population-scope: Regional

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?

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:

A photograph of the DC starlight orchestra posting on stage at a live performance.

Information provided July 2025

Arc of Northern Virginia

EIN: 54-0675506

Mission Statement

The Arc of Northern Virginia promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.

Program Summary

1. Transition POINTS Program
Transition POINTS guides individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families in Arlington through critical life transitions, from birth to adulthood. The program offers free tools, workshops, and customized support to help navigate decisions related to early intervention, school services, employment, independent living, and long-term planning. By empowering families with resources and guidance at each life stage, Transition POINTS helps promote independence, inclusion, and long-term well-being.

2. Special Needs Trust Program
The Arc of Northern Virginia administers Special Needs Trusts to help individuals with disabilities secure their financial future without jeopardizing eligibility for public benefits. These trusts are professionally managed and available to people of all ages and disability levels in Arlington. The program includes personalized trust management, financial oversight, and ongoing support for families to ensure that individuals with disabilities in Arlington can maintain quality of life while preserving public supports.

3. Advocacy & Public Policy
The Arc of Northern Virginia leads local and state advocacy efforts to advance policies that promote equity, access, and opportunity for individuals with IDD. Through community engagement, education, and legislative action, the organization works to influence public policy on issues like inclusive education, affordable housing, transportation, and employment.

4. Tech for Independent Living
This Arc of Northern Virginia program provides access to ongoing, customized support for employment and daily life for individuals with IDD in Arlington. At its core is the Arc2Independence app that focuses on four categories of skill building: Employment Skills: a “virtual job coach” supporting work tasks and soft skills; Travel Skills: a “virtual travel trainer” to support safe and independent public transit use; Safety Skills: “a virtual safety coach” to navigate real-world situations safely at home and in the community; and Daily Living Skills:” a virtual skills trainer” to support independence at home and in the community

Impact Statement

The Arc of Northern Virginia empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live full, independent, and inclusive lives. Through a wide range of programs and services, the organization supports people with disabilities across all life stages, from early childhood to adulthood and aging. We provide families critical guidance through complex systems, including school services, employment, housing, and long-term care planning. The Arc’s Special Needs Trust Program protects financial security without affecting public benefits, ensuring long-term stability and peace of mind. Innovative technology tools and personalized coaching promote daily living skills and greater independence, while advocacy efforts at the local and state levels drive policy changes that expand access to education, housing, and employment. Each year, thousands of individuals and families benefit from The Arc’s resources, workshops, and direct services, gaining the tools and confidence to lead self-determined lives. The organization also collaborates with schools, employers, and community partners to foster greater awareness, accessibility, and inclusion. As a result, more people with disabilities in Northern Virginia are achieving personal goals, connecting with their communities, and living “A Life Like Yours.”

What ways can the public get involved?

Community members play a vital role in supporting The Arc of Northern Virginia’s mission. There are many ways to get involved:

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

Donations to The Arc of Northern Virginia directly support programs and services that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. Charitable dollars fund critical initiatives such as personalized support through the Transition POINTS program, employment and life-skills support through our Tech for Independent Living Program, access to life-planning tools and Special Needs Trusts, and the development of innovative technology that promotes independence.

Gifts also help provide free educational workshops, advocacy training, and one-on-one guidance to thousands of families each year. Additionally, donations sustain public policy efforts that lead to lasting systems change at the local and state levels.

Approximately 85% of every dollar goes directly to programs and services, ensuring that your contribution has a meaningful and immediate impact. The remaining funds support essential administrative and fundraising operations that keep our organization running efficiently and transparently.

Your support helps individuals with disabilities gain greater independence, secure their futures, and thrive as fully included members of our community. Every gift makes a lasting difference.

Information provided July 2025

Ronald McDonald House of Charities, Greater Washington DC

EIN: 52-1132262

Mission Statement

Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Greater Washington, DC (RMHCDC) provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare.

