The organizations listed below are part of the 2024 Guide to Giving. Return to the guide’s homepage by clicking here.
Action Youth Media (AYM)
Action Youth Media (AYM) (youthmediamd.org), formerly Gandhi Brigade, has offered free media arts programs for youths to discover new interests, develop skills, prepare for their future, and thrive. AYM youths build confidence using media skills to express themselves as they promote multicultural understanding.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $139 pays for a new camera lens.
– $289 funds three months of water for our 5-gallon dispenser.
– $1,140 funds an intern stipend for a six-week project.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist with an event or share your media experience with youths.
– Weekly: Provide support for ongoing projects.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Adventure Theatre MTC (ATMTC)
Adventure Theatre MTC (ATMTC) (adventuretheatre-mtc.org) is the area’s longest-running theater for young audiences. Committed to inspiring children to learn and love theater, ATMTC provides theater experiences to 40,000 people each year through a professional mainstage season of musicals and plays, plus classes, summer camps and partnerships with schools for extracurricular programming.
HEADQUARTERED: Glen Echo
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $75 sends a family of three to an ATMTC production.
– $200 supports a field trip to the theater for more than 30 students, a first introduction to live performance for many.
– $1,000 helps provide scholarships for talented students to access our high-quality arts education and training.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Provide photography or videography for performances.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Akhmedova Ballet Academy
Akhmedova Ballet Academy (ABA) (akhmedovaballet.org) provides quality ballet training using the Vaganova method with personal and artistic mentoring to prepare young, talented dancers to become strong and fully developed artists ready to take their places in major dance companies around the world. ABA’s esteemed faculty instill the work ethic and skills necessary for producing successful leaders and citizens, committed to community and diversity.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 sponsors a dancer to take a professional guest artist master class.
– $250 supports production costs for performances.
– $1,000 supports one student’s summer intensive tuition.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Support special events.
– Monthly: Participate in grassroots marketing events.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Amazing Theatre Company
Amazing Theatre Company (amazingtheatre.org) creates meaningful and socially relevant theatrical productions that enlighten, educate and entertain the community about Black, Indigenous (and) People of Color (BIPOC) history and culture, while embracing the importance of inclusion and diversity.
HEADQUARTERED: Sandy Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 provides tickets to seniors, veterans and youths.
– $500 helps pay for costumes.
– $1,000 covers some stipends for cast members.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with theater productions.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Anna H. Wang Concert Series
Anna H. Wang Concert Series (ahwconcerts.org) has the mission to honor inspiring resident Anna H. Wang, who died in 2016 at the age of 106, by sharing the gift and joy of music and promoting artistic excellence. The series makes concert performances by world-class artists accessible to diverse audiences, while providing opportunities for young musicians to learn from the artists that perform.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $1,000 supports an artist master class, where young talent can learn and be nurtured by world-renowned artists.
– $2,500 allows students to attend our concerts for free.
– $5,000 brings world-class artists into the community at a fraction of the cost.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Serve as a concert usher.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Bel Cantanti Opera
Bel Cantanti Opera (belcantanti.com) provides performance opportunities for aspiring young singers, assists them in the transition to the professional opera arena, and brings opera performances to the community at an affordable price.
HEADQUARTERED: Montgomery County
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $400 helps pay for a performance by an up-and-coming singer.
– $400 provides support for orchestra members.
– $1,000 covers part of the cost of a theater rental for an evening performance.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist at a ticket table, or help backstage with costumes and cosmetics.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Best Medicine Rep Theater Company
Best Medicine Rep Theater Company (bestmedicinerep.org) is dedicated to developing and producing new comedies, and to foster community through shared laughter. We offer free play readings, full productions, and educational programming.
HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 provides partial support for our annual New Plays/New Voices Festival, a celebration of plays written by MCPS elementary school students.
– $1,000 supports Best Medicine Rep’s upcoming full productions and free play readings.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Ushering at a performance and more.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Bethesda Historical Society
Bethesda Historical Society (bethesdahistoricalsociety.org) uncovers, preserves and shares Bethesda’s history with educational programs, community events, memorabilia preservation, library exhibits, and the restoration of the historic Bethesda Meeting House, “the church that named Bethesda.”
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 buys a set of archival storage materials.
– $500 buys two weeks of part-time office help or a month of groundskeeping at the Bethesda Meeting House site.
– $1,000 buys a carpenter for a day or a week of scaffolding to help restore the Bethesda Meeting House.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with special events.
– Monthly: Assist with Bethesda Meeting House cleanup days.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Bethesda Little Theatre
Bethesda Little Theatre (blt-online.org) We are a charitable organization that is dedicated to producing theatrical performances intended to entertain audiences in our local community and to encourage public appreciation of these arts.
HEADQUARTERED: Olney
SERVES: Metro region
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Serve as an usher at a performance; design marketing materials for upcoming events
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
BlackRock Center for the Arts
BlackRock Center for the Arts (blackrockcenter.org) brings inspiring performing and visual arts experiences to diverse audiences in a welcoming and intimate setting, providing opportunities to engage in the arts. BlackRock’s overarching vision is to provide arts access for all, transforming lives through affordable and free performances, gallery exhibitions, arts education, community events, and robust youth arts outreach.
