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

Youth Democracy Institute (YDI) builds the next generation of civic leaders by equipping young people in Arlington County and the greater DC region with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to actively participate in their communities.

Since launching in 2025, YDI has served more than 100 participants through break camps, afterschool programs, and cohort-based leadership academies. Approximately 85% of participants access programming at no cost, reflecting YDI’s commitment to ensuring that high-quality civic learning opportunities remain accessible to all students.

During the 2025–2026 school year, YDI delivered programming in two school-based sites and is actively working with Arlington Public Schools to expand its presence in middle and high schools across the county. Over the course of the year, YDI launched its America 250 civic engagement series, hosted a Cultural Leadership Academy bringing together Black and Jewish students for cross-cultural dialogue and leadership development, and became a community partner site for George Mason University’s Office of Community Engagement and Civic Learning Summer Engaged Fellows Program—strengthening program delivery while building a pipeline for future civic leaders.

Through its programs, students develop confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of their role in shaping their communities.


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 March 2026

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 March 2026

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 March 2026

Arlington Bridge Builders

EIN: 90-0950744

Mission Statement

Arlington Bridge Builders is an interdenominational network of churches working with each other, individuals, non-profits, businesses, and civic agencies to seek the flourishing of our community.


Program Summary

Our emphasis on Community Service focuses on five impact areas, with key programs in each: 


Impact Statement


What ways can the public get involved?


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

A crowd of students and families at a festival on a sunny day picking up free backpacks.

Information provided April 2026

He She Ze and We

EIN: 37-1964125

Mission Statement

He She Ze and We (HSZ&W) supports transgender and nonbinary people of all ages and empowers their families and allies to create the life-saving, inclusive environments we all deserve.

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


Program Summary

He She Ze and We is based out of Richmond and is deepening our work statewide across Virginia. HSZ&W offers virtual and in-person options for learning, sharing resources, and strengthening our community. 

In Northern Virginia, He She Ze and We provides a monthly in-person educational support meeting in Arlington. This meeting also offers a youth hangout social space for ages 5-13. 

Ally & Community Education is a fee-based professional training program tailored to the needs and goals of businesses, schools, agencies, and community groups looking to learn more about gender diversity and how to create or expand inclusive practices.

The HSZ&W Trans Wellness Fund supports access to gender-affirming care across Virginia. This fund has a quarterly application and distribution process to reduce or eliminate financial, practical, and support barriers to GAC for Virginians, as well as transgender and nonbinary people living in banned states who are traveling to Virginia for their care. We are accepting donations year round to sustain this grant. For more information, please visit https://heshezewe.org/twf

Our Family Connections program 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 and offers a safe, inclusive environment where families, including parents and siblings, gather to connect and have fun together.

HSZ&W’s Trans Adult Social Club (TASC) has started in the Richmond area. This program is for trans and nonbinary adults looking to make meaningful connections, share resources, and have fun in a free and sober space to build community. HSZ&W is looking for collaborative partners to be able to bring TASC to Northern VA in the future, if desired and needed.


Impact Statement

He She Ze and We works to improve the lives of transgender and nonbinary people of all ages by supporting them directly as well as educating and supporting families, allies, and community members to create inclusive, affirming environments. Through personalized support services for families and trans & nonbinary adults, we meet people where they are and help them with the resources and education needed for lasting acceptance and belonging.

Family and community support is the #1 protective 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 nearly 50%. Imagine the impact when entire families are informed, accepting, and affirming – this is the transformative work of He She Ze and We.

In 14 years of grassroots work, HSZ&W has helped thousands of transgender and nonbinary people. Our organization is continuing to build a strong allied community with our education, support, and advocacy efforts to ensure they can live their lives fully and authentically in Virginia.


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, which supports access to gender-affirming care across Virginia: https://heshezewe.org/twf 

Bring our Ally & Community Education Program to your workplace or community:

Fill out this form – https://heshezewe.org/forms-education 

Volunteer to help us spread awareness about He She Ze and We and expand our reach: https://heshezewe.org/forms-volunteer 

Consider being a fiscal sponsor for one of our annual events: Fundraiser & Dance Party and/or Back to School Youth Empowerment Event:

https://heshezewe.org/events/


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

Information provided March 2026

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

Arlington Concert Band Association

EIN: 45-5529489

Mission

Arlington Concert Band (ACB), a program of Arlington Community Learning in Arlington, Virginia, is a wind ensemble made up of more than 70 professional music educators and dedicated, talented amateur musicians. We perform regularly throughout the community and play an assortment of music including marches, show tunes, and classical arrangements. ACB’s mission focuses on:


Program Summary

We perform regularly throughout the community and play an assortment of music including marches, show tunes, and classical arrangements. We provide free concerts and feature student soloists in some of our concerts.


Impact Statement

We bring a mix of family friendly, professional music to the community for all to enjoy. We provide an outlet for members of the Arlington community to make playing music a lifelong activity.


What ways can the public get involved?

We encourage all Arlingtonians to attend our free concerts and enjoy concert band music at its finest. Adult musicians can also contact the band to see if there is an opening in the band for new musicians.


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

Charitable funds are spent on purchasing new music, concert marketing and promotions, and concert recordings. 

A photo of the Arlington Concert Band seated on stage. Members are dressed in black concert attire and have their instruments with them.

Information provided March 2026