Program Summary

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Washington, DC (RMHCDC) seeks to address the multifaceted challenges faced by families dealing with a child’s illness or injury. These challenges include:

RMHCDC addresses the challenge of supporting families with a sick child through a comprehensive, family-centered care approach. Recognizing that a child’s illness impacts the entire family, RMHCDC involves families in the healthcare process to make informed decisions alongside healthcare providers. This holistic approach aims to improve various outcomes such as psychosocial outcomes, clinical outcomes, resource distribution, and patient and family satisfaction.
We believe that when a child is sick, the entire family needs comfort and support. We believe that a home is more than four walls and a roof over your head – it is the intangible magic that transpires in moments shared together. We believe in building a global community that finds strength, hope and courage in embracing healing as a joyous experience. Please give today to help even more families stay close through the biggest challenge of their lives. Together, we can do big things!

Impact Statement

Our organization provides a supportive and healing environment for families with seriously ill or injured children receiving medical care in the greater Washington, D.C. region. Through our core programs—including two Ronald McDonald Houses. We offer families a place to rest, recharge, and stay close to the hospital without the financial burden of lodging or meals. In 2024, we provided nearly 15,000 occupied room nights—an increase of more than 2,600 over the prior year, allowing us to serve more families when they needed it most.

Beyond housing, we offer daily meals, emotional support, and enriching programming for children and caregivers. These services reduce stress, foster community, and improve overall family well-being during medical crises. Our work has a direct and measurable impact: families report reduced emotional and financial strain, increased time spent at their child’s bedside, and a greater sense of comfort and stability.

By removing barriers to care and meeting basic needs, we help families focus on what matters most, the health and recovery of their child. Through strong hospital partnerships and the support of donors and volunteers, our programs continue to grow in reach, impact, and relevance.

What ways can the public get involved?

The public can get involved by volunteering to prepare meals, organizing donation drives, or supporting our events like the Red Shoe 5K Run & Walk. We also welcome financial contributions and in-kind donations that help sustain our programs year-round. To learn more or sign up to help: https://rmhcdc.org/volunteer-new/

https://rmhcdc.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate-rmhcdc

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

Charitable dollars directly support our mission to keep families close to their seriously ill or injured children. Donations help provide comfortable lodging, daily meals, transportation assistance, and family-centered programming at no cost to the families we serve. Funds also sustain the upkeep and operation of our Ronald McDonald Houses ensuring they remain warm, welcoming spaces during a medical crisis. Additionally, contributions help cover essential expenses like utilities, supplies, and program staff who deliver compassionate care and support.

Information provided July 2025

Free2Talk

EIN: 88-3583665

Mission Statement

Free2Talk is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of kids and teens in Virginia (ages 6-19). We believe that accessible and affordable therapy, including speech therapy, is vital for all young people struggling across the Commonwealth. Regardless of family income or insurance coverage, Virginia kids and teens should be able to access mental health and speech therapy treatment. 

Program Summary

Free2Talk connects families, struggling to afford treatment, with a network of mental health and speech therapy providers and specialists, allowing them to access reduced cost treatment for their kids and teens. For qualified patients, our organization will pay up to 80% of treatment costs for up to 16 sessions. 

We work primarily with providers and patients in Arlington, but also across the Commonwealth. Free2Talk was founded in the summer of 2022 by William Mount, a then-10th grade student at Washington-Liberty HS in Arlington, VA. His idea originated from his own personal struggles with mental health and stuttering.

Impact Statement

We have covered 80% of the costs of nearly 500 therapy sessions by collaborating with over a dozen therapy providers and practices across Virginia — with our most served areas being Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax County, and the greater Charlottesville area.

Founder William Mount has attended, and spoken to/at various of local expos, elementary schools, foundations and fundraising events to promote the de-stigmatization of speaking about mental health and speech struggles amongst younger people. In addition, Free2Talk has tabled at local events sponsored by organizations like the Center for Youth and Family Advocacy (CYFA).