HEADQUARTERED: Germantown
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 provides arts supplies for six students in our after-school programs at Title I schools.
– $250 supports a summer camp scholarship.
– $1,000 helps cover performing artist fees, supporting accessibility through affordable tickets.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist at community events.
– Monthly: Serve as an usher at performances.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Boulanger Initiative
Boulanger Initiative (boulangerinitiative.org) promotes music by women and gender-marginalized composers. Its programs aim to enrich the collective understanding of what composers look like and what music can be. It promotes music composed by women through performance, education, research, consulting and commissions.
HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 sponsors a Wikipedia edit-a-thon, where volunteers improve topics about gender-marginalized composers. The initiative has added more than 20,000 words to Wikipedia on these topics.
– $500 supports a local K-12 school visit, providing education about women composers in history and empowering students to become composers and creators.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Cantate
Cantate (cantate.org) builds community through choral music. Two auditioned choirs—the Chamber Singers and Concert Choir—redefine the canon by presenting classical standards alongside contemporary masterpieces, championing BIPOC creatives and interpreters. Cantate fosters emerging talent through its Young Composers’ Competition and Lift Every Voice Oratorio Fellowship and partners with Montgomery College to conduct the Summer Choral Institute.
HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $20 sponsors a ticket for a young patron.
– $150 provides membership and sheet music for a young choral singer.
– $1,500 sponsors a pre-professional Choral Scholar for one semester.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Front-of-house support for a concert.
– Weekly: Social media design and maintenance.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Capital Accord Chorus
Capital Accord Chorus (capitalaccord.org) is a treble chorus singing four-part, a cappella harmony. The chorus and its quartets bring music to retirement communities, festivals, community theater, and other local events; they also participate in choral competitions. Guests are welcome at any weekly rehearsal.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 covers the costs of a rehearsal.
– $400 supports a young adult singer’s participation for a year.
– $500 helps pay for a performance at a retirement community, school or other community event.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with a special event
– Weekly: Rehearsals open to singers in the treble range
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Carpe Diem Arts
Carpe Diem Arts (carpediemarts.org) brings the arts to the community through early childhood programs, ukulele and songwriting classes, after-school activities, classes for seniors, summer camps, community sings and dances. Mostly free to participants, these programs are funded by host sites, grants and donations. Programs take place at schools, libraries, residential housing, senior centers and more. These programs empower individuals, strengthen communities and help build better futures.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 gives the gift of instrument ownership to a third or fourth grader in a ukulele program at a Title I school.
– $375 provides preschoolers with memorable, developmentally appropriate and culturally diverse arts experiences that build kindergarten readiness
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Assist staff with social media.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
ClancyWorks Dance Company
ClancyWorks Dance Company (clancyworks.org) uses dance to advance positive social action. Our programs shift perceptions through dance, making personal connections among diverse participants of every age and income level through: K-12 and Higher Education Programs; Professional Development for Artists, Educators and Administrators; Senior Citizen Programs; performance; and intergenerational creative movement-based mentoring.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 provides program support for one workshop for older adults.
– $500 provides five scholarships for our Dance Educators Training Institute.
– $1000 pays for one performance at a senior center.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with special events
– Weekly: Administrative or fundraising support
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Community Building Art Works
Community Building Art Works (CBAW) (cbaw.org) builds bridges between veterans and residents using the language of creative expression to promote empathy, foster understanding and build authentic community. CBAW provides consistent, accessible and free creative writing and art workshops. The in-person and virtual events serve more than 7,500 veterans and military-connected people each year.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $25 provides a one-hour art or writing workshop for one veteran.
– $500 covers a one-hour art or writing workshop for up to 20 veterans or military-connected people
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with CBAW’s A Day of Belonging event at Strathmore Mansion.
– Monthly: Assist with tabling at promotional events
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Create Arts Center
Create Arts Center (createartscenter.org) provides high quality, affordable programs that are as diverse as the community it serves. Professional teaching artists offer an eclectic array of mediums, from collage to cartooning—and offer customized experiences after school for at-risk children (most are low-income, non-native English speakers) and programs at community centers, homeless shelters and retirement homes. Create’s licensed art therapists offer hope and healing to people living with severe mental health challenges, including cancer survivors, veterans and children living with autism. Investing in technology, anticipating a combination of online and on-site programming for art education and art therapy, Create will be there for the people it serves.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $125 provides two art therapy sessions for a youth with autism
– $450 provides a scholarship for one low-income student for one year
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Dance Exchange
Dance Exchange (danceexchange.org) expands who gets to dance, where dance happens, what dance is about, and why dance matters. Dance Exchange offers programs for all ages and experience levels, provides affordable studio space to local artists and organizations, and creates intergenerational, socially engaged performances and projects.
HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 provides a partial scholarship for our Dance On classes for older adults.
– $250 provides a partial scholarship for our Youth Exchange program.
