Community Services Agency of the Metropolitan Washington Council AFL-CIO

Working family support programs to help workers attain economic self-sufficiency, including emergency financial assistance, lay-off/job search assistance, pre-apprenticeship training, support for unions/their members and community change activities.

How do you help people in my community?

When we get a call for help, CSA helps the individual directly, or provides a referral and follow-up to agencies providing services we may not provide.  We were able to prevent the eviction of a Prince George’s County, Maryland family with three small children not only through our direct help, but by lining up two other area agencies which also provided assistance.

We have an 18- year history of working with local agencies on behalf of local residents in crisis situations.

Why do you need my support?

Our focus is on working families, who, because they are working, frequently aren’t able to get help, or may not know how and where help is available.  We have been able to help someone with $10 to get to and from job interviews; with $22 which provided two weeks of high blood pressure medications; with $35 to prevent a utility cut-off.  Gifts of any size DO help and are needed and appreciated.

Our ultimate vision is to help people independently provide for themselves and their families through self-supporting employment.  When disaster strikes, however, we want to help them access available help, and support their return to independence.
How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won’t waste it?

CSA is audited annually and is in compliance with all financial management standards required of the Combined Federal Campaign, and United Way of the National Capital Area. Our administrative cost is 24%, which means that 76% of contributions go to direct services.  Donors may also direct their contributions to the Emergency Assistance Fund which is used 100% for client assistance.  CSA is overseen by a Board of Directors, which also monitor financial practices.

How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?

CSA is audited annually and is in compliance with all financial management standards required of the Combined Federal Campaign, and United Way of the National Capital Area. Our administrative cost is 24%, which means that 76% of contributions go to direct services.  Donors may also direct their contributions to the Emergency Assistance Fund which is used 100% for client assistance.  CSA is overseen by a Board of Directors, which also monitor financial practices.

Can I Volunteer? How?

For volunteer opportunities, contact Kathleen McKirchy, Director at 202 974-8221, kmckirch@dclabor.org.