Frequently Asked Questions
A: Membership brings benefits from many vantage points. At the top of the list is connectedness. Knowing neighbors creates a base for enjoyment, information and a place to turn in time need. The newsletter and website tell of events and activities including bridge, book, walking and biking groups, gallery tours and theatre evenings. Far from being “of a certain age” decrepit, DCVers are active and vital individuals! Our Volunteers and Services Coordinator is available by phone or email to connect members with neighborhood volunteers or pre-approved vendors who perform a range of services. These include but are not limited to heavy lifting, rides to appointments, computer glitch fixing, small home repairs, errands, gardening help and advice, and more serious concerns about health and wellness. Essentially if members have a need or concern, DCV is there to help find a solution. Members receive discounts at specified restaurants, get free on-line membership in the Washington Consumers Checkbook and get other useful discounts
A: A non-profit organization has fixed expenses including insurance, legal documents and phone service.
We have hired an executive director who works closely with our members and volunteers. We have used free office space but have technology expenses such as a cell phone and office equipment. In fact, compared with other Villages, our dues are lower. The Board is extremely conscientious about keeping dues as affordable as possible. Members are invited to pay through a payment schedule that works for them. We also have a Membership-Plus category for those with annual incomes less than $40,000; dues are $100 per year, subsidized by a grant.
A: Absolutely not. Many of our volunteers are in their 20’s and 30’s, eager to be connected and useful in their adopted community. They enjoy the experience of learning about our neighborhood from those who have generally been in residence for many decades.
A: The vast majority of members are healthy. A misconception about the Village movement is that it comprises ailing people in emergency situations. That is untrue. All members are interesting, engaging individuals. Most are in the prime of life, enjoying a more balanced work schedule. Some have challenges that they are meeting diligently, thanks in part to information provided through the research the Village has done and the helping hands of neighborhood volunteers who assist in various ways including transporting to doctors’ appointments and assisting with errands
A: Currently, the board has 10 members: Peggy Simpson (President), Abigail Wiebenson (Vice President & Secretary), Mary Braden (Treasurer), Iris Molotsky, Marilyn Newton, Caroline Mindel, Nancy Hartsock, Brad Runyan, Brad Edwards, and Alaire Rieffel. They represent vast professional experience and expertise as well as long-time residency in and commitment to the Dupont Circle neighborhood.