The Children’s Guild – Annual Report

Jenny’s Message Stay Connected Volunteer Donate Thank You Donors:

The Orokawa Foundation

The M&T Charitable Foundation

Partlow Insurance Agency, Inc.

Dan Sisas, Take Two Unlimited

Gregory Gann

DP Solutions

Agnes Kibirige

Andrew Hahn

Terry Carnes, CECA

Howard Kurman, Offit Kurman

Jenny Livelli

United HealthCare Services, Inc

USI Insurance Services, LLC

Whiteford, Taylor, and Preston, LLP

Casandra Blassingame

Todd Lamb, CapitolStrategies

The Blackbaud Giving Fund

Elizabeth Garcia

Charley Gordon

Christian Stanley, Greenspring Advisors

Hughes Johnson

David Meyer

Ellen Meyer

Jerry Partlow

Lou Goldberg, Digital Protection Services

Dr. Paul Rao

Ralph Rizzo

Integrated Pest Services

Chris Zimmerman

The Community Foundation of Howard County

Jessica Diaz

Mike Bognanni

Sonjie DeCaires

Enos Hill

Paul Hoyer

George Jones

Frank Morabito

Sheela Murthy

George Nixon

Rebecca Ostroski, HotWax Baltimore

Joseph Pelland

Justin Reaves

Jean Blosser

Lucas Brown

Paige Cardwell

Eric Collier

Scott Emerick

Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece

Lola Hahn

Larry Jenkins

Daniel and Kathleen Langan

Pica and Associates, LLC

George McDowell

Annette Merz

Michael Nassif

Robert Seabrooks

Lori Trumble

Carrie Blankenship

Steven and Carolyn Bourg

Victoria Davis

Kleanthi Dede

Carol and Todd Forbes

Pete Gifford

Kate and Ned Gutman

Dr. Sundra Ryce Hardy

Steve Hecht

Geoff and Dottie Jenkins

William Lahner

Betty Love

Thomas McDowell

Margaret and William Righter

Alan Roth

Liesa Ross

Kelly Schwalbert

Jamie Wilson

Network for Good

American Charities

Charles Alexander

Jermaine Ayala

Austin Beeber

Jaime Bishow

Mark Burton

Alexander Campolongo

Lindsey Comer

Jason Connor

Carley Czyzewski

Gracie Daniel

Barbara Dezmon

Erin Finnegan

Dave Gell

Ken Goldstein

Margaret Greif

Geraldine Johnson

Rob Horne

LaRia Land

Mary Lankester

Mark Lerner

Mike Livingston

Thersa Mayo

Laura Merrill

Steven Mutschler

Diane Paul

Brian Partlow

Mark Rapaport

Gail Robinson

Darrel Rogers

Joshua Silverman

James Snyder

Admire Tondoneh

Maurice Wagoner

John Weitzel

Kurt Wittelsberger

Joy Zollinger

USI Insurance Services

Paul Hoyer

Francis Reinhardt, Image 360

Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece

The Capital Group

A message from our CEO:

At The Children’s Guild, we know that the most important thing we do is help families.

We are proud to be an organization that focuses on helping students and families find success socially, emotionally, educationally, and developmentally.

Since 1953, we’ve kept children and families as our north star. That’s 70 years of working everyday so that:

Students have access to educational environments that stimulate them as a whole person
Support focuses on the mental well-being of children to help them learn the tools necessary to find success
Resources are accessible for families through community support networks and partnerships
Therapies are available for students who otherwise would not have access to help them advance
Tangible needs are met like free meals, free school supplies, and gift cards for necessities

As CEO, I can only wonder if our founders, Dr. Leo Kanner, father of child psychiatry and the discoverer of childhood autism; Dr. Matthew Debuskey, pediatrician; and Sadie Dashew Ginsberg, prominent child advocate, knew the foundation they laid would still be thriving today. I applaud the efforts that Stanley Mopsik, our first Executive Director, made in creating a structure that allowed us to expand nonpublic schools for children with special needs.

His leadership was based on the cornerstone of inclusion that still leads us today. In more recent history, Dr. Andrew Ross recognized a growing need and rapidly expanded services throughout the Mid-Atlantic, providing a pathway to make sure more children had access to critical therapies and educational resources.

The Children’s Guild certainly looks different from our early days in Baltimore, Maryland. We are positioning ourselves to continue to be here for decades to come.

As such, we recently opened our new headquarters located at 1200 First St NE, Washington, DC. This move helps us to expand our educational programs, increase and leverage new partnerships with regional and national organizations with similar missions, grow opportunities with partners, be more centrally located to staff and families, and bring vital, rewarding careers to the NOMA neighborhood.

