John Shooshan Named Outstanding Philanthropist in D.C.

John Shooshan Named Outstanding Philanthropist in D.C.

John G. Shooshan has been named “Outstanding Philanthropist” by the Washington, D.C. Metro Area Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.  He was nominated by Volunteers of America Chesapeake and the Arlington Community Foundation for his work on behalf of the homeless population in Arlington, Virginia.   

“John has been a wonderful partner to Volunteers of America Chesapeake and the numerous programs and resources we have to aid the homeless population, including the Hilda M. Barg Homeless Prevention Center, Bailey’s Crossroads Community Shelter, Loudoun Homeless Services Center and the Residential Program Center,” said President and CEO Russ Snyder. “He leads with his faith and is a true advocate for our neighbors in need. John is a donor to our organization’s flexible emergency fund for the homeless which provides assistance for security deposits or funds for individuals that may be behind on rent and could use a helping hand while transitioning into permanent housing.”

In 2012, Mr. Shooshan provided leadership and matching funding to establish the 100 Homes Campaign Fund in partnership with Arlington County. In 2009, Mr. Shooshan created the Emergency Needs-Homelessness Prevention Fund at the Arlington Community Foundation to provide rent, food and services to those that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in Arlington. 

Wanda L. Pierce, Executive Director of the Arlington Community Foundation, the organization that partnered with Volunteers of America Chesapeake on the nomination, echoed Snyder’s sentiment, adding “John Shooshan is one of the most inspiring and dedicated leaders in our community. Through his private and corporate philanthropy, John has enhanced and impacted countless lives as he has selflessly worked to effect a lasting change in our community, specifically in the area of Homelessness Prevention.”

"I am humbled to receive this award, yet at the same time reminded that all of us who have been so truly blessed are called to help those who are less fortunate,” said honoree John Shooshan. “There is such a great need for all of us who are in a position to share our gifts - our time, talent and treasure - with those who are in desperate need of our assistance." His son, Kevin, added that his father has “always found ways to help others” and “is constantly trying to find ways to utilize his success in business to create more opportunities for others within the community.”

Mr. Shooshan was chosen through a rigorous nomination process organized by the AFP DC (Association of Fundraising Professionals). In partnership with organizations throughout the Washington, D.C. area, Mr. Shooshan  and other philanthropic honorees were selected based on their achievements in improving the quality of life in the region and their high spirit of philanthropic generosity and leadership and will be honored at the 12th Annual National Capital Philanthropy Day awards luncheon on Tuesday, November 12, 2013.

In addition to his tireless efforts in community-based philanthropy, John Shooshan is the acting chairman of The Shooshan Company, a real estate development firm based in Arlington, Virginia.