budget-size: $1M – $5M
Arlington Thrive
EIN: 51-0207684
Mission Statement
Thrive provides integrated support to our neighbors in need so they can develop the capacity to be stable, secure, and thrive in their community.
Program Summary
Early Childhood Program: These initiatives provide critical support to families with infants and young children. We understand that financial security begins with access to reliable and affordable childcare. That’s why we provide access to affordable childcare, which is crucial for parents to provide for their families and pursue educational opportunities. We also offer resources such as baby boxes filled with essential supplies for infants’ health and safety. Through our Early Childhood Programs, we also provide safe sleep and car seat trainings to equip families with the tools they need to thrive and succeed.
Community Navigator & Employment Pathways Program: These programs work together to provide tailored guidance that strengthens each client’s path to long‑term stability. Community Navigators offer short‑term case management, financial counseling, and individualized support, while Employment Pathways expands earning potential through industry‑recognized certifications, skills‑building courses, and targeted career coaching. By combining immediate support with mid‑career workforce development, Thrive empowers individuals and families to increase their income, access new opportunities, and build a more secure future.
Community Resilience Program: This program serves as a vital lifeline for individuals and families in Arlington facing severe hardships. We help families overcome immediate financial crises by providing rental, utility, and medical assistance. The Community Resilience Program also provides crucial information and referrals that are accessible to individuals and partner nonprofits. This program ensures that neighbors in need can quickly connect to the full range of support services available in Arlington, helping them access the right resources at the right time.
Impact Statement
Arlington Thrive provides financial assistance and comprehensive support services that empower families to achieve stability. This includes access to affordable childcare, financial counseling, job training, and one-on-one support to help people set goals, solve problems, and find the resources they need to achieve long-term stability. Leading with a community first approach, Arlington Thrive values meeting our clients, partners, and supporters at various community events, holiday markets, fairs, and other places Arlington neighbors spend time together. By focusing on holistic support, Arlington Thrive aims to break the cycle of poverty and create pathways to prosperity for families in need.
What ways can the public get involved?
The public can get involved in Arlington Thrive’s work in several ways. Thrive is always looking for volunteers! Whether you’re a photographer wanting to gain more experience, a tech guru who can lend a hand, or someone who loves to see the day-to-day impact of Thrive’s work, we would love to have you be a part of Thrive! Another way to get involved is to amplify Arlington Thrive’s messages on social media. By sharing our posts, spreading awareness about our programs and services, and encouraging others to get involved, individuals can help increase Arlington Thrive’s reach and impact. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Visit www.arlingtonthrive.org for more information, sign up for our newsletter, and meet us at the next community event!
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
Charitable dollars donated to Arlington Thrive are spent on responding nimbly to community needs. These donations ensure that every local family in Arlington can not only call it home but also find a path to stability and prosperity in the community. Your donation goes towards funding urgent rent, utility, and medical needs, as well as providing infant health, safety, and wellness supplies. Additionally, donations support affordable childcare and essential job training programs. By donating to Arlington Thrive, you are directly contributing to the well-being and stability of individuals and families in Arlington, helping them overcome financial crises and build a better future.
Information provided March 2026
Liberty’s Promise
EIN: 27-0058022
Mission Statement
Liberty’s Promise supports young immigrants in need while encouraging them to be active and conscientious American citizens. Our programs aim to make the immigrant experience an affirmative one for young newcomers while instilling in them a sense of pride and support for American ideals of democracy and freedom. By doing so, Liberty’s Promise seeks to reaffirm our fundamental egalitarian and democratic traditions for future generations.
Program Summary
Liberty’s Promise serves low-income, immigrant youth, ages 11-21, through after-school programs of civic engagement and a summer internship program. Our programs, Civics and Citizenship, and Civic Engagement for Beginning English Language Learners (CE-BELL), are designed around four pivotal themes: civic engagement, community involvement, college access, and career readiness. While both programs share a core curriculum, CE-BELL, conducted in Spanish, incorporates an English-language-learning component tailored for recently arrived youth. Our newest program, Civics and Citizenship Junior (C&C Junior) supports middle school youth in their transition to high school.
