In 2024, The Community Foundation is highlighting 'Leaders of the Future' - individuals and organizations who inspire us to look towards a brighter future for Greater Washington.
This month, we are excited to highlight nonprofit leaders from our very first round of Sharing Northern Virginia funding. Sharing Community Initiatives facilitate connections between donors and nonprofits to build more equitable, just, and thriving communities.
Part of that initiative includes awarding intentional, multi-year grants designed to empower our nonprofit partners and the communities they serve. In 2024, Sharing Northern Virginia was pleased to award $100,000 in multi-year grants to eight incredible organizations doing impactful work in Northern Virginia. Below are a few responses from some of our partners about the critical work they are doing in our communities!
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
Murraygate Village Apartments, Stony Brook Apartments, Creekside Village Apartments, Audubon Estates along the Richmond Highway corridor in Alexandria, Virginia are among the vibrant communities that Joyful Hands has had the privilege to serve. While we have provided assistance to several communities, our primary focus and dedication lie with the Murraygate Village community.
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
Our mission is deeply rooted in the conviction that education, literacy, and access to community resources are foundational pillars of thriving societies.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
The funding from the Sharing Community Initiative will have a significant impact on our work at Joyful Hands. With this support, we will be able to expand our reach and deepen our impact. For example, we provided essential school supplies to over 300 school-age children and access to nutritious food for more residents each month. This funding will be invaluable in addressing food insecurity and enhancing our community programs.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
At Joyful Hands, we are incredibly enthusiastic about the opportunity to increase our service capacity. By expanding our reach to more families and youth, we aim to make a more profound impact on the overall well-being of our community and its residents. Through our expanded services, we hope to provide vital resources and support that will not only address immediate needs but also create lasting positive change in the lives of those we serve. We believe that by extending our reach, we can foster a stronger, more resilient community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
As a nonprofit leader, our dreams and aspirations for the future are deeply rooted in creating a more equitable and compassionate society. We envision a future where every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. We aspire to continue expanding our impact, reaching more marginalized communities, and providing meaningful support that empowers individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Ultimately, we hope to contribute to a future where kindness, empathy, and collaboration are the cornerstones of our communities, creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and dignified life.
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
We currently serve communities in Alexandria, Woodbridge, Fredericksburg, Richmond, and Petersburg, Virginia.
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
Our Mission and continued effort is to provide affordable housing to young adults that will age out of foster care along with providing support and resources such as life skills during their transition to independence.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
With the funding received from Sharing Community Initiative, we're able to get one step closer to our goal of assisting 2 young adults with a financial housing subsidy and hygiene essentials for this year.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
What excites us the most is that others believe in our vision and understand the need to be a support system for our young adults who are ageing out of foster care.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
Our dream is that no child has to face homelessness. We are inspired by knowing that every effort we make on their behalf is a step in the right direct towards their future. With the help from partners like Community Foundation we can build a housing development where they are safe in the comfort of their own home.
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
We provide healthcare services at no cost to eligible adults in Fairfax County and our primary service area is the Bailey's Crossroads to Seven Corners corridor. Fifty-five percent of our patients have a Falls Church address.
