budget-size: Less than $1M

Arlington Historical Society

EIN: 54-0920730

Mission Statement

Our mission is to improve our community by building knowledge of our diverse history.

The Arlington Historical Society, founded in 1956, is a nonprofit educational organization incorporated under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Arlington Historical Society conducts research to preserve and disseminate knowledge relating to the history, archaeology, material culture, geography,  and socio-economic development of Arlington County, Virginia.

Program Summary

The society fulfills its mission by providing historic resources for the community, including two historic properties (the Arlington Historical Museum and the Ball-Sellers House) and its artifact collection; original historical research (such as the Memorializing the Enslaved in Arlington project) and publications (including an annual scholarly magazine); the discovery, collection, preservation and exhibition of artifacts; and the presentation and dissemination of knowledge on the local history of Arlington County (through both recurring monthly events as well as individual community events), and all of this is free to the public.

Impact Statement

AHS builds community by spreading awareness and appreciation of our shared history. 

Our museums reach life-long residents, newcomers who want to learn about their new community and out of town guests who learn about Arlington’s role in just about every aspect of US history. 

Our current project, Memorializing the Enslaved in Arlington involves original research of the enslaved in Arlington, including their names (where available from the historic record), their occupations and place of enslavement. This information is available on our website, and it is made accessible to the public through community events and through “stumbling stones” which are markers that will be placed throughout the community to commerate the lives of the enslaved. We are working with Arlington County Public Schools to produce the stumbling stones and the County to place the stumbling stones. The first 18 of an estimated 2750 have been produced and placed as a pilot program, and more will be regularly produced and placed.

Additionally, AHS is actively involved in community outreach and many people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of our county’s history through our monthly events, special events at our museums and our involvement with numerous civic and other community events.

What ways can the public get involved?

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

AHS has very little overhead, and virtually all money raised goes directly into our program. Our significant expenditures include operating and maintaining our two historic properties, the oldest extant school building in the county and the oldest extant structure in the county, maintaining our artifact collection, holding our events and educating the public through our digital and physical content.

We have recently completed preservation work on the Arlington Historical Museum, housed in the historic 1891 Hume School. We have updated all the exhibits and transformed space previously used for storage into community space that will be used as a center for history education, presentations, co-curated exhibits that highlight our rich diversity, and for general community use. We are raising money for a part time Museum Director, part time Executive director to expand our reach in the community, as well as raising money for preserving the Ball-Sellers House. We are also raising money for the stumbling stones for the Memorializing the Enslaved in Arlington program.

A photo of the Arlington historical society building.

Information provided March 2026

Latinas Leading Tomorrow

EIN: 27-5119847

Mission Statement

Our mission is to connect and expose Latinas to opportunities that enrich their future through education, mentoring and leadership development

Program Summary

We are dedicated to empowering Latina middle and high school students through our free programming initiatives. These programs, specifically designed for Latinas leading tomorrow, encompass a range of opportunities. From our CORE (Creating Opportunities to Reach Excellence) program, which lays the groundwork for future success, to our ELITE Leadership Academy, where leadership skills are honed within a supportive team environment, we strive to provide avenues for personal and academic growth. Additionally, our LLT STEMpower Camps serves as a platform for Latinas to excel in these critical fields, equipping them with the skills and confidence to become leaders in STEM and beyond. Through these initiatives, we aim to inspire and empower the next generation of Latina leaders to reach their full potential and make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Impact Statement

Our organization’s efforts have yielded significant outcomes for the population we serve. Latinas Leading Tomorrow has positively impacted a diverse demographic, with 65% coming from low-income backgrounds, 60% being first-generation students, and 50% raised in single-parent households. Remarkably, 90% of our participants have successfully transitioned to college, showcasing the profound effect of our work.

What ways can the public get involved?

Ways the Public Can Get Involved with Latinas Leading Tomorrow

There are many meaningful ways individuals, organizations, and businesses can support the mission of Latinas Leading Tomorrow and help empower the next generation of young women leaders.

Volunteer with Our Programs and Events
Community members can volunteer their time by supporting student workshops, mentoring sessions, STEM activities, or helping at community events such as our Noche de Impacto celebrations, STEM Boot Camps, and college exposure trips.

Become a Speaker or Mentor
Professionals are invited to share their career journeys and expertise with our students through guest speaking opportunities, career panels, and mentorship sessions that inspire young women to explore new possibilities.

Partner with Us
Organizations, universities, and businesses can partner with LLT to create internships, host educational experiences, sponsor programs, or collaborate on initiatives that expand opportunities for our students.

