I volunteer with two community organizations in and around Alexandria. Please consider donating to them on Giving Tuesday.
Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail
Since 2020, I have been volunteering with FoMVT, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. The organization provides significant maintenance to the 18.5 miles long Mount Vernon Trail, part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
FoMVT volunteers improve the Trail for cyclists, skaters, runners, walkers, hikers and any other type of user. Trail bump and invasive species removal, cleaning wooden bridges and edging are just some of the activities. FoMVT hosts over 50 volunteer events annually and in 2023, over 1,300 people have joined in.
In addition to volunteer events FoMVT hosts nature walks, happy hours, sponsors community bike rides and advocates for mobility improvements.
This year, I have been out to several events and began supporting mountvernontrail.org with content writing and web management.
Donate to Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail
Support the work of the Friends of the Mount Vernon Trail.
Four Mile Run Conservancy
Based on the Alexandria side of the stream, the Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation‘s mission is to promote nature, culture, and community at lower Four Mile Run through restoration, advocacy, recreation, and education.
During the warmer months, 4MR, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, hosts kayak cleanups. I typically get to one or two annually – the spots fill up fast!
The volunteering is working! The amount of trash collected during cleanups is decreasing.
4MR also hosts bird walks and lantern tours.
Kayak Launch Project
In addition to volunteer events, 4MR has a major capital project in progress. The Kayak Launch will feature “a raised boardwalk ramp and gangway with ADA-compliant slopes, a wheelchair transfer platform, and a roller water entry/exit ramp, providing increased safety while launching and landing, particularly helpful for unassisted or novice paddlers.”
Located in Alexandria, near Commonwealth Avenue, the launch will be unique to the Washington, D.C. area. So far, 4MR has raised over $487,000 and needs just a little more to reach their $500,000 goal.
Donate to Four Mile Run Conservatory Foundation
Help promote nature, culture, and community at lower Four Mile Run. Be a part of the revitalization of this remarkable urban waterway!