Improving Lives Near Washington, D.C.

According to the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University, 95.4 percent of households give to charity. That’s a tremendous amount of charitable giving, but it always feels as though we could do more. Countless charities in the area need help consistently to keep doing the wonderful work that they do. Here are some highlights of a few charities in the Washington, D.C., area to consider.

The Darrell Green Youth Foundation

In 1988 Darrell Green and his wife, Jewell founded the Youth Life Foundation in Washington, D.C. Darrell is a Football Hall of Fame inductee and former player for the Washington Redskins. He and his wife founded the Youth Life Foundation to help kids in the D.C. area who had family problems or not enough food or clothing and who lacked hope in the light of their circumstances. He wanted to set up a safe place where kids could see that there was, indeed, hope for their future and that they could succeed. Now, communities across the country benefit from the Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation.

The Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder in which someone has an extra copy of all or part of the twenty-first chromosome. This extra genetic material causes a host of problems developmentally. The Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County Maryland offers support to families of those who have the condition. Families and community members have access to information and education about the syndrome, as well as access to advocacy assistance.

St. James’ Children’s School

Established in 1993, the St. James’ Children’s School is a preschool owned by the St. James’ Episcopal Church. The school offers not only preschool and kindergarten classes, but also infant and toddler programs. The school curriculum includes music, Spanish lessons, Bible stories, and other educational lessons. Children are encouraged to learn about and to appreciate other cultures and religions, making the school a wellspring of community.

The Bobby Mitchell Golf Classic

For over twenty years, former Washington Redskins football player, Bobby Mitchell has hosted a Golf Classic to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. After a modest donation, ticket holders are able to watch their favorite sports celebrities from a variety of different sporting backgrounds play golf. Proceeds help the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to pay for research to stop this ailment, which is one of the largest causes of death for children. Spectators are able to take pictures with celebrities and enter contests and raffles, all for a great cause.

The next time that you have some extra time or some extra funds, consider one of these local charities. Some offer assistance on a national level, but the majority of the funding stays right here in our area. Whether you give your money, time or expertise, the local community will be appreciative of your efforts.