DC Policy Center

EIN: 82-2380479

Mission Statement

The mission of the D.C. Policy Center is to arm decision makers with fact-based, unbiased, and reliable research and analyses to help create a vibrant local economy that can maximize opportunities for residents, workers, and businesses in the District of Columbia.

Program Summary

The D.C. Policy Center is an independent, non-partisan think tank that conducts rigorous, data-driven research to strengthen the District’s economy and improve outcomes for residents, workers, and businesses. Our work focuses on education, housing, workforce development, the business environment, and long-term economic competitiveness, offering clear insights that help leaders make informed policy decisions.

Because the District operates within a deeply interconnected regional economy, our research consistently examines D.C. in relation to neighboring jurisdictions—especially Arlington. We analyze commuting patterns, labor flows, housing markets, and economic trends that cross borders every day, providing a fuller understanding of the conditions that shape opportunity on both sides of the river.

By highlighting how shared challenges and regional dynamics influence outcomes in both communities, our work directly supports leaders in Arlington who rely on accurate, timely information to guide planning, investment, and collaboration. Through this regional lens, the D.C. Policy Center helps strengthen both the District and Arlington, contributing to a more competitive and resilient metropolitan area.

Impact Statement

The D.C. Policy Center’s work leads to clearer, more effective public policy decisions that directly impact the well-being of the communities we serve. Our research helps improve educational opportunities, strengthen the regional workforce, expand housing supply and affordability, and support a more competitive and resilient local economy. By equipping policymakers, nonprofit partners, and business leaders with actionable data and analysis, we contribute to policies and investments that enhance economic mobility, improve access to quality services, and create better outcomes for residents across the District and the broader region, including Arlington.

What ways can the public get involved?

The public can get involved by attending our events, briefings, and community conversations; subscribing to our newsletters to stay informed about new research and opportunities; and engaging with our work by sharing information, providing feedback, and participating in discussions that shape policy dialogue in the region.

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

Charitable dollars directly support the research that drives policy change. Donations fund data analysis, policy studies, and publications that inform leaders and strengthen decision-making across the District and the region. Contributions also help us expand our capacity to respond quickly to emerging issues, ensuring our work continues to shape solutions that improve outcomes for residents, workers, and communities.

Information provided November 2025

Arlington Friends of Urban Agriculture (FOUA)

EIN: 84-2182585

Mission Statement

Build a resilient, community-driven urban agriculture sector that provides a fair, healthy, sustainable food system for all Arlingtonians.

Program Summary

Plot Against Hunger: The Plot Against Hunger program is the only program in Arlington County whose sole mission is to grow fresh produce for Arlington residents in need. Through this program, we support over 100 Arlington gardens and gardeners who donate fresh produce weekly to local food pantries and pantries. Our gleaning program mobilizes volunteers to collect excess farm produce to prevent food waste and fight hunger. In addition to the network of gardens and gleaning, this program includes public education and engagement. Examples include seed and seedling giveaways, Central Library Garden Talks, and a Spring Garden Kick-Off event.

Urban Garden Partnerships: FOUA creates partnerships across public, private, civic, and non-profit communities to transform and enhance urban spaces to produce food. Two notable projects arethe HUG (Highland Urban Garden) project in the Aurora Highlands neighborhood involving several civic organizations, and the Terborgh Urban Garden located in the Donaldson Run neighborhood in collaboration with Northern Virginia Conservation Trust.

Public Policy: FOUA supports public policies that support urban agriculture entrepreneurs, support farmers’ markets, encourage developers to include urban agricultural elements, and institutionalize support of public school programs and curriculum.  

Community Engagement: FOUA raises awareness of urban agriculture through educational, outreach, and social events such as October Urban Agriculture Month events and our annual Golden Radish Award. Our seed and seedling giveaways, Central Library Garden Talks, and a Spring Garden Kick Off provide all kinds of interaction and information sharing. FOUA has engaged hundreds of new and experienced gardeners to volunteer in private and community gardens, gleaning at farms, and packaging and distributing of produce to local food pantries. We receive multiple inquiries each week from school groups, private employer groups, and individuals looking to serve their neighbors in a fun, active, and meaningful way.

