Readers' picks: favorite local charities

“7th Street Concerts brings world-class music to ticketed audiences and those in need of music’s healing power but who often don’t have access to it. World-renowned and -respected musicians perform in our warm, intimate setting and in venues like hospitals, shelters and schools.” —Kathleen Mundle

“For 12 years, ArtPop has brought awe, wonder and accessible immersive public art to Charlotte, showcasing 500+ local artists and generating over $1M in paid commissions and opportunities. Community support fuels the mission to leave lasting artist marks & community connections.” —Wendy Hickey

“In the eight years since its opening, Bach Charlotte’s world-class performances have been brimming with virtuosic energy, the community impact is meaningful, and the organization is helping catalyze real change in Charlotte’s arts ecosystem.” —Elizabeth Hindal

“For 10 years, Charlotte Lit has engaged readers and educated creative writers, building community through a wide range of programming: classes, lit-based conversations, author readings, the literary journal Litmosphere and more.” —Paul Reali, Co-founder & Executive Director

“In an increasingly touch-free world, I find great joy and mental calm in the tactile experience of working with clay. Clayworks has a wonderful studio and community and has made clay accessible to those at all economic and experience levels.” —Patrick Paige

“Apparo amplifies the impact of nonprofits by leveraging technology and improving processes to best enable the fulfillment of the nonprofits’ mission and vision.” —Anthony Felice

“I’ve seen firsthand how The Boost Pad is transforming Charlotte’s entrepreneurial community. I’ve watched over 150 driven founders go through its incubator program, gaining the resources and mentorship needed to build impactful businesses. Over 500 new jobs were created in Charlotte, contributing to greater economic mobility and opportunity for all.” —Douglas Neal

“Freedom Communities serves our neighbors by offering services including providing and preserving affordable housing, delivering excellent early childhood education and serving moms in the neighborhood through career and life development programming.” —Matt Hultquist

“Habitat Charlotte Region provides opportunities for home ownership, critical repairs to stay in a home and financial education leading to home ownership for those earning less than the area medium income. It’s a well-run organization that makes excellent use of their resources.” —John Baxter

“Every week, dozens of students prepare to change the course of their futures through high-impact service projects and creative small business ventures. The LEAD team is strengthening the fabric of East Charlotte by building a team of future leaders, businessmen and innovators.” —John Orton

“LHCC supports the local Latino community by assisting families in learning how to adjust to living in a second land, learning a second language for their children and assisting in financial emergencies. It is volunteer-driven and based out of St. Andrew’s Methodist Church in Charlotte.” —Tucker Summerville

“Partners for Parks improves the quality of life for the citizens of Mecklenburg County and the surrounding region by preserving, promoting and enhancing the parks, greenways, open spaces, active play and recreational opportunities within our community.” —Lauren Sawyers

“As an N.C. State student, Jack Rothacker founded non-profit Perseverancia to raise money to build new classrooms at the Juan Calvino school in El Salvador. So far, he has raised around $50,000 via fundraisers, grants and winning the Samuel Huntington Service Award.” —Rick Rothacker

“As a board member, I support RWCI because I’ve seen how its holistic approach—housing, education, and wellness—empowers families to break poverty cycles. I believe in building a community where every child has a real chance to thrive, from cradle to career.” —Robin Stuart

“This foundation has preserved two cemetery sites of the historic Black St. Lloyd Presbyterian Church and is now working to turn them into beautiful public spaces for the community to enjoy and learn about this important part of Charlotte history.” —Emily Ethridge

“The Tarheel Trailblazers build and maintain dozens of mountain bike trails and parks, making our city more fun and providing wonderful opportunities for outdoor adventures!” —Rachael Coe

“TreesCharlotte partners with the community to plant and care for trees and to provide education about Charlotte’s urban landscape. Urban trees provide cleaner air, energy conservation, runoff reduction, protect biodiversity, cooler temperatures, improve mental health and higher property values.” —Charles Talley

“ALP has empowered students in reading for 21 years. Partnering with CMS in Title One schools, ALP has developed a new curriculum to expand access and opportunity. Both in-person and virtual tutors reach more students every year scaling up the power of literacy and transforming lives.” —Dorothy McGavran