I extend my personal invitation for you to come tour our new space or any of our programs. We’d love to show you what 70 years of excellence in serving children and families looks like. This year’s Annual Report provides a glimpse of the incredible work that your support makes possible.

As we step into our 70th year of service, I express my gratitude to those who have given their time, talent, and resources to propel this organization forward.

Thank you for your continued partnership.

Jenny Livelli
President & CEO

Close CEO Message

The Children’s Guild SEEDs Growth!

In 2022, The Children’s Guild impacted those we serve:

The seed that started The Children’s Guild 70 years ago was a desire to provide individualized transformational experiences to ensure children, families, and communities thrive.

Socially

Emotionally

Educationally

Developmentally.

Today, we have firm roots in Maryland and have expanded to Washington, DC As we enter our 70^th year of serving children in the region, we reflect back on 2022 as a year of exceptional growth as we S.E.E.D. change in the lives of those we serve.

The seed that started The Children’s Guild 70 years ago was a desire to provide individualized transformational experiences to ensure children, families, and communities thrive.

We SEED growth SOCIALLY!

We create opportunities for family, friends, and communities
to participate in and celebrate students’ journeys.

I am so proud of the school, the teachers, my grandson…they deserve the same things as everybody and it is really beautiful.”

Delphine Dancy,
Grandmother of Transformation Academy student

Be a Star!

The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy Prom

Transformation Academy Prom student and teacher

On Friday, August 12th, 36 students from The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy in Baltimore attended their first prom to celebrate the start of their new year in this special education nonpublic school that has become a thriving environment for students ages 5-21 whose primary diagnosis is autism. Many of the students also have coexisting diagnoses of sensory processing disorder, a specific learning disability, health impairment, or multiple disabilities.

The inaugural prom’s theme was “Be A Star.” Students enjoyed the typical prom experience with decorations, music, and fun. Instead of crowning a prom king and queen, each student was recognized for their individual accomplishments and what makes them so special. View the prom segment featured on WMAR-2 News Baltimore.

Autism Speaks Walk

In October 2022, we partnered with Autism Speaks, the largest autism research organization in the United States, for its Autism Speaks Walks in both Washington, DC and Baltimore. Both events were an amazing show of community support for those with autism can reach their full potential and live their best lives. We are excited to continue to grow our partnership with Autism Speaks.

Monarch Global Helps Brock Bridge During Emergency

In fall 2022, Monarch Global Academy Laurel Principal Emily Abell received a morning phone call from her friend and fellow principal, Ada Carter, at Brock Bridge Elementary School. Brock Bridge, located across the street from Monarch Global Academy Laurel, was experiencing a gas leak while school was in session. Ms. Carter was desperate to relocate the school’s 300 students to safety. Without hesitation, the staff from both schools teamed up to move the students, some of whom had special needs, into Monarch Global Academy Laurel’s gym. The gym was converted into a makeshift classroom, and Monarch Global Academy Laurel’s cafeteria staff even fed their surprise guests. Talk about being neighborly!

Mini Stories

Monarch Academy Glen Burnie Highlights Equity in Education

Monarch Academy Glen Burnie welcomed two civil rights leaders, the Honorable Carl Snowden and Elder Charles E. James, to address the school’s teachers and discuss equity in education.

Monarch Global Academy Laurel Student on Sesame Street

Chanel, a student at Monarch Global Academy Laurel, reached millions of households in the United States as the voice actor for the character “Izzy” on the all-new 2022 Sesame Street: Mecha Builders.

TranZed Academy for Working Students – MoCo Podcast

TranZed Academy for Working Students (TAWS) was featured on the podcast “What’s Happening MoCo?” and shared about the flexible work and school opportunity for students in partnership with Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery County Community College.

The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus – Student Council Lunch

The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus’ High School Student Council delivers lunch once a week to every classroom so they can encourage community among the school.

Treatment Foster Care – MARFY Award

Solace, a teenager in our Treatment Foster Care Program, was honored with a Maryland Association of Resources for Families and Youth (MARFY) Achievement Award.

Monarch Academy Annapolis Celebrates Juneteenth

Leaders from Monarch Academy Annapolis and The Children’s Guild attended the Juneteenth Gala and promoted the school at the community Juneteenth event.

Treatment Foster Care – Theatre Trip

A Treatment Foster Care social worker surprised Kayla, a youth in Treatment Foster Care, with a trip to see Hamilton, the Broadway Musical, at The Hippodrome Theater as part of the work to provide children with new experiences they might otherwise not have.

At Monarch Global Academy Laurel when we were made aware of a family in need last school year, our staff rallied around the family. Within 24 hours we had set up a meal train and raised $500 for groceries for the family. It is times like this where I know that this school is the place for me. The support we give to students and their families is unlike any school community I have ever been a part of.”

