Friends of the National Arboretum

Founded in 1982, Friends of the National Arboretum is an independent 501(c)(3) and the primary private partner of the U.S. National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. It supports the Arboretum through education, public engagement, and access to nature. Its Washington Youth Garden is the Arboretum's largest community outreach program. FONA also funds horticultural internships and research fellows, and its venue rentals help fund the Arboretum Director's Fund. Plant sales and seasonal festivals connect visitors with the Arboretum. Community programs include a fall 5K and festival, family activities, and lawn games. FONA has supported projects such as the accessible Flowering Tree Walk and native plant restoration along Springhouse Run. It also raises funds for the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum and offers membership and other ways to support its work.