“Digi-Bridge sparks curiosity and confidence in students too often overlooked. They provide hands-on STEAM learning for students who often lack access and opportunity, delivered onsite during afterschool hours and facilitated by school educators. Digi-Bridge currently serves 1,500 students across 36 CMS Title 1 schools at no cost to the students or schools.” —Samantha Kowert

“By focusing on STEAM education, Digi-Bridge helps students from underrepresented communities gain the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s digital world. There is nothing like witnessing a newfound sense of confidence, pride and sparkle in a child. That is why I support Digi-Bridge.” —Erin Breeden

“E2D is making a huge difference in people’s lives by providing essential computer technology directly to families with defined need. Through its First Generation Laptop Initiative, E2D supplied free laptops to every CMS spring graduate who entered a four-year college this fall as the first in their family to do so.” —Pat Millen

“ECAC provides 1:1 assistance and training to make parents aware of what’s available to your child within the public educational system. Their services have helped me understand the options at different decision points, know what my child is legally entitled to, and become a more effective advocate for my child.” —Sarah Bonnema

“GenerationNation is Charlotte’s only K-12 civic literacy and student leadership education organization. Students learn first-hand how their governments and communities work, play a role in school and civic decision-making and build knowledge, skills, experience and social capital for leadership now and into the future.” —Amy Farrell

“This long-standing scholarship aids students that have lived in public housing in Charlotte. Along with Pell grants, it covers much of the cost of attendance at many schools. Through mentoring and ongoing assistance during the college years, Greater Steps has dramatically increased the graduation rate of its participants.” —Stephen Valder

“HEART Math Tutoring teaches math skills to over 1,200 at-risk elementary students.” —Reid Leggett

“JACC is dedicated to preparing young people for workforce readiness and financial success through educational programs. It provides lessons and experiences in financial literacy, entrepreneurship and career readiness to students from kindergarten through high school.” —Piers Wates

“Among other things, NCOBS offers full scholarships for diverse Charlotte high school students to take part in weeklong wilderness trips, where they hike, climb, carry their gear, cook, sleep outdoors and join instructor-led campfire discussions on topics like bullying, diversity, unity and understanding.” —Jay Ahuja

“A life of opportunity begins with a love of reading and access to books. However, in low-income neighborhoods, there is only one age-appropriate book for every 300 children. Promising Pages, the Charlotte Area Book Bank, provides new and donated books to 62,000 children living in the Charlotte area book desert.” —Amy Murphy Curlis

“Over 5,000 Mecklenburg youth gather weekly with their fellow Scouts to learn new skills and to learn to both lead and follow, all while having good, clean fun. Positive adult role models help guide them on their journey to becoming future leaders of our community and country.” —Ken May

“Research shows that effective teachers are significantly better than other school factors at improving student achievement. TFI supports retention of outstanding Mecklenburg County educators by providing opportunities that further develop their leadership and professional expertise.” —Ann Hannah

“TFI advances K-12 education in Charlotte by honoring our outstanding educators. In the words of our Fellows: best professional development I have received in my 28-year career.” —Barbara Caldwell

“Kaizen’s mission is to improve upward mobility in underserved communities through educational programs, workshops and online tools covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investing and debt management, which empower individuals and families to build a solid foundation for financial success.” —Brian Whisnant

“Founded by my husband and me in 2018, Vision To Learn Charlotte provides vision screenings, eye exams and eyeglasses to children at their schools with mobile vision clinics at NO cost to the children or their families. Since 2018, VTL Charlotte has distributed over 30,000 pairs of eyeglasses to children in Title 1 Schools.” —Renee and Hugh McColl III

“The amazing impact that Carolina Waterfowl Rescue has on hundreds of lives each year is far above what their size and budget would suggest. The good they do and the care and expertise they have brings them up to the top level of non-profit.” —Darryl Logsdon

“For over 25 years, Catawba Riverkeeper has worked to protect and restore the 8,900 miles of waterways that over 4 million Carolinians depend on for drinking water, power, and recreation. Each year, we remove more than 100,000 pounds of trash, restore eroding shorelines and stream banks, and monitor water quality to keep swimming and recreation areas safe.” —Jenny Moore

