Press Release
Creating Lasting Impact: The Sustainable Benefits of Investing in Local Community Based Organizations
Returning to society after incarceration can be incredibly challenging, especially for individuals living in rural Virginia. Many faces significant obstacles including securing reliable transportation, safe housing, retaining employment and access to vital mental health and substance abuse treatment. These challenges can foster a sense of hopelessness, making it difficult for individuals to rebuild their lives.
LOC Family Services (LOCFS) is dedicated to empowering returning citizens in Planning District 14, which includes Amelia, Buckingham, Charlotte, Cumberland, Lunenburg, Nottoway, and Prince Edward counties. This committed community-based organization (CBO) provides essential support in several key areas. LOCFS helps individuals access substance abuse and mental health resources, obtain important documents like driver’s licenses, birth certificates, social security cards, housing support through referral, and enroll in workforce development programs. The organization’s goal is to help returning citizens obtain stability and become productive citizens in their communities and work with partners to create pathways to success in the growing fields of hospitality and renewable energy, equipping individuals with the tools they need to thrive.
Despite their successes, organizations like LOCFS often struggle to secure adequate funding to help with operating cost and expansion efforts and are under intense funding restrictions. Local governments and larger institutions frequently prioritize support for bigger organizations, leaving smaller CBOs, particularly those led by minority groups, without the necessary resources to operate effectively.
LOCFS has a proven track record, having facilitated over $1.2 million in federal grants for reentry services across its service area since 2018. Thriving through a pandemic, two government shut downs and now an opioid crisis without any Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans due to ineligibility since the organization continued to operate or American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds from local governments in the rural counties they serve although request were made. Key programs include:
Changing Lanes Project (2018-2021): Supported by the Department of Justice, this comprehensive program achieved zero recidivism among 49 of the enrolled total of 107 participants after one year of follow up.
National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Hospitality Opportunities for People Empowerment (HOPE) Grant (2020-2023): This subaward from the Department of Labor provided hospitality training, credentialing, job placement assistance, and supportive services to 74 individuals aged 18-24 who have been involved with the justice system. The enrollment exceeded the performance measure requirement of enrolling at least 50 eligible individuals in the targeted rural areas.
FLIPP Inc. Accelerated Clean Energy Reentry Program (2023-Ongoing): In collaboration with FLIPP Inc. and funded by the Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration, LOCFS provides outreach, enrollment, and case management for a 3-week paid internship focused on renewable energy. As of July 2024, 28 participants completed their training with a remarkable attrition rate of zero, and 21 out of 28 passed the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners Photo Voltaic Associate exam on their first attempt. Six participants have successfully transitioned into jobs in the renewable energy sector within four months of completing the program.
Virginia Department of Health Rural Health Grant (2023-2024): As a subrecipient, LOCFS addressed healthcare disparities for 21 returning individuals in the rural health grant initiative.
LOC Family Services (LOCFS) has conducted an efficacy evaluation as part of our Behavioral Health contract with Piedmont Regional Jail. Out of the 71 individuals enrolled, 11 have experienced reincarceration since their release, resulting in a current recidivism rate of 15% which is defined as a rearrest rate within 1 year and 10 months period as of December 2024 and 55% of the 71 individuals enrolled reported having previous experience with substance misuse. While LOCFS Founder, President, and CEO, Shelley Mays-Couch who is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Trauma Informed Trainer, Certified Sex Offender Treatment provider, and Neuro Linguistic Programming Practitioner predicts potential increase in this rate if direct services addressing physiological needs to those impacted by opioid misuse and other barriers is not increased within communities, it is vital to recognize that such growth can be mitigated or even reduced through appropriate funding for community-based organizations like LOCFS.
With a proven record of accomplishment of effectively serving the community, LOCFS dedication to developing strategic approaches that address the multifaceted needs of individuals with mental health concerns, substance use disorders (SUD), and other barriers to successful reintegration and recovery is reputable. LOCFS programming is in addition to other organizations that addresses intensive outpatient treatment for mental health and substance misuse treatment, Medical Assistance Treatment, and therapeutic counseling but LOCFS services ensures that their services provide an emphasis on empowerment, outreach, and increased awareness.
In LOCFS ongoing Behavioral Health Case Management Services contract at Piedmont Regional Jail where the Superintendent is Jerry Townsend, LOCFS have supported 71 individuals pre-release, facilitating their transitions back to society including discharge planning and housing referrals to treatment. The challenges faced by returning citizens are significant, including housing instability, substance misuse, unmet mental health needs, transportation barriers for follow-up appointments and complications with employment retention. The LOCFS team possesses a profound understanding of these challenges and is uniquely equipped to break the cycle of recidivism and opioid misuse-related crisis and overdoses by providing essential supportive services.
The financial implications of this approach are noteworthy. In Virginia, the annual cost to incarcerate an individual within a local jail or Regional Jail is approximately $27,060, while providing housing and supportive services post-release costs approximately $18,600. This highlights the potential for substantial savings for taxpayers while simultaneously improving the quality of life and safety for community members.