Emily Abell,
Principal, Monarch Global Academy Laurel

We SEED growth EMOTIONALLY!

We build children’s confidence, so they understand their power
to make progress.

Working at Monarch Academy Annapolis has reminded me that there are still educators that believe in the power of educating the mind and the heart.”

Nikki Pritchett-Johnson,
Author and School Counselor,
Monarch Academy Annapolis

Mental Health Awareness Week

The Children’s Guild is an organization that puts the needs of the whole child in focus. Our students’ mental, emotional, and social well-being is just as important as their academic success. School counselor from Monarch Academy Annapolis, Nikki Pritchett-Johnson, has written Purposed Through Joy!, a children’s book helping kids to manage their mental, emotional, and social needs.

Nikki discusses how her work as a school counselor launched this book in the video below.

I’ve been blessed with a loving foster mom who never once implied that I was a foster child. She made me feel like one of her own and makes me feel like a real sibling along with her own kids. My foster family taught me that rather than looking down on someone, it’s better to give them a hand up. I will always remember the importance of giving and giving back.”

Solace,
Treatment Foster Care graduate

Treatment Foster Care – Navigating Trauma Through Specialized Training

Treatment Foster Care serves children who have complex problems due to experiencing severe trauma and behaviors that are difficult for regular foster homes to manage.

Foster parents in the program are trained to help children with trauma issues and are educated in being trauma-informed and providing a healing environment. Treatment Foster Care parents also learn improved coping skills and how to manage some of the most challenging scenarios as part of training.

By being right in the school for kids, we are reducing barriers to access. We want to help each young person and their family learn skills to address interpersonal, social, emotional, and academic challenges. We work with caregivers, families, school staff, and other involved agencies to provide individualized treatment that is strength-based.”

Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece,
Managing Director of Behavioral Health Services, The Children’s Guild

Mini Stories

Mental Well-Being Starts Young

The Children’s Guild provides mental and behavioral health services in more than 80 public schools across Maryland, specializing in working with children and families and trauma-informed treatment.

Autism Awareness Month

We celebrated Autism Awareness Month across the organization. For students with a severe autism diagnosis, The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy provides skills and support to students and their families across a variety of settings, including home, workplace, and community.

Monarch Global Academy Laurel – A Rooftop Sleepover

Emily Abell, Principal of Monarch Global Academy Laurel, spent the night on the roof as a fundraising incentive. She challenged her students to reach a fundraising goal of $25,000 to benefit field trips and enrichment experiences. If they reached this goal, she would make good on her promise and spend a night on the school roof.

The PTA also helped the students reach this goal and donated $3,000 for instrument storage and $3,000 for shelving in the media center.

Emily states, “The experience was fun and VERY cold, but I’ll do anything for my students.”

Highlighting Our Focus on Mental Health

We are mental health champions. In Jenny Livelli’s interview with Authority Magazine, she promotes the importance of mental health and well-being for children and their families.

We SEED growth EDUCATIONALLY!

We create academically inspired learning environments and
provide education access so that all students can succeed.

Introducing the Class of 2022!

In late Spring 2022, our schools and programs held promotion and graduation ceremonies for communities to gather and celebrate! At Monarch Academy Annapolis Pre-K and Monarch Preschool College Park, our youngest students were celebrated and spread their wings to soar into kindergarten. Alumni of Monarch Academy Glen Burnie who graduated high school this year returned to campus for the March of the Graduates. Hard work was recognized as The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore Class of 2022 celebrated graduating its 8th grade students. With the determination and the support of TranZed Academy for Working Students (TAWS) career coaches and advisors, TAWS Class of 2022 are well prepared for their next life adventure. The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School graduated their largest 8th grade class. We wish all our students bright futures!

The Children’s Guild leads the way in Blueprint for Maryland’s Future

TranZed Academy for Working Students (TAWS) is honored to have been recognized in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future: Career and College Readiness report, a ten-year plan for the future of education in Maryland. We strive to continue setting benchmarks and serving our students to the best of our abilities. Blueprint for Maryland’s Future is a pathway that provides the best models for education success. We are proud of the TAWS staff and students’ work and proud to have their efforts showcased as a best-in-class model for workforce development programs.
Check out pages 61-62 of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future to see where TAWS is highlighted in this report!

Safety First at Monarch Preschool College Park

After a weekend false alarm at Monarch Preschool College Park, school Director Krissie Taylor received a follow-up call from the officer who responded to the call but what surprised her was the reason for his call. He wanted to find out more about the school, not for his work as a police officer, but as the father of a 3-year-old son.    

