Herndon-Reston FISH
Friendly Instant Sympathetic Help
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The FISH Mission
Supporting Our Neighbors in Need
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Every year, FISH helps thousands of individuals and families in Herndon and Reston who are facing urgent financial hardship. Most of those we serve are very low-income, and they come from all racial and ethnic backgrounds, gender identities, language groups, and family types.
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We provide direct assistance for rent, utilities, medical needs and prescriptions, food, household essentials, and other emergency expenses—helping prevent crises like eviction, utility shutoffs, and going without vital medication.
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Our goal is to offer immediate relief while also working to ensure long-term stability. When needed, we connect clients with trusted local partners who can offer ongoing support and services.
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FISH focuses especially on the nearly 7,000 residents in our area living at or below the poverty line. We’re here to help prevent small setbacks from becoming major obstacles—so families can stay safe, healthy, and housed.
FISH Has New Executive Director
Carolyn Amacher
Greetings! I am the new Executive Director of Herndon-Reston FISH. You can find me in our new offices on 2018 Robert Fulton Drive in Reston.
My background is in nonprofit management, with 20-plus years of executive leadership of Jewish Community Centers and other community-focused nonprofits throughout the country. I have an Master’s of Social Work and a Master's in Gerontology, as well as a Certificate in Leadership Coaching for Organizational Wellbeing from George Mason University. I have overseen fund development efforts for not-for-profit social service agencies including annual, legacy, and capital campaigns. Specialties include donor cultivation, solicitation of major gift donors, and foundation relations.
I served as Central Virginia president of the Syracuse University Alumni Club and chair of the Community Advisory Board for KXCI Community Radio in Tucson, Arizona.
An empty-nester, I live in Reston. I have two sons, ages 24 and 29. Outside of work, you can find me hiking, traveling, reading, and writing.
I am enthusiastic about my new role providing Friendly, Instant, Sympathetic Help (FISH) to Herndon and Reston residents in short-term financial crises. I hope to have the opportunity to connect with you soon!
Carolyn Amacher, MSW, MSG
Executive Director
Herndon-Reston FISH, Inc.
Elliot Wicks
President, Board of Directors
HRFISH Has Moved Its Offices
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Our new office address is 1801 Robert Fulton Drive, Suite 120-E. The building is located off of Sunrise Valley Drive near the Sunrise Valley Elementary School.
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The photo below shows the new building.