Impact Statement

FOUA believes that a resilient, community-driven urban agriculture sector drives improvements in public health, fights hunger and food insecurity, boosts economic health, and addresses environmental challenges, including stormwater management and heat stress. Through our programs, volunteers.

In 2024, our growers and garden teams harvested and donated more than 64,000 pounds of fresh produce (valued at $122,252) to Arlington food banks and pantries! We’re still harvesting and gleaning for 2025.

What ways can the public get involved?

The public can volunteer in our community gardens, grow produce at home for donation, glean at local farms, support our farmers markets, and urban farmers.

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

Your donation helps us provide the vital inputs gardens need to grow each season: seeds and seedlings, soil amendments, tools, and volunteers.

Information provided November 2025

The Arlington Players (TAP)

EIN: 23-7092092

Mission Statement

TAP’s mission is to produce epic and artistically challenging theatre by cultivating an environment of excellence and education for all of our members, volunteers, and audiences in the communities of Arlington County, VA and the greater DC area.

Program Summary

TAP produces at least three shows annually, including two musicals. TAP is welcome to both experienced and first-time theater artists, encouraging learning and collaboration across all ages, backgrounds and skill levels.

Impact Statement

The Arlington Players seeks to foster a community where individuals of all backgrounds can explore, learn, and experience all elements of theatrical arts.

What ways can the public get involved?

Anyone is welcome to audition or volunteer to help backstage, in the shop, or in the box office. Visit our site for audition opportunities, or email steward@thearlingtonplayers.org for volunteer opportunities. Donations are also welcome!

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

Donations go directly to supporting TAP’s mission to provide accessible theater art to the Arlington and DC community. 

Information provided November 2025

NEW Solutions

EIN: 52-2003078

Mission Statement

Expand opportunities for experienced workers (age 55+) to support government agencies in achieving their missions through our proven exceptional services.

Program Summary

NEW Solutions is a nonprofit organization based in Arlington, VA, dedicated to connecting experienced professionals age 55 and older with meaningful work that serves the public good. Through partnerships with federal agencies and community organizations, NEW Solutions helps older workers continue contributing their skills, while agencies benefit from seasoned talent and institutional knowledge.

Key programs include the Senior Environmental Employment (SEE) Program with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which engages professionals in environmental protection and public health projects; the ACES and Experienced Service  Programs within USDA and the Department of the Interior, where enrollees support conservation, land management, and sustainability initiatives; and the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), which provides paid training and community service placements for low-income older adults seeking to reenter the workforce.

Together, these programs empower experienced workers in Arlington and across the nation to stay active, apply their expertise, and enhance their financial security. They also help federal and local agencies maintain mission continuity, advance environmental and workforce goals, and promote intergenerational collaboration—demonstrating how experience remains an essential resource for a thriving, inclusive workforce.

Impact Statement

NEW Solutions empowers experienced professionals age 55+ to continue making meaningful contributions to the public good while strengthening the capacity of federal and community partners. Each year, NEW Solutions engages hundreds of skilled workers in roles that support environmental protection, conservation, public health, and community development. These individuals bring decades of expertise, mentorship, and leadership that enhance program effectiveness, accelerate project outcomes, and ensure continuity of institutional knowledge across agencies.

For the population served, the results are transformative: older Americans gain renewed purpose, income stability, and professional engagement; federal and local partners benefit from a dedicated, cost-effective, and mission-aligned workforce. Beyond employment, NEW Solutions fosters inclusion, combats age bias, and demonstrates the continued value of experience in solving today’s most pressing challenges.

What ways can the public get involved?