Our programs, conducted twice a year from October to December and March to May, engage participants in 90-minute sessions twice a week over ten weeks. In addition to the 20 in-class sessions, participants attend two field trips each semester to community sites of civic interest (fire stations, the police department, county government offices, etc.).
Our internship program, Opportunities Plus, matches participants with a host site for an eight-week internship during the summer. During internships, youth acquire professional skills that will be beneficial to them as they integrate themselves into the U.S. workplace. Participants are placed in internships in Arlington County with nonprofit organizations, small businesses, and government offices.
Our programs are designed to help newcomers learn about the civic life of Arlington so that they feel at home in the county.
Impact Statement
Liberty’s Promise operates 27 out-of-school-time programs across the Washington DC and Baltimore metro areas and a professional internship program that has given more than 800 youth a first-hand introduction to the American workplace. Our civics programs serve more than 800 youth annually, and we have worked with more than 8,500 youth since we began in 2005.
To measure the short-term impact of programs, we administer an evaluation to youth upon completion of each semester. On these evaluations, we expect at least 75 percent of our high school respondents to report feeling: a) more involved in their community, b) better prepared for college, and c) more prepared for a career. We routinely exceed these expectations every semester.
Ultimately, the history of Liberty’s Promise is best expressed by the amazing things we have helped our youth accomplish. More than 97 percent of our program participants have finished high school, and 51 percent has some college education, far above the national average for low-income, immigrant youth. In Arlington County, our alumni from Wakefield High School have gone on to become educators, financial advisors, accountants, business entrepreneurs, and more.
What ways can the public get involved?
The public can actively engage with our work by becoming guest speakers at our programs, where they can share valuable resources, insights into various career paths, and personal stories with our youth. Many of our guest speakers come from an immigrant background themselves and can provide a valuable perspective and encouragement for our youth since they were once in their shoes.
During the spring, we also host small groups of volunteers to work with our youth in Job Skills Workshops. In preparation for summer internships, volunteers work with our youth to craft a resume and cover letter, and also offer tips and advice and even engage in interview practice.
Volunteers can further contribute by hosting high school summer interns at their workplaces. Our summer internship program offers participants hands-on work experience and opportunities to gain practical skills in a desired field. This not only enhances their resumes but also empowers them for future success.
On average, we engage with more than 100 volunteers annually across all our program locations. Joining us as a guest speaker, workshop facilitator, or internship host provides a direct and impactful way for the public to support our mission.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
The charitable dollars we receive are strategically allocated to maximize impact. For the 2025 budget, we earmark 87 percent of all revenue for program costs, encompassing staff time, program facilitators, food, transportation, internships, materials for activities, and enriching field trips. This allocation underscores our commitment to directing the majority of funds towards the core elements that directly benefit and uplift the individuals we serve. By prioritizing program-related expenditures, we ensure that our charitable dollars are utilized efficiently to make a meaningful and positive impact on the community we support.
In Arlington County, all charitable contributions are used for direct program costs.
- A $1,000 donation supports a summer internship for a Wakefield High School student.
- A $500 donation supports meals for a college visit
- A $250 donation supports transportation for youth on a field trip
- A $100 donation supports food costs for a week of programming
- A $50 donation supports food costs for youth on one program day

Information provided March 2025
Centers for Opportunity
EIN: 45-2910746
Mission Statement
At Centers for Opportunity (CFO), we believe everyone’s story is unique, and that one’s past does not dictate their future. CFO empowers adults to reach their personal and career goals. Our mission is to provide support that helps propel individuals toward those goals. We offer peer mentoring from those who’ve walked comparable roads, demonstrating that success is attainable with every step. At CFO, success waits behind every door of our five centers and via our virtual programs.
Program Summary
At Centers for Opportunity (CFO), we help individuals overcome barriers to success because we know that a person’s past does not define their future. We happily meet people where they are and walk beside them through their journey to achieve the life of their dreams.
We do this with our five pillars of success:
- Basic Needs
- Peer Support
- Wellness and Recovery
- Employment
- Virtual Support
BASIC NEEDS
Since 2011, CFO has been focused on meeting the needs of those we serve. We connect individuals to safety net services such as food, medical care, and housing to help stabilize their lives.
