Rachel, Author at Marian House

17th Annual Race To Embrace Independence Marian House 5k Run and Walk

The 17th Annual 5K Race to Embrace Independence will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

Register today, create your team, and lace up with purpose! Join us for a powerful day of strength, resilience, and community as we run or walk in support of the courageous women of Marian House.

This 5K is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of transformation and a bold step toward independence for
women rebuilding their lives. We need YOU to make it happen! Register now at marianhouse.org/5k

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual walker, your participation directly supports women on their journey from dependence to independence. Start your training, rally your team, and spread the word—because every step you take brings hope, dignity, and lasting change.

Time is running out to sponsor our 17 Annual 5K Race to Embrace Independence; call Marian House today at
410.467.4250—ideal for businesses looking to boost their brand visibility as well as increasing compassion,
resilience, and community progress. Special thanks to our Champion sponsor ($10K) McCormick & Company,
Inc., Hero sponsors ($5K) John Hopkins University and Medicine, Merritt Properties, TransAmerica, and
Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, Advocate sponsors ($2,500) Ellin & Tucker, KPMG, LLP, National
Cooperative Bank, Truist, and our founders, Sisters of Mercy and School Sisters of Notre Dame as well as our
Mentor ($1,500), Partner ($1,000), Support ($500), and Ally sponsors ($250).

The finish line doesn’t just mark the end of a race—it represents freedom and a fresh start. Let’s cross it together.

Letter From Katie

Dear Friends of Marian House,
The 90 days of summer are flying by faster than we anticipated and our community continues to thrive and grow stronger each day.

Despite the sweltering heat, the women of Marian House remain focused and determined—setting new goals, earningcertifications, and securing employment. We are incredibly proud of their resilience and achievements. Women like Tina, featured in our Resident Spotlight, are making bold strides toward independence. While living in Marian House II, Tina is working hard to balance her professional and personal growth while searching for permanent housing.

If you follow us on social media, you may have seen Tina featured in our Women Empowerment Wednesday series, where we celebrated her being recognized by the President of her workplace for her outstanding contributions. What an honor—and what an inspiration. Tina’s progress is a testament to the mission of Marian House, and we’re excited to share that she will be a featured speaker at our upcoming fundraiser this September.

Speaking of which, our 17th Annual Race to Embrace Independence 5K is just around the corner—September 27, 2025! Have you registered yet? Are you building your team? This event is our largest fundraiser of the year, and we need your support to make it a success. Whether as a sponsor, runner, walker, virtual participant, or team leader, your involvement makes a difference. Every year, over 300 supporters gather at Marian House to cheer on our residents and celebrate their journeys. Visit marianhouse.org/5k to register and find out how you can be part of this inspiring day.

We’d also love to bring Marian House to you! Consider inviting us to your company, church, or community group for a presentation. Or perhaps join one of our upcoming virtual tours to hear firsthand how we’re transforming the lives of women and their children. We’d also be happy to share information about our Community Investment Tax Credit program (see below).

Finally, don’t forget to stay connected with us! Follow Marian House on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay up to date on our latest news and to be inspired by the powerful stories of our residents. Like, share, and engage to help spread the message of hope and healing.

With gratitude,

Katie Allston, LCSW-C
President & CEO

Resident Spotlight – Tina

“Marian House is EVERYTHING!”

From Marian House graduate to Sinai Hospital’s Employee of the Month, recognizedby the President for her exemplary service, Tina celebrates 16 months of sobriety anda future full of promise. Since graduating in May 2025, she has thrived as a resident ofMarian House II and as an Environmental Specialist at Sinai Hospital. Tina’sresilience and dedication continue to inspire all who know her.

What was life like before coming to Marian House?

One morning, I woke up in a crack house 3 doors down from where I lived. I had crack on my face, strangers pushing more crack on me. Mice and roaches were running everywhere. I looked in the mirror and couldn’t recognize myself anymore. “Tina” was gone. I decided I no longer wanted to live like this.

What led you to Marian House?

I wanted to go somewhere that could truly help me change my life. I had been to Marian House several years earlier, but I wasn’t ready for help then. This time, I knew Marian House had the tools to help me become a different person—a better person. I also knew they would help me secure housing, so I wouldn’t have to return toDC.

How would you describe Marian House to someone else?

Marian House is EVERYTHING! It’s structured, comfortable, educational, peaceful and informational. You have to want to change and you have to apply yourself. It is really hard at first, but doable. And Marian House helps give you a sense of reality to prepare you for the “real world.” The program is filled with love, compassion and concern for the ladies. I have found myself genuinely caring a lot about the women I’ve met on this journey.

What’s been the most helpful to you at Marian House?

I’ve learned how to listen for the first time in my life. Before, I would get direction and fly off the handle. Now, I am really able to listen. I’ve also learned to sit still, and to let go of control. I realized while here, that I never had real social skills, and working the program has helped me learn how to get along with people.