Officer Maldonado says Monarch Preschool College Park has been the perfect place for his son, and found the perfect fit for him until he is ready for kindergarten. He states, “I was searching for a school, and I think that call happened for a reason. He has grown so much from when he started. He is happier, more confident, social, and empathetic.” 

Excellence in School Awards

Congratulations to Principal Kim Jakovics at Monarch Academy Glen Burnie, who was honored with Maryland Alliance of Public Charter Schools “Leader of the Year” Award. Kim has truly made a difference in so many of her students’ lives as principal of the school. Zaikiyah (Z) Weddington, who is in 8th grade at the Monarch Academy Glen Burnie, was also honored by the Maryland Alliance of Public Charter Schools as an “Outstanding 8th Grader” for being a role model and leader.

We are so proud of Kim Jakovics and Zaikiyah Weddington for being recognized by this prestigious organization for the values we live by at The Children’s Guild and Monarch Academy Glen Burnie.”

Jenny Livelli,
President and CEO, The Children’s Guild

Mini Stories

The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus’ Engineering Program — First of its Kind

The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus is the first special education school to participate in The Makerspace Project. The Makerspace Project engages middle school and high school students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or multiple disabilities in introductory engineering by building an inclusive community of neurodiverse and neurotypical families, peers, and special education teachers. This program is made possible by a generous donation from a student’s parent.

TranZed Apprenticeship Services Expands Workforce Development Program

TranZed Apprenticeship Services partnered with Maryland Department of Labor, Prince George’s Community College, and Employ Prince George’s Apprenticeship Innovation Program to launch a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) pre-apprenticeship program for jobseekers funded by Employ Prince George’s. Graduates of the CNA program and other CNAs can access full-time employment and further career certifications through TranZed Apprenticeship Services’ newly registered Patient Care Technician Apprenticeship program.

Monarch Academy Annapolis is Officially an IB School

Monarch Academy Annapolis received the official International Baccalaureate (IB) authorization for the Primary Years Program (PYP). The PYP nurtures and develops young students as caring, active participants in a lifelong journey of learning. It reflects the best educational research, thought leadership and experience derived from IB World Schools.

The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore Library Expansion

The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore started the ’22-’23 school year with a new library, thanks to Principal Dr. Katina Webster’s big vision in the summer of 2021. The shelves are now stocked with almost 1,000 books, thanks to donations from the staff and former classmates of Dr. Webster.

“Repurposed furniture from The Children’s Guild’s warehouse and some decorations compliments of the principal means that “students now have their own Barnes & Noble,” says Dr. Webster.

The space is also used for special events and observances, such as a living museum for Black History Month, Read Across America, and DEAR (Drop Everything and Read).

Pre-K Expansion Makes the Difference for Early Learners

Monarch Preschool College Park and Monarch Academy Annapolis Pre-K are high-quality, project-based learning Pre-K programs of The Children’s Guild. Monarch Academy Annapolis expanded its number of classrooms and welcomed 20 new Pre-K students.

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School – Highlights School Choice Week
The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School was featured in a syndicated blog Parents Have School Choice Kids Win, which discusses education reform topics in Washington, DC.

We SEED growth DEVELOPMENTALLY!

We believe that every child has the potential to develop into the best
version of themselves.

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School is Where Students Can Blossom

Fraternal twins Nyla and Nazier have blossomed in the family atmosphere of The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School, fostered by Principal Bryan Daniels and school staff. Travis, the proud father of these students, is celebrating his son making the Honor Roll once again. His typically shy daughter is thriving in the welcoming family atmosphere at TCGDC.

students and teacher standing in classroom

The biggest compliment I can say is every parent can be comfortable knowing their child is being well taken care of while in school.”

Travis,
Father of Nyla and Nazier, Students at
The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School

Students with Autism Find Support at The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy

Re’Sean has started to thrive since enrolling at The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy. In the past, Re’Sean avoided the classroom setting, and as a result, had minimal interaction with the classroom environment, including his peers.

With the dedication and consistency of his 1:1 staff member, Re’Sean has increased his time in the classroom throughout the day and happily seeks out peers and staff for interactions. His teacher provided Re’Sean with a pointer to extend his reach so he can come to the board to participate in the lesson. He comes to school happy, interacts with staff and peers, and participates throughout the day. The team he works with is thrilled to see him thriving!

Life Skills are Important at The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore

In the fall of 2022, in addition to managing The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore as principal, Dr. Katina Webster stepped back in the classroom in the role of teacher. Dr. Webster teaches a small group of students daily for culinary arts class in which she covers the basics of food and bake shop production, nutrition, management training, service skills, human relations, and menu development. The class even heads into the school’s kitchen once a month to work on their cooking skills; what’s even better is that the staff gets to benefit! This year, the class has made tacos, cookies, and brownies for the staff.