PEER SUPPORT
Recovery is possible at CFO. Our staff, who are also in recovery, provide essential support to those navigating mental health and substance use issues. Peer support fosters lasting change.
WELLNESS AND RECOVERY
At CFO, we encourage creativity to help individuals navigate what they are facing. We focus on programs such as art-for wellness, daily journaling, and the importance of self-love.
EMPLOYMENT
CFO’s employment program connects individuals with jobs, promoting financial stability, and personal development in a supportive setting. The program is open to anyone who is unemployed or those seeking new opportunities.
VIRTUAL SUPPORT
CFO offers weekly virtual support groups for those who are home-bound or who prefer online services. Individuals connect, share experiences, and make new friends.
We invite you to visit our five centers and join our virtual programming to unlock your potential. At CFO, your future starts now!
Impact Statement
At the Centers for Opportunity, we are dedicated to transforming lives and communities through innovative programs and services. We help adults achieve their personal and professional goals. Over the past year, we have made significant strides in creating opportunities for those in need, fostering a sense of hope and resilience. Following are some of most recent results:
- Served 4,598 adults
- Provided 50,500 services
- Provided 65,000 meals and snacks for homeless or low-income adults
- Helped 57 adults secure employment from August through December 2024 (CFO’s Employment Services division began in July of 2024).
What ways can the public get involved?
At the Centers for Opportunity, we value you.
Here’s how you can make a difference:
1. Volunteer: At CFO, we welcome skills-based and sweat equity volunteerism as we seek to help empower individuals to move toward independence. Whether it’s tutoring, mentoring, helping at our centers, teaching a virtual class, or assisting with events, every bit helps. Reach out to the center near you to get started.
2. Donate: Your contributions enable us to sustain and expand our programs. Every donation, big or small, can help change lives. You can donate directly or can provide an in-kind donation, such as canned goods or warm winter/cool summer clothing for those we serve without a home. You can even host a crowdfunding event and encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to support our work in Arlington. Visit our website to do so.
3. Advocate and Awareness Building: Spread the word about our mission and the work we do. Your voice can inspire others to get involved. If you see someone who can benefit from our services, please let them know we are here to help them. Word-of-mouth advertising is invaluable to us as many we serve may not use social media. Questions: Email info@CentersForOpportunity for more information.
4. Partner: Collaborate with us to create new opportunities. Businesses, organizations, and individuals can all play a role in our mission. Questions: Email info@CentersForOpportunity for more information.
5. Attend Events: Join us at our fundraising events, workshops, and community gatherings. It’s a great way to connect and show support. Watch our website to learn about upcoming activities: CentersForOpportunity for more information.
6. Join our newsletter email list: Keep up with what is happening at CFO to read success stories of those we have served and about ways to engage. Email info@centersforopportunity.org to do so.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
One hundred percent of your donation will go toward helping an adult in your community gain their independence. Below are some examples of where your money goes.
- $15 – Fresh Start Kits: Provides hygiene essentials so individuals can shower, helping them feel clean and confident.
- $20 – Clean Clothes Initiative: Covers laundry detergent and dryer sheets, allowing individuals to wash their clothes and maintain dignity.
- $25 – Nourishing Meals: Helps provide nutritious meals for those facing food insecurity.
- $30 – Gateway to Opportunities: Assists with ID renewals, unlocking access to jobs and housing.
- $35 – Creative Recovery Supplies: Supplies art materials for mental health and wellness activities for one month.
- $40 – Transportation Options: Funds bus passes for job interviews and medical appointments.
- $45 – Online Options: Supports virtual programming and activity kits for those who prefer or need online support.
- $50 – Empowerment Through Education: Helps individuals obtain a GED, opening doors to better opportunities.
- $75 – Online Learning Subscriptions: Provides access to courses on computer skills, coding, and digital literacy.
- $100 – Career Success Services: Funds job search workshops covering confidence, skills, and career-building.
- $200+ – Future Projects: Supports current and new programs, ensuring CFO can continue to serve the community.
Every donation makes a difference! Thank you for helping us transform lives.

Information provided March 2025
L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C.
EIN: 52-1233065
Mission Statement
Make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities, revealed through mutually transforming relationships.
