Empower DC builds power to amplify the community's voice. Founded by two local organizers who understood that the people most impacted by inequitable systems are often excluded from the decision-making process, Empower DC has worked directly with hundreds of Black and Brown residents who become confident, informed, and outspoken advocates --testifying at hearings, giving interviews to the media, and developing policy. It organizes with residents to advocate for public housing, environmental justice, racial equity, and equitable development, and has won increased funding for childcare subsidies, fought against closing public schools, proposed zoning amendments for affordable housing, and advocated to close a chemical facility that has made Ivy City residents ill. Empower DC disrupts inequitable systems by organizing community power so residents can shape the policies and decisions that affect their lives.

Headquarters: DC-Ward 1

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide

Age Groups Served: Adult (25-49)

Ethnic Groups Served: African American; Caucasian; Latino/Hispanic

Population(s) Served: Disabled; Low- to Moderate-Income Community Members; Women/Girls

Awards & Recognition

n/a

Press

  • No stories found

Budget (FY0)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

About Spur Local

Every year, 190+ local nonprofits (with budgets under $4M) apply to join the Spur Local network. 170+ community volunteers assess these applications for impact. 100% of organizations are site visited and financially reviewed. Finally, 76+ critical, local nonprofits are selected for inclusion in Spur Local's annual print and digital catalog, and enter a four-year partnership with us. Since 2003, we have raised over $65 million for nonprofits across the Greater Washington region. We charge no fees and raise funds separately to support our work.

Spur Local looks to friends like you to keep our services independent and entirely free of charge. Consider a small contribution to Spur Local to cap off your gift and help the causes you care about get the full support they deserve!

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