Encore Learning

EIN: 55-0848376

Mission Statement

Encore Learning offers academic, non-credit, daytime courses, lectures, special events, and activities to help meet the continuing education and social needs of any interested persons over fifty years of age.

Program Summary

Encore Learning is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2002. We help meet the continuing educational and social interests of anyone over age 50, regardless of residence location, by offering: a wide variety of noncredit courses, specialty clubs, wide-ranging special events, and enjoyable social activities. Through courses and other activities, members explore and share new ideas and develop new friendships inside and outside of classrooms.

Classes, clubs and events are either held in-person or virtually, with in-person courses primarily taking place at George Mason University in Arlington. Encore Learning has more than 150 volunteers each year who plan and teach courses, coordinate clubs and events, and engage in outreach.

What ways can the public get involved?

Encore Learning hosts the free to the public Encore Learning Presents on Mondays at 3:00 PM. These regular events are cosponsored by Arlington Public Library. Encore Learning Presents includes public lectures, panels, and film screenings. The semi-annual Course Preview is a free event introducing each semester. There are numerous volunteer opportunities to get involved and bring quality educational and social opportunities to people over 50.

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

Donations to Encore Learning support the general operating functions of this small volunteer driven nonprofit. Contributions help us reach more people who can benefit from the quality educational and social opportunities. Encore Learning provides scholarships for low-income members and brings quality presentations to the public.

Information provided March 2026

Reading is Fundamental of Northern Virginia, Inc

EIN: 51-0155758

Mission Statement

Books change lives! Reading Is Fundamental of Northern Virginia works to improve children’s lives by providing books to encourage an early and sustained love of reading, to augment reading opportunities and skills through book access and the development of home book libraries (a key metric of reading success), and to help address the alarming and growing U.S. literacy crisis.

Program Summary

RIF NOVA is an all-volunteer nonprofit that provides books for underserved children at 30+ schools and sites in the City of Alexandria and in Arlington, Fairfax, and Prince William counties. The organization has served the Northern Virginia community since 1972, during which time it has provided hundreds of thousands of books to area children who have few – to even no – books in their homes.

Books for Keeps Program: Each year, RIF NOVA raises funds to purchase new books-of-their-own-choosing for 23,000+ children at several child centers and Title 1 schools. Each child served is able to choose at least one book to take home annually; important because children who choose their own books are three times more likely to be frequent readers. According to the U.S. Department of Education, “The only behavior measure that correlates significantly with reading scores is the number of books in the home.” The RIF NOVA Books for Keeps Program begins to address this critical need.

Donated Books Program: During the pandemic when schools, school libraries, and public libraries were closed, RIF NOVA began a Donated Books Program to provide additional reading materials to children throughout our community, often delivered in conjunction with school food distributions. As of March 2026, the program has collected over 60,000 new and almost-new books for redistribution – not only to established RIF NOVA schools and sites but also to additional community partners and schools seeking reading materials for children and families.

Authors in Our Schools Program — This multi-year program brings authors and illustrators to RIF NOVA-supported schools to present about their books. Authors/illustrators engage students in the entire book process — from thinking of the idea to completing the finished product — and encourage them to take part in interactive programming throughout the presentations. Each student participant is able to take home an original autographed book, adding to the excitement of the event.

Special Programming: In concert with local business partners, RIF NOVA has been able to offer special programming to augment the number of books available for the children we serve. Additional initiatives are being sought with area partners to provide books and active literacy programming to the children RIF NOVA serves. So far, special programs have included:

• STEAM It Up! – In partnership with Amazon and Amazon Web Services in Communities, this program was created to provide local students with age-appropriate books and STEAM activities at several RIF NOVA schools. In the three years since its launch, projects have included  building a maze, harmonica, bridge, working flashlight, or a Caesar cipher to learn elementary coding and decoding. All participants have been able to choose a STEAM book for keeps.
• Books & Budding Builders – Energy company AES provided STEM books to three Arlington elementary schools, along with an active learning project that allowed children to build a mini wind turbine or map how solar energy moves from collection to home/business use. All students were able to choose a STEM book for keeps.

