As spring gives way to summer, our neighborhoods are especially lovely, with their tree-lined streets and colorful gardens, and with longer days inviting us to come outside. But this season’s brightness is accompanied by a swirl of uncertainty: political norms are in flux, a costly military celebration looms, and a sweeping federal “Big Beautiful Bill” threatens to transfer wealth upward while cutting services to the most vulnerable and fraying the threads of democracy. Many of us are trying to balance these concerns with a natural desire to rest, travel, and savor summer.
JAZZ & MORE
Still, this is a beautiful time of year to appreciate where we live and to celebrate East Rock Creek Village, the community we continue to build together. I look forward to doing both at ERCV’s third annual June Jazz concert at The Parks at Walter Reed. On Sunday, June 8th from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, we’ll gather to enjoy live music performed by James Zimmerman and his band in an open-air setting filled with neighbors, joy, and connection. The concert is free and open to all, so come if you can and be sure to let friends know about it.
There are plenty of other ways to connect with fellow ERCVers this month. On Thursday, June 5th, we’ll return to the Olive Lounge patio for a festive Happy Hour. On Wednesday, June 25th, the ERCV Lunch Bunchwill get together at the Parkway Deli, and on Thursday, June 26th, we’ll head to the National Archives to visit our nation’s founding documents and the “Power & Light” photography exhibit currently on display.
While these events bring us together in joyful, visible ways, our deeper work continues quietly every day. ERCV is built on simple but powerful acts. We are neighbors helping neighbors by offering rides, technology coaching, wellness check-ins, listening, and helping each other where we can. Our volunteers, members, and donors make this possible, and I, for one, am proud to be a part of this very special community.
VOLUNTEERING
As we move into summer, I hope you’ll take advantage of all that ERCV has to offer—and invite someone new to do the same. Whether you’re volunteering, attending an event, or receiving a helping hand, you are part of a community rooted in care and connection. And to those who volunteer—thank you. Every ride, every visit, every moment of help brings our mission to life. If you’re not yet involved but feel inspired, we’d love to have you join us.
I wish everyone a safe and happy World Pride month and Juneteenth holiday. And, in honor of Father’s Day, I want to recognize the caring fathers, grandfathers, and father-figures in our community and in our lives—the ones who guide us and the younger generation with their good example, active involvement, and love.
In complicated times, it matters more than ever to keep showing up for one another and to keep imagining the kind of world we want to live in and build, together.