“We’re not just building programs that move Charlotte toward a truly circular city — we’re empowering people to take action at home, at work and even at play. And the best part? Other cities are now looking to build their own version of The Innovation Barn. This is how a movement starts.” —Amy Aussieker

“This team is changing the way Charlotte thinks about sustainability. Whether it’s transforming waste into new possibilities at the Innovation Barn, educating students about the circular economy or hosting community sample giveaways that keep materials out of the landfill, Envision Charlotte is making real impact every day.” —Kim Marks

“24 Foundation is uniquely CLT — grassroots and 24+ years of raising money to help in the fight against cancer. There is nothing better than being active and helping people fight cancer — from 24 Hours of Booty, to a 24-mile paddle, to 24,000 meters of rowing … they mobilize Charlotte all year long.” —Paul Bamert

“I’m so proud to support and raise funds for 24 Foundation, an incredible organization celebrating 24 years of changing the course of cancer. Since 2002, they’ve raised over $31 million to fund cancer navigation and survivorship programs for our local cancer community.” —Jenni Walker

“Suicide is the third leading cause of death for youth and the 11th leading cause of death overall. AFSP-NC provides free education, advocacy at all levels of government, funds vital research and provides free support for suicide loss survivors.” —Amanda McGough

“Arts for Life has a simple yet impactful goal of helping sick children find joy through art while stuck in the hospital.” —Brittany Lins (Peter)

“I support Charlotte Trans Health because at a time when transgender and gender-diverse people’s healthcare is under attack, we ensure accessible, affirming care for all. CTH’s free healthcare services program (PATH), advocacy and education advance real health equity and offer safety, dignity, and hope.” —Holly Savoy

“Claire’s Army stands out for its immediate, on-the-ground support for families facing a pediatric cancer diagnosis. In their hardest moments, this nonprofit shows up with compassion, resources and a true army of care that brings strength and hope when it is needed most.” —Shawn Flynn

“Go Jen Go is personal and local, offering direct financial assistance to individuals and families facing a breast cancer diagnosis so they can focus on healing. Support puts your money right back into our community and helps with life essentials like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, childcare and camp for their children. They have wonderful programs like Operation Spread the Joy, which fulfills the holiday wish lists of grantees and their families, and the Mood Williams Camp Scholarship that sends the children of breast cancer patients to camp.” — Shawna Dye Culik and Joe Culik

“HopeWay is saving lives in our community. They provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health treatment for all ages, and their impact is undeniable. I give my time and resources because HopeWay offers hope, healing and a path forward for people who need it most.” —Lana Anttila

“HopeWay has become a leader in the field of mental health and continues to expand its services when they see a need in the community. Access to counseling, 1:1 and group, art therapy, horticulture therapy, veteran services, eating disorders for all ages, lectures and education are only a few of the immeasurable services they provide.” —Sarah Belk

“We want to see as many people as possible get the life-changing care that our son experienced at HopeWay.” —Baker Burleson

“HopeWay embodies the absolute gold standard of holistic care for mental health. The organization is run by a visionary physician leader, supported by a team of multidisciplinary experts that bring compassion every single day.” —Ben Edelshain

“HopeWay has attracted highly skilled and strong leadership in the field of mental health to both educate the community about the issues involved and provide high-quality care across the community. In a short period of time, HopeWay has become nationally recognized for its work with adults and teens dealing with a wide range of mental health issues.” —Michael Elliott

“Several years ago, HopeWay made a profound impact on my family. Since then, I have witnessed a number of friends and loved ones benefit from their time at HopeWay. The providers at HopeWay are truly changing/saving lives each and every day.” —Patrick Hobson

“HopeWay is Charlotte’s incredible mental health treatment center opened in 2016 by families who had a dream to create a world-class community resource. Ten years after opening, people come from all over the country, and it is needed more than ever given all the trauma in our community right now.” —Kathy Izard

“HopeWay is meaningful to me because it provides compassionate, life-changing mental health care to those in need. Being part of an organization that supports individuals and families in their most vulnerable moments motivates me to help foster hope, healing and lasting change within our community.” —Jordan Lee

