Thank you so very much to everyone who supported FONA in 2025. As a member-driven organization, our supporters are at the heart of FONA’s work. Volunteers who donate their time are also crucial to helping our programs and events connect so many people to the National Arboretum. We deeply appreciate all of this support, and look forward to a new year at the National Arboretum.

Don’t miss this chance to work at one of the premier arboreta in the United States! Less than two weeks remain to apply to the National Arboretum’s 2026 internship program. Applications are due by January 19, 2026.

These paid internships offer hands-on work experience and training in horticulture, botany, and plant research. Interns work in the Arboretum's various plant collections, greenhouses, or research laboratories. They also develop independent projects and participate in educational field trips. Internships vary in length from three months to one year. They are located at either the National Arboretum's main campus in Washington, D.C., or at the Arboretum's research facilities in Beltsville, MD or McMinnville, TN.

Horticulture Internship Details >

Research Internship Details >

Archives Internship Details >

As we look to the year ahead, many of us are busy creating goals for self-improvement and planning the steps we’ll take to achieve them. Here are some ideas for how FONA can fit into your 2026 new year’s resolutions:

Reach New Fitness Milestones

Set FONA’s Flowering 5K as your fitness goal! On Sunday, March 22nd, challenge yourself to run or walk the race while admiring the beauty of cherry blossoms, magnolias, and other spring blooms. This is an ideal race for families as kids, dogs, and strollers are all welcome. It’s always filled with a supportive atmosphere and is a great way to connect with fellow runners and outdoor enthusiasts. Start your prep for the race early by walking or jogging through the Arboretum’s looping paths and admiring the garden collections. Registration is open now! Discounted registration is available for FONA members, veterans, active duty, and reserve military members.

Sign Up for the Flowering 5K >

Take On a Volunteering Role

How will you give back to the community this year? If you’re looking for ways to plug in, FONA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities on both a one-off and regular basis. Get your hands in the soil at the Washington Youth Garden and help keep the garden well-maintained and welcoming. Or, contribute your time to FONA’s community events like 5Ks, concerts, and the Garden Fair.

Fill Out FONA’s Volunteer Interest Form>

You can also volunteer in the National Arboretum’s collections and support the important work of our federal Arboretum colleagues. Please note that a background check would be required for longer volunteer engagements with the Arboretum.

Learn More About Volunteering at the National Arboretum >

Start Something New in Your Garden

Interested in starting your own garden, or want to incorporate more native plants in your garden planning? Learn from experts in the field and take home practical gardening tips at the National Arboretum’s Lahr Native Plant Symposium. On Saturday, March 28th, join us for an engaging day of presentations by expert speakers about native plants, pollinators, and ecosystems. Plus, take home a spring ephemeral or choice perennial from FONA’s accompanying Native Plant Sale to kickstart your garden. Registration for the Lahr Symposium opens in late January, so stay tuned!

Spend Time Mindfully in Nature

If you’ve been meaning to spend more time outdoors, the National Arboretum’s 451 acres of rolling hills, curated collections, and wooded forests are the perfect place to do so. Experience this sanctuary of calm within the city and take time to slowly explore each curated collection. FONA also hosts full moon hikes and forest bathing events periodically throughout the year so you can connect with nature and deepen your mindfulness practice. Become a FONA member to get access to early registration, as these events tend to sell out quickly! 

Browse Our Event Calendar >

Winter Bird Walk

Saturday, January 17, 9 AM - 11 AM

Spot birds in their winter plumage! Guided by the DC Bird Alliance.

Learn More and Register >

Birding 101 Workshop

Sunday, January 18, 10 AM - 12 PM

Learn about bird photography and community science from the DC Bird Alliance.

Learn More and Register >