The public can support NEW Solutions in several meaningful ways:

1. Partner with Us – Federal, state, and community organizations can collaborate with NEW Solutions to access a highly skilled, experienced workforce. Partnering helps advance vital public missions in environmental protection, conservation, and workforce development.
2. Spread the Word – Individuals can help raise awareness by sharing NEW Solutions’ mission and success stories within their networks, encouraging others to value and employ experienced talent.
3. Donate or Sponsor – Contributions directly support program expansion, training initiatives, and outreach efforts that connect more older workers with meaningful opportunities.
4. Join Our Programs – Experienced professionals aged 55+ can apply to participate in NEW Solutions programs, putting their skills to work for the public good while continuing personal and professional growth.
5. Advocate for Experienced Workers – Community members can champion age-inclusive employment policies and practices that recognize the ongoing value of experienced workers.

Together, these actions strengthen NEW Solutions’ impact—helping ensure that experience, skill, and purpose remain powerful forces for progress across the nation.

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

At NEW Solutions, charitable dollars are used to create real, measurable impact for older Americans and the federal programs they serve. Donations directly fund the placement, training, and support of experienced professionals age 55+, helping them continue meaningful work that benefits the public good.

Your contribution supports the creation of jobs, wages, and benefits for thousands of individuals nationwide—empowering experienced workers to stay active, achieve financial stability, and share their expertise with the next generation. These professionals serve in vital roles that advance the missions of more than 15 federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Park Service, the Forest Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the US Department of Agriculture.

Charitable funds also help NEW Solutions expand program access, enhance participant development, and build innovative tools that strengthen accountability and performance outcomes. Every dollar helps extend the value of experience—supporting a skilled, dedicated workforce that protects the environment, supports communities, and demonstrates that talent and purpose have no age limit.

Information provided October 2025

Wild Virginia, Inc.

EIN: 54-1841861

Mission Statement

PROTECTING AND CONNECTING VIRGINIA’S WILD PLACES

Program Summary

Wild Virginia holds the state’s government and regulators accountable for improving habitat connectivity and protecting water quality to counter climate change, prevent species extinction, and defend the health of our communities and ecosystems. Through advocating for environmental protections, convening stakeholder groups to amplify impact, and empowering diverse communities to become active in the decision-making process, we connect people with a safer, more inclusive outdoors.

What We Do

Strengthen habitat connectivity through increased wildlife crossings and corridors
Protect water quality by preventing the release of forever chemicals, like PFAS
Limit the environmental harms of natural gas pipelines
Train dedicated volunteers through our Clean Water Advocates Program
Provide educational opportunities to connect people to the wild places they love

Impact Statement

Within Arlington County, Wild Virginia is working to affect decisions by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to prevent the discharge of harmful levels of PFAS “forever chemicals” from Arlington County’s wastewater treatment plant. This will help ensure the state enforces safe water standards in Arlington’s backyard.

Additionally, Wild Virginia is working with Virginia localities to identify and implement safe wildlife crossing and corridor projects across the state. Wildlife crossing projects reduce animal-vehicle collisions and help maintain habitat connectivity in urban environments like Arlington’s.

What ways can the public get involved?

Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteers – Wild Virginia
Come to an Event: Wild Virginia Events
Join Wild Virginia: Join Wild Virginia
Be Inspired: Wild Virginia Podcasts
Follow our Blog: Blog – Wild Virginia

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

Donations to Wild Virginia of any size go directly support our programs. While general support is always needed, specific program needs include:

IMPROVING HABITAT CONNECTIVITY

1. Wildlife-Vehicle Conflict Maps | Phase 1: $10,000 | Phase 2: $50,000

The Virginia Wildlife Corridor Action Plan has identified key corridors where wildlife-vehicle collisions occur, but its reliance on police report data underestimates the issue and focuses on large animals like deer and bears. Wildlife rehabilitation centers in Virginia collect robust data on diverse wildlife brought in due to vehicle collisions, including where animals were struck or found.

Phase one of this project will create the first-ever map of wildlife rehabilitation center data used as a creative and unprecedented way to identify wildlife-vehicle collision hotspots. This will build upon the data currently used by the Commonwealth and create a more accurate picture of where wildlife crossings may be most needed.