Mini Stories

Monarch Global Academy Laurel – Family Literacy Night

Monarch Global Academy Laurel hosted a Family Literacy Night to encourage the love of reading among students and their families.

Football Camp

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School hosted its first summer football camp with coaches and players from local universities and the NFL.

Apprenticeship Week

TranZed Apprenticeship Services celebrated Apprenticeship Week. Our Workforce Development programs are a crucial component to closing the skills gap and are rapidly becoming key additions to the modern workforce.

Mural Transforms School Building

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School became a piece of public art as a local artist painted a mural on the outside of the school. The design was inspired by nature, depicting the mission to educate learners of all kind, everywhere we can. The mural was completed in December 2022.

Basketball Camp

Monarch Academy Annapolis and Principal Shae Johnson hosted a basketball camp for K-5 students.

Transformation Theatre Camp

Monarch Academy Annapolis, Monarch Global Academy Laurel, and Monarch Academy Glen Burnie thespians had a blast at this year’s Transformation Theatre Camp.

The 2022 Impact was made possible thanks to our amazing partners and community-connected businesses.

15^th Annual Golf Classic

Thank you to all the golfers and sponsors who made our 15^th Annual Golf Classic a success! In June 2022, almost 100 golfers teed off at the newly remodeled The Preserve at Eisenhower Golf Course in Crownsville, Maryland.

The golf tournament was our largest fundraising event of the year. We raised $47,000 at the tournament.

Learn More About Future Golf Events

We want to thank our sponsors: Partlow Insurance, DP Solutions, USI, WTP, United Healthcare, Image 360-White Marsh, Greenspring Advisors, Offit Kurman, CECA, ConTest, Take Two Unlimited, and Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis. We especially want to recognize or tournament sponsor, M&T Bank, for their generous support.

A special thank you to our repeat Golf Classic Chairs Paul Hoyer and Jean Blosser, for their hard work in making this event a reality.

Learn More About Future Golf Events

We look forward to
supporting the great work
The Children’s Guild:
Transformation Academy is
doing for children with autism
and other special needs.”

Senator Mary Washington

Government Leaders Visit The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy

Senator Mary Washington and House Delegate Regina Boyce visited The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy. “We look forward to supporting the great work The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy is doing for those children with autism and other special needs,” said Senator Washington. “We applaud The Children’s Guild for developing this school, which provides a wonderful environment for students from all backgrounds to thrive,” says House Delegate Boyce.

New Computers for Students

The Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF) of Towson, Maryland, donated 25 PC desktop and laptop computers to The Children’s Guild for use at the Prince George’s and Baltimore Campuses, both nonpublic, special education day schools. The donation was made possible through DP Solutions, a managed IT services provider (MSP), which services both The Children’s Guild and the IDF.

FedEx Cares Donates to Monarch Academy Annapolis

Monarch Academy Annapolis was selected by Operation Warm corporate partner FedEx to receive up to 300 brand-new athletic shoes, socks, and cleaning supplies. The students were most excited about the shoes!

Back2School Backpack Campaign

Our amazing partners made going back to school possible for families and students at The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School and Treatment Foster Care with donations of 300 backpacks filled with school supplies. Back2School events across the organization included donated gift cards for families, catered meals, and games.

Transformation Academy and Baltimore City Public Schools

The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy has developed a partnership with Baltimore City Public Schools, bringing together the best in education support and staff for children on the autism spectrum.

teacher and student celebrating birthday

student artist holding sign for Art Night

The Children's Guild District of Columbia teacher and students

student helping child with special needs

We’ve named our internal newsletter The Scoop. So here’s the scoop on what’s been happening internally at The Children’s Guild:

BOARD UPDATES

In 2022, we welcomed several new individuals to both The Children’s Guild Board of Directors and our school boards.

New members on
The Children’s Guild
Board of Directors:

Jerry Partlow

Howard Kurman

Kandace Hoppin

New members on
The Children’s Guild DC
Public Charter School Board:

Casandra D. Blassingame

Jessica Rios

New members on
Monarch Academies
School Board:

Rashida Kimbrue Major

Rotunda Floyd-Cooper

Kevin Martin

Ann Wilmoth

Thank you to all of our board members for their
support throughout the year.