– $1,000 supports Dance Exchange’s building fund to provide accessibility upgrades for our studios.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Seasonal building cleanup days
– Weekly: Registration support for Saturday Takoma Park Moves class
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Docs In Progress
Docs In Progress (docsinprogress.org) believes everyone has a story. Docs fosters a supportive and diverse community for documentary filmmakers of all ages and expertise by offering workshops and classes, as well as public screenings for the communities they serve. These films and filmmakers share personal stories that reflect social and cultural issues found on the local and global stage.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 provides one scholarship for a two-hour workshop (e.g., The Smartphone Documentarian).
– $500 provides one scholarship for a teen summer workshop.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: In-house and off-site event support.
– Weekly: In-house marketing support.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Focusmusic
Focusmusic (focusmusic.org) provides performance opportunities for emerging and nationally touring singer-songwriters, and folk and acoustic musicians. It has provided an intimate setting for hundreds of shows in front of listening audiences since 2002.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $25 goes to support artists
– $75 helps cover operating costs
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist in the production of performances.
– Monthly: Organizational and promotional assistance.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
The Free Theatre
The Free Theatre (thefreetheatre.org) is a tuition-free, student-run, teen theatre company where high school students are at the helm of the creative and production process. Our goals are to make theatre accessible, support the freedom to explore theatre artistry, and train kind and effective leaders. Professional artists serve as mentors and resources for our two musicals and our free Summer Musical Theatre Intensive program.
HEADQUARTERED: Germantown
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 sponsors 10 student tickets.
– $400 sponsors one orchestra member.
– $1200 pays for 50% of the licensing rights for one show.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist in lobby during performances; research grant opportunities
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Friends of the Library, Montgomery County (FOLMC)
Friends of the Library, Montgomery County (FOLMC) (folmc.org) works to strengthen, promote and champion Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) in order to better serve the learning interests and needs of the diverse communities of the county. FOLMC operates two bookstores for used books and runs book sales at local libraries to fund library enhancements.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 supports the Mosaic Creative Writing Program for middle schoolers to express their culture through writing and become published authors.
– $500 supports MCPL’s World Language Collection, including Spanish, Chinese and French books and materials.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Support pop-up book sales and other special events.
– Weekly: Support FOLMC branch book sales at local libraries.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture
Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture (glenechopark.org) manages and maintains one of the most vibrant arts and cultural centers in the Washington, D.C., area. More than 300,000 people of all ages visit the park annually to renew their creative spirit through classes, camps, festivals, exhibitions, social dances, children’s theater and musical performances. The park is home to a historic Dentzel carousel and the Spanish Ballroom.
HEADQUARTERED: Glen Echo
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 pays for 25 carousel tickets for students from a
Title I school.
– $500 covers artist fees for a free park festival.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with festivals at Glen Echo Park.
– Weekly: Assist staff with administrative tasks.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Glen Echo Photoworks
Glen Echo Photoworks (glenechophotoworks.org) provides a diverse combination of educational programs, gallery exhibitions, and community initiatives as vibrant and unique resource for the student and professional photographers’ arts community to share their passion of seeing, shooting, and printing images of lasting beauty and artistic integrity.
HEADQUARTERED: Glen Echo
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 helps buy new computers for our digital computer lab.
– $500 helps support an emerging local photographic artist with a 6-month residency and exhibition of their work.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Set up for monthly exhibition opening receptions in our gallery.
– Weekly: Become a gallery docent at Photoworks.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Hope Garden Children’s Ballet (HGCBT)
Hope Garden Children’s Ballet Theatre (HGCBT) (hopegardencbt.org) provides opportunities for artists in Poolesville to perform in high-quality dance and performing arts productions. It provides accessible, artistically excellent dance for the community by bringing in established choreographers and guest artists from locations such as Washington, D.C., New York City and Baltimore.
HEADQUARTERED: Poolesville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $1 to $499 reduces artist performance fees that help pay for the venue, videography, photography and costumes.
– $500 supports a guest choreographer stipend, underwriting a third of the cost.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Setup/cleanup, or concessions help for two major productions (December and May/June)
– Weekly: Assist in the planning and preparation of productions, or grant writing.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Imagination Stage
Imagination Stage (imaginationstage.org) empowers all young people to discover their voice and identity through performing arts education and professional theater. With 35% of students participating in programs for free, Imagination Stage has reached 1.55 million young people and families since 1979 with its professional theater, education programs, and Theatre for Change initiative.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 provides tickets for one third grade class to experience a live professional theater performance at
Imagination Stage.
– $1,000 funds a Theatre for Change performance on tour at a Montgomery County or D.C. public middle school or high school.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Institute of Musical Traditions (IMT)
Institute of Musical Traditions (IMT) (imtfolk.org) is devoted to preserving and promoting a broad range of folk music genres, dance, and storytelling, with emphasis on American folk, Celtic, and World music. National and International artists perform at concerts, teach workshops, and feature in educational video programs. IMT’s Open Mics nurture emerging artists and the new music styles evolving from traditional roots.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– Any amount supports IMT’s concert and workshop programming.
– $250 Supports a Tuesday Night Open Mic in Takoma Park.
– $1200 Covers the cost of an IMT concert.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with concert set-up and clean-up.
