The Power of Collective Action: Why Spring2ACTion Matters
If you've lived in Alexandria for any amount of time, you already know: this city shows up for its neighbors, for its local businesses, for the people and organizations doing the hard, quiet, essential work that makes this community what it is. That's what Spring2ACTion is all about.
For those who are new to it, Spring2ACTion is Alexandria's annual giving day, hosted by ACT for Alexandria, the city's community foundation. Here are ACT, we've been assisting generous Alexandrians and supporting locally-serving nonprofits for over 20 years, and Spring2ACTion has become one of the things we're most proud of. (Other communities have even modeled their own giving days after it which, honestly, feels pretty great.)
This year, Spring2ACTion 2026 is on Wednesday, April 22nd and every single dollar raised goes directly to the nonprofits. Every bit of it—no exceptions.
Last year, more than 7,900 donors raised $3.1 million for 193 local organizations. Seeing those figures still amaze me and inspire hope for this year’s Spring2ACTion!
Why This Year Feels Different
I'm sure it won’t come as a surprise to you that the nonprofits in our community are navigating a really hard moment. Funding sources that many have depended on for years are disappearing. We all rely on these organizations; they are part of what makes Alexandria such a great place. From the arts, to animal welfare, to hunger and the social safety net, Alexandria nonprofits get it done!
At the same time, more of our neighbors are reaching out for help. Everyday, the news and social media highlight the many challenges that threaten our community and beyond. If you’re like me, you don’t want to sit on the sidelines. You want to take action.
Giving locally is one of the most direct ways to say: I see what's happening here, and I want to be part of the solution. When we give together, on the same day, for the same city, that message resonates even more loudly. Nonprofits are leaning on the generosity of this community more than ever before. Alexandria strong is not a slogan, it’s what we practice; it’s who we are.
Here's How to Get Involved
Each year, I start with a conversation with my friends and family about what matters most to each of us. Is someone focused on supporting families trying to move up the economic ladder? Fostering a community that welcomes newcomers? Ensuring that our local parks are thriving? Or all of the above?
Head to spring2action.org to browse nonprofits by name or by cause. No matter the cause or issue, it's all there, and every organization has a profile page where you can learn more before you give.
A few things worth knowing: early giving opens April 8th, and donations start at just $5 so giving can accommodate nearly every budget. Some nonprofits have matching donors lined up, so your gift could go twice as far. And throughout the day on April 22nd, prizes are awarded to the nonprofits, thanks to many generous local corporate sponsors. So every single donation has a ripple effect that goes well beyond its original amount.
Also keep an eye on the Spring2ACTion website for the Shop for Good and Dine for Good lists, a.k.a. local businesses, including many Stylebook partners, that will donate a portion of their proceeds on April 22. Shopping and eating locally that day is another easy way to be part of it.
Come Celebrate with Us First
Before the big day, we'd love to see you at the Spring2ACTion Kick Off Party on Tuesday, April 15, from 6:00–8:00 pm at ALX Community Waterfront. Food is provided by Alexandria Restaurant Partners; there will be drinks, music, and a whole lot of fun! Sixteen years of generosity is worth celebrating, don't you think?
Come meet your neighbors, discover nonprofits you might give to, and feel the energy of a community that genuinely cares about one another.
We hope to see you there, and on April 22nd!
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