I feel blessed to be part of the Makom family.  Even after 18 years, I am still in awe of the generosity of our community.  Year after year, people make donations, many of whom do so without even being asked!  I’m constantly asking myself: “How is it possible that this level of generosity persists year after year?”  I asked that in 2007 and every year since.  This year, during the Season of Giving, I hope to continue to be wowed as usual.  And I have no doubt that I will.    

Forgive me, if you don’t already know me, I am Lew, and I have been honored to serve as Chief Development Officer of Makom for nearly two decades.   

Earlier this month, I had an epiphany: The Season of Giving begins with Thanksgiving…a day for giving thanks. I am sure I am not the first person to come to that realization. Still, for someone whose career has focused on charitable giving, I was surprised that I never thought about that before.  Whoever coined the term Season of Giving and had it begin with giving thanks got it right.  At Makom, we agree and likewise start with gratitude. 

Why are we so appreciative?  That’s an easy one… When you see our mission in action and meet the people we support living their best lives, it is easy to be grateful.  Makom started with just one home for six people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. More than 4 decades later, we not only have multiple options for residential support but also other programs within the community.  Oh, and four of the “original 6” are still supported by Makom, including my buddy Alan, who used to play football with me at the JCC back in the ‘90s…now he lives in a Makom home in Silver Spring, cannot play football anymore, but with his amazing staff, watches his beloved Commanders in his man-cave.  I have other friends who receive support through our various residential programs, and they continue to thrive…a few of them, in particular, are some of the most incredible self-advocates you will ever meet.   

In 2008, Makom branched out of residential supports to open three transition programs (MOST™) in Rockville and Fairfax and Loudoun Counties.  Many of my friends have come through the program and live and work within our community.  Makom helped Chuckie get a job, and he recently celebrated his 10-year anniversary!   

A few years ago, my Goddaughter Rebecca moved out of mom and dad’s house into a Makom MyPad apartment…she is living on her own and doing great!  I still need to remind her to clean up her kitchen, but since I am not her dad but rather “Uncle Lew,” I can get away with it, and she listens 😊.   

Recently, we started our Clinical Services Department, offering behavioral health, PT, OT, speech, and diet/nutrition.  Thanks to HIPAA, I cannot tell you about who is receiving those supports, but this was a glaring need in our community, and Makom is filling it. And even more is on the way!   

None of this happens without our friends, families, and supporters.  While I am still in awe at our growth and how much we’ve accomplished, I know it is 100% thanks to a community that embraced us through philanthropy, volunteerism, and inclusion.   

I have never been one to talk about appreciation but rather someone who prefers to show it.  So, if you’re reading this and don’t feel your support was appreciated or want to call me out on something, please do …I want to show you that we mean it. Every gift matters, and every person behind the gift matters, too.  Can’t be a donor but you still care about the work of Makom?  You matter, and you can move our mission forward in other ways.  Call me and we will find a way to get you engaged. 

Thank you.  Happy Holidays!  May the Season of Giving find you surrounded by people who you love and who care about you.