Foster an environment in community that responds to the changing needs of our members, while being faithful to the core values of our founding story.
Engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society.
Program Summary
The heart of our work is providing holistic, person-centered belonging and community in inclusive L’Arche GWDC homes for people with disabilities. L’Arche is unique among residential service providers in that core members (adults with intellectual disabilities) and assistants (people without intellectual disabilities who support core members, working as Direct Support Professionals) choose to live life together like a family.
Two of our homes are located in South Arlington.
Lifelong care and relationships are foundational.
We believe it’s possible to shape a world that welcomes every person as a fully valued and meaningfully contributing member of society. We do this by providing holistic, individualized care for core members (adults with intellectual disabilities) rooted in mutual relationships.
Education and Advocacy are essential.
Our way of life has the power to remove barriers between people with and without disabilities. Through formal and informal educational moments, we promote the understanding that all people are valuable and integral to mutual thriving. We advocate for each other and for laws that promote inclusion to create more human communities.
Mission of Transformation is the result.
We nurture each other’s leadership potential and spiritual formation to discover who we
are and how we can contribute to the greater good. Investing in our model of belonging and community supports opportunities for transformative relationships across difference and makes a more human society possible for all.
Impact Statement
Core Members – adult with disabilities who live in our homes – have specifically reported the following benefits of our model:
- Value the independence L’Arche offers
- Feel more confident
- Better understanding the choices in their lives
- Enjoy making their own choices
- Feel comfortable working on their weaknesses at L’Arche, because they feel valued
- their values
- A stronger sense of purpose and having a lot of goals for their lives
- Feel safe at L’Arche
What ways can the public get involved?
Join our Community Connections Program for adults with and without intellectual disabilities, held one Saturday each month in Arlington.
Join an online prayer night. Prayer nights happen on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm Eastern Time. Click here for the Zoom link and to learn more.
Invite us to come to your community (workplace, faith community, etc) to talk about L’Arche.
Contact us (info@larche-gwdc.org) for more opportunities, including volunteering.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
The impact of your donation to L’Arche GWDC can be seen in our daily lives – in the cozy, safe homes we live in, in the vans that get us where we need to go, and in the loving relationships between core members and Assistants/DSPs. Medicaid funding covers basic needs like shelter and food. Donations allow us to thrive and truly participate in our community. With donations, we maintain our homes and yards, go on vacations together, ensure that our Assistants/DSPs receive meaningful wages, go out to eat with friends, buy groceries and utilities, do outreach, and so much more.

Information provided March 2026
Encore Stage & Studio
EIN: 23-7311352
Mission Statement
For almost 60 years, Encore Stage & Studio has provided hundreds of thousands of young people the opportunity to grow and discover themselves through theatre: onstage, backstage, in the classroom, and in the audience. Our mission is to inspire young people to develop the creativity, empathy and confidence they need to create meaningful connections with peers and positively impact their communities.
Program Summary
Encore’s story is rich with successes on the stage as we serve over 20,000 children and their families each season. We are Northern Virginia’s premier children’s theatre and have been recognized nationally and locally as a leader in the non-profit field. Since our founding in 1967, we have produced more than 260 plays and musicals with newly commissioned works in each of the past nine seasons. Importantly, there are no fees to participate in a production as a cast or crew member.
Our Flip the Script program premiered in 2019 as a major artistic and community-building endeavor, highlighting African-American voices with The Day Nothing Happened, a student-devised production project about the integration of the first school in Virginia. Students conducted first-person interviews and archival research before writing the full-length play. In 2022, we filmed an adaptation for younger students and the program continued with a new script focused on the Green Valley neighborhood in South Arlington in the spring of 2023. We were awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant to produce our third original play in this series, Jamila’s Table, which premiered in February 2025. Our Flip the Script plays now tour to local elementary and middle schools.
Additionally, we offer a vibrant array of theatre arts educational opportunities for artistic expression and growth in a safe and nurturing environment. In 2025/2026, more than two thousand students participated in classes, summer camps and after-school programs, including partnerships with affordable housing nonprofits and Title I schools.
Our Board of Directors launched a new strategic plan in 2026 that builds on successes, connecting us to more youth and deepening our commitment to our community. We are proud that we successfully navigated the many challenges of the past few years and have seen significant growth and new opportunities.