“I’m honored to work at HopeWay and witness the life-changing care we provide every day. Our comprehensive, client-centered approach empowers people with the tools to manage their mental health and lead fulfilling lives. —Morgan Liles

“I support HopeWay with both my money and time. They do life-saving work every day with mental health that would not be available to members of our communities otherwise. Unfortunately, as we all know, mental health is continuing to become a bigger issue in our country.” —Myles Wynn

“As a parent, you never want to hear your child has cancer. Multiply that by a rare cancer — under-funded, fewer treatment options and significantly less knowledge — it is your worst nightmare. Thanks to ISF, parents with a child that has a rare cancer diagnosis can have hope that communities are focusing on these rare cancers and that they are not alone.” —Anna Stallmann

“The Matthews Free Medical Clinic provides free, high-quality healthcare to uninsured individuals living at or below 250% of the federal poverty level in Mecklenburg, Union and Gaston Counties. They offer primary care, chronic disease management and social work services to address both immediate health needs and long-term well-being.” —Taryn Mecia

“Mitchell’s House is the first-of-its-kind, non-profit counseling center in the United States to focus on children, siblings and parents facing pediatric medical trauma. Mitchell’s House has licensed mental health counselors who use art and play therapy as a nonverbal pathway for clients to process difficult experiences in a safe, creative way and begin to process and heal.” —Meg McElwain

“I proudly support NAMI Charlotte because they provide free, lifesaving mental-health programs to people across Mecklenburg County. Their NAMI Navigator helps individuals and families find real-time mental-health resources, and their support groups, classes and trainings are free and open to everyone. They are a critical safety net in our community.” — John Berry and Kate Weaver

“I proudly support NAMI Charlotte because they provide free, lifesaving mental-health programs to people across Mecklenburg County. It’s also bilingual, helping navigate the stigmas of mental health in this Hispanic/Latino community. They are a critical safety net in our community.” —JD Mazuera Arias

“OrthoCarolina Research Institute is advancing orthopedic research that impacts almost all of us! Beyond advancements for hips, knees and shoulders, we are advancing the care of patients by performing orthopedic surgery without the use of opioids.” —Nancy McNelis

“In 1987, college lacrosse players and Olympians teamed up to swim across Long Island Sound to raise awareness and funding for cancer research. Four decades later, SAA has granted over $100M to its mission, and the SAA-Charlotte chapter is the largest non-profit funder of blood cancer research at Atrium LCI.” —Rob Butcher

“Teal Diva is my favorite charity because it uplifts women impacted by gynecologic cancers through community, education and empowerment. Their Charlotte-based programs provide hope, connection and healing. I support them because they turn survivorship into strength and remind us that no one fights alone.” —Bridget McClellan

“My wife is a 10-year ovarian cancer survivor who beat a less-than-15% statistic. She knows what real support means. Teal Diva steps into the gap—providing community, education, emotional healing and practical support that empowers women facing ovarian cancer. They don’t just uplift survivors—they help them live boldly.” —Michael Smith

“Teen Health Connection fills a vital gap in medical services for teenagers. They treat the whole person, anything from anorexia to mental health to general checkups and wellness. They’ve put decades of research and insight into teens’ needs and solutions. BIG HEARTS, INSIGHTFUL SOLUTIONS!” —Kim Brattain

“I support Teen Health Connection because healthy, confident teens build strong communities. My time and resources help ensure young people get the care, guidance and opportunities they deserve to thrive. Investing in them today creates a brighter, safer, and more empowered tomorrow.” — Latisha Hensley

“Brave Step supports victims of sexual violence with targeted therapy, support groups and information.” —Micki McDonough

“They’re doing incredible work with street outreach, helping our most vulnerable neighbors get the support and connectivity they need.” —Corri Smith

“Hellfighters of Concord is a Christian-based motorcycle club that has a Mission near downtown Concord serving the homeless. They provide meals 6-7 times a week along with showers, clothes and a food pantry, and also serve as an emergency cold winter and summer cooling center.” —Kevin Johnson

