Prince George's Proud:
An Update From County Executive Alsobrooks
Dear Prince Georgians:
Last week, our Office of Community Relations (OCR) and our Hope in Action (HIA) team hosted a roundtable discussion with youth regarding youth violence in the community. The discussion included County Government officials, violence interrupters, and students from Benjamin Stoddert Middle School.
Launched in 2021, the Hope in Action Anti-Gun Violence Project is overseen by OCR, and the HIA team is led by Reverend Tony Lee. The program implements interventions that focus on targeted, trauma-informed care designed to interrupt cycles of violence. The program consists of four steps: violence interrupters, diversion and re-entry support, wraparound services provided by non-profits, and a Violence Prevention Task Force.
The Hope in Action program also includes two dozen non-profits known as the Hope Collective. Since 2021, these non-profit partners have received over $1 million in grant funding to help provide wraparound services to residents at the highest risk of gun violence. Some of those services include afterschool support/programming, mental health services, eviction and foreclosure services, grief counseling, basic needs services, supply giveaways, and workforce development and job placement services.
OCR and the HIA team recently released an impact report highlighting their work over the past two years. Since 2021, $3 million has been allocated to the program, including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Over 55,000 County residents have benefitted from programming and services coordinated by Hope in Action. In addition, the program now includes nine violence interrupters that have supported over 7,500 families.
This roundtable discussion and release of the HIA impact report highlighted one of our Proud Priorities, “Reducing Violent Crime.” Our administration is committed to reducing gun violence through special enforcement efforts and additional investments in the Prince George’s Police Department, as well as investments in programs like HIA that fund wraparound services to support youth and their families.
Unfortunately, gun violence is on the rise across our region and across the nation, and we are doing everything we can to address this issue in Prince George’s County. We want to thank our young people and community members who continue to engage and partner with us, because violence is something that the government cannot solve alone. We also want to commend all of the community leaders and non-profit partners who have joined our HIA team, helping provide hope and healing in communities that have been impacted by a rise in gun violence.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George’s County Executive
Remote Area Medical Clinic
 We were so excited to have Remote Area Medical (RAM) visit Prince George’s Community College on Saturday, November 11. This free clinic means so much to individuals who cannot see a doctor, but it also means so much to Prince Georgians who want to build a future that includes care for everyone who needs it. We want to thank RAM for visiting our County and helping us meet the needs of our residents who lack access to care.
Guaranteed Basic Income Program
 On Tuesday, November 21, County Executive Alsobrooks joined the Greater Washington Community Foundation, the Meyer Foundation, and our County Council to announce the launch of Thrive Prince George’s, a two-year guaranteed income pilot program. This pilot program will provide direct cash assistance to some of our most vulnerable residents: seniors on fixed incomes and youth who are aging out of the foster care system. We are Prince George’s Proud that we can explore innovative opportunities like this pilot program to help lift residents out of poverty, and we want to thank all of our partners who helped us get this project across the finish line.
ALYI Mini Mogul Dinner
 On Tuesday, November 21, we hosted our third Mini Mogul Dinner with our Alsobrooks Youth Leadership Institute (AYLI) participants and several County Government officials and local community leaders. These young leaders were eager to meet each of the guests and learn more about their careers, as well as their experiences working in our County. We are Prince George’s Proud of our AYLI participants for all they have accomplished in this program.
Give Litter a Home
 Give litter a home in one of our BigBelly trash and recycling stations located around the County. Our BigBellys help us keep Prince George's clean, reach our sustainability goals, and conserve resources. Learn more about them on the BigBelly website here.
County Announces New Housing Authority Executive Director
 We are excited to announce that Ms. Jessica Anderson-Preston has been selected to serve as the new Executive Director of the Housing Authority of Prince George’s County (HAPGC). With over 25 years of experience in affordable housing and organizational management, Ms. Anderson-Preston brings a wealth of expertise to lead the agency.
