How Philanthropy is Addressing the Crisis in Greater Washington

The DMV is suffering an economic crisis eerily reminiscent of factories shuttering across the Midwest during the 1980s.

The mass shrinkage of the federal workforce has put tens of thousands out of work. The cancellation of vital federal grants is rippling through the nonprofit sector. Restaurants and small businesses are suffering from the loss of customers and workers. It’s the same thing in construction, international development and real estate, with unemployment rising across the metro area.

The future of work and life in the region for homegrown talent is uncertain, at best, and the confluence of unprecedented events like these would normally cripple any region.

Philanthropy can help avert complete disaster. We know, because we’ve helped before. From the tragic events of 9/11 to the economic crises of 2008 and 2011, through repeated federal government shutdowns and our coordinated response to Covid-19, an array of grantmakers and influencers in our region have responded quickly to regional crises. And we’ve been successful because we’ve responded with coordination and urgency.

In just the last eight months, regional philanthropy has mobilized more than $20 million in grants and commitments above and beyond our annual spending and disbursements. Foundations have increased payouts, established pooled funds, back-filled losses in federal contracts, and supported nonprofits with general operating resources to help them navigate the uncertainty.

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Source: Washington Business Journal, written by Tonia Wellons, President and CEO of the Greater Washington Community Foundation