“WFAE is a vital news and information resource for the Charlotte region, delivering daily on its mission to provide ‘journalism that informs, enriches and inspires.’ The highly professional and award-winning team develops well-researched content that is thoughtful, timely and impactful. As a current board member (and 30-year supporter, together with my husband), I believe WFAE is a critical gateway to an informed and thoughtful community, especially in these turbulent times.” —Laura Meyer Wellman

“Alexander Youth Network supports children facing complex behavioral health needs through trauma-informed care, community programs, and residential treatment. It helps kids and families create hope and healing.” —Jon Goldberg

“All In Swim Academy is a nonprofit founded by four high school swimmers who saw the need for swim lessons for underserved children in the Charlotte community. This past year, they partnered with Freedom School Partners to provide free swim lessons. The money they raise helps provide a facility space, hire lifeguards, cover insurance and provide participants with a towel, goggles and a swimsuit.” —Cambey Gallagher

“Angels and Sparrows Community Table is my favorite local charity. This program allows clients to feel empowered, rather than just receiving boxes of food, and help them find a sense of food security. Since its inception, they have provided 1.6 million meals, 700,000 bagged lunches for kids when school is not in session, 12,710 educational opportunities, and they are always creating new ways to help the community.” —Arlene Filkoff

“Ascend Non-Profit Solutions provides a ‘multiplier impact’ as their mission is to enable other non-profits to more effectively deliver upon their respective missions. Ascend provides critical administrative, operational, and enabling services to non-profits including; (1) below market rent office space, (2) finance and accounting services, (3) IT support/implementation/help desk/hosting, and (4) HR guidance and services including hiring, onboarding, training, etc. ” —Hunter Fleshood

“Baby Bundles provides essential newborn items to families around the Charlotte area. This year, we are set to distribute 4,000 bundles across Mecklenburg County — over $1.5 million worth of products. Beyond essentials, Baby Bundles also provides hope and dignity to local mothers and babies experiencing financial hardship.” —Jane Freeman

“I support Baby Bundles with my money, time and prayers. The nonprofit provides newborn essentials (onesies, blankets and more) to families in the Charlotte area. Baby Bundles in 2025 will deliver 4,000-plus bundles — 20,000 since its founding in 2010.” —Ken Garfield

“Baby Bundles celebrated 15 years of gifting hope in a bundle to new mothers and infants this year. At the end of this year, they will have distributed 20,000 bundles in 15 years, making a big impact on fragile new families in the Charlotte community by clothing babies for up to 18 months and providing books and developmental toys.” —Emily Harry

“Ballantyne Families Helping Neighbors In Need lifts up children and their families to help them overcome hardships. We bring the community together and are 100% volunteer-run. We are so dedicated to our mission: to inspire generosity, build lasting connections and empower the community to care for one another with dignity, compassion and love.” —Brooke Schonfeld

“I’m proud to give Camp Blue Skies a shout-out as we celebrate 15 years of bringing joy, connection and personal growth to adults with developmental disabilities. It’s more than a camp. It’s a true community. We are excited to expand in 2026 with two new camp sessions in South Carolina.” —Rob Aulebach

“Camp CARE (Cancer Ain’t Really the End) offers children with cancer—and their siblings—a true, week-long summer camp experience. Our summer camp, and other year-round activities, supports kids and their families through every stage of their treatment journey.” —Wanda Cloninger

“I have volunteered with CBHR since 2016 as a foster home and became a board member in 2025. This organization rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes unwanted basset hounds in NC/SC. It is a volunteer-based organization that relies on monthly donors and volunteers to keep the rescue mission going.” —Debbie Ayers

“CRRA represents the essence of the United States, or what it should be — welcoming asylum-seeking foreigners who come here not to take our jobs or welfare but to survive and build their own lives, while enriching the U.S. with their cultures and energies.” —George Bohmfalk

“I’m nominating Circle de Luz for its powerful, life-changing work supporting young Latinas in Charlotte through mentorship, holistic programming and scholarships. The organization builds confidence, expands opportunity, and provides support for the ‘mijas,’ their families and the broader Charlotte community.” —Kristen Moore