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
Culmore Clinic advances health by bringing community together to provide primary care, health education and disease prevention services at no cost to uninsured neighbors in Fairfax County. We serve a diverse, growing population of adult residents in a densely immigrant populated area of Fairfax County. Residents of our community are often unable to access healthcare, affordable health insurance or public assistance. Culmore Clinic exists to help these uninsured residents of our region receive the healthcare they need to thrive.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
Funding from the Sharing Community Initiative supports our patients by helping us sustain our volunteer supported healthcare services. As a medical home for our patients, we are not only supporting annual check-ups, but also chronic disease management and medical screening for a variety of health conditions. As an example, one of our female patients is currently undergoing radiation treatment after a mastectomy. This 56-year-old patient was referred for mammography after an in-clinic exam revealed a lump in her breast requiring further screening. This patient credits Culmore Clinic with saving her life. The support from the Sharing Community Initiative allows Culmore Clinic to continue to provide cancer screening and other health and wellness initiatives.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
The collective impact of the Sharing Community funding throughout our region is the perfect demonstration how regional philanthropy programming expands the offerings of nonprofits for the benefit of community members for whom meeting basic needs can be challenging. We are fortunate to be among those organizations receiving support and are eager to be connected to the broader community of nonprofits who all share a mutual interest in helping our neighbors.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
Our commitment to patient health and wellness is our greatest priority. We strive to provide culturally sensitive medical care to all members of the community who struggle to access quality care. Our "why" is the widespread need for healthcare services. Our "how" is the community of volunteers and donors who come together to support their neighbors. It is our hope that this model of harnessing the expertise and skills of community members to help their neighbors in need is multiplied across the region.
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
We serve Mount Vernon, Hybla Valley, Bailey's Crossroads, and Springfield communities in Northern Virginia
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
Loving Hands Touch Ministry is a non-profit organization that provides essential human services to underserved communities. Its mission is to address immediate needs while empowering individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency, ensuring access to necessities like food, shelter, healthcare, and education. Through its vital services, the organization aims to uplift marginalized communities and break the cycle of poverty.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
The funding from the Sharing Community Initiative will be instrumental in supporting our efforts to serve underserved communities. The funding will also be a game-changer, allowing us to expand our outreach and provide vital services that make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
One successful outcome was our summer drug prevention program in Baileys and Hybla Valley last year. This program provided educational resources and counseling to at-risk youth, teaching them healthy coping mechanisms and positive decision-making skills. We received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants and their families, with many crediting the program for helping keep them away from substance abuse.
Another impactful outcome was the Women's Health is Wealth program, which empowered women through health education and screening services. By improving access to healthcare, we facilitated referrals for screening of various conditions that impact women, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of women in our community. Numerous participants expressed gratitude for the life-changing support provided through this program.
Additionally, our after-school bullying program for elementary students proved highly beneficial. This program equipped young students with essential coping strategies to constructively address bullying situations. By cultivating a supportive environment and promoting empathy, we aimed to create a safer and more inclusive school experience for all children.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
As a first-time recipient of the Sharing Community Initiative funding, I am most excited about the opportunity to expand the reach and impact of our programs within the communities we serve. This vital financial support will enable us to strengthen existing initiatives and explore new avenues to address pressing needs more comprehensively.
One area I am particularly enthusiastic about is the potential to enhance our youth development programs. The funding could allow us to introduce additional educational and mentorship components, providing young people with valuable skills, guidance, and resources to navigate challenges and unlock their full potential. By investing in our youth, we can foster a brighter future for the entire community.
Furthermore, I am excited about the prospect of collaborating with other organizations supported by the Sharing Community Initiative. Such partnerships could lead to innovative cross-sector approaches, leveraging our collective expertise and resources to tackle complex social issues more effectively. By joining forces, we can amplify our impact and create sustainable, holistic solutions that uplift our communities.
Above all, I am grateful for the recognition and support from the Sharing Community Initiative, which will enable us to continue our mission with renewed vigor and increased capacity. This funding represents a vote of confidence in our work and will empower us to effect meaningful, lasting change in the lives of those we serve.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
Firstly, I aspire to see our organization become a beacon of hope and empowerment for even more individuals and families in need. My vision is to expand our reach, forging new partnerships, and exploring innovative approaches to address the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalized communities. By consistently evolving and adapting our programs, we can remain responsive to the ever-changing needs of those we serve.
Additionally, I dream of fostering a more inclusive and equitable society where every person, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive. I envision our organization playing a pivotal role in breaking down systemic barriers and advocating for policies and initiatives that promote social justice, economic mobility, and equal access to essential services.