Ms. Anderson-Preston's extensive experience includes roles at Rockville Housing Enterprises, ICF International Inc., Anderson Housing Development LLC, and Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas. In her most recent role as Executive Director at Rockville Housing Enterprises, Ms. Anderson-Preston demonstrated transformative leadership, overseeing a multi-million-dollar real estate development and property management agency with approximately 600 units across five developments. Among her accomplishments, Ms. Anderson-Preston elevated the agency's PHAS scores from "Substandard" to "High Performer" status and secured approximately $440,000 in annual Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) tax abatements for 357 affordable units.
Ms. Anderson-Preston will begin her tenure as Executive Director of the HAPGC on February 12, 2024.
Maryland Horse Industry Board Appointment
We are Prince George’s Proud of our very own Sheila Curry, who was recently appointed as a Board Member for the Maryland Horse Industry Board by Governor Wes Moore! Sheila has been a great advocate for the horse industry in our County and throughout our region and we know that she will be a great asset to this board.
New Latino Advisory Board
 We are delighted to announce the appointment of 12 outstanding individuals to the Latino Advisory Board for Prince George’s County! Committed to empowering the Hispanic/Latino community, they’ll collaborate with our Latino Affairs Liaison to champion community interests during their two-year term from 2024 to 2026. Their service on the Latino Advisory Board is extremely important to the successful civic, social, and economic engagement of the Latino community in Prince George's County. Their valuable input and vision will significantly contribute to our shared goal of enhancing the lives of the Hispanic/Latino population in our region. Please join us in congratulating the new members and wishing them a successful term!
Season of Smiles Holiday Gift Drive
 We are making it a Season of Smiles for young people ages 13 to 21 this year! Join us for a Holiday Gift Drive on Thursday, December 7, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Prince George’s Ballroom. We encourage you to make donation and share a warm holiday drink, live music, fun, and yummy desserts with us! This is going to make a huge difference for older teens in our County. Register to attend here.
2023 Winter Festival of Lights
 The Department of Parks and Recreation announces the 2023 Winter Festival of Lights! Now in its 37th year, the festival is a staple in local holiday traditions. Drive through three miles of whimsical lights in Watkins Regional Park from the comfort of your vehicle. New this year are hayrides and horseback riding!
- Hayrides - Sit cozied up with your loved ones as you ride behind a tractor through the festival. Don’t forget your hats, gloves, and a blanket. Hayrides are offered every Saturday at the top of the hour. Preregistration is required.
- Horseback riding - Create unforgettable memories with this unique experience as you ride through the park on sweet, well-trained horses. Afterwards, sit by the bonfire and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa if you like. Ages 12 and up. Preregistration is required.
Learn more and register in advance here.
PGMCLS Offers Winter Activities for the Whole Family
 Looking for some winter fun? The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) is offering festive programs for the family this December, all for free! Children, teens, and adults are invited to visit the Spauldings Branch Library to make winter gifts for everyone on their lists or try to get out of the Holiday Hijinks Escape Room at the Largo-Kettering Branch Library, both on Tuesday, December 5. Residents can also enjoy an afternoon of ballet at the Laurel Branch Library on Saturday, December 9, or belt out their favorite tunes at Holiday Karaoke at the Glenarden Branch Library on Tuesday, December 12. Bring your little ones to the “Ready 2 Read Storytime!: Winter Celebrations!” on December 13 at the New Carrollton Branch Library or “Rufus the Red-Nosed Raindog Puppet Show!” on Thursday, December 14 at the Largo-Kettering Branch Library. School-aged children can make their own Exploding Snowmen on Saturday, December 9 at the Upper Marlboro Branch Library, and adults can visit the Baden Branch Library on Tuesday, December 12 to make Ugly Sweater Keychains and Coasters! For a full list of December programs for all ages, visit the PGCMLS events page here.
Holiday Preparedness and Winter Safety
 The winter holiday season is finally here, bringing along days filled with festivities, social visits, shopping, and cold weather! The Office of Homeland Security has several tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay informed and safe this season.
- Sign up for Alert Prince George’s to receive weather information and emergency updates. Learn more about Alert Prince George’s here.
- Have supplies in your car in case you are stranded in a winter storm during holiday travel or work commute. Consider the following supplies as a starting point:
- Snow shovel, snow bush, and ice scraper
- Jumper cables
- Road flares and roadside triangles
- Blankets
- Food, water, medicine, and other essentials
- Have home heating systems checked and maintained to ensure all are running properly. Maintenance can also reduce the risk of fire.