If you could talk to your younger self (5 or 10 years ago), what would you tell them?

I would tell myself to take the time and get an understanding of something before just knocking it. I’d also tell myself to slow down and not to be afraid to try something new.

When people support Marian House, what are they supporting?

When you support Marian House, you are supporting a new life. Tina will be the resident speaker at our upcoming 5K. Please register today at marianhouse.org/5k

Increase Your Team Fundraising Like A Champ – Ten Tips From Our Top Fundraisers

Our CFO Demetria Boyd and long-time Marian House friend, Lou Curran are Marian House 5K top fundraisers each year. They have both created their teams and are on their way to meeting and exceeding their fundraising goals. Here are some pointers from them on how to be a successful Marian House 5K top fundraiser:

Demetria’s 5K Top Fundraising Tips:

Make It Personal: Share your personal connection to Marian House and why the 5K matters to you. People are more likely to give when they understand the impact and feel emotionallyconnected.
Use Social Media Strategically: Post regularly with updates, photos, and countdowns. Use stories and reels tokeep your audience engaged, and always include a direct link to your fundraising page.
Start Early & Set a Goal: Begin your outreach well in advance and set a clear fundraising goal. Let yoursupporters know how close you are to reaching it—it motivates them to help you cross the finish line.
Keep Fundraising Materials With You at All Times: Whether it’s flyers, QR codes, or your donation link, beready to share your cause wherever you go. You never know when a conversation might turn into a contribution.
Thank Your Donors Publicly: Acknowledge contributions on social media or via email. Gratitude goes a longway and encourages repeat support.

Lou’s 5K Top Fundraising Tips:

Fundraising for anything means identifying a couple/few of the best selling points of the beneficiary, and invitingyour friends and associates to enjoy the pleasure of giving in support of that good beneficiary.
Never take it personally if people you ask don’t give – everyone has their own budget priorities and they arerarely shared. So, the more appeals/invitations you send out, the greater the chance you’ll find some receptive folksat a time when giving is comfortable for them.
People don’t always have the time to respond right away so send a second updated invitation a couple weekslater, and maybe a third updated invitation if you have time. Updates can include who your teammates are at thatpoint if you’re on a team, and what your fundraising total for the beneficiary is so far at that point.
Make it easier for people to give by including a link in your email or text message. If you can make a goodtemplate, cut and paste it into each message and address it to each individual personally.
I’m a bit of a technosaurus when it comes to social media, but if you use social media regularly, it can be a goodway to communicate, too. Just don’t bombard people with request… Nobody likes to feel pressured.

Volunteer Spotlight – Meet Valencia Hike and Rachel Wierderhold

Valencia Hike -Valencia Hike serves as the Director of Community Engagement for theBaltimore Orioles, where she leads transformative initiatives that positively impact communitiesacross Baltimore. “My most significant professional accomplishment is cr

eating leadershipopportunities for the next generation while maintaining a commitment to service,” Hike shared.

Valencia is also an RRCA-certified run coach, as well as a run coordinator and ambassador forBlack Girls RUN! Baltimore. She is deeply passionate about supporting new runners and is astrong advocate for increasing diversity and inclusivity within the running community.

“This is my first year volunteering with Marian House for the 5K, and I’m incredibly proud to bepart of such a meaningful event,” she said. “As someone deeply committed to wellness andcommunity, it’s an honor to support an organization that empowers women and families whilepromoting health and healing”.

Rachel Wiederhold – Rachel is a dy

namic entrepreneur and human resources leader who bringspassion and purpose to everything she does — including her work with Marian House. For the past three years, Rachel has dedicated her time and talent to supporting the Race to Embrace Independence 5K, focusingon marketing and rallying runners to join the cause.

“As a lifelong endurance runner, I’ve always believed in the power of community and perseverance,” Rachel shares.“That’s why I love the 5K — it unites people around a common goal: finishing something challenging together. For me,the run is also a powerful symbol of the struggles the women at Marian House have faced, and the strength they show inovercoming them.”

“Running together in support of Marian House’s life-changing programs is more than just a race,” she says. “It’s a chance to help break cycles of hardship and open the door to a brighter future for women in our community.”

Resident Spotlight – Niki

“I instantly felt peace when I walked into Marian House.”

Niki came to Marian House in 2022. Currently, Niki works at an Adult Day Center where she just celebrated two years of employment. She is beginning her search for her own apartment and will celebrate 4 years sober in August! We are so proud of Niki! Please enjoy her story.

What was life like before coming to Marian House?

Life was awful. I was down and out and lost in alcohol. After the death of my mom and grandma, things really spiraled out of control, and I lost everything.

What led you to Marian House?

I was at another program, but things weren’t going great there. My counselor mentioned Marian House and how it had a great reputation of getting women back on their feet and giving women time to focus on themselves.

