Photo courtesy The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc.
Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen presenting the $2M check to The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County Board, Staff, and Supporters.
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The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc. Receives $2 Million Federal Award to Complete Transformative Nonprofit Incubator Complex
U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks Secure FY2026 Congressionally Directed Spending to Complete the Ivy VINE Training Center and Office Suites in Suitland
By CHERYL PETTY GARNETTE
The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc.
SUITLAND, Md. (June 9, 2026—The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc. (Charities), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth, strengthening families, and building generational success since 1986, today announced it has been awarded $2 million in Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) funds to complete construction of the Ivy Village Incubator for Nonprofit Excellence (Ivy VINE) complex.
The Ivy VINE is a groundbreaking capacity-building initiative designed to strengthen the economic power of nonprofits in Prince George’s County, Maryland, particularly those serving communities of color. This $2 million federal investment will fund completion of two purpose-built facilities: the Ivy VINE Training Center and Podcast Studio, which will accommodate up to 50 participants in a state-of-the-art learning environment, and the Ivy VINE Office Suites, a two-story facility at 6112 Walton Avenue that will provide shared office space for up to 10 nonprofit organizations with meeting rooms and collaborative work areas.
A Proven Model for Nonprofit Excellence
The Ivy VINE is more than a building. It is a proven model for transforming the nonprofit sector. Since launching its inaugural capacity-building program in February 2023, the Ivy VINE has guided its first cohort of six small, emerging nonprofits through an intensive two-year program of workshops, one-on-one coaching, and peer learning in areas including board development, financial management, strategic planning, grant writing, and program evaluation.
The results have been remarkable. All six Cohort 1 nonprofit partners completed the program in December 2024 with 100% reporting they would recommend the Ivy VINE to other organizations. Participating nonprofits, all of which entered the program with disengaged boards and no experience submitting grant applications to local officials, emerged with strengthened governance, documented strategic plans, active community partnerships, and new funding. Every organization that applied for grants through the program received at least $5,000 in awards, exceeding Charities own 80% target. Two organizations have already earned Maryland Nonprofits’ Standards for Excellence recognition, and two more are on track to apply in 2025. Cohort 2, including six new nonprofit partners, started the capacity building program in September 2025 and will continue through December 2027.
The urgency for a facility like the Ivy VINE is clear. Prince George’s County is home to approximately 5,000 nonprofits, yet approximately 75% report annual revenues below $25,000 and have no paid staff, according to Maryland Nonprofits. The new Ivy VINE complex will give these organizations a physical home—a professional, resource-rich environment where they can grow, collaborate, and build the infrastructure needed to deliver greater impact in their communities.
“I congratulate The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc. and Iota Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, its affiliated organization, for this tremendous accomplishment. This $2 million award will help The Ivy VINE Training Center and Office Suites open the door to valuable services and benefits for nonprofits who in turn will be well-positioned to share their expertise and services with the community in a variety of important ways. On behalf of the 16,000 members of the North Atlantic Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, where Ivy Community Charities is located, we are extremely proud to have an influential partner making such a positive impact on the residents of Prince George’s County.”—Elicia Pegues Spearman, North Atlantic Regional Director, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
“I am extremely grateful that we have been awarded Congressionally Directed Spending funds in the amount of $2 million to complete construction of the Ivy Village Incubator for Nonprofit Excellence (Ivy VINE) complex. Since 1986, our work has centered on empowering youth, strengthening families, and building generational success, and this investment allows us to expand that legacy in a transformative way. The Ivy VINE Training Center and Podcast Studio, along with the Ivy VINE Office Suites at 6112 Walton Avenue, will create a dynamic hub where nonprofit leaders, particularly those serving communities of color, can learn, collaborate, and grow. This moment represents more than funding; it reflects confidence in our vision and a bold step forward for the future of Prince George’s County.”—Dr. Kristi L. Matthews, President, The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc.