- Create a plan and list any household needs you will need if your home loses power for multiple days during a winter storm.
Tips for Managing Your Mental Health During the Holiday Season
 It's that time of year again— holiday season! While it can be a great time of year full of joy and celebration, it can also be stressful and overwhelming for some. Make sure to set aside time for yourself and practice these tips to help manage your stress this season:
- Practice good self-care - Incorporate five enjoyable activities into your schedule, prioritize sleep, and explore mindfulness and meditation activities.
- Exercise daily - Schedule time to walk outside, bike, or join a dance class. Daily exercise naturally produces stress-relieving hormones in your body.
- Set healthy boundaries - Avoid burnout by saying "no" when needed. Remember, our behaviors shape how others treat us.
- Stick to a budget - Consider homemade gifts to reduce overspending during the holidays.
- Ask for help - Consider therapy, as it can be a great way to manage stress and other emotions during the holiday season.
Let’s stay mindful of our mental health and create a happy and healthy holiday season!
Community Partners’ Meeting
 The Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) is excited to host the winter session of the Community Partners’ Meeting on December 7, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The Community Partners’ Meeting is held in collaboration with County experts from DPW&T, the Department of the Environment (DoE), and the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) to share information about programs, services, and new initiatives. Register to participate here.
Empowering Hispanic Businesses: A Successful Collaboration Along the Purple Line Corridor
 In the spirit of community engagement and empowerment, the Prince George’s County Latino Affairs Liaison, FSC First, and the Prince George’s Hispanic Chamber of Commerce joined forces to host two hands-on, bilingual application drive events for Hispanic/Latino business owners along the Purple Line Corridor, aiming to facilitate their access to the Purple Line Grant. These drives were designed to provide invaluable support to Hispanic businesses navigating the grant application process. By offering assistance in both English and Spanish, the organizers ensured that language barriers did not hinder business owners from seeking the support they needed. This thoughtful approach emphasized the County’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, allowing business owners to engage with the process confidently.
Initiatives such as this are vital for nurturing a thriving and diverse business ecosystem. By bringing together expertise, resources, and a shared vision for community advancement, we are setting a commendable example of how collective action can make a meaningful difference in the lives of local entrepreneurs in Prince George’s County.
FSC Purple Line Business Assistance Grant
FSC First is accepting applications for the Purple Line Business Assistance Grant. The grant is for Prince George’s County businesses located along the Purple Line Construction Impacted Corridor. If you have a business in this impacted area, you may be eligible for $10,000 in assistance. Learn more and apply here.
So You Want To Be A Teacher?
 Are you interested in becoming a teacher? Join the Prince George’s County Public School System (PGCPS) on Saturday, December 2, from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the Sasscer Administration Building in Upper Marlboro to learn how to become a teacher with PGCPS. Register to attend here.
Community Gardens Mini-Grant Program
 The Department of the Environment (DoE) and the Chesapeake Bay Trust are excited to announce The Prince George's County Community Gardens Mini-Grant Program! This mini-grant program supports the creation and need for community gardens that provide resources to the community while supporting the Prince George’s County Climate Action Plan.
The primary goal of this mini-grant is to fund community garden projects that help address food security and support neighborhood-scale implementation of regenerative agriculture and other sustainable gardening practices. This program supports the development of new community gardens and the growth of existing community gardens that plan to expand regenerative practices.
Requests are accepted until funds for Fiscal Year 2024 are exhausted. Apply today here.
Kick-Off Meeting for Port Towns Sector Plan and Sectional Map Amendment
 The Prince George’s County Planning Department is hosting a in-person public kick-off meeting for the Port Towns Sector Plan and Sectional Map Amendment on December 6, at 6:00 PM at the Colmar Manor Town Hall. The Port Towns Sector Plan and Sectional Map Amendment project re-examines the Port Towns area for redevelopment possibilities through the lens of zoning, land use, market conditions and environmental constraints. The Plan will replace the 2009 Approved Port Towns Sector Plan and Sectional Map Amendment to identify updated, achievable, and realistic long-term vision, goals, policies, and strategies for the area. Register in advance. Can’t make it to the in-person meeting? The meeting will also be held virtually. Details for the meeting can be found here and you can register to attend here.
