Patch Picks: Non-Profits Making a Difference

Many Potomac residents have a passion for giving back and local non-profit organizations help facilitate their efforts. Today’s Patch Picks will highlight some of the non-profits in the area doing great things.

With so many non-profit with worthy causes, it is difficult to choose a few that stand out; however, here are a few local groups where Potomac residents turn to donate time, money or resources. 

1. Montgomery County Friends of the Library- The Friends of the Library contribute a lot to in Montgomery County. FOL helps funds projects and programs not included in the library system’s operating budget — a task with a growing need after the . The Potomac Chapter of the FOL is especially vital in funding educational programming and running the monthly book sales.

2. PTA and PTSA groups- Don’t over think it when it comes to contributing to non-profits. One great way to help out a non-profit is by getting involved in your child’s school PTA or PTSA group. It is a great way to learn more about your school’s accomplishments and expectations as well as a way to get involved and meet other parents. These groups do a lot for local schools and fund programming and celebrations for students.

3. The National Center for Children and Families- This non-profit has received donations from several Potomac groups such as in December and in November. The non-profit not only operates a shelter for families and a residential program for at-risk youth, but it also provides transitional programs for families and youth coming out of homelessness.  It supports youth and families both in Montgomery County and in Washington, D.C.

4. Interfaith Works- This non-profit works to meet the needs of poor and homeless people in Montgomery County. Through its programs, many who are down on their luck can find shelter, food and supportive services to help them get back on their feet. Potomac groups like , and have all donated to Interfaith Works in the last few months.

5. The Children’s Inn at NIH- The center for sick children being treated at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda is a home away from home for many families. The Children’s Inn provides a warm, welcoming environment for seriously ill children and their families, many of whom have come from hundreds of miles away, during treatment. for this non-profit and the of “Once Upon a Mattress” for the children there.

We know there are many more non-profits that mean a lot to Potomac, so feel free to list some of the others not mentioned on the list and some of the ways to contribute.