Impact Statement
Children are at the heart of our mission and we believe they have a vital role to play in the larger artistic community. We desire to provide our students with challenging, creative experiences. Our productions are affordable and wholesome. We provide the first theatre experience for thousands of kids who see peers onstage and envision themselves there. Our multi-age structure encourages mentoring and role modeling with participants not available in most schools. Our work is essential to the social, emotional, and mental well-being of children.
What ways can the public get involved?
We hope the community will support Encore by attending performances, participating in our educational programming and connecting us to potential partners. We are actively seeking volunteers with skills in the following areas: human resources, development, finance and non-profit management.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
- $58 provides four free tickets for an Encore production for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) card holders
- $165 purchases fabric, thread and other supplies to costume ten young performers
- $495 provides a scholarship to our It’s Elementary summer camp where kids learn self-confidence and teamwork
- $1,250 Supports a tour production of Flip the Script to build bridges of understanding in our community

Information provided March 2026
Kitchen of Purpose (La Cocina VA)
EIN: 46-2037695
Mission Statement
Kitchen of Purpose uses the power of food to change lives. An agent for socio-economic change, the Kitchen of Purpose generates workforce and entrepreneurship development and provides healthy food assistance in the D.C. metro area. Together, the Kitchen of Purpose community–staff, students, entrepreneurs, partners, supporters– create employment, launch new food businesses, and work to end hunger.
Program Summary
Workforce Development Program
Culinary Training
n our state-of-the-art training kitchen, community members seeking jobs with family-sustaining salaries learn the skills they need to work as qualified cooks and chefs. After the 8 weeks of training, our students begin a four-week paid internship with one of our employer partners. Our job placement leads to permanent job offers, and our graduates earn an average of $19 hour after they have completed our program that includes:
- Connection to our Small Business Incubator: We’re the only organization around that equips community members with culinary training and comprehensive entrepreneurship support.
- Bilingual training in English and Spanish, plus English classes
- Wrap-around social services
- Financial literacy
Barista & Bartending Program
Barista & Bartending Training is training for careers in the restaurant industry, focusing on barista and bartending skills. The 8-week training includes TIPS certification and job placement.
The Food Lab
With the right support, a small business can be a way to earn a family-sustaining income. Kitchen of Purpose provides the training and resources low-to-moderate income community members seek in order to launch successful businesses. Our Food Lab small business incubator offers:
- Training from Business Concept to Business Launch and beyond
- Shared Kitchen space
- Stipends to support business launch
- Mentorship with seasoned entrepreneurs
- Coaching with finance professionals
Food Assistance
Meals to At-Risk Kids
This is where Kitchen of Purpose steps in. We provide after-school enrichment programs and after-school meals. The meals are fresh and balanced, meeting childhood nutrition needs.
Family Meal
In 2025, Family Meal took shape and launched as a gathering for vulnerable neighbors to enjoy a 3-course meal prepared by local guest chefs and served with care by volunteers. It is an evening where we serve “Meals with Dignity.”
Impact Statement
In 2025, Kitchen of Purpose achieved a 90% job placement rate, placing students in positions with $19hr average wage.
By the Numbers:
Each year, we train 90+ community members in
- 5 Culinary Training Cohorts Annually
- 2 Front of House Training
- 2 Food Lab Trainings
In our food assistance programs, we serve
- 10,000 Meals to At-Risk Kids
- 300 Family Meal Guests
Join us in using the power of food to change lives!
What ways can the public get involved?
We invite the community to change lives through the power of food! Opportunities to get involved include:
Mentorship and Coaching: Business professionals with financial expertise and small business experience provide essential support to our entrepreneurs. Volunteers share their experience with clients in our Small Business Incubator as they start or expand their small food businesses.
Skill Share: Kitchen of Purpose invites those with expertise in technology, social media, marketing, and communications to share their skills with Kitchen of Purpose and help us advance our mission.