Furthermore, I aspire to nurture a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the nonprofit sector. By fostering strong networks and open dialogues, we can learn from one another's experiences, leverage collective wisdom, and amplify our collective impact. Together, we can champion sustainable solutions that address the root causes of societal issues, rather than merely treating the symptoms.
Ultimately, my dream is to witness a future where our organization's services are no longer as desperately needed – a future where every individual and community has the means to achieve self-sufficiency and live with dignity. While this may seem like an ambitious goal, I believe that through unwavering dedication, strategic partnerships, and a shared commitment to positive change, we can make significant strides toward creating a more just and equitable world for all.
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
We serve the Hybla Valley community in Northern Virginia.
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
We want to use education, mentoring, training, practical experiences, and mastery of 21st century technology in order to create a pipeline of young men from underserved communities who excel in STEM related careers and positively influence their communities.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
This funding has allowed us to expand our offering from Prince William County into the Rt. 1 corridor of Fairfax County. In this case, this funding will allow us to bring a cybersecurity internship program to the Hybla Valley area.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
Most exciting for us is the support for helping us reach students in our target demographic access advanced training in college-level cybersecurity training. This training will directly impact the students ability to gain entry-level employment in cybersecurity
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
We would like to see a pipeline of students from economically challenged household into lucrative STEM-based careers
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
The Growth And Healing HUB can provide service to anyone residing in the state of Virginia. However, our office is strategically located in the Mount Vernon/Gum Springs/Alexandria region of Fairfax County, in the 22306 and 22309 ZIP codes.
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
The HUB’s mission is to grow and nurture the mental health and well-being of children, youth, young adults, and families. We accept most major insurance and will turn no one away due to inability to pay.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
The Sharing Community initiative is a game-changer. It allows us to expand our fiduciary team, keeping administrative costs lean. This translates directly into more resources for what matters most: our community. By hiring additional clinicians, we can make an even greater impact on the lives of those we serve. That's what the HUB is all about – creating a meaningful difference.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
The HUB aspires to be the cornerstone of mental wellness in our community. We strive to be recognized for exceptional care and impactful outreach programs. Here, everyone feels safe and supported, receiving the help they deserve.
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
We serve homeless individuals in northern Virginia, including Arlington, Fairfax and Alexandria City.
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
Our mission is to provide case management, permanent housing and shelter to support the needs of homeless individuals in Northern Virginia.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
We just received the funding and believe it will help us to improve our organizational capacity and infrastructure.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
I'm excited to have the opportunity to rethink the way the organization delivers service and to reimagine the work. As the new ED its a perfect time to work with the staff to help them vision for the future.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
My goal is to deliver services in a way that we can demonstrably see how it puts our clients on a pathway to sustainable housing. I am also excited about playing a role in reducing incidents of homelessness and making sure that clients have tools to help them navigate in a community that has priced them out.
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Which Communities/Neighborhoods do you serve?
Rt 1 Richmond Hwy Corridor, Mt Vernon
In 2-3 sentences, please briefly describe the mission of your organization
Our Mission is to work with individuals during high-crisis transition periods of their lives. Changing the paradigm of how transition servicess are delivered.
How has funding from a Sharing Community Initiative impacted the work you do? Feel free to share any brief examples of projects or outcomes you've seen over the past year.
The Sharing Community Initiative has allowed us to increase our outreach capacity in some of the most hard hit areas like the 7-elevens on Lockheed, and Russell. This has lead to an increase in supportive services and a decrease already in erratic bus behaviors.
What excites you the most about receiving support through the Sharing Community initiative?
We are most excited about the new networking connection and opportunities with other small non-profits in the area. We are also excited about the simplicity of the application process.
As a nonprofit leader in our community, what are your dreams or aspirations for the future?
We want to grow our Peer-Based work to the point where those served will become members, volunteers and serve yet others who we can't reach. This builds whole and health communities and empowers residents.
Want to get involved in Sharing Northern Virginia and find ways to make meaningful investments in your community?
New committee members are always welcome! Contact Benton Murphy at bmurphy@thecommunityfoundation.org