Established in 1978
In 1978 the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia started as a small organization with one volunteer staff member and a small handful of funds.Since then, it has grown to support a ten-member staff, more than 280 donor established funds, and is led by a team who are passionate about their work and philanthropic efforts to help the ever-changing, constantly growing community in Northern Virginia.
- In 1996 the Community Foundation charitable asset base was just over $1M, and in 2024 has grown to more than $90M.
- Since its inception, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $94M in cumulative grants and scholarships to support the philanthropy of its donors and to advance equity through philanthropy and community leadership across the Northern Virginia region.
- In 2020, the Community Foundation launched its center for community reserach, Insight Region® as a growing hub for reliable, well-researched, and actionable data and analyses on issues critical to Northern Virginia. Through this work, we seek to inform charitable giving, inspire civic and social action, and foster a more inclusive, prosperous region. Its research and publications have covered topics such as affordable housing, economic mobility, early childhood education, minority-owned businesses, and mental health.
- The Community Foundation focuses on leading the community with thought leadership conferences and events such the Shape of the Region Conference and Raise the Region Gala, launching initiatives such as the Elevate NOVA Book Circle, and by working in partnership with regional anchor institutions on important programs that seek to increase inclusive prosperity across the region such as Champions for Accountability.
We are committed to helping our neediest neighbors and are actively engaged in making a positive impact on the lives of those in our community.
View the historical timeline of the Community Foundation.
The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia works to respond to need, seed innovation and lead and convene the community. Learn how to get involved by making a Donation and registering to attend an Event with us.
Read our News, register to receive our eNewsletter, and read our Impact Stories to learn more about the Community Foundation and the impact giving has on the Northern Virginia region.