Local leaders and policymakers are urged to acknowledge the substantial role of community based organizations like LOCFS and distribute the necessary resources to sustain and enhance support for returning citizens who are seeking assistance with recovery and stability. Contributions, whether through donations or advocacy, can lead to significant positive changes. By aligning with LOCFS in our mission, individuals can empower those seeking a second chance and contribute to the strengthening of communities. Each donation has the potential to create a lasting impact on the lives of those striving to rebuild. With collective support, we can work towards a brighter future for everyone in our community. Your support is essential in driving meaningful change.
Visit locfamilyservices.com for more information.
Contact details
1. Company name: LOC Family Services
2. Website link: https://www.locfamilyservices.com/
3. Contact email: Info@locfamilyservices.com
4. Country: USA
5. City: Charlotte, Virginia
6. Contact person name: Shelley Mays-Couch
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
Swell Realty and Swell Real Estate Co. Host Monthly Happy Hour Networking Events Supporting Local Charities
United States, 1st May 2025 — Swell Realty Co. and Swell Real Estate Co. have launched a new monthly happy hour series aimed at strengthening connections among real estate professionals while making a meaningful impact in the community. These events, which began in March, are open to all local real estate agents and feature a unique 50/50 raffle that benefits both attendees and charitable causes.
The happy hours are more than just networking opportunities—they’re community-driven gatherings where half of the raffle proceeds go to the winner, and the other half is donated to a local charity. “We wanted to create a space where agents from all brokerages could come together, build camaraderie, and also give back,” said Matt Langan, Owner of Swell Realty Co..
The initiative launched in March at VooDoo Brewing with great success. That month, the charity portion of the raffle was donated to support the families of two Virginia Beach police officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. In April, the happy hour was held at Back Bay Farmhouse Brewery, where funds raised went to support homeless veterans through the Judeo Christian Outreach Center.
Swell Gives Back, founded in 2023 as the non profit entity of its parent company, Swell Real Estate Co., has also helped contribute.
Swell Gives Back’s principal mission is to help those neighbors in need and in the communities where Swell agents work and live.
Swell Gives Back’s primary source of donations come from the agents of Swell Realty and Swell Real Estate who graciously contribute portions of their commissions in an effort to help fund the organization’s charitable initiatives. These include but are not limited to: Toys for Tots, Salvation Army, local homeless shelters, shoes for local school kids, families of slain police officers and other worthy causes.
The next happy hour is scheduled for May 15th at Union Taco in Norfolk, continuing the company’s mission to uplift the community while fostering professional connections. Local agents are encouraged to attend, enjoy an evening of casual networking, and participate in the impactful raffle.
“Our vision is simple,” Langan added. “We want to build stronger ties within the real estate community while providing real help to those in need. Every ticket sold is a step toward both goals.”
The happy hour events reflect Swell Realty’s broader commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. By combining business networking with purposeful giving, the firm is setting a new standard for what it means to be a local industry leader.
For more information on upcoming events or to RSVP, contact Matt Langan directly at matt@sellwithswell.com.
About Swell Realty Co. and Swell Real Estate Co.
Based in the United States, Swell Realty Co. and Swell Real Estate Co. are locally owned real estate firms dedicated to client success and community betterment. Known for their expertise in the Hampton Roads market, the companies prioritize meaningful relationships—both in real estate and in their broader philanthropic efforts.
Media Contact
Organization: Swell Real Estate Co. and Swell Realty Co.
Contact Person: Matt Langan, Owner
Website: http://www.sellwithswell.com/
Email: Send Email
Country:United States
Release id:27165
View source version on King Newswire:
Swell Realty and Swell Real Estate Co. Host Monthly Happy Hour Networking Events Supporting Local Charities
It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release.
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
WeTrade Announces Launch of Two Hundred Thousand Dollar Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live Competition Starting 1 May
Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live starts 1 May with $200,000 prize pool, $2,000 weekly rewards, and free copy trading access
LIMASSOL, CYPRUS – 1st May 2025 – WeTrade, the award-winning global trading platform, today announced the launch of its Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live competition with a $200,000 prize pool. The premier trading event follows the platform’s highly successful demo competition which saw participation from thousands of traders worldwide.
Running from 1 May to 31 July 2025, the live competition will see the grand champion taking home $100,000, with the rest of the top 10 traders sharing substantial rewards. Additionally, there are weekly prizes of $2,000 for two categories: highest weekly profit ($1,000) and largest trading volume ($1,000). To participate, traders must have a minimum equity of $500 and no open positions at the time of registration.
A standout feature of this year’s competition is the introduction of free real-time copy trading. While only registered participants can compete, all non-participating traders can follow the strategies of the top 20 traders in real time, without any subscription or profit-sharing fees.
“We are thrilled to bring this competition to life after the incredible performance and enthusiasm seen in our demo event,” said George Miltiadou, Group CEO of WeTrade. “This competition is the next step in giving our global trading community a world-class platform to shine.”
Thanks to WeTrade’s award-winning platform, competitors of the Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live will have the edge with razor-thin spreads from 0.0 pips, flexible leverage up to 1:2000, and swap-free options. With lightning-fast execution, all traders, from beginners to seasoned pros, can seize market opportunities with confidence and speed.
