Greetings!

The gospel passage from Luke at the top of this Year-in-Review is one of my ‘go to’ lines when I’m describing to someone the essence of who we are at Samaritan Ministry of Greater Washington. Giving a hand-up to those who are in need is what we are all about – it’s not just part of our name, it drives our mission and our work with participants on a daily basis.

In my role as President of the Board, I have a unique perspective into the challenges the organization has faced during the COVID pandemic: they have been many, they have been daunting, and 2021 was no exception. As case numbers rise and fall in the region, Samaritan Ministry has continued to adapt and meet each challenge – sometimes that means meeting with participants outside; it means having an accurate contact-tracing system in place; it means making sure there is an adequate supply of masks and other PPE for participants who lack their own…the list goes on.

All of that would be difficult on its own, but to add these challenges on top of the existing heavy demands of simply providing the Next Step Program is massive. I realize many non-profits are dealing with similar situations, but I am impressed by the way we continue to rally and keep things moving so we can assist our participants.

I am proud to be the President of the Board at Samaritan Ministry. If you’re reading this, it means you also play a part in making the organization a success. As you read on, I invite you to join me in celebrating our shared work in the community and the impact we’ve had together in the last year.

Sincerely,

Joe Kolar

President, Board of Directors