Central Union Mission, the 134-year-old supporter of D.C.’s needy, will receive this year’s “Distinction in Social Service” at the Making D.C. History Awards on September 20.
The non-profit institution offers an emergency rescue shelter, rehabilitative and job training programs, retreats for underprivileged children, and much more to Washingtonians in need.
Founded in 1884, Central Union Mission initially focused on helping Civil War veterans. Each year, it provides over 50,000 beds or bedding to the homeless and families in need. The Mission offers three meals a day to those who rely on its five shelters. The main shelter is located at the historic Gales School near Union Station.
A quick glance at the testimonials on their website demonstrates just how successful Central Union Mission is in not only assisting the homeless, but also in reforming lives. “I was removed from the bad things I was living for,” said a retired Army veteran and recovering addict who came to the Mission, “and got a new start.” After graduating from Central Union Mission’s Spiritual Transformation Program, which aims to provide tools for those with addictions and help them find employment, the veteran worked on the Mission’s staff as an assistant front desk supervisor, helping to advise the homeless.
The organization also provides vital programming for children.
Each summer it hosts Camp Bennett, a retreat for over 400 area children. At the camp, children can swim, hike, and learn new leadership skills. The program aims to help parents who cannot afford summer daycare.
During the winter holidays, the Mission runs Operation Christmas Miracle. “I remember having to make a decision whether I let the electricity be cut off and provide Christmas gifts for the children,” a single mother recalled, “or pay the electric bill and just figure out something else.” Instead, she turned to the Mission, where Operation Christmas Miracle makes sure that every child in need receives a gift during the holidays.
Accepting this year’s “Distinction in Social Services” award on behalf of Central Union Mission is the organization’s new executive director, Joseph J. Mettimano. For 28 years Mettimano has dedicated his work to alleviating global poverty, transforming prisons, stopping child trafficking, and more.
Also attending the awards is David Treadwell, who served as the executive director for 20 years. During his tenure, Treadwell led the historic move of the Mission to its current location and implemented staff training programs, which emphasize positive encouragement to those in need.
We invite you to celebrate Central Union Mission at the 2018 Making D.C. History Awards, the Historical Society’s annual gala fundraiser, at the Newseum on Thursday, September 20, 2018.
Read about Akridge, the 2018 “Distinction in Historic Preservation” recipient, the Drew and Jarvis Families, this year’s “Legacy Families of Washington, D.C.” recipients, and HITT Contracting, Inc. for “Distinction in Corporate Achievement.”