The Children’s Guild
Board of Directors
Eric Collier
Michael Curran
Sonjie DeCaires
Andrew Hahn
Shawn Hart
Kandace Hoppin
Howard Kurman
Jenny Livelli
Keri Lowry
Jake Oliver
Jerry Partlow
Dr. Sundra Ryce
Robert Seabrooks
Judy Shaw
Neil Young

Monarch Academies
School Board
Kandace M. Hoppin, Chair
Carley K. Czyzewski, Vice Chair
Ann Wilmoth
Janine Fratantuono
Rashida Kimbrue Major
Rotunda Floyd-Cooper
Dr. Sissy Jimenez
Ray Szyperski
Brittany Jones*
Kevin Martin*
*parent representatives

The Children’s Guild
DC Public Charter School Board
Robert Seabrooks, Board Chair
Casandra D. Blassingame
Jessica Rios
Michael J. Curran
Mayra D. Figueroa-Clark
Cleopatra Green-Clark
Dr. Jason S. Henderson
Yolanda Lusane
Rev. Charles W. McNeill, Jr.
Angelo Wong III

We extend a special thank you to the board members who have served their terms.
Thank you to the following for your support and leadership during your terms:

Dr. Paul Rao

Greg Gann

Chris Zimmerman

student with Monarch Academy sweatshirt on

STAFF UPDATES

The Children’s Guild welcomed three new individuals to our senior
leadership team, and another shifted positions to better serve the organization.

Chris Zimmerman
Chief Financial Officer
Chris Zimmerman traded his Board responsibilities for those of the new CFO this year. Chris is leading a critical piece to The Children’s Guild’s growth plan by structuring and strengthening The Children’s Guild’s financial team to support the organization’s new direction and goals. Before joining the board, Chris had been supporting The Children’s Guild as a volunteer since 2014. He was a founding member of The Children’s Guild DC Charter School Board of Directors.

Hughes Johnson
Chief of Staff; Interim Chief of Educational Services
Hughes brings a rich experience in education, training, and compliance, as well a clear focus on developing and measuring quality systems, to the new strategic plan and vision set forth by The Children’s Guild Board of Directors and CEO Jenny Livelli, emphasizing effective, efficient, and quality operations across all service areas. Hughes’s expertise positively impacts The Children’s Guild operations as Chief of Staff as he focuses on creating and supporting quality operations across the entire organization, and provides steady leadership as The Guild completes a thoughtful search for a new Chief of Educational Services.

Charley Gordon
Chief Revenue Officer
Charley joined The Children’s Guild in November 2020 as its Chief Financial Officer before moving to the CRO role in July 2022. He brings 39 years of experience in the private sector to his work as The Children’s Guild Chief Revenue Officer. In this new role for The Children’s Guild, he focuses on fundraising, grants, marketing and sales, new business development, and mission advocacy.

We also said “see you later” to long-time friends of The Children’s Guild, Kimberly Neal and Kathy Lane. Both have been integral to building the organization over the years and we wish them the best success in their new endeavors.

boy student and teacher at climbing wall

STRATEGIC PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

In 2021, The Children’s Guild Board of Directors worked with Maryland Nonprofits to revise a strategic plan that would carry the organization forward. This important work was composed of the following board and staff members who spent countless hours strategically orchestrating a plan:

Strategic Plan Board Members:
Dr. Paul Rao
Andrew Hahn
Keri Lowry
Jake Oliver
Dr. Sundra Ryce
Neil Young
Chris Zimmerman
Shawn Hart

Strategic Plan Internal Staff:
Jenny Livelli
Charley Gordon
Elizabeth Garcia
Kimberly Neal
Kathy Lane
Erin Finnegan-Smith

In 2022, we begin implementing the plan in the following ways:

Expanding organizational reach through partnership with Baltimore Public Schools to expand the Severe and Profound program for students at The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy.
Launched the first cohort of Patient Care Technician apprentices in partnership with Prince Georges Community College, University of Maryland Medical System, Medstar Health, and Luminis Health.
The Children’s Guild’s leaders joined committees of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Private Special Education Centers (NAPSEC), raising our profile among peers nationwide.

Andrew Hahn was appointed as Chairman of The Children’s Guild Board of Directors, along with welcoming Howard Kurman, Jerry Partlow, and Kandace Hoppin to the Board of Directors. The strategic plan will allow us to strengthen as an organization and continue to expand and provide the services necessary to meet the growing needs of our community now and in the future.

CARF RECERTIFICATION

The Children’s Guild received a three-year recertification from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). A CARF accreditation is an assurance for families that we strive to offer the highest quality services.

Your partnership makes all the difference for children and families. Thank you to our partners for their financial support throughout the year. We could not provide services without your incredible support.

GRANTS

As part of our fundraising efforts, our Grants Department stays busy sourcing funding to operate our programs.

