See all we accomplished in 2022!

2022 ANNUAL REPORT

ARE YOU CURIOUS BY NATURE?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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Washington Youth Garden Instagram

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FONA FIELD NOTES NEWSLETTER

Spring Blooms are Here!

The National Arboretum’s cherry blossoms and magnolia flowers are putting on a beautiful spring show…

Spring Event Guide

Enjoy spring at the National Arboretum! We’re collaborating with lots of local partners to host…

A Deeper Dive into History

Earlier this month, we highlighted the role Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Company 1360 had in building…

Taking Home Gold

We are thrilled to announce that FONA’s Washington Youth Garden 50th Anniversary short film just received…

Connect with the Arboretum through our FONA Field Notes newsletter

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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