our mission and vision
The mission of Beacon House is to promote the academic advancement and personal growth of children in Washington, DC’s Edgewood neighborhood. We envision a future where children in Edgewood become empowered lifelong learners who achieve their greatest potential.
Beacon House provides afterschool education and youth development services to nearly 400 children, ages 5-18, annually. We are located in the Edgewood Commons affordable housing complex, in Ward 5 of the District of Columbia, where the average household income is $20,000 (Enterprise Community Development.) Our programs focus on closing the education achievement gap – and thus improving the economic trajectories – of children in Ward 5 for whom generational poverty is most persistent.
our values
Students and Families First
We foster an environment in which children feel safe, physically, and emotionally, and in which they feel they can be themselves. We treat children and families ethically and with respect. We place the needs and interests of the children and families we serve at the center of all our decision-making.
Community
We strive to foster a community that promotes caring, meaningful relationships, fosters a sense of belonging, and encourages children to achieve academically and reach their greatest potential.
Saving and Changing Student Lives
The lives of the children we serve matter, and we believe that all things are possible for them with the right guidance, encouragement, and support from caring adults. We understand that our role in providing safety and opportunity for children in Edgewood has never been more vital.
Trust
The relationships we build with children and families, and the trust that we earn in the process, are critical to our ability to advance our mission. Our commitment to consistency and reliability must be sustained over time for us to earn and maintain trust. We fully embrace our responsibility to be reliable to the children and families we serve, and to one another.
Flexibility
We meet children and families where they are, at their individual points of need. We solve problems in ways which are tailored to the specific circumstances of the children and families involved.


news & stories
August 2023 Newsletter
Beacon House’s August 2023 newsletter is out! What’s inside: Summer Camp highlights; an overview of our new strategic plan; an introduction to our newest Board Member; and our Give828 campaign supporting youth football.
featured story
May 2023
Beacon House and GW Center of Excellence in Maternal and Child Health Launch Mental Health Resources Website for DC Parents and Children
Milken Institute School of Public Health, May 24, 2023