As WeTrade prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary later this year, Miltiadou said the company will continue to support excellence, whether on the trading floor or the racetrack. “Just as we push boundaries in the world of motorsport with Phantom Global Racing, we are excited to offer a global stage for traders to rise to the top and demonstrate their skills. As we celebrate a decade of excellence, this is the moment for both rising stars and seasoned pros to show the world what they’re made of.”
WeTrade plans to expand its competition series and educational initiatives, empowering more traders to succeed in global markets.
To learn more or register for the Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live, please visit https://bit.ly/3EEwhtU
About WeTrade
WeTrade is a globally recognised financial broker, founded in 2015, offering innovative online trading services across a diverse range of CFD instruments. Known for its commitment to excellence, WeTrade provides ultra-low spreads, flexible leverage options, and strong capital security, earning it prestigious awards such as Most Trusted Broker and Best Loyalty Program Broker. Its exclusive programmes include WeTrade Honours, a premium membership with high-value benefits; WeTrade Rewards, a pioneering loyalty programme; and WeTrade Wallet, a reward-generating storage fund. At WeTrade, trading is designed to be both successful and rewarding.
Learn more at www.wetradebroker.com or follow us on social media @WeTradeGlobal
Media Contact
Organization: WeTrade
Contact Person: CHONG PEI ZHOU
Website: https://www.wetradebroker.com/
Email: Send Email
City: Kingstown
Country:Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
Release id:26940
View source version on King Newswire:
WeTrade Announces Launch of Two Hundred Thousand Dollar Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live Competition Starting 1 May
It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release.
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
Press Release
WeTrade Announces Launch of Two Hundred Thousand Dollar Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live Competition Starting 1 May
Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live starts 1 May with $200,000 prize pool, $2,000 weekly rewards, and free copy trading access
LIMASSOL, CYPRUS – 1st May 2025 – WeTrade, the award-winning global trading platform, today announced the launch of its Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live competition with a $200,000 prize pool. The premier trading event follows the platform’s highly successful demo competition which saw participation from thousands of traders worldwide.
Running from 1 May to 31 July 2025, the live competition will see the grand champion taking home $100,000, with the rest of the top 10 traders sharing substantial rewards. Additionally, there are weekly prizes of $2,000 for two categories: highest weekly profit ($1,000) and largest trading volume ($1,000). To participate, traders must have a minimum equity of $500 and no open positions at the time of registration.
A standout feature of this year’s competition is the introduction of free real-time copy trading. While only registered participants can compete, all non-participating traders can follow the strategies of the top 20 traders in real time, without any subscription or profit-sharing fees.
“We are thrilled to bring this competition to life after the incredible performance and enthusiasm seen in our demo event,” said George Miltiadou, Group CEO of WeTrade. “This competition is the next step in giving our global trading community a world-class platform to shine.”
Thanks to WeTrade’s award-winning platform, competitors of the Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live will have the edge with razor-thin spreads from 0.0 pips, flexible leverage up to 1:2000, and swap-free options. With lightning-fast execution, all traders, from beginners to seasoned pros, can seize market opportunities with confidence and speed.
As WeTrade prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary later this year, Miltiadou said the company will continue to support excellence, whether on the trading floor or the racetrack. “Just as we push boundaries in the world of motorsport with Phantom Global Racing, we are excited to offer a global stage for traders to rise to the top and demonstrate their skills. As we celebrate a decade of excellence, this is the moment for both rising stars and seasoned pros to show the world what they’re made of.”
WeTrade plans to expand its competition series and educational initiatives, empowering more traders to succeed in global markets.
To learn more or register for the Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live, please visit https://bit.ly/3EEwhtU
About WeTrade
WeTrade is a globally recognised financial broker, founded in 2015, offering innovative online trading services across a diverse range of CFD instruments. Known for its commitment to excellence, WeTrade provides ultra-low spreads, flexible leverage options, and strong capital security, earning it prestigious awards such as Most Trusted Broker and Best Loyalty Program Broker. Its exclusive programmes include WeTrade Honours, a premium membership with high-value benefits; WeTrade Rewards, a pioneering loyalty programme; and WeTrade Wallet, a reward-generating storage fund. At WeTrade, trading is designed to be both successful and rewarding.
Learn more at www.wetradebroker.com or follow us on social media @WeTradeGlobal
Media Contact
Organization: WeTrade
Contact Person: CHONG PEI ZHOU
Website: https://www.wetradebroker.com/
Email: Send Email
City: Kingstown
Country:Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
Release id:26940
View source version on King Newswire:
WeTrade Announces Launch of Two Hundred Thousand Dollar Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live Competition Starting 1 May
It is provided by a third-party content provider. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release.
About Author
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
WeTrade Announces Launch of Two Hundred Thousand Dollar Trading Blitz Race 2025 – Live Competition Starting 1 May
Swell Realty and Swell Real Estate Co. Host Monthly Happy Hour Networking Events Supporting Local Charities
Swell Realty and Swell Real Estate Co. Host Monthly Happy Hour Networking Events Supporting Local Charities
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