Making a Difference in the Lives of Local Students

Gaithersburg, MD (May 7, 2025) – Since opening last year, members of The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center, a Kisco Signature community, have been making a significant impact on the lives of local students. One member, Bob Karp, has been instrumental in fostering this change. Thanks to Karp’s leadership and commitment, a strong partnership has developed between The Carnegie and Fields Road Elementary School. His efforts have created meaningful opportunities for community members to engage in classrooms, resulting in a growing team of volunteers dedicated to supporting second-grade students.

“You don’t retire from making a difference—you just find new ways to do it,” said Bob Karp. “Volunteering at Fields Road has been a joyful return to purpose. Seeing students light up when they feel supported is deeply rewarding.”

Education runs deep for Karp. His father was a principal in the Boston Public School System and his brothers and sister are college educators. He attended the oldest public high school in the county – Boston Latin School – and then went on to Harvard University majoring in government and political science. He left college his sophomore year to serve in the U.S. Army as a medic. Following his time in the military, he had a career in real estate development with an emphasis on public policy working for the Boston Redevelopment Authority, Cambridge Redevelopment Authority and the Development Corp of America.

Bob’s passion for volunteering has inspired others at The Carnegie, including fellow member Jim Pattison. A Georgetown and Notre Dame alumni, Pattison now dedicates time twice a week to working with second-grade students, helping them with reading, math, and history. His steady and compassionate presence has made him a beloved figure in the classroom.

“I’ve set a pattern of service for my life in whatever city I have lived,” said Pattison. “When one gives to others, there is a reciprocity that ensues, almost like a boomerang. The more one serves and makes people happy, the happier I become because I am helping someone.”

Building on Karp’s momentum, The Carnegie’s Community Outreach Committee, co-led by Karp, is strengthening engagement with the local community. New initiatives include member interest surveys and expanded school partnerships. The committee also continues to support nonprofits like So What Else Food Pantry and Future Link.

So What Else Food Pantry's mission is to ensure no child in Maryland and Washington, DC experiences hunger and has access to meaningful opportunities to learn and grow outside of the school day. Future Link aims to close the opportunity divide for first-generation-to-college young adults facing economic adversity in Montgomery County, providing the professional development, resources, and individual support needed to pursue higher education or career-based training and enter the workforce, achieving lasting self-sufficiency.

"We are incredibly proud of the volunteer efforts led by Bob Karp and Jim Pattison. The impact of their dedication to supporting local students at Fields Road Elementary School is immeasurable,” said Jennifer Murray, general manager, The Carnegie. “Bob's leadership and Jim's compassionate presence have inspired many others to join in this meaningful work. They remind us that when we give our time, we receive something even greater in return.”

About The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center

The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center offers a blend of luxury and tranquility in the heart of Gaithersburg. This 8.5-acre community features 302 beautifully appointed residences and a wide array of premium amenities and five-star services, including a heated saltwater pool, a lecture hall, a curated art gallery, and lush landscaped outdoor spaces with a trail connecting directly to Malcolm King Park. Located in the vibrant Washingtonian Center, The Carnegie provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, enhancing the active, fulfilling lifestyle that members can enjoy.