From a small, grassroots movement to an organization whose members include more than 185 cultural, heritage, and neighborhood groups, Cultural Tourism DC teaches us that there is more to Washington than its wonderful federal monuments and national mall. Creating, coordinating, and promoting "off–the-mall" experiences, this unique organization allows visitors to experience Washington as a living, vibrant city and brings the economic benefits of cultural tourism to sometimes invisible urban neighborhoods. The African American Heritage Trail and Neighborhood Heritage Trails in Shaw, U Street, and Adams Morgan lead visitors on tours of historic areas. Art on Call “rehabilitates” police and fire boxes, which get second lives as community art and also as markers of unique neighborhood destinations. Yearly Events like Warm Up to a Museum (February) and WalkingTown DC (April and October) introduce even life-long residents to the hidden beauty, variety and richness that is DC. Maps, brochures, and a major cultural tourism website help residents, visitors, and the just plain curious to understand the richness of the city. Linking cultural and historical education with community redevelopment and revitalization – this is an exciting and innovative movement that philanthropy can help to support.

Linda Donavan Harper, Executive Director 1250 H Street NW, Suite 1000 Washington, DC 20005 202-661-7581 www.CulturalTourismDC.org