The following are key grants that will improve our schools and programs:

Grant	Grant Name	Amount Awarded	Program Awarded to/for
MSDE	Pre-K Expansion Grant	$1,040,000	Monarch Academy Annapolis Pre-K
MSDE	Team Nutrition Grant	$5,000	The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus
MSDE	GEER Community Collaborative	$1,000,000	Community Care
MSDE	NP Aging Schools Grant	$26,700	The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore
MSDE	NP Aging Schools Grant	$26,700	The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus
MSDE	NP Safe Schools Grant	$5,000	The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore
MSDE	NP Safe Schools Grant	$11,000	The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus
MSDE	Childcare Stabilization Grant	$10,000	Monarch Preschool College Park
OSSE	Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program	$16,000	The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School
OSSE	American Rescue Plan – Homeless	$14,000	The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School
OSSE	Summer Accelerator Grant	$12,500	The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School
Capital Award — Governor’s Office	Monarch Academy Annapolis Gymnasium Renovation	$325,000	Monarch Academy Annapolis
Capital Award — Governor’s Office	The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy	$1,000,000	The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy
Anne Arundel County	Laurel Race Track Impact Fund Awards (2)	$5,145	Monarch Global Academy Laurel
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development	Maryland Emergency Education Relief Program	$350,000	The Children’s Guild, All Schools/Programs
Maryland Center for School Safety	Hate Crimes Grant	$36,000	The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy
Maryland Center for School Safety	Hate Crimes Grant	$36,000	The Children’s Guild, Inc., Prince George’s Campus
Maryland Center for School Safety	Hate Crimes Grant	$36,000	The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore
WorkSource Montgomery	Workforce Network Recovery 2.0	$100,000	TranZed Academy for Working Students (TAWS)
Employ Prince George’s	Patient Care Pre-Apprenticeship Program	$23,000	TranZed Apprenticeship Program
Federal Communications Commission	E-Rate CAT 2 Network Infrastructure	$45,000	The Children’s Guild, All Schools/Programs

In 2022, The Children’s Guild received the prestigious Platinum GuideStar/Candid Seal of Transparency.

This important recognition tells donors that we utilize our funding sources appropriately with oversight from various agencies. This assists with improved donor confidence in our organization. For the Board of Directors, it will show the level of commitment the Board and the organization have to transparency when we are introduced to new partners.

The Children’s Guild has continued to have strong partnerships throughout the year. Because of these partnerships, we have been able to not only provide for our programs but also expand the services our organization provides. We have seen an increase in new donors, in the amounts donors are giving, and in recurring gifts. We are grateful to our partners for their commitment to children, families, and communities throughout the region and across the nation.

Click here to view our tax documents.

2020-2022 Revenues and Expenses

The Children’s Guild
Cumulative Giving Report 2022

$25,000+
The Orokawa Foundation
$10,000 – $24,999
The M&T Charitable Foundation
Partlow Insurance Agency, Inc.

$5,000 – $9,999
Dan Sisas, Take Two Unlimited
Gregory Gann
DP Solutions

$2,500 – $4,999
Agnes Kibirige
Andrew Hahn
Terry Carnes, CECA
Howard Kurman, Offit Kurman
Jenny Livelli
United HealthCare Services, Inc
USI Insurance Services, LLC
Whiteford, Taylor, and Preston, LLP

$1,000 – $2,499

Casandra Blassingame
Todd Lamb, Capitol Strategies
The Blackbaud Giving Fund
Elizabeth Garcia
Charley Gordon
Christian Stanley, Greenspring Advisors
Hughes Johnson

David Meyer
Ellen Meyer
Jerry Partlow
Lou Goldberg, Digital Protection Services
Dr. Paul Rao
Ralph Rizzo
Integrated Pest Services
Chris Zimmerman

$500 – $999

The Community Foundation of Howard County
Jessica Diaz
Mike Bognanni
Sonjie DeCaires
Enos Hill
Paul Hoyer
George Jones

Frank Morabito
Sheela Murthy
George Nixon
Rebecca Ostroski, HotWax Baltimore
Joseph Pelland
Justin Reaves
The Capital Group

$250 – $499

Jean Blosser
Lucas Brown
Paige Cardwell
Eric Collier
Scott Emerick
Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece
Lola Hahn
Larry Jenkins

Daniel and Kathleen Langan
Pica and Associates, LLC
George McDowell
Annette Merz
Michael Nassif
Robert Seabrooks
Lori Trumble

$100 – $249

Carrie Blankenship
Steven and Carolyn Bourg
Victoria Davis
Kleanthi Dede
Carol and Todd Forbes
Pete Gifford
Kate and Ned Gutman
Dr. Sundra Ryce Hardy
Steve Hecht

Geoff and Dottie Jenkins
William Lahner
Betty Love
Thomas McDowell
Margaret and William Righter
Alan Roth
Liesa Ross
Kelly Schwalbert
Jamie Wilson

