Date: June 2, 2005
Contact information: Sarah Koch, Executive Director, (703)-528-8317
The Reading Connection Chosen for New 2005 Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington
The Reading Connection has been selected as a 2005 Catalogue for Philanthropy charity. This is the Catalogue's third year in the Washington region. Supported by area foundations (Harman, Meyer, Cafritz, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) as a service to the community, the Catalogue profiles 75 outstanding environmental, cultural, educational, human services, and international organizations with budgets below $2 million.
In 2003 and 2004 the Washington Catalogue helped raise over $1.1 million in pledges and gifts for local nonprofits. After
an inaugural year in the District, the Catalogue expanded to the Greater Washington area--adding nonprofits in Northern Virginia and nearby Maryland counties. 30,000 individuals and hundreds of foundations will receive copies of the Catalogue this year.
According to Barbara Harman, executive director of the Harman Family Foundation, "The Catalogue is designed to be a showcase for Washington-area philanthropy and an inviting way for individuals and families to participate in charitable giving." A single check sent to the Catalogue's DC office, or an online donation at its website, www.catalogueforphilanthropy.org/dc, can be allocated to as many charities as the donor pleases. Donors may also contact the charities directly. "Because the Catalogue is fully paid for by its philanthropic partners," Harman notes, "100% of every donation goes to the designated nonprofits."
The Reading Connection was selected from a competitive field of 250 candidates. Proposals were reviewed by 50 professional grantmakers and leaders at 30 local foundations and nonprofit organizations. "Charities were selected for excellence, innovation, and cost-effectiveness--and for what they can teach us about the extraordinary ways that philanthropy works," Harman said. "These are certainly among the best small charities in the Washington region."