Our Foundation
In 1943, under the direction of our then President, Raymond F. Garrity, our Club recognized that to continue the work of the Kiwanis Orthopedic Clinic successfully, our club-managed orthopedic clinic would benefit from a non-profit, tax-exempt Foundation. In December 1943, the Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia, a 501(c)(3), was incorporated. Since its inception, the Foundation has allowed the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. to make impactful and lasting impressions on the lives of children and youth. The Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia remains dedicated to bolstering the service initiatives of the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. Through ambitious service projects and a commitment of at least $100,000 per year to a dedicated large-scale service partner, they aim to ensure that all children in Washington, D.C. have the opportunity to thrive.
Guided by a Board of Directors with insights from experienced advisors, the Foundation Board comprises Past Presidents who manage our resources responsibly in partnership with Truist advisors, maximizing the impact of generous contributions from devoted donors. Below are a few significant partnerships the Kiwanis Foundation of Washington, D.C. and the Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia have established or supported.
The Kiwanis Orthopedic Clinic
In 1923, Kiwanis members created the Kiwanis Orthopedic Clinic. This clinic evolved into a haven of healing, offering free medical care to countless children whose families struggled to afford expensive hospital treatments. The clinic was also a refuge that provided housing, nourishment, clothing, and invaluable family counseling. Its impact reached beyond the physical, guiding young lives toward a brighter future.
In the 1970s, the Kiwanis Orthopedic Clinic expanded its reach by collaborating with District of Columbia schools to identify children affected by scoliosis. Approximately one-third of the patients at the clinic were dealing with this spinal condition. In 2013, the Kiwanis Foundation of Washington, D.C. transitioned the Kiwanis Orthopedic Clinic to the capable hands of Sibley Memorial Hospital, ensuring its legacy of care would endure.
Upon the closure of its Orthopedic Clinic, The Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia and The Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. created the Large-Scale Service Partner program as a way of extending our reach within the community. Every three years, community organizations submit proposals that are read by our members, who then vote to select a new community partner. Throughout the duration of our partnership, our Club works closely with our LSSP partner to build a lasting relationship, contributing $300K to our partner over a three-year period.
Since 2016, The Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. has selected two LSSPs.
Large-Scale Service Partners (LSSP)
Bright Beginnings
Large-Scale Service Partner (2016-2021)
In 2016, a new chapter began as we partnered with Bright Beginnings, an initiative focused on supporting homeless youth and families in Washington, D.C. Through this collaboration, the Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia provided $100,000 annually to introduce a home-based educational program that offered weekly visits to unsheltered families. Home visitors became mentors, empowering parents to be their children's first and best teachers. These visits encompassed health screenings, family support services, and connections to vital resources, ensuring a holistic approach to growth and development.
SMYAL
Large-Scale Service Partner (2022-present)
In 2021, we partnered with SMYAL to address mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth in the District of Columbia. Through this collaboration, we provide free, affirming mental health services, acknowledging the importance of holistic support during challenging times. This initiative recognizes the unique needs of queer and trans youth and provides them with a safe and inclusive space to explore their emotions and experiences. Our work with SMYAL reinforces our dedication to fostering the well-being of every individual. The Kiwanis Foundation of the District of Columbia is committed to providing $100,000 annually to SMYAL through 2024.
