Mission and Vision
Horton’s Kids partners with children and family members in Washington, DC’s Ward 8 to ensure that every child graduates from high school prepared to succeed in college, career, and life.
Our Story
History
Founded in 1989 as an all-volunteer organization, Horton’s Kids has over 36 years of experience serving children and families in Ward 8, Washington, DC. What began as a small after-school tutoring and mentoring effort has grown into a comprehensive, place-based organization serving more than 700 children and family members annually through integrated academic, family, and community programming.
We operate from Horton’s Hub in Anacostia and two additional Community Resource Centers located directly inside housing communities (Wellington Park and Stanton Oaks). Any child or family member who lives within half a mile of our hub can access our services, regardless of academic performance or behavioral history. Our long-term, open-access model ensures we reach youth who are often excluded from other programs.
As a result of this sustained investment, students enrolled in Horton’s Kids are twice as likely to graduate from high school compared to similarly situated peers in Ward 8.
Our History of Service
Since 1989, Horton’s Kids has grown into a trusted community partner for children and families across Southeast DC. Every milestone on this timeline reflects a shared commitment — of staff, volunteers, donors, and most importantly, the families themselves — to building a stronger, more hopeful future, one achievement at a time.
1989
Horton’s Kids was founded and field trips began.
1991
Tuesday night tutoring sessions began at Anacostia Public Library.
1993
Became a 501c(3) nonprofit organization.
2001
Began partnership with Congressional and government offices to host tutoring.
2007
Created Health and Basic Needs programs to provide meals, vision, and dental care.
2008
Began academic and social-emotional programming targeting older youth.
2010
Opened Community Resource Center in Wellington Park and expanded Health and Basic Needs to include a food pantry, diapers, toiletries and more resources for community members.
2016
Expansion of mental health supports with community partners.
2020
Opened Community Resource Center in Stanton Oaks to provide comprehensive services to a new neighborhood.
2022
New Community Resource Hub.
Horton’s Kids Vision
We believe that all children growing up east of the Anacostia River should have consistent access to the long-term relationships, resources, and opportunities necessary to achieve academic success, strong well-being, and economic mobility.
We work every day alongside community members to realize this vision together.
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