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FONA & THE ARBORETUM

Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) was founded in 1982 as an independent 501(c)(3). FONA serves as the primary private partner of the U.S National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. We preserve and enhance this vibrant public space and facilitate experiential programs that instill a love of plants, nature, and the outdoors in all who visit the Arboretum. We also promote the overarching research and education mission of the Arboretum.

vintage photo of capitol columns

Past Accomplishments

We were instrumental in bringing the Capitol Columns to the Arboretum in the early ’90s. We funded the Flowering Tree Walk surrounding the meadow so all people can enjoy its beauty regardless of ability. Our volunteers planted over 30,000 native plants along the Springhouse Run creek to improve the Anacostia River’s water quality.

students harvest carrots from the washington youth garden

Current Work

Our Washington Youth Garden is the Arboretum’s largest community outreach program. Revenue from our venue rental program funds the Arboretum Director’s Fund which pays for things like consultants, supplies, and building maintenance projects. Our plant sales and fairs support our mission and connect visitors to the Arboretum.

visitor center pond during the sunrise

Future Plans

We developed a new Core Master Plan that provides a blueprint for future projects around the Arboretum. We invest in the future of horticulture by funding internships that support the collections. Our Meyer Kidder Fellows will increase the Arboretum’s research capacity and connect the Arboretum with world-class post-doctoral researchers.

Share the gift of the Arboretum

General Online Donations

Support FONA with a gift of any amount.

Membership

Become a FONA member starting at $45 and receive exclusive perks.

David Fairchild Society

A passionate community of supporters with membership starting at $1,200.

Grow the Garden Campaign

Donate to help us renovate the Washington Youth Garden. This project will make the garden more engaging, accessible, and productive.

Other Ways to Support

Support FONA through securities, donor-advised funds, planned giving, bench donations, and more.

AWARD-WINNING EDUCATION PROGRAMS

With a focus on serving under-resourced communities, FONA nurtures curious minds and healthy bodies by connecting youth to food, the land, and each other. Our youth education programs take place at Washington Youth Garden on the grounds of the U.S. National Arboretum and in partner schools across Washington, DC. They work with DC educators to create strong, sustainable school garden programs and connect students to garden education. Our programs also provide year-round employment opportunities and green career paths for DC high school students.

Learn about our education programs & Washington Youth Garden

UPCOMING EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

Forest Bathing

Other Activities

RECENT POSTS

Friends of the National Arboretum Instagram

Washington Youth Garden Instagram

FONA FIELD NOTES NEWSLETTER

Our award-winning weekly FONA Field Notes newsletter provides timely updates on the National Arboretum, FONA, and the Washington Youth Garden. See our all our past newsletter issues, in addition to our other publications and magazines, on our Publications & Media page.

spring cherry blossoms, formatted as a newsletter banner

Cherry Season Has Begun

Early-blooming cherry trees are just starting to flower at the National Arboretum! The Arboretum has…
flowering plum tree with purple flowers

Unearthing Arboretum History

In a FONA Field Notes early last year, we shared about the role the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)…
flowering apricots in spring

Spring Event Guide

Spring is right around the corner! We have many exciting events and programs planned to…

Connect with the Arboretum through our FONA Field Notes newsletter

Sign up to receive FONA Field Notes

When you sign up for our mailing list, you will receive regular updates and insights from FONA, the U.S. National Arboretum, and our award-winning Washington Youth Garden.


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Connect with the Arboretum through our FONA Field Notes newsletter

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