Help A Place To Stand

A Place to Stand is a non-profit centered in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia area dedicated to creating holistic and sustainable approach to eradicating poverty, in all its forms. To accomplish this, APTS has worked with other nonprofits like Homestretch and Britepaths, along with in schools like Mount Vernon HS and Daniels Run Elementary to connect those in need of help to those who want to help.

In our operation since 2014, we have started multiple programs - saving a half a ton of would-be food waste from local farmers markets and donating it to local food banks every week, helping establish a free medical center for uninsured families, and our "Connect for Good" program connects people who have something to give, from a pair of shoes to a spare room, with people who need them. 

APTS was founded with the vision that homelessness and hunger can and are problems solvable by communities working together.  APTS founders Gordon and Richelle Brown learned from the works of those who came before them, such as Hull House in Chicago which was a singular location for child-care, education, and social advocacy.  

Since embarking on this endeavor a few years ago, numerous non-profits, community organizations, and passionate individuals from across the country have shared their knowledge and experience to teach us more about our community's persistent problems and potential solutions. After two decades of working with homeless and hungry people in a variety of capacities including teachers, counselors and program coordinators, it became clear to the Browns that homeless and hungry people are students, neighbors and friends. Moreover, proven solutions exist - it's just a matter of doing it!

With help from friends and colleagues at George Mason University, the concept for A Place to Stand was developed and selected for the 2012 Hult Prize, the world’s largest student competition for social good.  In October 2014 APTS was incorporated and received its tax exempt as a full non-profit status in spring 2015.

If you believe that we can end hunger and homelessness all while ensuring the dignities of people and their communities, then please help us on our mission.