– Monthly: Help advertise IMT’s events on social media.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
InterAct Story Theatre
InterAct Story Theatre (interactstory.com) creates original interactive plays designed expressly for kids and the grown-ups who love them. InterAct’s professional touring theater and extensive arts education programs weave together drama, music and dance with content curricula for all ages. The popular monthly Wheaton Family Theatre Series (free and open to the public) gives families the opportunity to engage in live theater and includes the annual KidStory Theatre Festival, which features original creative writing by kids, for kids.
HEADQUARTERED: Wheaton
SERVES: Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 sponsors a creative drama workshop for one
classroom.
– $500 sponsors a theatrical performance for an elementary school.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Serve as ushers or youth craft table supervisors at performances.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
InterPLAY Orchestra
InterPLAY Orchestra (interplayorchestra.org) provides opportunities for music learning and social interaction to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Montgomery County and beyond. Our musical rehearsals and performances are held at the world-class Strathmore Music Center in North Bethesda. We hold in-person and live sessions weekly. Check our website for more details.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 provides supplies and equipment for our growing orchestra.
– $250 provides new instruments for one musician.
– $1,000 covers orchestra expenses for one musician for a full year.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Orchestra administrative support
– Weekly: Serve as a live orchestra assistant (Monday evenings).
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Kalanidhi Dance
Kalanidhi Dance (kalanidhi.org) inspires appreciation for Kuchipudi dance through artistic excellence, creative performances, high-quality educational programs and collaborations. More than 20,000 people have attended Kalanidhi’s live and virtual performances, and its Salon Series and Dancing Stories programs. Kalanidhi has a worldwide reach of more than 10 million viewers through social media performances.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 provides necessary supplies for an annual children’s camp.
– $500 pays a trimester of tuition for one student who needs a scholarship.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with special events.
– Weekly: Assist staff with administrative and pre-event tasks or remotely assist with social media content creation and grant writing.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Kassia Music
Kassia Music (kassiamusic.org) is a chamber music group that plays concerts throughout the area with new music by member-composers, standard classics and rare works.
HEADQUARTERED: Burtonsville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $600 funds a concert recording.
– $250 special program acknowledgement.
– $50 funds advertising for new concerts.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Take tickets or usher at a concert.
– Monthly: Distribute flyers
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Kentlands Community Foundation
Kentlands Community Foundation (kentlands.org) builds community by supporting local arts and cultural programs, provides opportunities for volunteerism and community outreach and serves as an educational resource in the Kentlands community.
HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg
SERVES: Gaithersburg, Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 supports our community theater with set design, costumes, sound, and lighting.
– $250 provides support for a professional musician at Musica Viva Kentland’s free live outdoor classical concert.
– $1,000 supports the Gaithersburg Artist Collective whose mission is to bring visual arts to the community.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
One day: Help with special events and programs
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Live Garra Theatre
Live Garra Theatre (livegarratheatre.org) endeavors to employ the cultural arts to address universal social-life issues; illuminate all facets of a multicultural society; foster cross-cultural understanding of the many voices in the community. The organization operates as a performance training studio, an incubator for a core repertory of skilled playwrights, and artists, as well as providing a ‘safe harbor’ for the youth.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 sponsors a scholarship for the Bonifant Bridgeway internship program.
– $500 supports the Playwright’s Conservatory that fosters development of original works.
-$1,000 supports the production costs for performances.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Support special events.
– Monthly: Support marketing initiatives through media postings.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Lumina Studio Theatre
Lumina Studio Theatre (luminastudio.org) provides unique opportunities for young actors of any level or experience to perform Shakespeare, other plays of the classical repertory theater and modern plays that focus on the beauty of language. Lumina provides a rigorous professional setting where actors grow as artists and collaborative community members.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 provides a young actor with a partial scholarship.
– $575 provides a young actor with a full scholarship.
– $1,000 pays a guest artist to collaborate in an upcoming production.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help at a performance by working front of house.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Marlow Guitar International
Marlow Guitar International (marlowguitar.org) is dedicated to entertaining, educating and inspiring through distinctive programs. For 30 years, the John E. Marlow Guitar Series has presented concerts featuring extraordinary guitarists from around the globe. The Myrna Sislen Youth Guitar Competition provides a stage for young guitarists to refine their skills and gain confidence. Regis Ferruzza Guitars for Veterans supports service members by providing instruments and lessons to enhance well-being. MGI extends impact through MGI Interactive outreach, and partnerships with exceptional community organizations.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 contributes to awards for youth competitors.
– $750 provides a service member 15 guitar lessons.
– $2,000 sponsors concert tickets for families and underserved individuals.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
– One day: Help out at a concert.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Maryland Youth Ballet (MYB)
Maryland Youth Ballet (MYB) (marylandyouthballet.org) since 1971 has been successfully preparing young dancers for a career in the performing arts, providing classes to dancers of all ages and levels, presenting professional quality, yet accessible, ballet performances for the region, and providing opportunities for access, participation, and inclusion in ballet for communities traditionally underrepresented and underserved in the field.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 will outfit one JumpStart outreach student with their own leotard, tights, and ballet shoes.
