Established in 1978

CFNOVA HistoryIn 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 250 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 asset base was just over $1M, and in 2021 has grown to $95.8M.
  • Since its inception, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $85M in cumulative grants to support the philanthropy of its donors and to respond to need and seed innovation throughout 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 events such as the Shape of the Region Conference, Innovation Breakfasts, and by establishing working groups such as Community Wealth Building.

In 2022 the Community Foundation awarded $7.0 million in grants and scholarships and now reports $80 million in managed philanthropic assets.

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.
Timeline Graphic
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.