The second phase of this project will create a pipeline for rehabilitation center data to be automatically uploaded to a live map. This will provide a low-maintenance and living source of information for use by state agencies, nonprofits, localities, advocates, and more.  This innovative tool will not only guide effective wildlife crossing planning in Virginia but will also serve as a model for identifying collision hotspots nationwide, advancing wildlife conservation and infrastructure improvements across the U.S.

2. New Website for the Virginia Safe Wildlife Corridors Collaborative | $10,000

Wild Virginia co-founded and leads the Virginia Safe Wildlife Corridors Collaborative (VSWCC), a coalition of 40 partner organizations dedicated to advancing wildlife corridor and crossing projects statewide. Our leadership supports coordination on initiatives aligned with Virginia’s Wildlife Corridor Action Plan to build a more connected landscape.

To amplify its impact, VSWCC is redesigning its outdated website to improve functionality and accessibility. The new site will feature clear information on wildlife-vehicle conflict, the collaborative’s mission, and how to join. Enhanced public engagement tools, including links to Wild Virginia’s advocacy efforts and the Virginia Habitat Connectivity Hub, will empower more community involvement and foster greater support for connectivity projects.

3. Locality Support Initiative | Year 1 Total $100,000 | Year 2 Total $125,000

Localities have turned to Wild Virginia for help in how to locate, construct, and fund wildlife crossing projects in their districts. To meet this need, in year one we will provide leadership, coordination, facilitation, and process support to two case study localities; the Afton Gap Crossing Project in central Virginia and the Loudoun Connectivity Initiative in northern Virginia. Documenting the process and lessons learned in year one, we will create resources for other localities (including Arlington) to help streamline their projects, and expand our support through the addition of an Assistant Director who can tailor help be an accessible resource. 

As part of a broader strategy, Wild Virginia will initiate outreach with planning associations, such as the Virginia Association of Counties, and other local government stakeholders across the Commonwealth, to include Arlington. This will build a more informed base and foster future connectivity projects across Virginia. Our goal is to empower localities such as Arlington with the knowledge, relationships, and resources needed to pursue their own connectivity initiatives, while encouraging VDOT to expand wildlife passage efforts and paving the way for comprehensive state-level connectivity legislation.

4. First Habitat Connectivity Symposium | $17,000

Wild Virginia will host the first Habitat Connectivity Symposium in the fall of 2025. The inaugural year of this event will bring together VSWCC partners to learn and discuss high priority topics. It will include presentations and workshops on wildlife crossings and corridor work as well as networking and resource sharing to build collaborations and galvanize progress across Virginia. In successive years we will build upon this event, maturing it each year to include new audiences and expand its reach and impact towards becoming Virginia’s premiere habitat connectivity gathering. 

PROTECTING WATER QUALITY

1. Water Quality Monitoring Initiative | $150,000

Wild Virginia launched a new campaign in 2023 to prevent damage to human and environmental health from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are present in many products and have been detected in the environment, in wildlife, and in humans. PFAS accumulates in bodies, posing serious health threats that persist for many years. By advocating for full enforcement of current state and federal water pollution control regulations, we seek to improve state policies to increase monitoring of PFAS, prevent the discharge of PFAS into the environment, and push the cost of mitigation back upstream to the polluters.

Most of Virginia’s surface waters and pollutant discharges have not been tested for PFAS. Data showing the presence of such contaminants is a powerful tool to galvanize action by state regulators. To fill this gap in information, Wild Virginia will sample waters from across the Commonwealth, with a focus on those in historically disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. In addition to being of use to Wild Virginia, details from these samplings will be shared via a report with the public, nonprofits, and others, for their use in combating PFAS pollution. 

2. Science Reporting | $60,000

Our water quality program uses science and the law, backed by an educated and mobilized public, to influence decision makers and ensure that protections promised by the Clean Water Act are fully and faithfully enforced. We currently have supporting personnel with expertise in law and policy. To match this skill set we seek to add personnel with expertise in the scientific and technical fields, fully rounding out our water quality program. This addition will expand our ability to expose new details about the presence of PFAS in Virginia waterways (to include Arlington County and the Potomac River), increase the impact of our reporting, and help us prevent additional PFAS pollution. 