Impact Statement

A March 2023 Topic Paper from Scholastic Research & Validation noted that the likelihood of being on track in literacy and numeracy “almost doubled if at least one book was available in a student’s home.” RIF NOVA’s programs ensure that children in the schools we serve get at least one book every year from Pre-K to 6th grade and, thus, the opportunity over the course of their school years to build a home library – also critical for school success. On this, the Scholastic Topic Paper noted: “Children in homes with more extensive home libraries read more, have higher-level reading skills, and attain more years of education overall than those with access to fewer books, even after controlling for parental education level.” The paper continued: “Increasing children’s access to books correlates to ‘dramatically positive effects’ on reading growth and achievement.”

The Scholastic research validates our efforts. The work of Reading is Fundamental of Northern Virginia – to provide at least one book annually to each child we serve and build, over the course of time, a home book library – is helping children to read – and succeed – in school and well beyond.

What ways can the public get involved?

Members of the public can help RIF NOVA to do its work in three major ways: Giving funding, giving time, and giving books. 

Giving funding: Our most pressing need each year is to raise funds to purchase new books for 23,000+ underserved children at mainly Title 1 schools in Northern Virginia. Members of the public can help with this need by giving donations themselves, helping to identify and connect with potential donors (individuals, foundations, businesses, etc.), providing hands-on help with fundraising activities such as a biannual 5K, and helping to communicate the dire need for books for children in the NOVA community. We are particularly seeking business partners for funding and to develop and co-sponsor literacy-related programming that engages children in reading.

Giving time: Among those needed are volunteers with backgrounds or skills in fundraising, event planning, social media expansion, program development, grant writing, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement. Time contributions can range from helping with a specific project to joining our board for a more sustained commitment. Anyone with these skills or interests is encouraged to contact RIF NOVA at our email address: info@rifnova.org. We are particularly seeking committed volunteers to join our board. 

Giving books: RIF NOVA augments its new book purchases by soliciting new and very gently (like new) used books from the community through book drives organized by individuals, businesses, and organizations. Volunteers are also needed to organize new/gently used book drives, to sort books for quality, and to help transport and distribute books at schools and community events.

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

Every $4.00 donation purchases one book for one child. The cost to provide one book each for 23,000+ children means an annual need to raise over $90,000. Additional funding supports expanding special programming, including STEAM It Up! and Authors in Our Schools. Contributions to the Authors program can be used to bring local authors to schools for on-site visits, along with books signed by the author for each student participant. Additional funding is also used to increase the number of books given to each child annually or to increase the number of schools participating in RIF NOVA programming. The all-volunteer board that raises funds and administers book distribution programming is not paid. Mandatory expenses (such as insurance, tax preparation, etc.) are kept to an absolute minimum and totaled six percent of expenses in Fiscal Year 2024, our most recent tax filing.

Information provided March 2026

Arlington Chorale

EIN: 54-0830790

Mission Statement

​The Arlington Chorale creates a rich musical experience for its singers and the community by performing well-known masterpieces and compelling new works.

Program Summary

​The Arlington Chorale is a 501c3 nonprofit, auditioned, multi-generational chorus based in Arlington, Virginia, with singers drawn from across Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland. Founded in 1966, the Chorale presents high-quality performances that combine enduring masterpieces, compelling contemporary music, and newly commissioned works that are often centered on themes that build empathy, strengthen civic connection, and foster a sense of belonging.

The Arlington Chorale is deeply committed to supporting and engaging with our local community. Through the power of music, we build strong partnerships with other non-profit organizations and collectively amplify our impact. We’ve organized holiday events for the refugee community, offered free tickets to underprivileged groups, and nurtured service-oriented values in our youth ensemble to leave a positive and lasting impact on the Arlington community.

The Arlington Chorale not only enhances the community artistically by performing great music, it also changes lives by giving members a space to engage in teamwork and interact socially with one another. Recent studies have shown that choral singers are good citizens. They are significantly more likely to report regularly voting, reading books and newspapers, donating money to charities and other causes, and serving as officers of civic organizations. A large majority of choral singers credit their chorus experience as key to their team participation or leadership abilities, and with helping them to better socialize in other areas of their lives.

