Washington, DC (March 13, 2020) – Wacif has been closely monitoring federal, state, and local updates about the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and has decided to close our office effective Monday, March 16th for two weeks through Friday, March 27th. Please note that although our offices will be closed, Wacif staff will telework during that time. You can find email addresses for Wacif team members on our website: www.wacif.org/about/staff.
Below you can find detailed steps we are taking in response to this disruption:
In-person meetings:
All scheduled in-person meetings will now be held online or over the phone, allowing us to serve clients without contributing to COVID-19’s spread. If you have a scheduled meeting with one of our staff members, they will reach our in the coming days to provide an online option or reschedule.
Workshops & events:
We are canceling all in-person workshops and events scheduled for the next two weeks, or moving them online as necessary. Please contact our staff with any specific questions.
Small Business Support:
Wacif is in conversation with public and private sector partners about resources to support businesses impacted by the virus. We will be sharing information about resources available through Wacif and other partners. Please review the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidance for small businesses, the Small Business Administration’s Employer Guidance for COVID-19, and this COVID-19 preparedness checklist for businesses.
What you can do:
In accordance with the guidance issued by the CDC, you should take the following steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like COVID-19:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Frequently clean and disinfect touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
We welcome your feedback on any additional ways we can partner with our clients, supporters, and community leaders in navigating this disruption and advancing our mission of equity and opportunity. Please share your comments and suggestions at
Thank you and please do all you can to stay safe and healthy.
Sincerely,
Harold Pettigrew
Executive Director