About PWCCF
Rooted in compassion and driven by action, we build sustainable systems that empower children, families, and neighborhoods to thrive.
Strengthening and Serving Prince William County
We exist to strengthen and serve Prince William County by confronting food insecurity, expanding access to health and wellness resources, investing in scholarships, and mobilizing philanthropy to remove barriers to opportunity.
Rooted in compassion and driven by action, we build sustainable systems that empower children, families, and neighborhoods to thrive.
Together, we are forging a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.
Forging the Future of Prince William County
We envision a Prince William County where every child is nourished, every family is supported, and every resident has equitable access to opportunity.
A community where hunger is eliminated, health resources are accessible, education opens doors, and philanthropy fuels lasting solutions. A county strengthened by collaboration, resilience, and shared responsibility.
Through bold leadership and unwavering commitment, we are shaping a future where dignity is preserved, barriers are removed, and generations to come can thrive.
Faith, Service, Accountability, and Empowerment
We believe we are called to serve — with compassion, integrity, and a deep commitment to uplifting our neighbors. Whether distributing meals through the C.H.O.W. Wagon, supporting students and educators, or expanding access to health and wellness resources, our work is rooted in the belief that every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and hope.
Founded in 2018, the Prince William County Community Foundation (PWCCF) was established to be a vessel of impact in our community — meeting urgent needs while building sustainable pathways for long-term stability. Guided by faith and driven by action, we work across food security, scholarship, health & wellness, and philanthropy to strengthen families and forge a brighter future for Prince William County.
At PWCCF, we serve with excellence, lead with humility, and remain steadfast in our mission to love our community through tangible action.
When I founded the Prince William County Community Foundation in 2018, I did so as a resident who deeply loves this community and believed we could do more — together. I saw families working hard yet struggling to access basic necessities. I saw students trying to learn while facing hunger. And I knew that practical, community-driven solutions were possible.
Today, we focus on strengthening Prince William County through food security, health and wellness initiatives, youth scholarships, educator support, and strategic community partnerships. Our signature Combating Hunger on Wheels (C.H.O.W. Wagon) initiative and our growing network of School Food Pantries bring nutritious food directly into neighborhoods and schools — meeting families where they are and restoring dignity in the process.
Since launching our hunger relief efforts in 2019, we have served tens of thousands of families and distributed over 10 million meals. But beyond the numbers, what matters most are the stories — the parents relieved to provide dinner, the students able to focus in class, the educators empowered to innovate, and the young scholars stepping confidently into their futures.
PWCCF is more than an organization — it is a movement rooted in compassion, accountability, and action. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, and even more energized about what lies ahead.
Together, we are forging a stronger, healthier, and more equitable Prince William County.
With gratitude,
Dr. Vanessa M. Gattis
Founder, President & CEO
Learn More About Our Work
Explore our leadership, vision, and the strategic plan guiding our mission.