Make a Donation or Provide In-Kind Support
Financial contributions and in-kind donations such as school supplies, technology, transportation support, or event sponsorships help ensure that our programs remain accessible to the students and families we serve.

Host or Support a Fundraiser
Community members can help raise awareness and resources by organizing fundraising events, sponsoring program activities, or participating in events like our Reach for the Stars 5K or Noche de Impacto celebrations.

Together, we can create more opportunities for young women to grow as confident leaders, pursue higher education, and shape the future of our communities.

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

Latinas Leading Tomorrow allocates $0.89 to $1 of each dollar towards programming, directly supporting mission-related activities and services. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Programming Expenses: This part of the budget covers essential activities and services that fulfill the organization’s mission. For instance, it includes expenses for program materials like T-shirts and educational materials, as well as provisions for meals/snacks and transportation for field trips. Additionally, it covers costs for a program coordinator to oversee operations.

Administrative Costs: Administrative expenses pertain to the overall running of the organization and include expenditures like rent for storage space and dues & subscription expenses.

Fundraising Expenses: Funds dedicated to fundraising cover various costs associated with generating additional financial support for the organization’s mission. This encompasses expenses related to events like 5K Run/Walk, marketing and advertising efforts, donor outreach, and engaging a race timer.

Information provided March 2026

Culpepper Garden

EIN: 54-1681671

Mission Statement

Serving Northern Virginia since 1975, Culpepper Garden nonprofit retirement community provides affordable housing and a range of supportive services that enable older adults on very low, fixed incomes to age with independence, dignity, wellness, connection, and peace of mind. This award-winning community provides a vital lifeline for 400 vulnerable seniors per year who in no other instance can afford a home in this costly area or the services that meet their basic needs as they grow older. In many cases, Culpepper Garden is their last, best home.

Program Summary

Owned by the nonprofit Arlington Retirement Housing Corporation, Culpepper Garden provides 346 units of federally subsidized Independent Living. Our services begin with immediate housing stabilization in our well-maintained apartments, but our work does not end there. We are the only affordable retirement community in Arlington that offers a dining plan and provides free transportation to medical appointments and shopping destinations to ensure our residents have food security and access to healthcare services. A full calendar of daily activities fosters social engagement and enriches our residents’ lives. An array of free and low-cost wellness services provided by two dozen community partners help to maintain residents’ physical, dental, visual, and mental health. Through responsible stewardship and a commitment to equity, we strive to ensure older adults with limited resources have a stable home, meaningful support in a vibrant community, and the opportunity to thrive.

This affordable, service-enriched housing model has helped to reduce homelessness among older adults in Arlington County by 15% over the past several years. Culpepper Garden’s services provided in collaboration with our partners’ wellness programs consistently improve health outcomes for our residents, resulting in a 20% decrease in hospital admissions. We remain committed to providing a safety net for Arlington’s most vulnerable older adults and meeting their needs for generations to come.

Impact Statement

Our impact is reflected in the ability of older adults to age in place with stability, dignity, and appropriate support. At Culpepper Garden, residents secure not only affordable housing, but also access to essential services that enable them to maintain independence and quality of life.

While we serve individuals aged 62 and older who meet federal income eligibility requirements, our resident population is significantly older and more vulnerable than these criteria suggest. Sixty-five percent of residents are age 75 or older, and nearly one-third are over age 82, with many living into their 90s and beyond.

Residents live on extremely limited financial resources, with an average annual income of $18,069. The majority rely on Social Security, and many require additional assistance to meet basic needs, including food security. A growing number of residents enter our communities following periods of housing instability or homelessness.

Through stable housing and coordinated support, Culpepper Garden enables older adults with the greatest needs to live safely, maintain independence, and experience improved well-being.

What ways can the public get involved?

Volunteer. Our organization could not do this important work without the dedicated, passionate volunteers who serve Culpepper Garden. Volunteers assist with maintaining our gardens and grounds, assisting with special events, leading resident activities, and more. By volunteering here, you will be joining others in our community who are making a positive difference.

Donate. Almost all of the funding we receive from donors goes toward delivery of affordable service-enriched housing that enhances the lives of at-risk older adults. We are extremely efficient in how we use the money we have.

Collaborate. We regularly seek out opportunities to partner with local organizations and supporters who compliment and advance the impact we are able to make in our community. We’ve been able to sustain our work for more than 50 years because of our lasting partnerships

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

Financial support plays a vital role in sustaining and expanding our mission to provide affordable housing, services, and compassionate support for older adults with limited financial meals. Every contribution directly helps create a safe and supportive living environment while also funding programs that promote health, social connection, and overall well-being.