​​Building on over sixty years of choral art, the Chorale continues to present ambitious programming, rehearsing and performing primarily in Arlington. Choral singing builds community, providing a space for members to work toward a common artistic goal as they create, connect, and sing together.

Impact Statement

The Arlington Chorale strives to respond to a clear community need: Northern Virginia is vibrant and growing, yet many residents experience isolation, cultural disconnection, and barriers to participating in the arts due to cost, transportation, and limited access to high-quality live performances. The Arlington Chorale addresses these needs by offering enriching musical experiences that bring people together across backgrounds and generations, creating shared spaces where community members can gather, reflect, and feel connected through music.

In the 2024-2025 season, the Arlington Chorale presented four concerts and several other performances in Arlington and Alexandria, serving over 2,000 attendees.

What ways can the public get involved?

There are several ways to be involved with the Arlington Chorale! The first is to attend a concert. Information can be found on our website.

The Arlington Chorale is a community chorus and welcomes new members! If you would like to sing with the group, please reach out to Artistic Director Dr. Ingrid Lestrud at ingrid@arlingtonchorale.org.

Additionally, the Chorale supports a youth ensemble, Performers With Purpose. Designed for youth ages 11-18, this group uses choral music to serve their community in unique ways. Each season, these young singers partner with local non-profit organizations to learn about the group’s mission, engage in service projects, and use choral music to raise awareness for the partner organization. Those interested in joining Performers With Purpose should reach out to Ingrid Lestrud at ingrid@arlingtonchorale.org.

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

Donations help us expand our outreach in Arlington and continue providing high quality musical experiences for our singers and audience members. We support the artistic community as we hire soloists, instrumentalists, commission new works, and pay our staff. Without being able to cover programming expenses, the Arlington Chorale would not be able to carry out its mission.

Information provided March 2026

The Marjorie Hughes Fund

EIN: 54-1610490

Mission Statement

The Marjorie F. Hughes Fund for Children promotes the health and well-being of Arlington Public School students through the thoughtful collaboration with public health nurses, APS staff, and community organizations. The fund provides financial resources to support the health care needs of uninsured and underinsured students.

We envision a community of Arlington Public Schools students in which their health outcomes are not impacted by their income level and insurance status.

Program Summary

The Marjorie F. Hughes Fund for Children is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1992 to honor the work of public health physician Marjorie F. Hughes. Dr. Hughes dedicated her career to working with public school students in Arlington, Virginia, and to addressing the health needs of underserved children.

The Marjorie Hughes Fund is made up of Public Health School Nurses, School Health Aides, Arlington Public Schools (APS) staff, and community stakeholders including pediatric office staff, dental providers, family shelter coordinators, and mental health providers. We work together to help uninsured and underinsured students obtain needed medications and vaccines, cover doctor visit fees, pay for dental treatments, and receive other necessary medical care.

The Marjorie Hughes Fund assists Arlington Public Schools children with medical expenses as well as partnering with local organizations such as Doorways and VHC Pediatrics to provide additional medical and mental health assistance to children in need.

Impact Statement

The Marjorie Hughes Fund offers up to $300 per student per year for medical expenses, and up to $500 per student per year for dental expenses, to students who qualify as low income and uninsured or underinsured. Thus far in the 2023-24 school year, The Marjorie Hughes Fund has provided almost $10,000 to more than 120 uninsured or underinsured students to obtain school entry physical exams, vaccines, urgent care visits, dental care, necessary vaccines, wheelchairs and medical equipment, etc. These students are now able to be in school, healthy and learning.

What ways can the public get involved?

Please donate to help Arlington County Public Schools students in need! Spread the word to friends, neighbors, and families about the good work that we do. We also welcome community volunteers in areas such as fundraising, social media, and non-profit management.

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

The Marjorie Hughes Fund is an all-volunteer organization with minimal overhead.

$79 provides an eye exam and two pairs of glasses

$99 pays for a required school entry physical exam

Any amount can help to keep a student in school, healthy and learning!

