Send announcements, which are open to the public at no or minimal cost, to The Loudoun Connection, 7913 Westpark Drive, McLean, VA 22102 or e-mail to loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com. Deadline is Friday, two weeks before the event. Photos/artwork encouraged. For more information, call Jennifer Lesinski at 703-917-6454. For additional listings, visit www.connectionnewspapers.com.
The Giving Circle of HOPE, which helps needy people in Northern Virginia by awarding grants and conducting service programs, has opened its 2008 grant cycle. Grants of $1,000-$5,000 are awarded to nonprofit organizations in December through a competitive process. Grant guidelines and applications are due by Sept. 1 and may be accessed at www.givingcircleofHOPE.org or requested by e-mail at givingcircle@hotmail.com.
The Loudoun County affordable dwelling unit (ADU) program is accepting applications for 22 units available for adults age 55 and over at Potomac Green, an adult retirement planned community in Ashburn. Contact the ADU program of the Department of Family Services, 703-737-8043.
The 2008 edition of the Loudoun County "Guide to Services" is now available. Produced by the Office of Public Information, the guide is a comprehensive handbook of information about services provided by the county government, as well as services provided by other governmental and nongovernmental agencies. Copies of the guide are available at Loudoun County community centers, public libraries and at the front counters of county government departments and agencies. Copies of the guide are also available by contacting the Office of Public Information at pivs@loudoun.gov or 703-777-0113. The guide also is available online at www.loudoun.gov/guide.