Through careful and responsible stewardship of every dollar, we ensure that resources are used efficiently and transparently to maximize their impact. 

By investing in this work, donors help empower older adults to live with dignity and purpose—ensuring they have a stable home and the opportunity to truly thrive.

Information provided March 2026

National Chamber Ensemble (NCE)

EIN: 46-4007072

Mission Statement

The Mission of the National Chamber Ensemble (NCE) is to entertain as well as provide opportunities to appreciate and enjoy the art of chamber music, bringing together performers, audiences and composers. The NCE produces high quality chamber music performances for the general public at a reasonable cost. Through our performances and commissions of original musical works we present a full range of chamber music repertoire from the classics to the contemporary. The most important goal of the NCE is to build a sense of closeness between performers and audience that enhances the feeling of community and a deeper musical experience.

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

Contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. They support educational programs NCE produces as well as general operation support such as printing, piano movers, piano tuners etc. They may help with special projects involving guest artists.

Information provided March 2025

Four Mile Run Conservatory

EIN: 81-1611867

Mission Statement

The Four Mile Run Conservancy connects nature, culture, and community at lower Four Mile Run through restoration, advocacy, recreation, and education.

Program Summary

COMMUNITY STEWARDSHIP: we provide frequent opportunities for volunteers to improve the condition of lower Four Mile Run, such as land- and kayak-based litter clean-ups, native tree/shrub plantings, and invasive species removal.

YOUTH AND PUBLIC PROGRAMS: through our Nature Explorers And Restorers (NEAR) program, we offer outdoor learning opportunities for young people, mostly those from program partners that serve recently-immigrated families, families transitioning from homelessness, and underserved youth. NEAR programming is provided at no cost to them. Throughout the year we offer public interpretive programs, such as pop-up nature centers and park walks highlighting nature and local history.

CONSERVATION INTERNSHIPS: we offer part-time paid summer internships for high-school and college age youth, providing on-the-job experience in natural resource management, field research, and program leadership.

COMMUNITY SCIENCE: we conduct ongoing research with community volunteers and youth interns that includes wildlife camera surveys, water quality testing, and documentation of the ecosystem using the iNaturalist app and online mapping tools.

PARK IMPROVEMENT: we advocate for and seek out resources to support better park infrastructure. Projects have included signage, public drinking water sources, bird nesting boxes, and our current project to build an ADA-accessible kayak and canoe launch.

Impact Statement

We see lower Four Mile Run, its associated park lands, and surrounding community as extraordinary in ecological and socioeconomic diversity, as well as in the range of activities that happen here, whether organized sports, outdoor recreation, informal play, fishing, picnicking, and more. The area’s demographic diversity is reflected in our volunteers, who come from the immediate neighborhood as well as from all across the DC metro region.

We continue to work to ensure the benefits of nearby nature are accessible to the community, both in terms of addressing physical barriers, as with our recently completed project to build an ADA-accessible public kayak/canoe launch, and in terms of sociocultural barriers, as with translation of signage and interpretive materials.

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary this year, we reflect on an impact that has included:

Coming soon: freshwater mussel restoration and adaptive paddling programs!

What ways can the public get involed?

Volunteering for land-based and kayak-based stream/park clean-ups, planting, and invasive plant removal events, participating in our local nature/history walks, visiting our pop-up nature centers and tables at local events.

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

Donations support project and program expenses. We do not receive County or City funding, and depend on donations and grants to support our work.

A photo of Four Mile Run nearing sunset.

Information provided March 2026

Equipment Connections for Children

EIN: 27-1062106

Mission Statement

ECFC connects with families of children living with disabilities in order to help fulfill vital unmet adaptive equipment needs, provide educational workshops, and foster community, free of charge.

Program Summary

Our equipment loan closet helps provide needed equipment to families struggling to get the equipment their child needs, either at all or in a timely manner. Families can use the equipment as long as needed. When the items are returned, they can then go out to another family in need!

Impact Statement

We have helped thousands of families with children living with disabilities in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia since 2009.

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

All donations go to support our equipment loan closet program.

Information provided May 2026

Friends of Clarendon House

EIN: 54-1644438

Mission Statement

In existence since 1992, the Friends is a group of individuals who support Arlington’s mental health programs, especially Clarendon House, and individuals served by Arlington’s Behavioral Healthcare Division.

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

Housing assistance, medical and dental expenses, food pantry, social activities

Information provided March 2026

CARE, Inc.

