We commit to and embrace our long-standing core values of Service, People, and Innovation:
Service
We endeavor to strengthen our community by assisting all members of the community in achieving an acceptable standard of living.
People
We value our donors, volunteers, and clients, and strive to treat all with respect and grace.
Innovation
We improve efficiency by assessing current processes and integrating smart, innovative solutions.
About ECHO
Since 1969, ECHO has been a lifeline for neighbors in Burke and Springfield facing hardship. Founded and supported by local faith communities, 22 congregations today appoint members to our board, give generously, and serve alongside nearly 400 volunteers. Our Executive Committee—made up of community leaders—guides the work, but it’s the volunteers who keep ECHO running every day as counselors, administrative assistants, facility managers, and program coordinators.
All-Volunteer Commitment
From the beginning, ECHO has been powered entirely by volunteers. With no paid staff, 98% of every dollar goes directly to helping the community. Owning our building means no rent, and our focus stays on providing essentials, not covering salaries. ECHO proudly participates in United Way and CFC programs.
Our Promise
ECHO helps people through difficult times with compassion and dignity. We meet immediate needs—food, clothing, housewares, financial aid—while encouraging steps toward stability. For those who need long-term support, we remain a steady source of help. We welcome every client without discrimination and ensure full accessibility, including barrier-free entry, accessible restrooms, and Virginia relay for hearing-impaired individuals.
Year-Round Activities and Support
Yard Sales
Twice a year at St. Bernadette’s Church, selling donated goods not needed by clients to fund ECHO programs.
Food Drives
Support comes from local churches, schools, and community groups, plus three large drives: Scouting for Food(Nov), USPS Letter Carriers(May), and Stuff the Bus(Feb).
School Supplies
Every summer, we collect and distribute new backpacks filled with
grade-appropriate supplies to students
CROP Hunger Walk
Each November, walkers raise funds for global and local hunger relief and collect canned goods for ECHO.
Holiday Meals
In November or December, qualified families receive a holiday meal or grocery gift card.
Holiday Store
Parents of young children select new toys, books, and games—free of charge—so every child has a joyful holiday.
Transparency
We share our work openly through our Annual Report (FY2024), IRS Form 990 (FY2024), and Financial Reports (FY2023 & FY2024).
Officers of the Corporation
Anita King
President
Mark Price
Vice President
Dave Goldberg
Vice President/Finance
Debby McElroy
Secretary
Mark Smith
Treasurer
Mike Baier
Executive Director
Bob Diegelman
Trustee
John Heine
Trustee
Eileen Short
Trustee
Religious
Communities
Since its inception, ECHO has been rooted in the generosity of local faith communities in Burke and Springfield. These congregations appoint representatives to our Board of Directors and strengthen our mission through donations of food, clothing, funds, and volunteer service
Below is a list of ECHO’s supporting congregations and their representatives:
ECHO History
1968 - 1969
Origins
ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others) was formed on May 22, 1968, by representatives from nine Springfield churches to address community social needs through ecumenical cooperation. Originating from the Springfield Ministerial Association led by Pastor Duane Carlson, the group spent nine months developing its concept. In February 1969, officers were elected, and on May 2, 1969, ECHO was officially incorporated in Virginia as a nonprofit, charitable, and religious organization. The founders emphasized a simple organization led by laypeople rather than clergy, focusing on achievable goals within their capabilities. ECHO operations were housed in several older buildings on Old Keene Mill Rd.
Charter member congregations
The nine charter member congregations were: Grace Presbyterian★, Kirkwood Presbyterian★, Prince of Peace Lutheran★, St. Bernadette’s Catholic★, St. Christopher’s Episcopal★, St. John’s Methodist★, St. Mark’s Lutheran★, Springfield United Methodist★, and Westwood Baptist★.
1985 - 1986
New Headquarters
In 1985, ECHO began construction of its new headquarters at 7205 Old Keene Mill Road, thanks to major support from the Lynch Foundation, Fairfax County, and private donors. The Lynch Limited Partnership donated the land, and Fairfax County provided a $160,000 grant. Groundbreaking was on May 23, 1985, and the building was dedicated in January 1986 replacing the derelict properties ECHO used for over a decade.
2006 - 2007
Expansion
In 2007, ECHO completed a warehouse expansion that doubled the building's size, enhancing client privacy during interviews, increasing storage capacity for donations, and improving workflow. The new space was dedicated on October 15, 2006.
2023 - 2024
Expansion
ECHO's expansion began with a ground-breaking on November 27, 2023 for a new parking lot at 7209 Old Keene Mill Road. The parking lot opened on May 8, 2024, providing additional parking for volunteers and clients.
In Appreciation
Thanks to the following businesses and organizations for their recent outstanding contribution…