Information provided April 2026

ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia (ECNV)

EIN: 54-1302368

Mission Statement

Empowering People with Disabilities to Live Independently. 

The ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia (ECNV) is a community resource and advocacy center run by and for persons with disabilities. ECNV’s mission is to END dependence by empowering people with disabilities to live independently. We are a cross-disability organization and work with people of all ages who have every type of disability. ECNV’s experience is extensive in peer-lead advocacy and support. We can bring best practices, strategies, success stories, and firsthand experiences to the table related to how peer-led advocacy can effectively empower people with disabilities (PWD) and promote self-advocacy.

Program Summary

ECNV is peer-led by people with disabilities, including staff, volunteers, and the Board of Directors, who have unique perspectives and understandings of living in the world with a disability. 

We offer:

• Peer mentors/social groups: work to achieve goals for Independent Living
• Travel training: learn to travel safely and independently using public transportation in the Washington Metro Area
• Independent Living Skills Training: teach basic tasks that lead to independence
• Durable Medical Equipment: connect items to individuals in need of free equipment
• Pre-Employment Transition Service: two programs to for career readiness
• AND MORE!

Impact Statement

Our workshops equip participants with practical life skills and navigating daily challenges with greater ease. ECNV mentorship programs establish connections, provide guidance, and encourage personal growth. Collaboration with the community, schools, and our outreach efforts break down societal barriers, promoting understanding and acceptance.

What ways can the public get involved?

Volunteering/mentoring opportunities and donating gently used Durable Medical Equipment to our DME closet. Corporate sponsorships.

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

Donations go to our general operating funds used to continue to provide support and services for people with disabilities.

Information provided March 2026

National Capital Treatment and Recovery

EIN: 54-0805530

Mission Statement

National Capital Treatment and Recovery’s mission is to save lives and heal communities touched by substance use disorders. Our vision is communities free from pain and suffering associated with substance misuse. Over the past 60+ years, NCTR has served more than 60,000 patients.

Program Summary

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS

NCTR’s residential programs are all medically monitored & clinically managed 24/7. We utilize an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach to care through individual and group counseling and offer additional medical and mental health care as needed.

• PHOENIX PROGRAM INTENSIVE RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM FOR MEN provides care for up to 64 adult men and offers withdrawal management services when needed. This program helps break the cycle of drug and alcohol misuse and equips men with the tools to be successful at the next appropriate level of care.
• DEMETER HOUSE INTENSIVE RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM FOR WOMEN provides care for up to 20 adult women in a safe, supported, and comfortable environment. This program serves women from all walks of life and prepares them for the next appropriate level of care to be successful in recovery.
• ARLINGTON RECOVERY CENTER offers withdrawal management and intensive residential treatment services for adult men and women in the early stages of recovery. This program, operated under contract with Arlington County, is available to Alexandria and Arlington County residents.
• NCTR PHASE TWO MENS RESIDENTIAL gives patients extended time in treatment while also allowing them to adjust to day-to-day living in recovery. Patients attend outpatient treatment at our nearby Counseling Center, receive supportive services, and are encouraged to seek employment or volunteer in the community as they progress in the program and as their schedule permits.
• INDEPENDENCE HOUSE provides low intensity supportive services to adult men and women who have completed intensive treatment, so they have a safe and stable living environment, while securing employment and practicing living in recovery. NCTR operates this program under contract with Arlington County for Arlington residents.

OUTPATIENT PROGRAMS

At NCTR’s Counseling Center, we provide flexible outpatient services that meet patients where they are,
offering a range of treatment levels based on individual needs. Group sessions combined with one-on-one
personalized counseling, provide both clinical and emotional support.

• PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION PROGRAM (PHP) is the most intensive level of outpatient care consisting of six hours per day / five days per week for up to 4-6 weeks.
• INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP) For individuals 18 and over, we offer Adult IOP. Patients typically participate three to five times a week for three hours each day, for up to 6-8 weeks. Adolescents aged 13 – 18 can attend our Adolescent IOP which is offered three times a week for two hours each day, for up to 6-8 weeks.
• OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (OP) Adults and Adolescents (ages 13-18) are provided outpatient continuing care as they step down from more intensive counseling. Patients typically begin by attending an average of two times a week and gradually progress to attending once per month over a 6–12-month period.
• MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT NCTR operates an office-based addiction treatment clinic (OBAT) in our outpatient facility. Patients are required to participate in outpatient counseling while receiving medication.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATIONS

NCTR’s commitment to community collaboration is evident through its partnerships with various organizations and institutions. Through these collaborations, NCTR enhances its ability to provide effective treatment and support, reinforcing its mission to save lives and heal communities impacted by substance use disorders.

• FAMILY SERVICES Families are included in the treatment process to better understand addiction and support recovery. Our weekly Concerned Persons Conversations is an online educational opportunity that provides insight and support for families, helping them play a positive role in their loved one’s recovery journey.
• RECOVERY HAVEN Located in Alexandria, VA, this low intensity residential program for women aged 18+ in recovery combines NCTR and Friends of Guest House’s strengths. It offers extended treatment, supportive services, intensive case management, and helps patients transition to daily life through employment and volunteer opportunities.
• YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM provides on-site assessment and counseling for youth with substance use disorders at the Northern Virginia Juvenile Detention Center, serving Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church. It supports recovery by offering treatment during detention and transitioning patients to outpatient care upon release.

Impact Statement

We offer several levels of person-centered treatment designed to meet the severity and unique needs of every patient we serve. In each program, our interdisciplinary staff of highly-qualified clinicians delivers treatment based on evidence-based practices in a supportive atmosphere where patients can achieve a drug/alcohol-free lifestyle.

Our programs include cognitive behavioral therapy, 12-step facilitation, trauma-informed treatment, and Medication Assisted Treatment, as needed.

Every step of the way, we are educating, empowering, and supporting the patient. We provide patients with education about the disease, how to identify the signs and symptoms of their substance use disorder, develop a recovery plan, and learn coping skills. We hold patients accountable as we support them in their efforts to change negative behaviors to positive.

In turn, we expect patients to act as responsible members of the patient community, complete treatment tasks, take part in their treatment planning, and fulfill their obligations within the Residential or Outpatient Community Structure.

What ways can the public get involved?

We welcome the community to get involved by joining one of NCTR’s Board committees: Development/Fundraising, Facilities, or Marketing/Communications.

The public can also donate in-kind goods, including clothing, books, art supplies, etc. for men and women in our residential programs. Due to strict HIPAA regulations and patient confidentiality, we are unable to accept volunteers other than Board members and professional internship opportunities.

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

Charitable donations are spent specifically to provide financial assistance to adults and adolescents who are uninsured, under-insured or without personal financial resources.

Our Patient Assistance Fund and the Young Adult Treatment Fund in Memory of John Buck, were created to provide access to treatment for patients who lack insurance or financial means to pay for treatment. Through these funds, which rely entirely on donations from the community, we ensure that all patients who turn to us – even those with no medical coverage – can access the treatment they need.   We also have our Recovery Rewards Fund. Donations to this Fund allow us to purchase patient “rewards” such as journals, gift certificates or fun experiences, to reinforce and incentivize positive patient recovery behavior.

Information provided March 2025

Restoration Immigration Legal Aid (RILA)

EIN: 83-3874634

Mission Statement

Restoration Immigration Legal Aid (RILA) is an Arlington-based non-profit that provides pro bono immigration legal representation and consultation for some of the most vulnerable immigrants in Northern Virginia, focusing on asylum-seekers and immigrant children.

Program Summary

RILA supports immigrants in our community by providing excellent pro bono legal assistance to those who are most vulnerable and have the fewest resources.  Focusing on asylum law and procedure, RILA comes alongside asylum-seekers, all of whom have fled life-threatening situations in their countries of origin, to guide them through the application process for asylum and represent them in immigration court. RILA also represents children and youth who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned by a parent, petitioning for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status. Each of our cases is a years long process. During that time we obtain work permits for our clients, allowing individuals to reliably support their families.