– $100 will provide one scholarship student with a pair of pointe shoes.
– $2,400 will provide a 9-month scholarship for one beginner dancer.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Mayur Dance
Mayur Dance (mayurdance.org) is an organization dedicated to teaching and performing Indian classical dance, specializing in the Odissi style. We focus on creating new generations of practitioners and appreciators of our art form by conveying our passion and expertise to students of all ages, and by bringing our performances to diverse audiences plus professional regional and international stages.
HEADQUARTERED: Potomac
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 pays a junior dancer to train younger students and develop their own teaching and choreography skills.
– $300 funds a scholarship for one student to attend a summer intensive workshop, including training with visiting artists.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist with prop and costume construction for a performance
– Weekly: Provide social media support
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
The Menare Foundation
The Menare Foundation (menare.org) preserves the legacy of the Underground Railroad as a spark for human potential. We operate the Button Farm Living History Center in Germantown, Maryland as a resource for vibrant hands-on history learning experiences, and Chesapeake Tours a step-on tour guide service interpreting rich cultural resources region-wide.
HEADQUARTERED: Germantown
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 provides a speaker/performer stipend for our public events.
– $400 provides a hands-on history program at Button Farm for a class of 30 students.
– $1000 trains 4 volunteer staff through our Docent Interpreter program.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Hands-On History Helpers (select Saturdays April through November)
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Metropolitan Ballet Theatre and Academy (MBT)
Metropolitan Ballet Theatre and Academy (MBT) (mbtdance.org) is a nonprofit organization that provides arts opportunities and professional training to dancers of all ages and backgrounds. MBT is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion to develop dancers with a strong appreciation for the arts and culture. MBT serves over 9,000 people annually through performances and outreach programming.
HEADQUARTERED: Montgomery County
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 supports the free ticket giveaway program.
– $500 supports the instruction for our classes, which are conducted in partnership with the Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County.
– $1,000 supports one student’s annual tuition.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Usher a performance.
– Weekly: Participate in grassroots marketing events.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Montgomery Philharmonic
Montgomery Philharmonic (montgomeryphilharmonic.org) is a local community orchestra. We rehearse and perform in Gaithersburg and Rockville, and welcome enthusiastic adult musicians as members. Dedicated to providing opportunities to enjoy, explore, and create music, MP promotes equity and inclusion by programming a diverse repertoire alongside standard canon, and strives to find talent and diversity in its works, musicians, and audiences.
HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $1,000 supports a youth scholarship for a music student in the Watkins Mill cluster of MCPS. ($250 includes print acknowledgement in a concert program, $500 includes print and verbal acknowledgement at a concert.)
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with concerts
– Weekly: Assist with social media outreach
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
National String Symphonia
National String Symphonia (nssorchestra.org) is home to the Symphonia, a professional symphonic string orchestra, and #WildStrings Ensemble, a smaller string group that presents music “in the wild” as it brings classical music to people where they are—in the streets. The NSS envisions a world in which art music is a meaningful part of the shared experience of a universal community.
HEADQUARTERED: Frederick, Maryland
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 supports the discount ticket program.
– $500 purchases one piece of music for the NSS library.
– $1,500 supports one public performance by #WildStrings.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Set up and tear down on concert days
– Weekly: Help increase the NSS’s social media presence.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
New Orchestra of Washington (NOW)
New Orchestra of Washington (NOW) (neworchestraofwashington.org) reimagines the limited definitions of “classical music,” NOW strives to build a world where transformative musical experiences are accessible to all. We create what we call “great music without labels”—representing the robust cultural/ethnic diversity in metropolitan Washington, D.C., where we’re intentional about making orchestral music beautiful and accessible to people from all backgrounds.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 sponsors an MCPS student to attend one of our main orchestra concerts for free.
– $250 sponsors one orchestra player for a free family concert hosted at an MCPL library.
– $1,000 sponsors a principal player for a main orchestra concert.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help on concert day.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
NIH Community Orchestra (NIHCO)
NIH Community Orchestra (NIHCO) (nihco.org/cms/) builds community among all-volunteer musicians in their 20s to their 80s who embrace an inclusive Canon of works by underrepresented and living composers, alongside beloved classics. Since 2022, such inclusivity has represented over half our program repertoire; while welcoming new audiences to free admission concerts, and engaging together on NIHCO’s musical voyage!
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 supports one post-concert reception.
– $500 buys a cover ad in full-season programs.
– $3,500 supports one inclusive Canon concert.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist with musician set-up and stay for a preview performance, or lend your graphic design skills for concert flyers.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
NIH Philharmonia
NIH Philharmonia (nihphil.org) performs free and educational concerts in a unique and intimate setting, engaging concertgoers of all ages. Made up of all-volunteer musicians, many of whom work at the National Institutes of Health, NIH Philharmonia plays symphonic orchestra music under professional conductor Nancia D’Alimonte. Come see and hear for yourself what makes NIH Philharmonia so extraordinary.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 helps with rented music for one concert.
– $500 helps with instrument rental for one concert.
