasm about Carol joining the Board, stating: “We are thrilled to welcome Carol to our Board. Her expertise will help strengthen RWW’s mission by placing an even greater focus on supporting families. We have long recognized the critical role family connections play in the successful reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals and in breaking the cycle of recidivism. By extending our efforts to include fathers who are currently incarcerated, RWW is equipping them with the tools and support needed to build meaningful, lasting relationships with their children. This approach not only boosts their confidence but also inspires them to reenter society as responsible, devoted fathers and citizens after their release.”

As the year draws to a close, Ready, Willing & Working encourages supporters to consider contributing to our mission with your End-of-Year Giving. With Carol’s addition to the Board and the expansion of our programs, we require additional financial support to continue opening doors of opportunity for currently and formerly incarcerated and homeless individuals. Donations help to empower these individuals to rebuild their lives, strengthen family bonds, and become positive contributors to their communities.

Your generosity ensures that the supportive services RWW has established, including case management meetings, relapse prevention, Metro fare cards, and other incentives, provide the tools necessary for the “men in blue” to gain the self-esteem and confidence they need to be successful. All donations are tax deductible (tax ID #26-2383012). Thank you for considering Ready, Willing & Working with your end of year giving!