Free2Talk is also in collaboration with the University of Virginia’s Sheila C. Johnson Center for Clinical Services, and has worked with them for over a year to provide Free2Talk’s services to areas beyond Northern Virginia.

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

Donations to Free2Talk always go directly subsidizing the costs of the mental health/speech therapy sessions of our patients. 

Donations ranging from $100-$250 cover the cost of a typical therapy session for one of our patients. Larger donations are greatly appreciated; 16 sessions for each approved patient leads to an individual cost of ~$2,000. Large donations help us to scale in size, and excess funds allow Free2Talk to expand our network of providers to further address the immense need for therapy in Arlington, and beyond.

Information provided May 2025

Educational Theatre Company

EIN: 52-2081464

Mission Statement

Founded in 1998, Educational Theatre Company’s mission is to unlock the potential of children and adults through immersion in theatre arts. ETC provides process-driven theatre arts programming for students from ages 3 -103. We make artistic expression available to all by fostering growth and learning in our communities.  

All ETC programming highlights our four pillars: Creativity, Confidence, Collaboration, and Community. We eliminate the transportation barrier by bringing our programs to where students already are – at schools, community centers, and senior living homes.

Program Summary

CAMPS AND CLASSES

RESIDENCIES AND WORKSHOPS

SCHOOL CURRICULUM-BASED PROGRAMS

Impact Statement

Our impact is best expressed by this (abbreviated) statement from a teacher:

My name is Megan Chaney, and I teach at Drew Elementary in the Community Peer Program pre-k class. My classroom is a mixed ability class, with half of my students having a disability. Some of my students are on the Autism spectrum, some are non-verbal…My students and I were lucky to have Ms. Katie McCreary come to our room once a week for two months. While she was leading instruction, I saw students come out of their shells and join in the imaginative learning. Ms. Katie provided meaningful lessons that both allowed students a creative outlet and supported learning in the classroom.

When Ms. Katie was not in the classroom, the things she taught our students continued to be accessible to them. There was a noticeable increase in creativity among the students in their play, and perhaps most excitingly to me, in their problem solving. Where students would sometimes previously get frustrated, they now could turn situations into a chance to get creative….I was so pleased with the growth my students showed in those two months with the guidance of Ms. Katie and the ETC program.

What ways can the public get involved?

ETC is always seeking volunteers as board members (board members meet quarterly for committees and full board meetings and are encouraged to volunteer at various points throughout the year).  We are also open to volunteers who can help organize and maintain our storage unit, sort t-shirts, and make deliveries during the camp season to camp locations throughout Arlington.

We are regularly in need of pro bono legal support (though often only once a year to check language on documents, etc.).

ETC performances are free and open to the public, and we encourage audience members from the community to join us, talk about what you’ve seen, and spread the word about ETC!  Joining our newsletter via our website is the best way to stay up-to-date on all things ETC.

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

Information provided April 2025

He She Ze and We

EIN: 37-1964125

Mission Statement

He She Ze and We (HSZ&W) supports transgender and nonbinary people by empowering their families, allies, and communities to create life-saving, inclusive environments. 

Education, Support, Advocacy, and Community Building are at the core of all of our work.

Program Summary

He She Ze and We is based out of Richmond and is deepening our work statewide across Virginia.

He She Ze and We provides a monthly in person educational support meeting in Arlington. 

Additional virtual meetings strive to meet varied schedules and are available for all registered HSZ&W parents and caregivers in VA and beyond.

We also offer our Family Connections program which serves families with school age gender expansive children. This crucial program provides a break from the challenges our youth face at school or in their communities, where families, including parents and siblings, gather to connect and have fun together in a safe and inclusive environment.

Ally & Community Education is a fee based professional training program catered to businesses, schools, agencies, and community groups looking to learn more about gender diversity and inclusive practice. 

Impact Statement

He She Ze and We works to improve the lives of transgender and nonbinary people of all ages by educating and supporting families and other allies to know how to create inclusive spaces with affirming behaviors. 