“The Ivy VINE is more than a building. It is an opportunity for nonprofits to grow and excel. This $2 million award is a game-changer—not just for Charities, but for every small nonprofit in Prince George’s County that has been doing extraordinary work without the tools, space, or support they deserve. We are deeply grateful to
Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks for championing this investment in our community.”—Cheryl Petty Garnette, Executive Director, The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc.
Building the Future: What the $2 Million Will Accomplish
The Ivy VINE complex was designed by the Redlef Group Architects, a Black-owned, woman-led firm in Prince George’s County, and groundbreaking for the project was held on September 26, 2021. The $2 million federal investment will enable Charities to complete both facilities and fulfill a vision that has been years in the making:
• The Ivy VINE Training Center and Podcast Studio at 6118 Walton Avenue will offer a professional learning space for up to 50 participants, a podcast studio, reception area, kitchenette, and storage space. It will serve as the central hub for ongoing capacity-building workshops, cohort training, and community convenings.
• The Ivy VINE Office Suites at 6112 Walton Avenue will provide affordable office space for up to 10 nonprofit organizations, along with shared meeting rooms, a supply room, kitchenette, and reception area creating a collaborative hub for the county’s nonprofit sector.
Founded in 1986, and proudly celebrating its 40th anniversary, The Ivy Community Charities of Prince George’s County, Inc. (Charities) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth, strengthening families, and building generational success in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Charities’ programs include reading enrichment for elementary school students; team building, STEAM and leadership development for middle school girls; college and career preparation for high school students, including more than $50,000 annually in scholarships to high school seniors and continuing college students; workshops for parents to help them support their students; a Shoe Bank where children and families in need receive new shoes; and backpacks of food items provided to Title I elementary school students so that they have food over the weekend. Charities has earned the highest level of Maryland Nonprofits’ Standards for Excellence Accreditation status. For more information, visit http://www.iccpgc.org
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Council Chair Krystal Oriadha Announces ‘Planted: Mothers First Initiative Summit’ Focused on Maternal Wellness, Identity, and Community Support
June 20 Summit to Provide Resources, Community, Wellness Experiences, and Honest Conversations About the Realities of Motherhood
By PRESS OFFICER
Prince George’s County Council Media
Prince George’s County Council Chair Krystal Oriadha (District 7), in partnership with Nu You and Community on the Frontline, will host the inaugural Planted: Mothers First Initiative Summit on Saturday, June 20, bringing together mothers from across Prince George’s County for a day dedicated to healing, empowerment, community, and practical resources.
The summit is part of Chair Oriadha’s Mothers First Initiative, a countywide effort focused on improving the health, well-being, and support systems available to mothers throughout Prince George’s County.
Planted: Mothers First Initiative Summit was created to address the realities many women face after becoming mothers, including navigating identity shifts, balancing family responsibilities, managing mental health, overcoming isolation, and finding community in a world that often celebrates motherhood while overlooking the needs of mothers themselves.
Throughout the day, attendees will participate in candid panel discussions led by mothers, experts, and community leaders covering topics including:
• Drowning in Motherhood: Managing the Mental and Emotional Load
• Reclaiming Your Identity Beyond Motherhood
• The Pressure of Social Media Validation and Comparison
• The Fourth Trimester: What Happens After the Baby Arrives
• Building Healthy Support Systems and Community
• Prioritizing Maternal Mental Health and Self-Care
In addition to educational sessions, participants will enjoy wellness-focused experiences including a fragrance bar, chair massages, networking opportunities, and connections to local organizations and resources designed to support mothers and families.
“Too often we celebrate motherhood without creating spaces to support mothers,” said Chair Oriadha. “Planted is about ensuring mothers have an opportunity to pour back into themselves while building meaningful connections with other women who understand the journey. Through the Mothers First Initiative, we are creating opportunities for mothers to find community, access resources, and prioritize their own healing, growth, and well-being.”
Chair Oriadha also highlighted the importance of collaboration in bringing the summit to life.