CLEAN WATER ADVOCATES PROGRAMS 

1. Pop-up Version of Clean Water Advocates for Frontline Communities | $40,000

The Clean Water Advocates is a nine-week skills-based program that equips participants with fundamental knowledge of federal and state water protection laws, regulatory processes, and basic research and advocacy skills used to influence environmental decisions and outcomes. However, the program will not always be practical for individuals and environmental justice communities facing immediate water contamination threats. Time is of the essence when a community has newly mobilized and now must come up to speed on not only the environmental issues but also the government decision-making processes at hand. 

This pop-up will fund the development of a condensed version of the Clean Water Advocates Program for such circumstances. We will partner with the Sierra Club Virginia Chapter, Appalachian Voices, and 7 Directions of Service, who have reviewed and praised the existing curriculum, to develop, implement, and distribute this tool to the frontline communities that need it.

2. Sponsor a Clean Water Advocate Student | $2,800 per student | $70,000 whole cohort

The Clean Water Advocates Program is open and accessible to individuals of all backgrounds, with an emphasis on recruiting from historically disadvantaged and vulnerable communities, and/or organizations supporting those communities. In order to continue to provide this program for free to students, we seek sponsorship of each year’s cohort. 

Information Provided September 2025

Latin American Society of Chagas (LASOCHA)

EIN: 46-4579310

Mission Statement

LASOCHA is dedicated to raising awareness of Chagas disease, a potentially deadly parasitic heart disease that is common in the LATAM immigrant community in Northern Virginia.  We provide free screening tests along with free cardiac testing for individuals with this disease, and provide treatment to those who are eligible.  

Program Summary

• 1.  Free testing, both in our clinic and in partnership with other groups that serve the at-risk community (i.e. INOVA Cares, Arlington Free Clinic, local churches, NGOs with health fairs.)
• 2.  Free electrocardiograms and echocardiograms
• 3.  Advocacy for affected patients
• 4.  Educational events for the medical community about this neglected disease

Impact Statement

We have tested over 3000 individuals, and have seen over 200 in our follow up clinic.  We have published results of our work in medical settings to advocate for similar testing/treatment programs.  We have established major clinical initiatives at several local hospitals that serve the at risk population.

What ways can the public get involved?

Partnering with us to raise awareness and to provide opportunities for testing events.

Donations to support our mission.

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

To supplies for testing, for lab testing that is required during treatment, educational materials for the community.

Information Provided August 2025

Brain Injury Services

EIN: 54-1346045

Mission Statement

Empowering those impacted by brain injury

Program Summary

Brain Injury Services (BIS) helps children, adults, and families whose lives have been changed by brain injury build the skills and confidence they need to live their best life.

We work with individuals across Northern Virginia, Fredericksburg, and surrounding communities who have sustained acquired or traumatic brain injuries. Our clients range from children and young adults to older adults and veterans.

Core Programs & Services

1. Case Management & Service Coordination
   • Individualized assessment and goal planning.
   • Connection to medical, vocational, educational, and community resources.
   • Ongoing support to navigate systems and remove barriers to independence.
2. ADAPT Clubhouse
   • Day program designed to foster social connections, skill-building, and community participation.
   • Peer-to-peer support in a welcoming, recovery-focused environment.
3. Vocational Services
   • Career exploration, job readiness training, and supported employment.
   • Partnerships with employers and organizations to create accessible work opportunities.
4. Children & Youth Services
   • Support for students with brain injuries to succeed in school and transition into adulthood.
   • Collaboration with families, educators, and healthcare providers.
5. Mental Health Support
   • Counseling, peer mentoring, and therapeutic groups to address emotional and psychological needs related to brain injury.
6. Assistive Technology & Independent Living Skills
   • Training and access to adaptive tools that improve daily functioning.
   • Skill development for independent living, community navigation, and self-advocacy.

