Get Involved

As a community-driven organization, Deanwood Heights Main Street (DHMS) looks to the community to help us celebrate and strengthen our local business corridors. Whether you're a resident, businesses owner, student, or professional, your time and talents can help shape the future of Deanwood. From event planning and community cleanups to business outreach and beautification projects, DHMS offers meaningful opportunities to make a visible difference in the community. 

Scroll down to discover how you can get involved. 

Join a committee

Organization Committee

The Organization Committee builds the foundation that keeps Deanwood Heights Main Street sustainable. This group focuses on partnerships, fundraising, and volunteer development to ensure DHMS has the resources and relationships needed to serve the community effectively.

Key Activities:

  • Recruit and engage volunteers and partners

  • Support fundraising campaigns and donor outreach

  • Assist with grant research and proposal preparation

  • Represent DHMS at community meetings and events

  • Help strengthen communication between residents, businesses, and stakeholders

Design Committee

The Design Committee enhances the look, feel, and function of the Deanwood commercial corridors. Members collaborate on projects that improve storefronts, public spaces, and overall aesthetics, helping to create a welcoming, walkable environment that reflects Deanwood’s character.

Key Activities:

  • Support façade improvement and beautification projects

  • Identify opportunities for public art and streetscape enhancements

  • Organize cleanups and seasonal plantings

  • Review corridor design concepts and assist with branding efforts

  • Promote design standards that preserve community identity

Economic Vitality Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee works to strengthen and grow local businesses along Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue NE, Sheriff Road NE, and Division Avenue NE. Members help identify new opportunities for investment, entrepreneurship, and local job creation while supporting the long-term sustainability of existing businesses.

Key Activities:

  • Conduct business outreach and surveys to identify needs

  • Support grant and technical assistance programs for small businesses

  • Gather data on vacancies, retail mix, and corridor conditions

  • Help attract new businesses and promote local investment

  • Develop strategies for workforce and economic development

Promotion Committee

The Promotion Committee brings energy and visibility to Deanwood’s corridors through marketing, storytelling, and community events. Members help plan and promote activities that celebrate the area’s culture, highlight local businesses, and attract residents and visitors to shop, dine, and explore.

Key Activities:

  • Plan and staff events such as Art All Night and the Deanwood Heritage Festival

  • Develop marketing campaigns and social media content

  • Write business spotlights and newsletter features

  • Capture photos and stories from local businesses and community members

  • Help design promotional materials and outreach strategies

DHMS Seal 3

deanwood heights main street

MARSHALL HEIGHTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (MHCDO)

3939 Benning Road Northeast, Washington, DC 20019

Telephone: (202) 396-1200

 

MONDAY - FRIDAY: 9:00AM - 5:30PM

SATURDAY - SUNDAY: CLOSED

PROGRAM CONTACT:

Paul Spires

Director, Deanwood Heights Main Street 
Email: