Washington, D.C. — December 18, 2022
Building on the success of the first A December to Remember in 2021, the spirit of community service and unity returned to CheckIt Enterprises in Ward 8 for a second year — this time, with even greater purpose, partnership, and participation.
By 2022, Felicia Webb and Dimosha Smith had officially founded Capetown DMV, a nonprofit collective of braiders, barbers, nail technicians, and makeup artists dedicated to using their craft to build confidence, opportunity, and community throughout the region. In collaboration with Young Black Female Entrepreneurs, Inc. (YBFE), Capetown DMV proudly led the coordination of this year’s event, expanding its reach and impact.
The event continued to honor the vision and dedication of the original hosting coalition that launched the movement: Dimosha Smith, Kenya Metters, Gelinda Allen of No Slide Zone, Charnal Chaney of Bold Yoga, Ronald Moten of CheckIt Enterprises, Eisha F. Lee of Friends of Douglass, Hani Ahmed of Black Egyptian, Val Suarez of PositiveChalkTalk, Simona James of PorchFestDC, Sarah Actors of 4DMV Kids, King of NWA Autoclub, Tenika Cherese of Bully is Not Dope, and Reginia Summers of Never Black Down.
Together with these founding organizers, this year’s event welcomed an even broader circle of community partners, including Saving Our Youth, Kai Visionz, Guns Down DC, Be You, Inc., The Kitchen Physician, Creating a Safe Space, Elevated Approach, and Fresh Energy Wellness. Each played an essential role in ensuring that the celebration was filled with joy, resources, and empowerment for families across Southeast D.C.
The event offered free haircuts, braids, nail and beauty services, along with clothing, hot meals, hygiene essentials, toys, and community wellness resources. What started as a grassroots effort had evolved into a city-wide celebration of service and love. The building was packed — wall to wall — with residents, volunteers, and small business owners, all united by one purpose: giving back.
The event was filled with music, laughter, and gratitude as independent barbers, stylists, braiders, and makeup artists used their talents to uplift others. With the support of long-standing and new partners alike, A December to Remember had officially become a holiday tradition rooted in compassion and community pride.
Now in its second year, the event continues to embody what Capetown DMV stands for: building confidence and opportunity one service at a time.