In January of 2025, RILA added a Know Your Rights program in which we offer seminars virtually and/or in person to serve and inform immigrants and their families and community members in the Northern Virginia area. By partnering with local organizations, schools, and churches, we are sharing vital information with some of our area’s most vulnerable neighbors–immigrants and their families.

Impact Statement

RILA has demonstrated success in achieving significant, life-changing results for our clients with a 73% success rate for securing grants of asylum or some other type of humanitarian legal status for our clients. We have successfully obtained approval in 99% of our SIJS cases for children and teens who were abused or abandoned by a parent.

Over the past year, RILA managed a caseload of roughly 1,000 clients and assisted another 1,100 people by providing information and referrals. Since our founding, we have helped 134 individuals win asylum, allowing them to rebuild their lives in the United States in safety. RILA also assisted 264 children and teens in petitioning for and obtaining Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status, a pathway to legal permanent residence for young people who have experienced parental abuse, abandonment or neglect. And RILA obtains work permits for its clients, allowing individuals to reliably support their families.

What ways can the public get involved?

RILA makes space for people in Arlington from diverse backgrounds to work together to support, listen and give. We employ an innovative clinic model that integrates RILA staff, volunteers, local partner organizations and clients all working together. Volunteers can:

• Bring dinner
• Serve as a note taker
• Assist in interpreting (native speakers preferred)

Attorneys can write legal briefs or represent clients at the asylum office or in Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. Attorneys with daytime flexibility can also accompany RILA clients to ICE check-ins and other appointments with DHS. 

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

• $7500 funds a defensive asylum case before Immigration Court.
• $2150 covers attorney hours to write an asylum brief.
• $1070 helps RILA petition for Special Immigrant Juvenile status for an abused or abandoned immigrant child.
• $1000 funds legal advocate hours to help a client prepare for her asylum interview.
• $400 covers the cost of applying for Lawful Permanent Residency.
• $200 allows RILA to help a client apply for an initial work permit.
• $100 supports an initial consultation to determine eligibility for legal status.
• $50 pays for supplies for our monthly legal aid clinics.
• $25 covers monthly expenses for our Emergency Line.

Information provided March 2026

Doorways

EIN: 54-1087829

Mission Statement

Doorways creates pathways out of domestic violence, sexual assault, and homelessness, leading to safe, stable, and empowered lives.

Program Summary

Doorways’ response to domestic and sexual violence spans a spectrum—from preventing violence, to supporting survivors and their families throughout our community, to providing shelter and housing. We offer a wide range of trauma-informed services designed to meet survivors’ complex needs. All services are free, confidential, and available in all languages (multiple languages spoken in-person onsite, and more available through a language line). Through the generosity of our partners and supporters, we provide safe harbor, healing, and hope.

Community Engagement

Doorways partners with our neighbors, supporters, and fellow service providers to realize our mission every day.

• Prevention and Outreach Program
• Volunteer and Training Program
• Community Partnerships
• Advocacy
• Development and Communications

Community-Based Services

Doorways supports survivors throughout our community with a wide range of crisis response services, advocacy, and counseling.

• 24-Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline (703-237-0881)
• Hospital Accompaniment Response Program (HARP)
• Safety Planning
• Court Advocacy
• Revive Counseling Program

Shelter, Housing, and Supportive Services

Doorways provides Arlington’s only emergency safehousing for survivors experiencing homelessness due to domestic and sexual violence. HomeStart, Doorways’ housing program, supports clients transitioning out of shelter to a home of their own.

• Supportive Services (Case Management, Children’s Services, Financial and Employment Counseling)
• Safehousing (Shelter)
• HomeStart Supportive Housing Program

Impact Statement

2025 was another record-breaking year for Doorways:

• Safehousing provided emergency shelter for 150 people (80 adults and 70 children) in 79 households, a record high throughout Doorways’ history. 90% of households who disclosed their next destination did not return to an abusive living situation after leaving shelter.
• HomeStart supported 149 people (69 adults and 80 children) in 58 households.    
• Children’s Services provided 2,390 sessions supporting kids and their parents in our shelter and housing programs, more than double compared to 2024. 
• Revive Counseling Program provided supportive counseling and safety planning for 240 people, including 2,519 individual counseling sessions. 