U.S. Route 1 Land Redevelopment Study Briefing
 Learn about the findings on the U.S. Route 1 Land Redevelopment Study! The Prince George’s County Planning Department will host a Community Presentation and Briefing on Thursday, December 7, at 6:30 PM at the Beltsville Community Center. Planning staff will brief residents and area stakeholders on ways to improve the study area along the Route 1 Corridor boundary from Quimby Avenue to Sunnyside Avenue, adjacent to the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center and the immediate surrounding neighborhoods. Attendees will hear ways to make the area a thriving place to live and work, strengthen connections to places along the corridor, welcome new businesses and residents, and support the character of existing businesses and residents. Register in advance here and learn more about the study here.
DPIE’s Role in Combating Noise Pollution
 Like other code enforcement concerns, the County Code has protections in place to uphold public safety. One of those public safety concerns is noise pollution, which is detrimental to everyone’s health. Long-term exposure to noise can cause disturbances in sleep and a variety of negative health effects on the cardiovascular and metabolic systems, as well as cognitive impairment in children. The World Health Organization defines noise above 65 decibels (dB) as noise pollution. To be precise, noise becomes harmful when it exceeds 75 dB and is painful above 120 dB. Sound that crosses between residential and non-residential areas must not exceed the level set for residential areas (65 dBA between 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM and 55 dBA between 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM).
Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement’s (DPIE) Responsibilities
DPIE investigates commercial entities (businesses and industrial sites) that generate noise levels disturbing residential areas. These may include:
- Truck deliveries late at night with loud back-up signals beeping
- Loud music from night clubs, skating rinks, etc., that exceed levels set for residential areas
- Construction noises late at night or very early in the morning
DPIE may also be included in loud party complaints and pop-up events if an owner, tenant or occupant engages in activities that are prohibited in residential neighborhoods and zones, including unpermitted events that involve admission fees and/or tickets for food or alcoholic beverage sales to the general public without the proper licenses. The Prince George’s County Police and the Department of the Environment (DoE) also help abate noise pollution sources.
Police Department’s (PGPD) Responsibilities
PGPD responds to noise complaints:
- At loud parties and other events at private residences
- At construction sites
- Regarding loud vehicles and those with unlawfully modified exhaust systems
Department of the Environment’s (DoE) Responsibilities
- The Department of the Environment’s Animal Services Division responds to noise complaints originating from an animal source.
If you experience excessive noise disturbances in your neighborhood, you may file a complaint by calling PGC311 (dial 3-1-1), Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, except Federal and County holidays, or by reporting information 24/7 on the PGC311 website here. Remember to include the address of the property in question and a brief description of the complaint.
2nd Nonprofit Empowerment Symposium
 The Office of Strategic Partnerships wants to express their sincere gratitude to all those who attended the 2nd Nonprofit Empowerment Symposium at Prince George's Community College on Wednesday, November 1. The Symposium was a vital part of our larger initiative, The C3 Experience, which aims to Connect, Collaborate, and Cultivate Relationships. Thanks to the support, attendance, sponsorship, and presentations from all those involved, the event was a resounding success, welcoming more than 350 attendees! If you attended the C3 Nonprofit Empowerment Symposium, we would greatly appreciate your feedback by taking a brief survey. Your input is invaluable and will help us improve future symposiums.
In the future, the Office of Strategic Partnerships will develop online forums, newsletters, and other opportunities to network and build relationships. These platforms will provide spaces to share resources, ask questions, receive information, and encourage growth within the Prince George's County nonprofit community. Residents and businesses are encouraged to like, follow, and share the Office of Strategic Partnerships’ Facebook page to stay updated.
Check out the highlight video of the symposium here.