How would you describe Marian House to someone else?

I would describe Marian House as a beautiful place that is welcoming. I felt instant peace when I arrived. I had time to focus on me and gain my independence back. I have made a lot of friends at Marian House.

What’s been the most helpful to you at Marian House?

The most helpful thing for me is Marian House allowed me to stop running and sit down. I was able to sit down and focus on me. The group therapy was very helpful, the friendships and the whole atmosphere.

What’s something you learned here that you will take with you?

I learned that I don’t have to take on the weight of the world. I need to be my first priority. I was able to get my spirituality back along with my mental health.

If you could talk to your younger self (5 or 10 years ago), what would you tell them?

I would tell myself not to pick up the liquor bottle. What started as drinking recreationally, turned into a big problem. I would tell myself to stay on the right path, focus on myself and to keep moving forward.

When people support Marian House, what are they supporting?

They are supporting women’s independence. They are supporting each step (so Marian House doesn’t have to rush women). They are helping women find their independence and place back in the world. Please support Marian House.

Bingo: Play Bingo and win bling!

Blingo! returns on May 9, 2025. Please scan the QR code above to purchase your tickets. We had so much fun last year! This year will be exciting in our new location at Mercy High School. Buy a single ticket or grab a table of 6 or 8 to play with friends! May 9 will be a great evening of fun with stunning prizes of jewelry, designer purses, and delicious bites from local restaurants. –

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: Board Members

Meet Abby, Marla, Robbie, Krystal, & Sr. Sharon

Abby Dybas is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Senior Manager at PwC. She develops, manages, and executes diversity, equity and inclusion strategies and initiatives to recruit, retain, and promote the best talent, as well as supports an inclusive corporate culture. Abby has been an active Marian House volunteer for several years. Abby is on the Advancement Committee, the Blingo! Committee, and the 5K Race to Embrace Independence Committee.

Marla Hiken is an HR manager at Citrin Cooperman (formerly Clearview Group) and champion of culture with nearly 15 years of experience in all functional areas of HR. Marla is on the Advancement Committee, the Blingo! Committee, and the 5K Race to Embrace Independence Committee.

Dr. Robbie Bishop-Monroe is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Fraud Examiner. Dr. Bishop-Monroe is currently an Assistant Professor of Accounting at Loyola University Maryland. She has over 22 years of experience in accounting and business. Robbie is on the Mission, Finance, and Blingo! Committees.

Krystal Billups, MPH is the Executive Managing Director of Mosaic Group. She is a public health professional with experience and a track record of successful contributions in program design, development, implementation and evaluation. Krystal serves on the Mission and Blingo! Committees.

Sr. Sharon Brunier, a School Sister of Notre Dame, (SSND), lost her heart to the ministry at Marian House—helping women begin a new life after personal struggles. She has always felt that the Holy Spirit led her to Marian House. After 34 years of fruitful ministry in various roles such as a Pastoral Counselor, Development Coordinator and Education Coordinator, Sister Sharon feels blessed to still be where her heart lead her: to the women of Marian House. Sr. Sharon serves on the Mission Committee.

We are grateful and honored to highlight our new Board members.

LETTER FROM KATIE – SPRING

Dear Friends of Marian House, Spring has arrived in full bloom at Marian House, bringing with it the beauty of cherry blossoms and a renewed sense of hope. The winter blues are fading, and our community is thriving. We are especially grateful for the companies and civic groups lending their hands to prepare our garden spaces, making our home even more welcoming.

Women in Marian House I are reaching new milestones—several women are preparing to move into Marian House II while getting accustomed to their new jobs. Women like Niki (Resident Spotlight) in Marian House II are working boldly toward independence, balancing work and personal time as they search for permanent housing. Witnessing their growth and resilience is truly inspiring.

We’re also gearing up for an exciting season of events! Mark your calendars for Blingo!, the Raven’s Annual Season’s Tickets Raffle, and our 17 Annual Race to Embrace Independence 5K. Find out how you can be part of the fun in the pages of this newsletter.

We’d also love to bring Marian House to you—schedule a virtual “Lunch & Learn” for your office or group and hear firsthand how we’re changing lives every day. Trust us, your team will be inspired by the powerful testimony of a current resident.

Stay connected with us! Like and follow us on social media so you never miss an update on our upcoming activities.

In leadership and care,

Katie Allston,

LCSW-C President & CEO

Highlights from Blingo!

Blingo! was a huge success. Over 130 people filled the room at Notre Dame Preparatory this past May. The prizes, the food, the crowd, the games, and the emcee, Chris Brown, were all top-tier. We are already planning for next year! A special thanks to Carrie Schreiber (Board Chair), Anne Fader (Advancement Chair) and the entire Blingo! committee and Board volunteers. Share your favorite photos of the event to [email protected]. Enjoy our favorites below!