On October 25, 2013 the Mid-Atlantic region of Camden set out on a mission to help out those in need. This year, Camden Cares focused on helping out Wounded Warriors. We painted 14 apartment homes that were 2 or 3 bedrooms for Wounded Warriors, and worked alongside Operation Homefront for this event.

Vivian from Operation Homefront had to say…“I wanted to tell you how grateful we are for the donation of paint, time and service.  All donated with a beautiful spirit of giving.  Camden has amazing personnel.  Our residents send their deepest gratitude for the support.”  Our very own Regional VP, Richard Key talks about the event. “So one of the greatest parts of my job is to be able to work with the most amazing group of people who work their bottoms off but figure out a way to have a GREAT time doing it.  I had the pleasure of working with Danny Robb, Jose Mejia, Jessie Smith, Kevin Campbell, Emma Smith, Brian Dawson, Katie Hartsky, Danny Hernandez, and Cornelio Gamboa.  From the get go I realized that I was going to have a blast that day.  The camaraderie started the moment we set foot outside the apartment and did not stop until we finished.  The best part about the day is that titles mean nothing and all that matters is that we accomplish the goal of making someone’s life better.  Now we just happened to figure out a way to also have a lot of fun while doing it.  By the end the apartment was painted but so was the crew.  I’m not sure what happened to Emma’s arm but clearly she lost a fight with a roller! "

The crew from Camden Dulles Station "But then you stop and think about the fact that we had similar experiences going on in 15 different apartments and the impact that we made on 15 different families who came home that evening to an apartment that was freshly painted by a team of folks who truly care. "

Emma Smith, Leasing Consultant from Camden Dulles Station

"Upon leaving we got to meet David who lost both legs and was going through rehab.  He is interning Booz Allen and despite his loss had the most amazing attitude.  He also had two flags that he keeps with him and whenever someone does something to help him he asks them to sign his flag.  It was an honor to be asked to sign his flag that afternoon and to see the line of Camden employees who were waiting to also sign.  It was very clear that every single person that day knew the impact that they had.  It was not simply painting an apartment….it was showing someone that they are truly cared for and not forgotten.”

Nichole Jackson, Community Manager of Camden Largo Town Center says,

Nichole Jackson, Community Manager Camden Largo Town Center

 “It’s was great and I look forward to future events that are similar. This was more inspiring than our previous efforts in parks and such. I am glad we partnered up to help. We learned a lot about the gentleman in our apartment. He was recently hurt had a leg amputated and lost 3 fingers. They were really appreciative of our help and efforts. It was nice to get to know them a little while we waited for our paint to be delivered.” Bryn Appiah, Leasing Coordinator for Camden Lansdowne says,

Bryn Appiah, Leasing Coordinator Camden Lansdowne

“My experience was awesome! Knowing that my team would come together for a good cause was exciting and a ray hope to this ever-changing world. Helping individuals who have committed to keeping us all safe. No question!! I’m in! Everyone worked diligently to finish the task at hand and nothing but smiles all day. Makes me realize that there are still many good people left in this world. Thank you Camden for allowing me to be a part of something so great.”

Stephanie Mason's story Camden Cares is one of my favorite aspects of working for this company. I love being able to give back to the local community. Being a child of a military vet, I am proud and honored to spend time working with military personnel. I had the opportunity of meeting a mother who’s daughter was injured during her tour in Afghanistan. I felt such a connection to her. She reminded me of my own mother. There were moments of conversation with her I could feel tears welling up in my eyes. I am happy that one day of my life painting her apartment home has impacted her in so many ways. I don’t think that people understand that there are people out there who have served our country that are injured and need our help. I am glad that I could make a difference.

Leasing Consultant Christine Eller and myself from Camden Fairfax Corner