Who We Are
Our History
The Washington Children’s Foundation traces its origins to the early part of the nineteenth century and the very first organized effort, public or private, on behalf of children orphaned during the War of 1812.
Meet Our Board Of Directors
Charles C. Wilkes, Esquire
Chairman
Chairman, The Wilkes Company
Karen M. Hardwick, Esquire
Vice President
Walter Owen Pryor, Esquire
Chief Administrator Officer and General Counsel, Southern Bancorp Inc.
Michael F. Ryan
Executive Director
About Us
The Washington City Orphan Asylum was founded in 1815, with the First Lady Dolly Madison as its first President. Today, The Washington Children’s Foundation remains dedicated to supporting at-risk children in the District of Columbia. We seek out organizations that have a strong record of providing such support and make grants which we hope will ensure their continuing efficiency and success.
