Ecumenical Community Helping Others, Inc. 7205 Old Keene Mill Road Springfield, VA  22150 Phone 703-569-9160        FAX:  703-455-2763       http://www.echo-inc.org

June 2, 2008

 Dear Congregation Representative,

Special thanks to our many volunteers turned out for us in a big way in May: 

• The Postal Letter Carriers who collected 12,300 pounds of food donated to ECHO and the many volunteers from Rolling Valley/Springfield Congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Grace Church Youth Group, and Congregation Adat Reyim who sorted and stored the food.
• Karen Knopes and all who worked with her on the first planting of the ECHO pond (the drainage area in front of building) on Saturday, May 31.  Someday we will have a beautiful butterfly habitat out there which will need less maintenance.

 Distribution of school supplies begins in July and we expect many requests.  Please see the page that details the supplies we will need to load backpacks for our clients.  In the past, vacation bible schools have been a great source of donations.

 Our continuing need for food and personal hygiene items is great.  We usually receive fewer food donations in the summer, and our clients’ needs are increasing.  Any additional giving will be most appreciated. 

 We continue to need daytime volunteers to sort clothing and to assist families in making their clothing selections.  Counselors are always needed as well, with on-the-job training offered.  Our Volunteer Needs page describes these opportunities. 

 We are grateful to all who help promote the ECHO message.

 Important dates coming up:

 Thanks for all that you do,

Pat Gauthier, Executive Director