Happy Spring to our Impact100 DC Members and Friends!


It’s impossible not to feel a sense of possibility and hope as the spring flowers bloom and the weather finally warms—such a refreshing change in these challenging times!


Last weekend, I had the pleasure of running into a group of beloved former students. Our conversation transported me back to the chorus classroom, where we explored the many layers of the word ensemble through music. Long-time readers of this column will forgive me, I hope, for once again bringing up the ensemble metaphor as it so perfectly captures the spirit of our wonderful Impact100 DC community.


In a musical ensemble, the overall quality of the sound is a result of each distinctive vocal timbre. It is also a result of the degree to which those voices listen to others in the interest of achieving a unified and beautiful sound. In a highly musical (i.e. successful) chorus, the commitment of each singer to the beauty of that collective sound produces an awesome kind of power that extends far beyond the sum of its parts.


I’ve consistently heard from our Focus Area Committee Chairs how open, honest, and respectful the discussions have been, how deeply members value learning from one another, and how much they appreciate the diverse perspectives shared. This year, we’ve hosted two new member coffees and two happy hours, and at every event, I’ve been struck by the richness of the conversations among members who were meeting for the first time or reconnecting after a few months. It’s clear that each of you values diversity of thought and recognizes the incredible power of coming together. That’s one of the many reasons I’m so proud to be a part of Impact100 DC.


All my best,

Ann

President

Celebrating Our Grantees: Growing Impact and Exciting Collaborations

As we step into spring (a newsletter theme 🙂), our 2024 grantees are making strides in their impactful work, from community gardens to innovative collaborations. Here’s an update on what they’ve been up to and the exciting ways they’re using Impact100 DC’s support to make a difference.


  • DC Greens’ spring garden is thriving! Be sure to watch their powerful video about the Produce Rx program, which we proudly funded. The program has already enrolled over 800 families, helping them access fresh, healthy food.



  • Playtime Project Maintains its Commitment to Safe Spaces: Thanks to support from private foundations like Impact100 DC and individual donors, organizations like Playtime Project can continue their essential work of providing safe, nurturing environments for children to play.


  • Supporting College Access: Our 2024 grantee First Generation College Bound is busy hosting workshops on financial aid and transitioning to college for high schoolers. At the same time they are supporting their college students as they prepare for graduation. Read about the achievements of their recent college graduates.



  • Expanding Mental Health Resources: 2024 Impact Grantee BEST Kids used our funding to hire a mental health specialist who has been supporting mentors, mentees, and parents year-round. In addition, she is organizing the first-ever “Out of the Box” Mental Health Expo on May 17, from 11 AM to 4 PM. Don’t miss this inspiring video showcasing their mentoring program in action.

Help Us Grow: Join Our Fundraising Team 

Want to help take Impact100 DC to the next level? We’re looking for members to help identify and cultivate donors—individuals and companies who share our mission and want to support our operations. From securing major gifts ($1,000+) to managing our donor database, finding in-kind donations, and raising funds for our Fellowship Program, there are lots of ways to get involved.


For example, corporate support could help us upgrade our systems to make joining, renewing, and applying for grants easier and more efficient. It could also help us launch regular member surveys and strengthen our Fellowship Program.


While our membership dues fully fund our grants, we need additional resources to grow. Your involvement can help us reach the next level! Roles can be tailored to your interests, either as a Board or non-Board position.


Please reach out to Ann Vaughn at avaughn@impact100dc.org to get involved or learn more! 

Community Resources: Engage with Our Giving Circle Peers

Mark your calendars for CircleUp DMV 2025 on May 14, 6:00-8:30 PM for “Supporting Nonprofits in Times of Crisis.” This event brings together giving circles, local nonprofits, and funders to discuss how the current political and economic climate is affecting community-based organizations. Participants will engage in a panel discussion and breakout sessions to explore how to strengthen nonprofit support through collective giving, advocacy, and grantmaking. Learn more here.

Connect with Us

Stay Connected!


Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for our latest updates and news from nonprofit partners.

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Attention New Members!

Join us at a New Member Check-in & Q&A session on Zoom! Bring your questions, share your thoughts, and learn more about what’s ahead with Impact100 DC this year.


🔹 Wednesday, April 2, 5:30-6:15 pm – Register here.


🔹 Thursday, April 3, 12:00-12:45 pm – Register here.

Meet our 2025 Fellows!

Interested in learning more about our wonderful Fellows? Where are they from? What inspired them to join Impact100 DC? Click here!

Meet the Fellows!

Upcoming Events

Impact100 DC Events

  • June 11: Meet the 2025 Finalists
  • June 18: Big Give Annual Celebration
  • September 17: Impact Maker Breakfast @ MLK Jr. Library


Grantee Events

  • May 10: BEST Kids' 5k/fun run - register here!
  • Every Thursday and Saturday: Community Volunteer Days with DC Greens.

Thank you to our sponsors!

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Impact100 DC

PO Box 40121

Washington, DC 20016

Contact:

impact100dc.org

President@Impact100dc.org

Membership@Impact100dc.org

Phone: 202-379-4773