“The success of this summit is rooted in partnership,” she said. “We are grateful to work alongside Nu You and Community on the Frontline, two organizations led by incredible mothers who understand firsthand the realities many women face. Their leadership, vision, and commitment to supporting mothers has helped transform this idea into a meaningful experience that will impact families across Prince George’s County.”
The summit is intentionally designed to create a welcoming, judgment-free environment where mothers can engage in honest conversations about the challenges and triumphs of parenting while connecting with others who share similar experiences.
Participants will leave with practical tools, new connections, wellness experiences, and access to resources that support mothers long after the event concludes.
The Mothers First Initiative, launched by Chair Krystal Oriadha, is dedicated to advancing maternal health, supporting mothers and families, and ensuring women have access to the resources, services, and community support needed to thrive before, during, and after pregnancy. Through community engagement, advocacy, education, and direct support, the initiative seeks to create a county where mothers are valued, supported, and empowered. For more information and events, please visit https://www.mothersfirstinitiative.com/
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Smithsonian Names Maryland Educator Dr. Lynson Ablaza as Inaugural 2026 Educator Excellence Award Recipient
By PRESS OFFICER
Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution has named Dr. Lynson Ablaza, a science educator at International High School at Largo in Prince George’s County, Maryland, as the inaugural recipient of its Smithsonian Educator Excellence Award.
The annual Smithsonian Educator Excellence Award honors a Pre-K–12 educator who demonstrates exceptional instructional excellence, creativity and impact. The award recognizes educators who meaningfully integrate Smithsonian collections, research and educational resources across science, history, art and culture to create engaging, inquiry-driven learning experiences.
“Dr. Ablaza exemplifies all of the exemplar teaching practices we want to celebrate,” said Dr. Monique M. Chism, the Smithsonian’s Under Secretary for Education. “He transforms Smithsonian research and resources into meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that promote curiosity, critical thinking and deep understanding. As our inaugural recipient, he sets a strong and inspiring standard for this award in the years ahead.”
Ablaza was selected for his innovative teaching and sustained collaboration with scientists and educators across the Smithsonian, including at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute and the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center. Through these partnerships, he integrates field research, scientist mentorship and real world scientific investigations into classroom learning focused on biodiversity, environmental science and conservation.
His approach emphasizes inquiry, collaboration and applied learning, enabling students to engage directly with authentic scientific questions. Reviewers noted his consistent ability to cultivate intellectual curiosity and empower students to see themselves as contributors to scientific discovery.
District leaders praised the recognition as a reflection of Ablaza’s leadership and the strength of instructional practice across Prince George’s County Public Schools.
“This recognition highlights Dr. Ablaza’s exceptional skill as an educator and his ability to create rigorous, engaging learning experiences,” said Dr. Melissa Nankin, the principal of International High School. “His work reflects a commitment to academic excellence and meaningful instruction that prepares students for future success.”
The award is supported by the Horace Mann Educator Excellence Award Endowment, established by the Horace Mann Educators Foundation to recognize outstanding educators and their lasting impact.
“At Horace Mann, we believe educators deserve to be recognized for the lasting impact they have on the lives of their students,” said Marita Zuraitis, president of the Horace Mann Educators Foundation. “By supporting the Smithsonian Educator Excellence Award Endowment, we’re helping ensure that outstanding educators are honored for generations to come. We congratulate Dr. Lynson Ablaza as the inaugural recipient, whose work reflects the lasting impact educators have on their students and communities.”
Ablaza will receive a $5,000 cash award and support to attend the Smithsonian’s National Education Summit, “Together We Thrive: Towards a More Perfect Union,” Tuesday, July 14–Thursday, July 16. The award will be presented during an evening reception at the Smithsonian’s Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture Wednesday, July 15.
For more information about Ablaza, visit the International High School’s website: https://www.pgcps.org/schools/international-high-school-at-largo. For more information about the Smithsonian’s National Education Summit, including the session lineup and free registration—open now, visit its website: https://smithsonianeducation.swoogo.com/ses2026/about.