International Student Welcome Event
In a vibrant celebration of diversity, Prince George’s Community College (PGCC) recently hosted the International Student Welcome Day, a collaborative effort between the Office of Student Academic Planning and Career Readiness, the Office of Multicultural Affairs, and the Latino Affairs Liaison. This event was an incredible celebration of unity and cultural richness where new international students were welcomed with open arms, gaining insights into the vibrant tapestry of cultures that make up PGCC and our diverse County. Our Latino Affairs Liaison, Samantha Howard, took center stage at the event, serving as a panel moderator and emcee. The event was not just a welcome but a commitment to creating an environment where every student feels valued and embraced. Through interactive sessions and engaging discussions, the International Student Welcome Day set the stage for a year filled with collaboration, understanding, and shared experiences. Let's continue to celebrate our differences and build a community where every voice is heard, and every story matters.
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Commission for Individuals with Disabilities Final Listening Session
 On Monday, November 6, the Prince George's County Commission for Individuals with Disabilities (CID) and the Department of Family Services held the third and final listening session at the Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center. The Commission conducted the listening sessions to learn from residents who are living with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and others in the community who care about disability access and inclusion. Assistant Secretary of Programs at the Maryland Department of Disabilities, Kim McKay, brought opening remarks on behalf of Governor Wes Moore and Maryland Secretary of Disabilities Carol Beatty. Throughout the listening sessions, CID listened to stories about barriers residents faced with trying to access County services and navigating around certain issues. During each session, the CID was joined with a wonderful array of panelists representing different service agencies in the County, including arts and recreation, housing, transportation, mental health, education, emergency preparedness, and safety. As a result of the listening sessions, the CID developed a slogan, “Nothing About Us Without Us,” and is happy to begin implementing some of the lessons learned. View pictures from the latest session here. Learn more information on the Commission for Disabilities here.
Interfaith Domestic Violence Symposium
 On Tuesday, November 7, the Department of Family Services Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Division hosted an Interfaith Domestic Violence Symposium, “Safe Sanctuaries: A Domestic Violence Symposium for Clergy & Faith Leaders.” Over 100 clergy and faith-based leaders attended the conference, held at the Comfort Inn Conference Center in Bowie, to receive training on how to interact with their congregation and access community-based resources for individuals and families affected by domestic violence (DV). The symposium also provided an overview on the dynamics of domestic violence, and how to reduce stigma and dispel common myths associated with DV. The Interfaith Symposium also provided information on establishing and sustaining a safe place. View photos from the event here. Learn more information about domestic violence resources here.
County Executive Alsobrooks Receives Trailblazer Award from Black Girls Vote
 County Executive Alsobrooks was honored to receive the Trailblazer Award from Black Girls Vote at their Annual Gala on Friday, November 17. Black Girls Vote is a nonprofit organization that works to ensure that Black women are empowered to advance education, economic development, quality health care, and improve outcomes. County Executive Alsobrooks was honored along with many amazing women making an impact on our community.
Congratulations Graduates of PGFD’s Career Recruit Schools 65 & 66
 On Monday, November 13, hundreds gathered as 27 new firefighters crossed the stage during their formal badge pinning and graduation ceremonies at Riverdale Baptist Church. Congratulations to all of these individuals and welcome to the Prince George's County Fire/EMS Department family!
DHCD Wins Innovation Award from the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition (MAHC)
 The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) received the Innovation Award from the Maryland Affordable Housing Coalition (MAHC) for its “Best Practice Model” of the County’s Right of First Refusal (ROFR) Program. During MAHC’s Annual Meeting, DHCD was recognized for successfully preserving 1,452 units of quality affordable rental housing over the last three years using the ROFR program. Please join us in congratulating DHCD on this amazing accomplishment!
M-NCPPC Recognizes the Inaugural Cohort of the Neighborhood Planning Academy
 On Wednesday, November 8, the Prince George’s County Planning Department hosted a graduation ceremony to celebrate the launch and honor the members of the inaugural cohort of its Neighborhood Planning Academy. This fall, 30 individuals were selected from more than 300 applications to participate in a six-week pilot program designed to demystify the complex process of planning in Prince George’s County and provide opportunities for County residents and stakeholders to learn how to engage in the planning and development review process. Learn more information about the Neighborhood Planning Committee here. Join the mailing list to receive announcements about upcoming 2024 courses here.
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