– $4,000 sponsors one entire concert.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist in ushering for a concert (4 opportunities)
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Olney Community Youth Choir
Olney Community Youth Choir (sherwoodcommunitychamberchoir.org/youth-choir) is committed to expanding the greater Olney community’s choral opportunities. Comprised of two choirs (4th – 6th grade and 6th – 8th grade), students learn basic elements of choral singing, proper vocal technique, and note/score reading while building a community of friends. Retired Sherwood High choral teacher, Mr. William Evans envisioned the choir to fill the need for singing opportunities for area children. In our third season, we’ve become a community for all who wish to sing.
HEADQUARTERED: Olney/Sandy Spring
SERVES: Eastern Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 buys performance day snacks for the students.
– $100 pays for a month of rehearsal space.
– $400 covers student’s tuition for the entire season.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Olney Theatre Center for the Arts
Olney Theatre Center for the Arts (olneytheatre.org) is an arts hub that produces and curates performances for the diverse audiences in our community. Our season includes new plays and musicals, family friendly titles, concerts, cabarets, dance performances, and more. We also educate and inspire a more inclusive generation of audiences and theater-makers by engaging thousands of students through performances, residencies, and camps.
HEADQUARTERED: Olney
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 enables 5 students to attend a matinee for free.
– $500 supports 10 free tickets for nonprofit partners, welcoming those who face barriers to attending theater.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Support community events like Summerfest.
– Weekly: Serve as an usher to welcome audiences.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Orfeia Vocal Ensemble
Orfeia Vocal Ensemble (orfeia.org) is dedicated to sharing the beautiful traditional music and culture of Bulgaria, the Balkans and Eastern Europe with young and old through performances and workshops at festivals and events, libraries, museums, schools, senior centers, nursing homes, recreation centers—anywhere people love music and learning about other cultures!
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 provides support for traditional costumes.
– $250 supports space rental for performances.
– $1,000 supports artistic director’s monthly fee.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
– One day: Website design assistance
– Occasional: Video production assistance
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
The Printmaking Legacy Project
The Printmaking Legacy Project (printmakinglegacyproject.org) preserves the legacy of the fine art of printmaking for future generations of printmaking artists, arts professionals and students through educating the public regarding the history, understanding and appreciation for the art.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $500 covers a day of filming services documentary projects.
– $5,000 provides short documentary editing services.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help give hands-on demonstrations of printmaking
– Weekly: Assist with historical materials research and archives, permissions for images used in documentary to support historical accuracy of story being told
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Rockville Brass Band
Rockville Brass Band (rockvillebrassband.org) engages local audiences with innovative programming, such as our Fall 2024 “Wedding of Winds” concert with the Maryland Winds. We perform at regional and national festivals that celebrate the sound of British-style brass bands. We end each season by engaging students in a brass workshop and concert, and awarding scholarships.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– Tax deductible donations sponsor student scholarships; instrument, music, travel funds, etc. All donors receive concert invitations. ($250+ donors receive recognition in concert programs, $1,000+ donors receive public tribute at band concerts or program advertisement.)
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Usher a concert.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: No
Rockville Musical Theatre
Rockville Musical Theatre (r-m-t.org) is a volunteer organization dedicated to the presentation of high-quality musical theatre designed to entertain and enrich the community while showcasing local talent.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 helps costume performers
– $200 pays an orchestra musician
– $1,000 supports building materials for set design
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help build a set piece.
– Ongoing: Help backstage as a crew member.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Round House Theatre
Round House Theatre (roundhousetheatre.org) offers theatrical and educational experiences that inspire empathy and demand conversation. Each year it produces a full season of contemporary plays, musicals and modern classics for 40,000 patrons and offers year-round educational programming for 5,000 students of all ages.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $1,000 underwrites 20 tickets for high school students to attend a student matinee.
– $500 sponsors dinner for 50 teens at a Teen Night.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Usher performances.
– Ongoing: Help backstage as a crew member.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Sandy Spring Museum
Sandy Spring Museum (sandyspringmuseum.org) connects diverse communities and advances social equity through shared and inspiring experiences of our region’s cultural heritage.
HEADQUARTERED: Sandy Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 underwrites one History Happy Hour
– $500 underwrites a year of supplies for Create Community activities
– $1,000 underwrites the use of the museum for community events like Viernes de Plena, bluegrass jams, and MoCo Lore folk arts programs
– $10,000 helps keep the annual Strawberry Festival affordable to the entire community
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with special events
– Weekly: Online transcription
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Silver Spring Town Center (SSTC)
Silver Spring Town Center (SSTC) (silverspringtowncenter.com) educates, entertains, and inspires residents by activating public spaces with arts and cultural events that embrace the region’s diversity and build community. SSTC is celebrating 20 years of keeping our community connected & creatively engaged! Join us for our 20 Year Anniversary Celebration Thursday, Dec. 5 in the Silver Spring Civic Building.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Silver Spring
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 supports 100+ free arts are entertainment events
– $250 pays for a teaching artist and materials for a free class of 20 students
– $1,000 pays for performing artists in the Silver Spring Blues Festival
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Volunteer at the Silver Spring Blues Festival (June 14, 2025)
– Weekly: Grant writing
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
So What Else (SWE)
So What Else (SWE) (SoWhatElse.org) improves the lives of children and families living in underserved communities in the metro region by providing food security, access to basic necessities, and out-of-school programs in literacy, athletics, and the visual and performing arts while inspiring people to give back to the community through volunteerism.