Preparing Healthy Meals: We invite corporate and community groups to a team building activity that also transforms food into healthy meals as part of Kitchen of Purpose’s Food Assistance Program.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
- $25- Chef Apron
- $50- Chef Knife Kit
- $100- Chef Uniform (Shirt, Pant, and Hat)
- $250- Full Culinary Gear
- $500- 1 Shared Kitchen Space Sponsorship
- $1000– 1 week of After-school Meals
Information provided March 2026
Communities in Schools of Northern Virginia
EIN: 46-3063331
Mission Statement
At Communities In Schools, we surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
Program Summary
CIS of NOVA helps students succeed by removing roadblocks, and providing students with the resources, supports and opportunities they need to thrive. Our model of Integrated Student Supports focuses on academics, attendance, behavior/social emotional and family engagement, providing programming at three levels: school wide, targeted small groups and individual student support.
Based on the annual needs assessment we conduct in each school community, CIS of NOVA currently provides programming such as:
- Welcome events for newly arrived students and families
- Family engagement programs on tech literacy, ESL and literacy classes for parents
- Monthly mobile food market offering fresh produce and non perishable staples
- Career/college planning and support
- Student internships
- Tutoring
- Mentoring
- Affinity groups for newcomers, EL learners, STEM, Leadership, Social Emotional support, Nature club, Sports
- Homework Help
- Individual student counseling and support
- Basic needs support for all students: school supplies, clothing, shoes, outerwear, food, hygiene products
Impact Statement
At CIS of NOVA, we amplify the power of each student’s potential by connecting them to caring adults and community resources. Our professionally trained site coordinators are in school all day, every day. We build a network of partners, including businesses, volunteers, social service agencies, health care providers, community foundations and educators that help our students stay focused today, so they can go further tomorrow. Student success lasts a lifetime. During the 2024-2025 school year:
- CIS NOVA provided basic needs support to over 53,000 students in
- CIS NOVA provided basic needs support to over 72,000 students in Arlington and Alexandria.
- CIS NOVA served 23,600 students across 22 schools in Arlington, Alexandria, Albemarle, Fairfax, and Prince William
- CIS NOVA provided one on one case management support to 950 students.
- 83% of our students met their academic goal.
- 91% of our students met their attendance goal.
- 92% of our students met their social emotional goal.
- 99% of our students met their college/career goal.
- 100% of our students graduated
What ways can the public get involved?
With your help, we can serve more students! Your donation allows CIS of NOVA to connect more students to a caring adult, who can help them access the resources they need to thrive.
We also welcome volunteers to share their expertise, either one day, or on an ongoing basis during the school year.
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
We’re all in this together! Your generous donation helps students stay on the path to success by providing access to food, health care, emotional support, tutoring and other resources they need to feel safe and supported.

Information provided March 2026
Just Neighbors
EIN: 54-1820633
Mission Statement
To provide high-quality immigration legal services to low-income immigrants, asylees and refugees in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia; and, to build community among clients, staff, volunteers and the larger society through education, advocacy, and volunteerism.
Program Summary
Just Neighbors offers expert immigration legal services to at-risk immigrants, refugees, and asylees in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. Our work helps families obtain proper legal status and work authorization, allowing them to achieve their goals and dreams in their new country. We also provide legal counsel to unaccompanied youth and children who have recently been resettled in our area. Just Neighbors has provided immigration legal services to over 20,000 immigrants and refugees of all faiths and nationalities in the DMV for nearly 30 years. Through direct services, collaborative strategies and education, Just Neighbors empowers immigrants to build their capacity and resources to become stable and independent.
Impact Statement
In 2025, Just Neighbors assisted 1,720 residents across Virginia, Maryland, and DC with 2,390 immigration cases. Of those cases, 75% resulted in clients gaining legal status or citizenship. We also provided 942 individuals with legal information. Among former clients whose cases closed last year, 77% reported they were able to obtain or maintain employment after receiving our services, and 96% said our support improved their ability to be self‑sufficient. Additionally, 92% said they were better able to participate in their communities after receiving assistance
What ways can the public get involved?
Just Neighbors welcomes volunteers to support the many different activities and events we hold throughout the year. We have one-time volunteer opportunities for attorneys and non-attorneys to help at our monthly legal clinics or occasional outreach and fundraising events. We also welcome volunteers who have language skills, especially Spanish, to help with intakes and translations at our office in Annandale. Do you have a special talent or skill that you think would help the mission? Contact us!
