Press Releases
From the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia
10 October 2023 (Fairfax, VA): The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia held its annual Raise the Region Gala at the Hilton McLean Tyson’s Corner this past Friday, to a completely sold-out room. More than 850 people participated, between in-person and virtual participation options. The black-tie event celebrated a rousing sense of renewal for the region and for the Community Foundation, and honored Sumeet Shrivastava with the Community Leadership Award. Here is the video shared in tribute of Sumeet’s work in Northern Virginia and beyond.
The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia has joined a nationwide coalition of more than 40 community foundations to launch the Community Foundation Climate Collaborative. The Collaborative is a coordinated effort aimed at helping local communities secure funding and more effectively respond to climate change.
In 2021, one in five families (20 percent) in Northern Virginia did not earn enough money to meet their basic needs for shelter, food, medical care, and other essentials. An additional nine percent could not cover these basic needs, and pay for childcare. All told, 29 percent of the region’s families were struggling with income inadequacy.
To cope with rising costs, families at all income levels are changing their habits. The majority of families are cutting back on discretionary spending. Nearly half of families at all income levels have compromised their financial health, including taking on more debt, and getting behind on bills. More than a quarter were sacrificing a basic need, such as delaying medical care, keeping their homes at an unsafe temperature, or going hungry.
After nearly two decades, Eileen Ellsworth has announced her plans to retire as the President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia. She will continue in the role until her successor has been selected.
"After 18 wonderful years, I have decided to turn the reins over to the next generation and start a new chapter in my personal and professional life," said Ellsworth. "I am filled with gratitude for the chance to have served. It has been the professional privilege of my life."
The Community Foundation’s scholarship funds are leaving positive legacies across the region and beyond. More than 50 volunteers reviewed more than 400 scholarship applications for these funds this year. In total, the Community Foundation manages 13 scholarships and administers the funds for 21 others that support Northern Virginia students. These awards range from $1,500 to greater than $6,000.