HEADQUARTERED: North Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $23 sponsors one family for Thanksgiving/Christmas.
– $100 pays for a semester of arts programming for one student.
– $250 covers 5 weeks of theater camp for one student.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Help with Saturday Food Distribution in North Bethesda
– Daily: Serve as a MoCo home delivery driver
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Story Tapestries
Story Tapestries (storytapestries.org) addresses vital community issues for millions of people of all ages and abilities using collaboration and the arts, in all forms, to create and deliver tailored, accessible workshops, residencies and performances. Programs engage 350,000+ people annually, especially in communities struggling with high poverty rates.
HEADQUARTERED: Poolesville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $40 creates the opportunity for 1 child to discover their full potential, nurturing a love for learning through a 5-session artist-in-residence.
– $150 engages 15 young adults in an arts-centered workshop that teaches key skills necessary for job placement and career growth today’s digital workplace.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Support special events
– Weekly: Remotely support social media engagement or data entry
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Strathmore
Strathmore (strathmore.org) is a nonprofit multidisciplinary arts center, producing and presenting accessible and affordable events each year in its music center, mansion and 16-acre campus. Strathmore’s Bloom initiatives are designed to facilitate access to the arts beyond its campus through creative partnerships with local organizations, schools and artists.
HEADQUARTERED: North Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $500 brings 30 Montgomery County Public Schools second graders to The Music Center for a free curriculum-enriched classical concert.
– $1,000 provides one MCPS middle schooler six weeks of free after-school music coaching at their school.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with special events.
– Monthly: Usher performances.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Sutradhar Institute of Dance & Related Arts
Sutradhar Institute of Dance & Related Arts (dancesidra.org) receives inspiration from the ancient tradition of “seva”—helping one another in Indian philosophy. Our holistic approach to South Indian classical dance, vibrant festivals, and generous giving along with a comprehensive 5-level syllabus/learning experience covers technique, dance aesthetics, philosophy, and rhythm to all. We offer Kuchipudi dance classes led by the esteemed guru Nilimma Devi as well as Thang Ta martial arts, Vinyasa yoga, storytelling, and visual art.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100: a month’s classes for our Youth Scholarship for families in need
– $500 supports new works through our Bhudevi, Ecology Initiative.
– $1,000 pays invaluable office interns.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Takoma Park Folk Festival
Takoma Park Folk Festival (tpff.org) is a free annual festival featuring music on six stages. From old-time fiddle and bluegrass to acoustic folk-rock to world fusion, volunteer performers range from well-seasoned stage veterans to youngsters on stage for the first time. The festival also includes children’s activities, a crafts show, community tables, and food from around the world.
HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $75 feeds 5 volunteer performers on festival day.
– $250 provides chairs for one stage’s audience.
– $1,500 provides all equipment for one stage.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help set up, implement and/or break down the festival.
– Monthly: Assist with administrative and pre-event planning tasks.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Urban Artistry
Urban Artistry (urbanartistry.org) is an internationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to the performance and preservation of art forms inspired by the urban experience. Founded in 2005 by Junious Lee Brickhouse as the first urban dance-focused studio in the Washington, D.C., area, Urban Artistry serves as a cultural ambassador for often unsung communities. It develops collaborations that support artists past, present and future. The focus is on dance forms born in Black and brown urban communities: breaking, house dance, hip-hop, popping, locking, punking and more.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 supports weekly classes for two youths.
– $500 brings artists respected as elders in urban dance styles to the area.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Assist staff with administrative and pre-event tasks.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
The Vessel Experience
The Vessel Experience (thevesselexperience.com) offers affordable and quality hip-hop and commercial dance training to area dancers and teaching opportunities to local pre-professional dancers along with hosting an annual choreographers showcase. Through the power of dance, Vessel aims to connect communities and promote well-being.
HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $150 covers the cost of hiring an artist for 1.5 hours for a class of 25 participants.
– $500 covers the cost of 25 MCPS students attending the annual dance showcase for free.
– $2,000 covers the cost for the annual choreographer’s showcase theater rental.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Setting up and breaking down equipment
– Weekly: Administrative tasks and social media support
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
The Victorian Lyric Opera Company
The Victorian Lyric Opera Company (vloc.org) since 1978 has charmed regional audiences with traditionally staged light-opera performances, specializing in the works of Gilbert & Sullivan along with lesser-known Victorian Era works and more contemporary fare. Our mission of making operetta relevant for the community also provides performance opportunities in fully staged operetta with live orchestra accompaniment.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $25 pays for a score for one performer
– $100 pays for a rehearsal accompanist
– $250 pays for space rental for one rehearsal
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Act as an usher for a show.
– Weekly: Stage Participation (requires an audition and 3-4 rehearsals per week for 8 weeks).
