Impact Stories

Highlighting the people and programs transforming our region 

Explore the stories, articles, and interviews that showcase how the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is making a difference across our region. Since our founding in 1978, we’ve awarded over $100 million in grants and scholarships—fueling innovation, supporting nonprofits, and empowering individuals.

This is philanthropy in action.
Learn how we’re turning generosity into lasting impact.

If you have any story ideas, please contact Amanda Bomfim, Manager of Marketing, Communications and Events.
November 20, 2025
The State of Nonprofits in Northern Virginia

The Community Foundation of Northern Virginia hosted a webinar on the State of Nonprofits in Northern Virginia, featuring data and research from Insight Region® in partnership with the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. The presentation highlighted the challenges faced by nonprofits, including reduced government funding, declining donations, and increased demand for services, as well as the impact of the recent government shutdown. 

November 19, 2025
Wilderness Kids Alexandria

Spotlight on Jerry Casagrande, Executive Director and Founder of Wilderness Kids Alexandria

Meet one of our 2025 grantees making a difference in Northern Virginia! In this video, Jerry shares the mission behind Wilderness Kids Alexandria, the challenges they face, and the opportunities ahead. 

November 12, 2025
DAFs101
The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia hosted a webinar to educate attendees about donor-advised funds (DAFs) and their benefits, with presentations from leadership team members discussing the Foundation's role in managing charitable assets and its commitment to local giving.

November 11, 2025
Letter from CEO November 2025

When federal funding shifts, the ripple effects are immediate.   Individuals and families feel it in closed parks, scaled back after-school and Head-Start programs, and food banks and pantries stretched thin. These services often mark the line between stability and crisis for members of the community and the nonprofit organizations serving community needs across the Northern Virginia region.  

At the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, we asked: How are nonprofits in Northern Virginia weathering this storm? What can we do – as funders, donors and partners –  to help?

November 10, 2025
Year End Planning 2026

Are you an attorney, CPA, or financial advisor with charitably inclined clients—but unsure how to start the conversation? You're not alone.
Many professionals find it challenging to recognize charitable intent and even more difficult to navigate those discussions without a clear framework.

To help, we’re sharing a hypothetical case example with practical tips to show how these conversations can unfold and lead to meaningful outcomes.

November 7, 2025
Year End Planning 2026

As attorneys, CPAs, and financial advisors, you are well aware that the last couple months of the year are very busy with clients’ tax planning! It’s also a busy time for charitable giving. A whopping 40 percent of online giving happens in December (Neon One, September 2025). The Community Foundation team is honored to work closely with you and your clients on year-end giving strategies. Here are seven reminders to keep in mind as you work with clients in the busy weeks ahead. 

November 6, 2025
Addressing food insecurity in Northern Virginia
With SNAP benefits reduced and many impacted by the government shutdown in our region, a growing number of individuals and families in Northern Virginia are struggling to put food on the table. Local food banks and pantries are stepping up to meet the need—but they can’t do it alone.

To address the urgent needs of nonprofits across our region, we’ve accelerated our discretionary grants process this year. Our Community Investment Funds cycle is now accepting streamlined applications for general operating support from nonprofits.

November 5, 2025
Philanthropy Panel 2025

At a time when the philanthropic landscape is shifting, CFNOVA and Truist brought together a dynamic panel of experts to explore how donors can make the most of their giving in 2025 and beyond. The conversation was rich with insights, strategy, and heart — all centered on one key theme: giving with purpose in a changing world.

October 20, 2025
Dear Community Foundation friends, supporters, and partners,

Friday night’s Raise the Region Gala was a joyful celebration of community, generosity, and shared purpose. Whether you joined us in person or in spirit, your support helped make the evening unforgettable.

October 5, 2025

Every year, Community Foundation Week illuminates the vital role community foundations play in strengthening the places we call home. Uniquely positioned to understand and respond to our local community needs, community foundations serve as connectors, conveners, and catalysts for change.