Latest Stories
All Stories
A Circle of Service: Honoring the Thursday Crew Volunteers
Meet LifeStyles of Maryland’s Thursday Crew — a dedicated team of volunteers who’ve served together for over five years, showing the power of friendship, consistency, and community impact.
Always in Motion: The Steady Impact of Volunteer Karen Reed
Meet Karen Reed, a devoted LifeStyles volunteer whose quiet dedication and hands-on service inspire everyone around her. Discover the ripple effect of one woman’s impact.
From Taxes to Toy Drives: Linda Carney Lifts Up Southern Maryland
For over 14 years, Linda Carney has volunteered with LifeStyles’ tax assistance program—fighting for every refund, training new volunteers, and making a lasting impact behind the scenes.
7,000 Hours of Kindness: Celebrating Ms. Shirley Smith
Ms. Shirley Smith has given nearly 7,000 volunteer hours to LifeStyles of Maryland—bringing warmth, dedication, and kindness to our St. Mary’s office. Read her inspiring story and learn how you can make a difference too.
LifeStyles Receives $200,000 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Award Grant
LifeStyles of Maryland has been awarded a $200,000 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Award grant to complete Southern Crossing, a transformative housing project for those in need. Learn more about how this grant and your votes are making hope happen in Southern Maryland.
LifeStyles Celebrates Major Funding Boost with Congressional Delegation Visit
LifeStyles received a $912,000 funding boost from Congressman Steny Hoyer and Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen. This grant supports upgrades to the White Plains Emergency Shelter and Homeless Day Program, including enhanced security, vital infrastructure repairs, and improved food storage.
News and Events
Faith in Action: The Generous Spirit of Terri Pesante-Close
Faith in action defines Terri Pesante-Close. From holiday meals to fundraising galas, her dedication and compassion have helped LifeStyles feed thousands of families and strengthen our community year after year.
A Force for Good: The Many Gifts of Gus Proctor
LifeStyles honors Augustus ‘Gus’ Proctor, a tireless volunteer whose passion, generosity, and leadership continue to inspire Southern Maryland.
Organized, Creative and Full of Heart: Celebrating Volunteer Janet Weedon
Meet Janet Weedon, one of LifeStyles’ lead volunteers at the Waldorf Distribution Center. From organizing donations to spreading holiday cheer, her creativity and compassion make a lasting impact.
Success Stories
Thankful for a Hand Up — and Ready to Pay It Forward
Donta Varney didn’t know what to do or where to...
From Fear and Uncertainty to Peace and Stability
Karen Brown lived wherever she could park her...
Staff & Volunteer Stories
Hands in the Dirt, Heart in the Mission: The Quiet Dedication of Ray Short
Ray Short’s impact at LifeStyles goes far beyond his service on the Board of Directors. Discover how his hands-on dedication helped shape our shelters, support Southern Crossing, and inspire others through quiet, consistent service.
A Circle of Service: Honoring the Thursday Crew Volunteers
Meet LifeStyles of Maryland’s Thursday Crew — a dedicated team of volunteers who’ve served together for over five years, showing the power of friendship, consistency, and community impact.
Always in Motion: The Steady Impact of Volunteer Karen Reed
Meet Karen Reed, a devoted LifeStyles volunteer whose quiet dedication and hands-on service inspire everyone around her. Discover the ripple effect of one woman’s impact.