Family support is the #1 protection factor when it comes to keeping our loved ones safe from self harm and suicide. Just one supportive adult can reduce the risk of suicide by almost 50%! What if the whole family was accepting and affirming? That’s what HSZ&W works to do with all of our programming including Orientation and guest speaker panel discussions. 

In the 13 years we have been doing grassroots work, we have helped 1000’s of families work to help their loved ones survive and thrive! 

What ways can the public get involved?

Donate to help us increase our capacity to be a sustainable organization: https://heshezewe.org/donate/

Contribute to HSZ&W Trans Wellness Fund: supporting access to gender affirming care across Virginia.  https://heshezewe.org/donate/

Bring our Ally & Community Education Program to your workplace or community. Fill out this form if interested: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSccJ6Tn_eHwGL_oVROks2Hf2-ZzhPGOt272zSAJmEOInLqimQ/viewform

Volunteer to help us spread awareness about He She Ze and We so we can help more people: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFKaPkjjxT–GJ6ViWtfsCrDqnKgPMfJQGvjQQdgU-UGyqSg/viewform

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

Information provided March 2025

Arm & Arm Inc.

EIN: 47-4617475

Mission Statement

The Arm & Arm Mission is to change the paradigm of how the transition process is addressed. Using our empathetic-based approach, we empower individuals during critical transition periods with tools that enable them to make rational evaluations of themselves and their situations.

Program Summary

Arm & Arm is redefining mental health and recovery by utilizing cutting-edge Cognitive and Somatic Recovery Techniques—proven methods that help individuals  process trauma, regulate emotions, and develop self-sustaining coping strategies. Unlike traditional clinical programs, our model is peer-driven, allowing individuals  with shared life experiences to mentor and guide others through their recovery. 

Impact Statement

Arm & Arm is redefining mental health and recovery support by utilizing cutting-edge Cognitive and Somatic Recovery Techniques—proven methods that help individuals  process trauma, regulate emotions, and develop self-sustaining coping strategies. Unlike traditional clinical programs, our model is  peer-driven, allowing individuals  with shared life experiences to mentor and guide others through their recovery. By providing peer-to-peer mentoring (a system of accountability) and educating the community on the signs and possible interventions to substance use and de-escalation strategies prior to police involvement, Arm & Arm is normalizing prevention as a lifestyle for our targeted population and their families.

What ways can the public get involved?

Arm & Arm is always looking for empathetic volunteers willing to help those in the community living with stigma. Anyone who is willing to donate their time and/or money to assist our efforts in building whole & healthy communities are always welcome.

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

To provide support for training, community outreach services and support.

Information provided March 2025

Ayuda

EIN: 52-0971440

Mission Statement

Ayuda advocates for low-income immigrants through direct legal, social and language services, training and outreach in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.  

Program Summary

Ayuda provides legal, social, and language services for low-income immigrants including individuals and families affected by immigration challenges, domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and family separation, ensuring access to justice and support for vulnerable communities. 

Impact Statement

For over 50 years, Ayuda’s expert team has helped over 150,000 immigrants navigate complex legal systems and access vital services. With offices in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, we offer both in-person and virtual services to reduce barriers. We also provide emergency financial, food, and material assistance to those in crisis, ensuring immigrants have the support they need to build safe, stable lives. 

In 2024, Ayuda provided 3,109 low-income immigrants from 84 countries with immigration legal services, domestic violence, and family law services, comprehensive case management, and/or therapy. 165 language experts contributed to our interpreter bank, accessible to 118 nonprofits, allowing them to break down language barriers as they support clients. Over $228,000 in financial assistance, 21,400 pounds of diapers, and 2,800 pounds of food were distributed to help new immigrant families thrive. 

What ways can the public get involved?

There are different ways to get involved with Ayuda. Visit https://ayuda.com/get-involved/ to learn more and support our mission by: 

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

Donations to Ayuda help us provide vital immigration legal services, offer compassionate case management, extend a helping hand through mental health services, and bridge the language gap for low-income immigrant families in the DMV area. 

Information provided March 2026