Arlington is home to a dozens of nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of others through avenues such as food assistance, education, health care, housing and more.
We’ve compiled a list of readers’ favorite nonprofits in Arlington, Virginia. These county-based organizations span a variety of social causes, offering plenty of ways for locals to get involved, including volunteering, donations and more.
Top vote getters
1. Arlington Free Clinic
2921 11th St S., Douglas Park
The Arlington Free Clinic aims to advance health equity by offering comprehensive health care to low-income residents and people without health insurance.
2. Arlington Food Assistance Center
2708 S Nelson Street, Shirlington
AFAC is Arlington’s largest food bank, providing fresh groceries free-of-charge to more than 4,000 families every week from its Shirlington headquarters and various distribution sites.
3. Animal Welfare League of Arlington
2650 S. Arlington Mill Drive, Shirlington
Pet adoption and foster services, veterinary care and wildlife rescue efforts are just some of the many programs AWLA operates across the county.
Other notable organizations
- Doorways
- Arlington Thrive
- Bridges to Independence
- True Ground Housing Partners
- EcoAction Arlington
- PathForward
- Arlington Community Foundation
Return to: ARLnow Readers’ Choice
Last vote: Poll: Favorite local nonprofit in Arlington
Last update: Oct. 31, 2025