$0 – $99

Network for Good
American Charities
Charles Alexander
Jermaine Ayala
Austin Beeber
Jaime Bishow
Mark Burton
Alexander Campolongo
Lindsey Comer
Jason Connor
Carley Czyzewski
Gracie Daniel
Barbara Dezmon
Erin Finnegan
Dave Gell
Ken Goldstein
Margaret Greif
Geraldine Johnson
Rob Horne

LaRia Land
Mary Lankester
Mark Lerner
Mike Livingston
Thersa Mayo
Laura Merrill
Steven Mutschler
Diane Paul
Brian Partlow
Mark Rapaport
Gail Robinson
Darrel Rogers
Joshua Silverman
James Snyder
Admire Tondoneh
Maurice Wagoner
John Weitzel
Kurt Wittelsberger
Joy Zollinger

In Kind
USI Insurance Services
Paul Hoyer
Francis Reinhardt, Image 360
Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece
Gifts were made in honor of:

Andrew Hahn
Chizitererm Nitwunka
Alphe Dede

Hughes Johnson
Guy Flynn
Jenny Livelli

Gifts were made in memory of:
Louise Goldberg

FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS

The Children’s Guild relies on the generosity of partners and fundraising campaigns to make our programming possible.

In 2022, we engaged in several key initiatives and found fundraising success thanks to generous partners like you.

$47,000

Golf Classic

$3,200

Back2School

$19,902

Year-End Giving

$17,738

Annual Fund

$16,430

Senior Leadership
Team Giving

Since we first opened our doors in 1953, we have been committed to providing individualized and transformational experiences that empower children and families to thrive. Through the unwavering support of our community, donors, staff, and supporters, we have been able to make a positive impact on countless families and children throughout our communities.

As we reflect on the past 70 years, we are filled with gratitude for the generous support of individuals like you. Your time, talent, and resources have enabled us to provide critical services and support to those who need it most.

Thank you for being an integral part of The Children’s Guild’s journey over the past seven decades!

Help us celebrate our 70^th Anniversary with a special gift to The Children’s Guild!

Make a one-time $70 gift to support TCG programs and services
Make a recurring gift of $70/month to support TCG programs and services
Make a recurring gift of $7/month for 10 months to support TCG programs and services
Make a larger donation to help grow TCG’s programs and services over the next 70 years

Donate Now

A message from our CEO:

The Children’s Guild SEEDs Growth!

Socially

Emotionally

Educationally

Developmentally.

We SEED growth SOCIALLY!

Delphine Dancy, Grandmother of Transformation Academy student

Be a Star!

Autism Speaks Walk

Monarch Global Helps Brock Bridge During Emergency

Mini Stories

Emily Abell, Principal, Monarch Global Academy Laurel

We SEED growth EMOTIONALLY!

Nikki Pritchett-Johnson, Author and School Counselor, Monarch Academy Annapolis

Mental Health Awareness Week

Solace, Treatment Foster Care graduate

Treatment Foster Care – Navigating Trauma Through Specialized Training

Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece, Managing Director of Behavioral Health Services, The Children’s Guild

Mini Stories

We SEED growth EDUCATIONALLY!

Introducing the Class of 2022!

The Children’s Guild leads the way in Blueprint for Maryland’s Future

Safety First at Monarch Preschool College Park

Excellence in School Awards

Jenny Livelli, President and CEO, The Children’s Guild

Mini Stories

We SEED growth DEVELOPMENTALLY!

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School is Where Students Can Blossom

Travis, Father of Nyla and Nazier, Students at The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School

Students with Autism Find Support at The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy

Life Skills are Important at The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore

Mini Stories

The 2022 Impact was made possible thanks to our amazing partners and community-connected businesses.

15th Annual Golf Classic

Senator Mary Washington

Government Leaders Visit The Children’s Guild: Transformation Academy

New Computers for Students

We’ve named our internal newsletter The Scoop. So here’s the scoop on what’s been happening internally at The Children’s Guild:

BOARD UPDATES

STAFF UPDATES

STRATEGIC PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

CARF RECERTIFICATION

Your partnership makes all the difference for children and families. Thank you to our partners for their financial support throughout the year. We could not provide services without your incredible support.

GRANTS

2020-2022 Revenues and Expenses

The Children’s Guild Cumulative Giving Report 2022

FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS

Delphine Dancy,
Grandmother of Transformation Academy student

Emily Abell,
Principal, Monarch Global Academy Laurel

Nikki Pritchett-Johnson,
Author and School Counselor,
Monarch Academy Annapolis

Solace,
Treatment Foster Care graduate

Jillian Szczepaniak-Gillece,
Managing Director of Behavioral Health Services, The Children’s Guild

Jenny Livelli,
President and CEO, The Children’s Guild

Travis,
Father of Nyla and Nazier, Students at
The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School

15^th Annual Golf Classic

The Children’s Guild
Cumulative Giving Report 2022