EIN: 54-1807476

Mission Statement

CARE, Inc. mobilizes partnerships and community leadership to connect people with resources, opportunities, and support systems that strengthen families, enrich lives, and build a more inclusive and economically vibrant community.

We foster trust, cultivate collaboration, and deliver impactful programs that advance education, economic empowerment, and community well-being.

Program Summary

CARE, Inc. (Community Association of Resources, Education, Enrichment & Economics) is a community-rooted nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families and advancing underserved communities.

We serve as a trusted connector—bringing together residents, service providers, local businesses, and strategic partners to build a more equitable, resilient, and thriving community. Through collaborative initiatives, including the Green Valley Farmers Market, we expand access to fresh food, economic opportunity, youth development, and supportive services that uplift generations.

Our work is grounded in relationships, driven by community voice, and focused on creating sustainable systems that support health, stability, and long-term prosperity.  

CORE PROGRAM AREAS

🥕 1. Green Valley Farmers Market (Food Access + Economic Development)

🚲 2. Youth Development & Workforce Pipeline (Ages 10–18)

👵🏽 3. Seniors & Aging in Place

COMMUNITY NEED

CARE addresses these gaps through integrated, place-based solutions that meet people where they are.

Impact Statement

We build community-led solutions that strengthen families, reduce inequities, and create sustainable pathways to opportunity.

🎯 Our Focus Areas

Food Access & Economic Opportunity

Green Valley Farmers Market

Youth Development (Ages 5–10) — Early Foundations Program

Youth Development (Ages 10–18)

Aging in Place (NEW 2026 Initiative)

What ways can the public get involved?

🌿 Public Engagement Strategy for CARE, Inc. Programs

🤝 1. Volunteer Pathways (Entry → Leadership)

Create clear, flexible ways for people to get involved immediately:

Entry-Level (Easy On-Ramp)

Ongoing Roles

Leadership Roles

🧒🏽 2. Family & Intergenerational Programming

Bring the whole community together—not just individuals.

🥬 3. Community Events as Engagement Hubs

Use events as entry points into deeper involvement

🗣 4. Community Voice & Co-Design

Let residents help shape the programs

📣 5. Faith & Community Partnerships

Leverage trusted institutions

📱 6. Digital Engagement (Simple + Consistent)

Meet people where they already are:

🎓 7. Skill-Based & Corporate Volunteering

Tap into professional talent:

🧾 8. Public Recognition & Storytelling

People stay involved when they feel valued

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

The majority of funds directly support community programs:

Food Access & Farmers Market

Youth Development (Ages 5–18)

Aging in Place (Senior Support)

CARE, Inc. invests charitable dollars where they matter most—directly into people, programs, and community solutions—while maintaining lean operations and measurable impact.  We work mostly with volunteers and pay stipends for our Interns.

Information provided March 2026

Rosie Riveters

EIN: 47-4710197

Mission Statement

Rosie Riveters, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, works to close the gaps in today’s workforce by increasing participation in STEM, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills to develop the innovators of tomorrow.

Program Summary

Rosie Riveters offers hands-on STEM programs that foster confidence through productive struggle, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Designed for flexibility, its K-8 projects adapt to various settings—whether a 45-minute classroom lesson or a two-hour group experience—making STEM learning accessible in classrooms, military family programs, and community events. The high school program, Rosie Innovators (9-12), builds on this foundation, deepening STEM engagement and preparing participants for future education and careers.

Impact Statement

Since our inception in 2016, we have had the privilege of serving over 20,000 participants, witnessing remarkable outcomes with 96% of our participants enjoying the program and 89% being inspired to further explore STEM.

What ways can the public get involved?

You can get involved with Rosie Riveters in a few impactful ways! Volunteer your time by helping with quarterly STEM programs, packing STEM kits, or supporting events. If you’d rather contribute financially, donations go a long way in expanding programs and reaching more girls. Businesses and organizations can also partner by sponsoring programs, matching employee donations, or getting teams involved in volunteer activities. Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe to our mailing list for updates and event info. However you choose to help, you’ll be making a real difference in inspiring the next generation in STEM https://rosieriveters.org/volunteer/

How are charitable dollars spent? Where does my donation go?

At Rosie Riveters, every charitable dollar goes directly toward providing hands-on STEM experiences for students. Thanks to generous donations, we’ve served over 35,000 participants, giving them the opportunity to build confidence and critical thinking skills through engaging STEM projects. Your support helps fund program materials, STEM kits, educator resources, and expansion efforts to reach even more future innovators. Every contribution makes a tangible impact in inspiring the next generation of women in STEM!

Information provided March 2025