Giving Words

Mission: Giving Words is a faith-based nonprofit organization that comes alongside single mothers to provide car repairs, community support, and comprehensive family assistance. The organization focuses on helping single-parent families overcome transportation challenges that threaten their financial stability and ability to meet daily needs.

The Story Behind Giving Words

Giving Words began eight years ago when founders Eddie and Ginny Brown went on a missions trip to Honduras to teach Vacation Bible School. The organization's name originated from their desire to give Honduran children both the English language to improve their employability and encouragement from the Word of God. Initially invited to help La Iglesia de Gerizim transition to a bilingual school, the vision evolved over time due to unrest in Honduras and significant life changes.

The organization's focus shifted to supporting vulnerable populations in Central Virginia, particularly single mothers and their families. This transition was influenced by Eddie's experience caring for his 95-year-old aunt and becoming concerned about elder abuse, as well as the couple's experience becoming custodial guardians of their infant granddaughter Charlotte Jane in 2016.

Core Services and Programs

Transportation Support:
* Emergency Car Repairs: After evaluating a mother's emergency situation, Giving Words determines the best course to get her back on the road - to work, to school, and to her children's activities and needs
* Car Giveaways: Providing vehicles to families in need when repairs are not feasible
* Auto Maintenance Education: Teaching single mothers basic car maintenance skills to prevent future emergencies

Educational Opportunities:
* Personal Finance Classes: Helping mothers develop budgeting skills and financial literacy
* Auto Maintenance Workshops: Practical training to help mothers understand and maintain their vehicles

Community Support Network:
* Connections to Resources: Linking families with churches, organizations, and community services
* Peer Support Groups: Creating a supportive community where single mothers can connect and encourage each other
* Care Team Support: Dedicated volunteers who provide ongoing emotional and practical support

How Giving Words Maximizes Impact

The organization operates through mission-driven partnerships that allow them to leverage resources far beyond their monetary value. Through their network of over 60 partners in the central Virginia area, Giving Words achieves $5 to $10 worth of value for every dollar donated. These partners include:

• Auto mechanics and tow shops providing discounted services
• Consignment shops and other businesses donating goods mothers need
• Churches and community organizations offering additional support
• Counseling services for emotional and mental health support
• Home maintenance professionals
• Appliance repair services
• Budgeting and financial planning assistance

Organizational Structure and Team

The Giving Words team consists of dedicated professionals with diverse backgrounds:

Eddie Brown, Founder: With 23 years in the housing industry and 9 years of business ownership, Eddie brings entrepreneurial vision and a servant's heart to the organization. He has created the extensive partner network and designed a tailored tracking system using Apricot software that can monitor all mothers, services, activities, and volunteers. This system lays the foundation for the nonprofit's ability to be replicated in every county, state, or even internationally.

Ginny Brown, Founder: As the eldest child of a single mother and later a single mother herself, Ginny brings deep personal understanding to the mission. With 25 years in education and twenty years as a high school teacher at Louisa County High School, she remains connected to single parents and their constant struggles.

Support Team Members:
* Allison Coleman: Resource/Care Team Coordinator
* Ashlyn Jones: Intake Coordinator - A freelance virtual assistant and designer with interests in psychology, mindfulness, and self-help
* Rikki Messere: Care Team/Peer Support
* Heather Giese: Care Team/Peer Support
* Kate Fletcher: Care Team/Peer Support
* Greg Dorazio: PR Partner who emphasizes the critical nature of reliable transportation for single mothers

Impact and Growth

Giving Words has helped more than 200 families to date and is preparing to expand their reach significantly. The organization has gained recognition through partnerships, including being selected as a beneficiary of the Subaru Share the Love event through their major partner CMA.

Eligibility and Service Area

The organization primarily serves single mothers in Central Virginia who are experiencing transportation emergencies or other family crises. Mothers in need can contact the organization for an evaluation of their situation and determination of appropriate assistance.

Vision for Expansion

Giving Words has designed their programs with scalability in mind. Their comprehensive tracking system and partnership model create a foundation that can be replicated in other counties, states, or even internationally. The organization aims to meet the growing needs at state, regional, and national levels.

Faith-Based Approach

While providing practical assistance, Giving Words maintains a faith-based foundation, offering words of encouragement, hope, and spiritual support alongside tangible help. The organization seeks to give words of:
* Encouragement and hope to young mothers
* Affirmation and care to their children
* Joy to the elderly
* Love to whoever God places in their path

Getting Involved

The organization welcomes support through:
* Financial donations (maximized through their partnership model)
* Volunteering opportunities
* Business partnerships for discounted services
* Following their work through newsletters and social media
* Spreading awareness about their mission and impact