A diverse group of women is singing to their hearts' content in the lower level of the Hermitage, a senior living facility in Alexandria. Members of the Potomac Harmony Chorus have gathered for their weekly rehearsal-- the chorus will be performing in the second annual community concert and sing-along on Sunday, to benefit Doorways for Women and Families, an Arlington-based nonprofit.

"Our partnership with Doorways was conceived as Potomac Harmony's way to give back to our community in a very meaningful way," said Potomac Harmony board member, Harriet Pearson, one of the organizers of the event. She added, "Our free show on the 19^th features all the wonderful music kids and adults love to hear and sing, and all voluntary donations will go to support victims of domestic abuse and homelessness."

The chorus, a local chapter of Sweet Adelines International has over 80 active members, according to Janell Tuttle, president and assistant director of the chorus. The non-profit music education association teaches and performs in four-part harmony, barbershop style.

"Potomac Harmony is always thrilled to entertain the community," said Tuttle adding, "We are especially delighted again to sing in support of Doorways, one of Arlington's most deserving service organizations."

Lara Lukaszek, special events coordinator at Doorways is at the rehearsal to thank members of the group. Lukaszek noted that the event is very much in keeping with building community and creating awareness about how Doorways helps individuals and families.

Last year more than $1,000 was raised through voluntary donations at the event. "And that's phenomenal for two hours…it's pretty wonderful that people were so generous," said Lukaszek.

The agency has seen a dramatic increase in requests for shelter and other services this past year, according to Lukaszek: a 28% increase in requests for admission and a 21% increase in the number that could not be admitted.

It was through her participation in the sing-along last year that Mary Gleason, a member of the chorus since 2004, became aware of the dire need to support Doorways. Gleason, who is a retired Navy officer and a former volunteer at the Arlington Free Clinic, said she was impressed with Doorways' programs and services and was motivated to get involved as a volunteer.

Lukaszek said she is looking forward to the event and hopes that the sing-along becomes an annual tradition. "They come together and make beautiful music and are able to support Doorways and give their time on a Sunday afternoon around the holidays," she said adding, "I think the holidays are a perfect time to remember how fortunate you are and that there are others out there who are not so fortunate." 

The concert and sing-along will be held on Sunday, Dec. 19 at 3 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Community Center Theater, 125 S. Old Glebe Rd., Arlington, Va. To learn more: Potomac Harmony Chorus, visit www.potomacharmony.org and Doorways for Women and Families, www. Doorwaysva.org.