Our Approach

Person-Centered: Services are built around each client’s unique needs, goals, and pace of recovery.
Community-Based: We meet clients where they are—at home, in the community, or virtually.
Collaborative: We work closely with care teams (families, healthcare providers, schools, and employers) to create coordinated support networks.
Empowerment-Focused: We help clients by fostering their independence, confidence, and participation in meaningful activities.

Impact Statement

Brain Injury Services empowers individuals with brain injuries to reclaim their independence, re-engage in their communities, and achieve personal and professional goals. Through personalized support, skill-building, and access to resources, our clients gain increased confidence, improved daily functioning, stronger social connections, and greater participation in the workforce—transforming lives and reducing isolation for one of the most underserved populations in our region.

What ways can the public get involved?

1. Provide Financial Support

• Make a one-time or recurring gift to sustain core programs and expand services.
• Sponsor specific initiatives like vocational training, assistive technology, or the ADAPT Clubhouse.

2. Support Events & Campaigns

• Attend or sponsor BIS events such as our Annual Golf Tournament or BIS Has Talent or awareness campaigns.
• Host a peer-to-peer fundraiser to rally friends, family, and colleagues in support of BIS.

3. Give In-Kind Donations

• Contribute items like technology, art supplies, transportation vouchers, or adaptive equipment that directly benefit clients.

4. Volunteer

• Offer your skills in mentoring, career coaching, advocacy, or event support.
• Become a PAL in our Friendship Program

5. Become an Advocate

• Help raise awareness about brain injury by sharing BIS’s mission and stories and social media posts.
• Engage with local and state legislators to promote policies that improve access to brain injury services.

6. Leave a Legacy

• Include BIS in your estate plans or create a named fund to ensure long-term support for survivors of brain injury.

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

When you give to Brain Injury Services (BIS), you make it possible for children, adults, and families living with the effects of brain injury to rebuild their lives. Every donor dollar directly supports programs that foster independence, confidence, and community connection.

Your contribution helps fund:

One-on-One Case Management: Guiding clients through recovery, connecting them to resources, and helping them achieve personal goals.
Vocational Services: Providing job readiness training, supported employment, and partnerships with employers to create meaningful work opportunities.
ADAPT Clubhouse & Day Programs: Offering a safe, supportive space for skill-building, social interaction, and peer support.
Children & Youth Services: Ensuring students with brain injuries have the tools and advocacy they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Mental Health & Wellness Support: Counseling, peer mentoring, and therapeutic groups to address emotional needs.
Assistive Technology: Access to tools that make daily living and employment possible.

By giving to BIS, you help reduce isolation, open doors to opportunity, and empower survivors of brain injury to thrive. Every dollar is an investment in recovery, dignity, and a brighter future.

Information provided August 2025

Youth Democracy Institute

Fiscally sponsored by Social Good Fund

EIN of fiscal sponsor: 46-1323531

Mission Statement

Our mission is to educate, empower, and equip young people (ages 10-24) with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead civic change in their communities and beyond.

Program Summary

Youth Democracy Institute (YDI) Overview
Founded in 2025 and fiscally sponsored by the Social Good Fund, Youth Democracy Institute is dedicated to developing a pipeline of civic leaders across Arlington County, and the Washington, DC metropolitan region. Our three core programs help young people build leadership, confidence, and teamwork through real-world civic learning experiences. Our programs are non-partisan, hands-on, and grounded in Virginia education standards.

NextGen Leadership Academy (Grades 4–8)
This program offers two formats to engage students in civic learning and leadership development. Our summer and break camps provide an intensive, hands-on experience where students explore civic engagement through mock town halls, student elections, and community-based projects. During the school year, the afterschool enrichment program continues this learning, with weekly sessions focused on leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking. Both formats culminate in a field trip to local civi or historical sites. Our goal is to foster early civic identity and prepare youth for future leadership roles.