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
[Online Only] Vika Visual Arts Association
Vika Visual Arts Association (vikavisualarts.org) works to provide equal opportunity to all emerging and disadvantaged visual artists by providing programs, resources, workshops and more. While eliminating the roadblocks on their specific path to creative success, our hands-on approach ensures artists have the needed education to be fully prepared in the art world.
HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 covers art supplies for one artist in our business development program for emerging artists
– $1,620 supports five virtual workshops taught by industry professionals for our artists on a variety of business topics, tools and strategies.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Greet and check-in guests at art events.
– Weekly: Assist staff with administrative and pre-event tasks.
SSL HOURS: No
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Vikara Village
Vikara Village (vikaravillage.org) uses the communal spirit of mind-body practices, such as movement and the arts, to empower individuals to reach their full potential. It has served more than 2,600 individuals since its founding in 2016. It exists to provide an accessible alternative and complement to traditional mental health services.
HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park
SERVES: Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 pays for one trauma-informed mind-body session.
– $500 supports the design of a mind-body healing curriculum.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Assist with administrative duties.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
VisArts
VisArts (visartscenter.org) transforms lives by empowering individuals to engage and connect through the visual arts. We offer contemporary art exhibitions, talks, art classes, workshops, artist professional development (exhibition opportunities, studio space, paid residencies and fellowships), camps and more to the community along with the Rockville Arts Festival. Our VisAbility Art Lab champions career advancement for neurodiverse artists. VisArts also removes barriers to access with class and camp discounts, scholarships, artist stipends, and studio rent subsidies.
HEADQUARTERED: Rockville
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $250 covers supplies for free art programs
– $500 covers one month of an artist’s stipend
– $750 provides a camp scholarship for one child
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Assist with galleries, camps
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
The Washington Conservatory of Music
The Washington Conservatory of Music (washingtonconservatory.org) is a nationally accredited, nonprofit community music school, serves children, teens, and adults through private music lessons, group classes, summer camps, and ensembles taught by highly credentialed music teachers and professional musicians. WCM presents several professional concert series and the Tapestry Music Project for underserved children.
HEADQUARTERED: Glen Echo
SERVES: Montgomery County
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $50 provides music class supplies for underserved children.
– $500 provides a scholarship for a child to attend summer camp or lessons.
– $5,000 underwrites a concert by a professional artist.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Assist with concerts, receptions or special events.
– Weekly: Administrative, marketing or development assistance.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Washington Revels
Washington Revels (revelsdc.org) uses performance, education, and community engagement to revive, sustain, expand and celebrate cultural traditions—in music, dance, storytelling and drama, binding people together in spirit and joy. We strive to illustrate the world’s humanity, connecting all into a community that stretches through time across ethnic, cultural and religious divisions.
HEADQUARTERED: Glen Echo
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 helps covering travel stipends for two ensemble performers traveling in support of historical performance events in the area.
– $500 helps us produce a community-building arts event.
– $1,000 helps pay for a free arts event in an under-resourced community.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Performance and/or office support, etc.
– Weekly: Crafting, performances, etc.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
[Online Only] Wildwood Summer Theatre
Wildwood Summer Theatre (wst.org) is a non-profit, hands-on learning theatre and the D.C. area’s oldest entirely youth-run theatre. Founded in 1965, its company membership is comprised entirely of talented local teens, college students, and young professionals ages 14 to 25 living and working in the area who volunteer their time, energy, and abilities.
HEADQUARTERED: Montgomery County
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 supports fundraising and development expenses.
– $500 covers the cost of personal protective equipment for one production.
– $1,000 funds the props department for a full season.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– Weekly: Assistance building production sets.
– Per event: Help staffing the concessions table during shows.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: No
Word Dance Theater (WDT)
Word Dance Theater (WDT) (worddance.org), founded in 2000 by Cynthia Word in Washington, D.C., creates award-winning dance/theater productions inspired by Isadora Duncan’s revolutionary spirit, technique and philosophy in the Washington, D.C. area and beyond. WDT offers classes & workshops in Duncan’s Art, collaborates with artists across disciplines, and produces works that build community and explore the human spirit, while providing meaningful experiences for audiences.
HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
– $100 covers tuition for 1 student for technique class September to December
– $500 covers rehearsal and performance pay for 1 dancer per performance project
– $1,000 covers the guest artist fee for 10 technique classes
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
– One day: Help with end of semester class celebrations
– Weekly: Take photos, videos of classes
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
Young Artists of America (YAA)
Young Artists of America (YAA) (yaa.org) offers transformative musical theater education and performance opportunities to a diverse group of students in third through 12th grades, throughout the Washington, D.C., area. Students perform with a full symphonic youth orchestra in state-of-the-art venues such as The Music Center at Strathmore. YAA’s award-winning Summer Performing Arts Intensives camps help students find their voice.
HEADQUARTERED: North Bethesda
SERVES: Metro region
WHAT A DONATION BUYS:
• $150 provides one student with costume and dance shoes for the season.
• $500 pays for one orchestra student’s annual tuition.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
• One day: Help with a YAA special event.
• Weekly: Provide administrative or production support.
SSL HOURS: Yes
INTERNSHIPS: Yes
