Did you know that Americans are expected to spend $862 on average on Christmas gifts this year. While you’re making your wish lists, take a moment to think about the many local organizations that rely on our charitable contributions to keep doing the wonderful things they do.
The list of organizations that serve our neighborhood is a long one, and we want to hear from you about your favorites and why you think they should be on our list this #GivingTuesday.
Among our favorites is the Capitol Hill Community Foundation a neighborhood organization that supports activities, projects and organizations that enrich the lives of residents and celebrate the history of our Capitol Hill community. Since its founding in 1989, the Foundation has directed more than $6.6 million to a broad range of projects.
In honor of all of the programs that support Capitol Hill, we will donate $1 for every share of this post on Twitter and Facebook to the Capitol Hill Community Foundation.
Claudia
- Capitol Hill Community Foundation: for supporting so many organizations that serve the Hill. (Disclosure: I am an ex-officio member of CHCF’s Board of Directors)
- Congressional Cemetery: For transforming an amazing piece of history in our backyard to a community gathering place.
- City Dogs Rescue, Rural Dogs Rescue, and Washington Humane Alliance: For saving all of our furry (and feathered) friends.
- Anacostia Watershed Society and 11th Street Bridge Park: For advocating to make the Anacostia River a beautiful place to enjoy.
- Food Rescue US, Martha’s Table, Miriam’s Kitchen, and DC Central Kitchen: For doing so much to get food to those who need it.
Maria
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Greater DC Diaper Bank: I love that I’m supporting the hard work of fellow Capitol Hill mom Corinne Cannon, but most importantly, it’s important to me that babies’ needs be met. Diapers are an important part of a child’s health and they are not covered by subsidies such as WIC. In addition to this focus on the child’s health, the diaper bank also focuses its efforts on collecting menstruation products as well.
- School Within School and Capitol Hill Cluster School: While DCPS provides basic needs for all schools, the budget can’t afford things that may not be deemed essential but are just as important. At my children’s schools, donations help fund special programs like Foodprints, as well as teacher training and professional development. Consider donating to your in-bounds elementary school (or volunteering your time). Here’s a list of elementary schools in Ward 6, all of which need your time and/or funds:
Jen
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Atlas Performing Arts Center: neighborhood-based, nationally recognized performances.
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Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW): no kid is ever turned away because they can’t pay.
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The Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital: varied programs for all ages, many of which are free.
Robert
- Taffety Punk: Our local small theater troupe
- DC Holiday Pajama Project: Because enjoying the holidays in new jammies is a joy every kid should get!
- Consider buying your Christmas tree from a local non-profit such as Brent school or Boy Scout Troop 500