Emerging Leaders Academy (Grades 9–12)
The Emerging Leaders Academy equips high school students with skills in advocacy, public speaking, and community organizing. Students work on real-world projects addressing local issues, focusing on peer leadership and public service. The program empowers youth to engage meaningfully in their communities and prepares them for future leadership roles.

YDI Policy Academy (Ages 18–24)
The YDI Policy Academy provides intensive training in policy analysis and community organizing. Fellows participate in research, advocacy campaigns, and grassroots mobilization, while also mentoring younger students in YDI programs. This dual role prepares fellows for leadership in public policy and civic engagement.

Impact Statement

Since our founding in 2025, Youth Democracy Institute (YDI) has hosted two leadership camps, serving over 20 students from nearly 10 schools across Arlington County. We have secured two program sites for the fall and will pilot a Black-Jewish Cultural Leadership Academy for Arlington County, sponsored by our first major donor. Students are reporting that they enjoy the experience while developing essential leadership skills, and parents are enrolling their children to become more confident, vocal leaders both in the classroom and beyond. YDI’s leadership academies are subsidized through generous donations and summer camp program fees, ensuring accessibility for all students.

What ways can the public get involved?

Enroll Your Children
Provide your child with the opportunity to develop leadership, civic engagement, and teamwork skills through YDI’s programs. Our leadership camps and afterschool enrichment academies are designed to inspire youth to become confident and proactive civic leaders.
Partner with Us
We welcome partnerships with schools, community organizations, and businesses to expand our reach and impact. Whether through hosting events, providing resources, or offering internship opportunities, partnering with YDI helps us create more opportunities for youth to lead.
Sponsor a Program or Student
Help support our programs by sponsoring a student or a specific program. Your sponsorship ensures that all youth, regardless of their financial situation, can participate in life-changing civic leadership experiences.
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteer with YDI to help deliver programs, mentor students, or assist with events. Your time and expertise can make a real difference in the lives of young people as they develop their leadership skills and learn to engage with their communities.

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

1. Program Costs
   Donations help fund our leadership camps, afterschool enrichment programs, and academies, ensuring that they remain either free or low-cost for families. This includes covering materials, field trips, and resources to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences for students.
2. Scholarships
   Your contribution provides scholarships for students from underserved communities, allowing them to participate in our programs at no cost or a reduced fee, ensuring equal access to leadership development opportunities.
3. Staff and Volunteer Support
   Donations support the recruitment, training, and compensation of our dedicated staff and volunteers who deliver high-quality mentorship, facilitate programs, and help students thrive in a supportive learning environment.
4. Operational Expenses
   Contributions also help cover essential operational costs, including facility rentals, technology, and outreach efforts, ensuring that YDI’s programs are sustainable and impactful in the long term.

Your support helps ensure that more youth have access to life-changing opportunities, preparing them to become future leaders and change-makers.

Learn more here.

Information provided August 2025

DC Starlight Orchestra Association

EIN: 99-5109690

Mission Statement

DC Starlight Orchestra Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides music education and performance opportunities. This jazz big band, composed mostly of Federal employees in the Washington DC area, performs charts from the swing era to today at a variety of events, including community music concert series and senior centers. We believe in the power of music to bring people together in order to build community spirit. We want to share the beauty and history of jazz with you. We rehearse bi-weekly on Thursdays at Calvary United Methodist Church, Arlington, VA.

Program Summary

This jazz big band, composed mostly of Federal employees in the Washington DC area, performs charts from the swing era to today at a variety of events, including community music concert series and senior centers. 

Impact Statement

We perform for the community in various Summer concert series and for senior living centers such as Culpepper Garden Apartments (Arlington, VA). 

What ways can the public get involved?

We need donations to play jazz and big band music in the community. Generous contributions help the band cover the following costs:

$10 is the monthly price of hosting the band’s website.
$35 is the price for a stand banner with the band’s logo.
$50 is the price of a new big band arrangement. We try to purchase new charts to support composers and arrangers.
$100 is the monthly price of our rehearsal space.
$250 is the average price of repairing a horn.

Information provided July 2025