At Able Moving & Storage, community and customers are the inspiration for our work with nonprofit organizations and support for college-bound students. They also make the holidays an especially impactful time of the year. In honor of this fast-approaching season, we’d like to spotlight the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Metro DC Chapter. Over the past 3 years, Able has donated logistical support for the CFF’s fundraising events, led by Project Manager Erika Molina and Coordinator CJ Weverink. We hope that you’ll join us in supporting this organization and its commendable cause.
We recently sat down with Erika and CJ to discuss their involvement with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, their approach to managing these events, and how their teamwork has helped make a difference for the CF community:
- Can you tell us about your role in coordinating/project managing the logistics for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s summer fundraising events?
Erika: The first year was intensive because we were learning what needed to be done, which supplies went to each event, and where. Since gaining some event experience, it has been smooth sailing. We use maps to put up tents, drink stations, and registration supplies. Everyone on the team has assigned roles, so everything flows nicely.
CJ: My role involves overseeing the process of getting essential items to and from the events. I work closely with the CFF team to develop a move plan that aligns with their needs and ensures everything runs smoothly on event days.
- How do you (and the Able team) ensure that everything runs smoothly during high-stakes events?
Erika: Our main goal is to support the CFF Foundation, so we check in frequently during the event to ask if they need additional help. They often get volunteers for these events, but we can jump in to fill those roles if required.
CJ: I focus on preparation, communication, and teamwork. First, I work with the Able team and CFF to create a clear and consistent move plan, ensuring everyone knows their roles and responsibilities. The Able team helps me anticipate potential challenges, such as inclement weather, and we address them proactively.
On the day of the event, we stay organized and flexible, maintaining constant communication with the CFF team and adjusting plans in real time if necessary. Our primary goal is to ensure the event runs smoothly without logistical issues, allowing CFF to focus on its essential work.
- Is there a specific CFF fundraising event you enjoy coordinating/project managing most?
Erika: The Brewer’s Ball at the Wharf! It is a beautiful location and everyone enjoys it!
CJ: It would have to be the Brewer’s Ball. I was invited to attend last year, and it was such a great time with fantastic food, live music, and (of course) brews! The atmosphere was friendly and fun, but you could still feel the strong dedication to the cause. It was also the first time I witnessed firsthand how the foundation raises awareness for cystic fibrosis.
- How has Able’s support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation impacted your awareness of this disease?
Erika: To be honest, I had little knowledge of this disease before Able began supporting fundraising events and I joined as the Project Manager. Through attending these events, I have learned a lot about it, and unfortunately, heard many stories about how it impacts children and their families.
One that stands out to me is a little girl speaking in Spanish about her experiences living with this disease. It is often difficult for the Latino community to speak out about illnesses, so I found her ability to tell her story publicly very impactful.
This past September, I loved having a group of my colleagues attend the Manassas 5k so they could see how vital this organization is and why we support them.
CJ: I’ll admit, before managing these projects, I wasn’t fully aware of what cystic fibrosis was. After working with the foundation for several years, attending their events, and even coordinating ones in my hometown, I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of the disease and its impact. It’s been eye-opening, and raising awareness is one of the foundation’s key goals. I’m proud that our work can support that effort meaningfully.
Able Moving & Storage is Proud to Support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Able Moving Project Manager Erika Molina and Coordinator CJ Weverink embody a generous and grateful attitude we can all learn from. We look forward to our continued partnership with the organization, and we hope everyone looking to support the DMV community this year will consider donating to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Metro DC Chapter. To learn more about our work or to request a free moving quote, call (703) 330-3772.
