Chances are, if you’re familiar with us, you’ve attended one of our events or programs in the past. As much as we love gathering together, our greatest priority is the safety of our supporters, volunteers and staff, and artists. As we continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19, or the coronavirus disease, we want to take the time lean on our own value of authenticity and keep you updated on upcoming events.

According to the Virginia Department of Health, the coronavirus is spread by “if a person who has the virus sneezes or coughs and droplets enter the environment”.

In our continued observation of the information available, we have elected to make the following scheduling changes/announcements:

Our Skate Party Fundraiser, scheduled for March 19th at Funquest will be postponed for a later date.
Our Freedom School Family/Volunteer Meeting, scheduled for March 23 at the Jubilee Family Development Center, will be postponed for a later date.

For the rest of our events and programs will continue as planned. As such, we also want to let you know of the precautions we are taking to partner with you and your safety.

Addition of disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizers at our community events (open mic sessions, fundraising events, etc.) and programs (after-school workshops, CDF Freedom School program);
Continued communication with community partners to ensure increased sanitation efforts;
Volunteer and staff have been briefed on identifying symptoms and the best course of action.

To further protect yourself and your family, consider the following tips, also from the Virginia Department of Health:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth as much as possible.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve (not hands) when coughing or sneezing.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Stay home when you are sick.
Avoid contact with sick people as much as possible.
Avoid non-essential travel.
CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19. Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Stay up to date with the latest information. Visit www.VDH.virginia.gov/coronavirus.

Be sure to stay connected with us on our website and social media accounts, for any updates. We look forward to connecting with you all again, but not at the risk of your health or safety; if you are feeling sick, please seek immediate help.

Sincerely,

Nicholas Steven George

Executive Director

UPDATE (March 13, 2020 @ 15:30): In accordance with the Governor’s recent order to close all Virginia K-12 schools for a minimum of 2 weeks, our after-school Young, Lit and Free Workshop and Teens Open Mic Session will be canceled for the remainder of the month.

Update Regarding COVID-19/Coronavirus