Read Doorways’ annual report to learn more about how supporters like you make a difference for survivors like the ones quoted here:

“Doorways saved my life and has changed everything.”

“Doorways has helped my child open up, express her feelings, and communicate. She loves to attend play therapy where we see a huge change with issues we had prior to coming.”

“I have learned to understand my situations and got help with getting custody of my son. This is a great resource for victims of domestic violence.”

“My mental health has improved greatly post-assault. I was having trouble taking care of myself because I was mentally in a sad state. Doorways’ therapy sessions have taught me how to cope and recover in a healthy way. I feel fully supported here.”

What ways can the public get involved?

• Host a Fundraiser or Donation Drive: Individuals and groups can support Doorways’ mission by collecting critical funds and supplies. Monetary donations and VISA gift cards are needed year-round. Please contact Doorways for a current list of in-kind needs (e.g., personal and household items) or see our wish list. Learn more at www.doorwaysva.org/join-our-cause.  
• Host an Educational Prevention Workshop: Contact our Prevention and Outreach Program to host a free educational prevention workshop for your community/organization, or to request Doorways representation at an upcoming event. Request a workshop by visiting www.doorwaysva.org/prevention.   
• Volunteer: Volunteers are an essential part of the Doorways team! Visit www.doorwaysva.org/volunteer to learn more, submit an online application, and plan to attend an information session to get started. 
• For Kids and Youth: Visit Doorways’ Kids’ Corner for ways that young people can get involved, including learning about the issues with our recommended reading list, hosting a fundraiser, and more: www.doorwaysva.org/kids-corner/.  

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

Every year, half of Doorways’ budget comes from private donations. These monetary gifts from individuals, businesses, foundations, and corporate, faith, civic, and community groups ensure that Doorways is able to provide safe haven to every survivor in-need.  

• $100 could help provide a month of infant care supplies for a baby living in shelter. 
• $250 could help provide a Revive trauma therapy session for an adult, youth, or child impacted by domestic violence. 
• $500 could help sustain Doorways’ wraparound services in shelter and housing to promote healing, safety, and sustainability. 
• $1,500 could help provide a security deposit for a survivor’s new apartment after graduating from shelter. 

Information provided March 2026

True Ground Housing Partners (formerly APAH)

EIN: 54-1414133

Mission Statement

We exist to provide quality affordable housing and resident-centered programming to help our residents make the most of their home.

Program Summary

At True Ground, we believe that hope, like a home, needs nurturing and care. With housing access becoming harder than ever, we’re dedicated to building hope and opportunities for those feeling left out.

True Ground is your pathway and partner, guiding you from the dream of a home to making it a reality. We are committed community builders, breaking down barriers and providing the support needed to turn aspirations into secure, comfortable apartment homes. Building is challenging work, but True Ground is innovative and resourceful in addressing these challenges. We are not just building homes; we are changing the landscape for affordable housing, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live in a safe and welcoming community.

Specifically, our resident services program is centered around a mission to provide assistance to all True Ground residents, helping them maintain stability and achieve their dreams. This is achieved through four programmatic pillars: housing stability; economic mobility; health and wellness and senior support; and children, youth and families. An affordable home provides a firm foundation for individuals and families to put roots down in their community, to foster meaningful relationships, to access local resources, and to achieve their self-identified goals.

Impact Statement

True Ground’s vision guides our work: Everyone deserves a place to call home – a foundation to live their dreams.

Our growing Resident Services program and regional real estate development projects positively impact the resilient, diverse populations that True Ground serves.

What ways can the public get involved?

True Ground accepts charitable and in-kind donations as a charitable nonprofit organization.

Volunteers are critical to our regular operations; they help with supplemental nutrition distribution, after-school activities, community-building events, and much more.

Neighbors and housing advocates can support local initiatives that advance affordable housing priorities in their communities

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

Philanthropic funding at True Ground supports our mission to provide affordable housing in the region and resident-centered programming to benefit those who call our communities home. Our resident services program is funded entirely through philanthropic gifts like yours.

Information provided March 2026