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
Donations directly support the legal services that help families build long‑term stability. These services allow individuals to work legally, support their families, access health care, qualify for in‑state tuition at Virginia schools, and fully participate in their communities. This creates economic stability and mobility not only for each person served, but for entire families across generations.

Information provided March 2026
REACH for Uganda
formerly known as Arlington Academy of Hope (AAH)
EIN: 20-2089837
Mission Statement
For the past 22 years, REACH for Uganda has transformed communities in rural Eastern Uganda by focusing on delivering quality education, accessible healthcare, and sustainable community development. The organization’s mission centers on uplifting some of the region’s poorest and most vulnerable areas, aiming to bring lasting positive change.
Through a holistic approach that integrates education, healthcare, and community development initiatives, REACH actively enhances the quality of life for local residents. Engaging a dedicated network of volunteers and skilled professionals, REACH not only meets immediate needs but also empowers communities to become self-sustaining and vibrant.
Program Summary
The organization operates two model primary schools, serving nearly 1,000 students with a rigorous curriculum, extracurricular activities, and two meals a day. These schools consistently outperform local government-run schools, and REACH supports students through secondary and tertiary education with a scholarship program, enabling over 330 students to attend top schools and unlock future opportunities. REACH recently opened its own high school, as well, bringing much-needed quality secondary and vocational education to the region.
REACH prioritizes gender equity, with 53% of its students being girls. Its efforts have significantly boosted female enrollment, and all girls who complete primary education pursue higher education. The organization also empowers women through microfinance programs, employment in traditionally male-dominated roles, and initiatives like the Better Homes Program, which improves living conditions by installing durable concrete floors in homes.
Healthcare is another key focus, with two clinics serving over 30,000 people annually, offering treatments for malaria, HIV, prenatal care, and more. These clinics also provide health education to communities. Additionally, REACH employs local community members, including alumni who became healthcare professionals, fostering sustainable development. Through these integrated programs, REACH continues to empower communities in Eastern Uganda, creating lasting change.
Impact Statement
We are an organization that believes in…
Education
We believe that children, especially girls, have a right to a quality education and basic healthcare. We believe that education is the key to transformation and opens opportunities. We believe that children are our hope for the future.
Integrity
We use our resources of time, talent, and money responsibly and strategically.
Respect
We value the Ugandan culture and way of life. We are inclusive of diverse ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds within Reach For Uganda.
Communication
We honestly and openly share our ideas and organizational decision-making.
Partnership
We foster teamwork and value relationships with our volunteers, child sponsors, donors, partners and friends as we work to achieve our goals in partnership with the people of Uganda.
A Passion to Serve
We empower people with opportunities to help children and others in need. We strengthen and grow the organization in a positive and constructive way.
What ways can the public get involved?
Sponsor a student’s education and change their life forever. Learn more here https://reachforuganda.org/donate/sponsorship/
Support the building of our new secondary and vocational school: Learn more here https://reachforuganda.org/programs/arlington-secondary-and-vocational-school-project/
Donate to the program:
https://reachforuganda.reachapp.co/donations/new
Travel with us to Uganda- High school students, adults, teachers. Learn more here: https://reachforuganda.org/getinvolved/trips/
How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?
Your donation to REACH for Uganda supports education, healthcare, and community development in rural Eastern Uganda. It helps fund two model primary schools and one secondary school, providing over 1,000 students with quality education, meals, and extracurricular activities. Your sponsorship of a student secures their future and allows them to reach their full potential. Funds contribute to gender equity initiatives, including microfinance programs and empowering women in leadership roles. Additionally, donations support REACH’s healthcare clinics, which serve over 30,000 people annually, providing essential medical treatments and health education. Your contribution directly empowers individuals and strengthens communities for long-term, sustainable growth in underserved areas of rural eastern Uganda.

Information provided March 2026

Arlington Thrive
Liberty’s Promise
Centers for Opportunity
L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C.
Encore Stage & Studio
Kitchen of Purpose (La Cocina VA)
Communities in Schools of Northern Virginia
Just Neighbors
REACH for Uganda