Eldersburg, MD – In 2015, Maryland-based nonprofit Caring Communities faced a devastating betrayal: a trusted employee was discovered to have embezzled nearly $500,000 over nine years, leaving the organization and its founders, Mona and Jay Freedman, on the brink of closure. Now, ten years after the discovery, the Freedmans’ inspiring story of resilience is unfolding with a triumphant comeback – a story of true crime, community service, and a New Year’s Eve celebration with a purpose.
Founded in 1998 by Mona and Jay Freedman, Caring Communities (caringcommunities.org) has dedicated itself to providing resources and support to families with children who have disabilities, with a special focus on training for respite care. Over the years, Caring Communities has served tens of thousands across Maryland, DC, and Virginia through its World of Possibilities Disabilities Expos, a cross-disabilities consumer event with over 90 exhibitors and 1,000 attendees annually, and its free World of Possibilities Magazine. All the while, Mona and Jay ran the organization as volunteers, with no real compensation, relying on their dedication to serve others.
But in 2015, their mission was nearly derailed. Their Expo Coordinator and bookkeeper had siphoned nearly $250,000 from both Caring Communities and the Freedmans’ small for-profit business. The betrayal forced the Freedmans to sell their home, leaving them devastated. The perpetrator was convicted in 2017 and served nine months, yet the financial impact and emotional toll on the Freedmans were lasting.
Despite these hardships, the Freedmans chose not only to persevere but to rebuild. Thanks to their grit and determination, Caring Communities has rebounded, expanding its World of Possibilities events, launching a digital version of World of Possibilities Magazine, and making their Respite Training available nationwide online. Their journey is also chronicled in their book, A Snake in the Office, which shares the behind-the-scenes story of betrayal and rebuilding.
To support these efforts, the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, the Charm City Countdown New Year’s Eve Charity Gala, now in its 16th year, brings the community together to celebrate a new beginning while supporting the work of Caring Communities. Baltimore’s biggest all-inclusive New Year’s Eve event, Charm City Countdown transforms the Hilton BWI into a themed experience with 16 party zones, drawing in 1,000 to 1,500 guests each year. This year’s event will be no exception, helping fund Caring Communities’ critical programs and services.
“We hope this story inspires others to see that even in the face of immense adversity, it’s possible to rebuild and make a difference,” said Mona Freedman. “The Charm City Countdown is our way of celebrating resilience and hope.”
For media inquiries or to schedule an interview with Mona or Jay Freedman, please contact:
Mona Freedman
Caring Communities
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (410) 549-5707
For more information about the Charm City Countdown, visit charmcitycountdown.com
Media ContactCompany Name: Charm City Countdown New Year’s Eve Charity GalaContact Person: Mona FreedmanEmail: Send EmailPhone: (410) 549-5707Address:1341 W. Liberty Rd. City: SykesvilleState: Maryland 21784Country: United StatesWebsite: http://www.charmcitycountdown.com/
