About Us
Children In Need, Inc. strives to keep children in school through graduation and create a positive sense of belonging. Founded in 1998, Children in Need is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization which serves more than 2,000 families annually in Washington County, Maryland.
Every economically disadvantaged Washington County child in need of support is eligible for services from Children in Need. On behalf of their children, clients are eligible to visit the center once per month to receive clothing, hygiene items and school supplies, including books.
Through Extended Services, Children in Need also donates these items listed above to WCPS Pupil Personnel Workers, the Homeless Services Coordinator, etc.
Vision & Goal
To provide each Washington County, MD child living at or below the federally recognized poverty level essential items and educational supplies to ensure their success in school. To give Washington County children an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and become productive citizens. To raise community awareness, raise funds and provide resources.
History
What began as a friendly game of golf for Art Richards and some of his golfing buddies in 1998 ended up in a vision to provide Washington County school age children with an opportunity to learn, grow and become productive citizens.
In 1998, Art learned that a disproportionate amount of children enrolled in Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) were without basic needs, living at or below the guidelines of poverty as identified by the federally funded “Free And Reduced Meals” program. Many of these children did not attend school on a regular basis. Art and his colleagues founded Children In Need, Inc. and the organization began serving the children in December of 1998.
Board of Directors
- President Donna Mitchell – Washington County Chamber of Commerce
- Vice President Matt South – Middletown Valley Bank
- Secretary Trish Shultz – Washington County Government
- Treasurer Breanna Barnhart – Albright Crumbacker Moul & Itell
- David Belliotti – JLG Industries
- Cassie Hershberger – Maryland’s Office of Overdose Response – Maryland Department of Health
- Nick Hill
- Jason Lengyel – Walmart Distribution Center
- Lauren Silkey-Parker – Washington County Public Schools
- Milagros Lewis – Meritus Health
- Kimberly Socks – Amazon
- Karla Tellez – Patriot Federal Credit Union
- Dharma Lara – Student Board Member
Children In Need flyer in English and Spanish:
Executive Director
Brittany Wedd is an accomplished philanthropy professional with a distinguished career spanning over a decade in the nonprofit sector. Her unwavering commitment to advancing meaningful causes has been instrumental in driving record-breaking growth and organizational capacity for the agencies she’s led. Through her collaborative efforts, she has successfully brought together diverse stakeholders to champion important initiatives, leaving an enduring impact on the communities she serves.
Director of Client and Volunteer Services
Joan Balbuena Hernandez is a distinguished professional with a remarkable career in the nonprofit sector, recognized for her exceptional expertise in relationship building. With a passion for making a positive impact on communities, Joan has dedicated her career to fostering meaningful connections, driving collaboration, and achieving impactful outcomes. Her ability to connect, inspire, and mobilize individuals and organizations makes her a valued asset in the pursuit of a more equitable and compassionate society.
Warehouse Coordinator
Lori Barnes is an remarkable business professional with over two decades of management and leadership experience. She has successfully owned and operated multiple businesses, demonstrating a proven track record of exceptional leadership. Her expertise lies in optimizing operations to drive efficiency and growth. Passionate about community service, she is dedicated to making a positive impact and improving the communities she serves, which is evident in everything she does.
Non-Discrimination Policy
It is the policy of Children In Need, Inc. NOT to discriminate against any employees, clients, donors or volunteers, because of race, color, age, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, ethnic or national origin, disability, veteran status, leave status, family status, pregnancy, genetic information, and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. This policy shall be posted within all interview and waiting areas of Children In Need, Inc. to ensure that all persons are fully aware.