The Smithsonian Institution’s Office of the Under Secretary for Education (OUSE) advances the Smithsonian’s mission to increase and diffuse knowledge through educational leadership, research and collaboration. OUSE works across the Smithsonian’s museums, research centers and programs to develop and share high-quality educational resources, professional learning opportunities and partnerships that support teaching and learning nationwide. Through its work, OUSE helps connect learners of all ages to the Smithsonian’s collections, scholarship and expertise.
The Horace Mann Educators Foundation is an independent charitable organization established in 2020 by Horace Mann Educators Corporation to recognize the dedication of educators who help each student reach their full potential. The foundation advances education and community well-being by addressing basic needs, reducing systemic barriers, supporting educator professional development and wellness, and championing causes important to Horace Mann Service Corporation employees.
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Governor Moore Announces Nicole Earle as Chair of the Maryland Racing Commission—First Woman and First African American in This Leadership Role
By PRESS OFFICER
Office of the Governor
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (June 5, 2026)—Governor Wes Moore today announced the appointment of Nicole Earle to chair the Maryland Racing Commission. She is the first woman and first African American to serve in this state leadership role, and her tenure beg[a]n on June 10, 2026. George Mahoney, outgoing chair, will continue to serve as a Commission member.
“Nicole Earle is the right leader at the right time and I am proud to appoint her as Chair of the Maryland Racing Commission,” said Gov. Moore. “This appointment is a historic milestone for Maryland and I am confident her expertise and experience will guide her while leading our horse racing industry.”
“The horse racing industry is in an exciting chapter of transformation as we prepare for a revitalized Pimlico,” said Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Portia Wu. “Ms. Earle’s extensive expertise in development finance and community investment makes her uniquely suited for this role. She brings a vital perspective that ensures Maryland racing remains an economic engine that uplifts local communities and that we uphold the integrity of this Maryland tradition.”
Earle is the President and CEO of Dominion Real Estate and Dominion Community Development Corporation and has over two decades of experience in the real estate industry. She has financed and managed over $1 billion in real estate projects focusing on economic growth, affordable housing, and community revitalization. She has served as a member of the Maryland Racing Commission for a year.
A prominent leader in the Park Heights community, Earle previously served as a Commercial Community Development Lender for Fulton Bank and as Development Manager for the Housing Authority of Baltimore City, where she managed complex projects like the $400 million Uplands mixed-income development. She holds a master’s degree in management and public policy with a concentration in financial management and economic development from Carnegie Mellon University.
“It is an honor to serve as Chair of the Maryland Racing Commission during this important period for Maryland racing,” said incoming Maryland Racing Commission Chair Nicole Earle. “I look forward to working with my fellow Commissioners and industry stakeholders to uphold the integrity of racing, support a safe and vibrant racing environment, and contribute to the success of Maryland racing as investments in Pimlico and Laurel shape a sustainable future for this longstanding Maryland tradition.”
“I am thrilled to welcome Ms. Earle as our new chairperson, after a year of service as a Commission member,” said Maryland Racing Commission Executive Director Chris Merz. “Her impressive background in large-scale project analysis and strategy will be a vital asset to this leadership role. I look forward to working closely alongside her as we honor Maryland’s rich racing heritage while building a modern and sustainable future for the sport.”
The chair of the Maryland Racing Commission leads the nine-member body appointed by the Governor to regulate thoroughbred, standardbred and pari-mutuel wagering in Maryland. Key responsibilities include presiding over the commission during meetings, overseeing hearings on appeals, and participating in decisions involving licensing, disciplinary actions, racing dates, purse structures, and regulatory approvals.
Maryland Racing Commission is dedicated to safeguarding health and safety in horse racing, enforcing rules for fair racing, and protecting the public through transparent betting operations. Committed to the highest standards of equine welfare, jockey safety, and regulatory integrity, the Commission supports horse racing as a cherished Maryland tradition and a high-value economic driver that supports thousands of jobs across the state.
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