On Nov. 1, we kicked off our monthly Community Forum Night at the C. Burr Artz Library here in Frederick. The event, held in partnership with the outstanding Grant Seeker’s Resource Center of FCPL, was started as a way to connect businesses, organizations, nonprofits, volunteers, and residents in our area — in short, just a way to get people together. We’ve found that the more people talk and connect with one another, the more the community benefits.

Now, as we prepare for our third Forum Night with 11(!) participating organizations, we couldn’t be more thrilled and proud with how the event is moving forward. People from all backgrounds, careers, and walks of life have come by to learn more about what their community has to offer and, in turn, find out how they can be of service to others.

We’re even more thrilled and grateful to have received such overwhelming support from area businesses. Because the dinner and event is free for attendees, each month’s hosting organization must cover the cost of the food. As you know, every dollar counts when you’re running a nonprofit or charitable agency, so it can sometimes be difficult for organizations to take on that financial commitment. To help with this, we’ve approached some local businesses about sponsoring the monthly dinners, and we are so appreciative of the warm, giving response we’ve received.

We are so thankful to Kelly Jarvis, of Changeup Marketing, for sponsoring December’s event, and Gina Copanzzi, of GMC Designs, for sponsoring January’s forum night. We’re so grateful for the support we’ve received so far, both from Kelly and Gina, and the wonderful folks who have committed to sponsoring future months.

We’d love to see you at the next forum night from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, January 3! Check out this flyer for details. Interested in sponsoring one of the events? Contact Elaina at elainac@communitylivinginc.org.