“I believe in its mission: to  provide assistance and advocacy for people in financial crisis, helping them move toward self-sufficiency. The vision  is to inspire our community to justice and generosity as we provide help, hope and understanding to people struggling with limited financial resources.” —Larry Keith

“Crisis Assistance Ministry provides assistance and advocacy for people in financial crisis, helping them move toward self-sufficiency. They perform checks to help assure need is real. And have multiple avenues to assist people in need.” —Scott Ellis

“For over 50 years, Crisis Assistance Ministry met vital basic needs keeping families housed, clothed and warm, serving more than a million Mecklenburg County residents.” —Caroline Myers

“They are Charlotte’s housing emergency room—keeping about 125 families a day, many with children, safely housed, utilities on, and clothed with dignity and at no cost. Their compassion has quietly held our community together for 50 years. I invest my time and resources to help sustain this lifeline.” —Stuart Proffitt

“Crisis Assistance Ministry is Charlotte’s housing emergency room, helping 125 families daily avoid eviction and utility shutoffs. Forty-one percent served are children. Through emergency aid, free essentials and coaching, they offer dignity and hope—because many neighbors are just one crisis away from losing stability.” —Rajan Merchant

“Families Forward Charlotte is committed to breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty that makes upward mobility difficult for many families in our community. Along the way, FFC empowers families with educational programs, life skills and individualized mentoring that all serve as building blocks for a successful and self-sustaining future.” —Sarah Price

“Families Forward Charlotte empowers families to overcome intergenerational poverty. Through mentorship, life-skills training, and financial assistance, participants gain the tools they need to be self-sufficient. Alumni of the program describe how their lives have changed dramatically through employment, secured housing and help with parenting.” —Anita Tefft

“Donor-funded support can change outcomes for animals who otherwise have nowhere else to turn. The dedicated staff and volunteers at Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control work tirelessly to save lives, and Friends of CMAS fuels their efforts. Your support directly provides care, resources and second chances — saving vulnerable animals when they need it most.” —Jennifer Diesa

“Furnish For Good provides basic household furniture and essentials to families transitioning back into permanent homes so that they can live a cozy daily life. They turn donated furniture into coordinated sets, letting clients choose what suits them—offering dignity, choice and a sense of ownership in their space.” —Kathy Hayes

“Distributes funds into local shelters and housing programs across the Charlotte region.” —Sarah Szczodrowski

“HOPEmatch helps those who don’t qualify for other assistance but still can’t make financial ends meet. Compassionate givers are matched with a family to provide Christmas gifts for the entire family, back to school supplies and other HOPE and help for one year. Lasting HOPE for the unseen and underserved in our community!” —Domna Gallion

“They serve a special and often hidden community, from youth until end of life. Amazing staff. Wonderful outcomes. Cared for clients.” —Joan Zimmerman

“I wholeheartedly support InReach, a 51-year-old organization that assists 1,300 persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, other special needs) to reach their personal goals for a satisfying, purposeful life.” — Sandy DuPuy

“LIFESPAN Services supports over 1,100 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities every day across 24 counties in North Carolina. We provide early childhood education, job training, inclusive employment, adult day programs and housing — all designed to help people live with independence, dignity and purpose.” —Mary Vickers-Koch

“This charity has been able to meet the needs of the community promptly, by providing extra mobile pantries and additional provisions to MCV students at CMS schools.” —Jessica Trosch

“They have been serving the Charlotte Community for as long as I can remember. I have worked with their Teen Court program when I was a juvenile court judge and it was transformative for many young people. Teen Court gets kids back on the right path and keeps them out of delinquency court.” —Lou Trosch Jr.

“This nonprofit consists of several organizations that have long-standing relationships in the community and track records of improving outcomes in multiple service areas. Lit Up is a new model for merging nonprofits to maximize impact through collective fundraising, coordinated administrative support and board management.” —Elizabeth Trosch

“Lift Up Carolina Human Services helps the needs of Charlotte families in many ways not just a food bank. It is a multi-providing help for so many people who desperately need help in Charlotte. It is in great need of donations due to the lack of federal grants given to the needy. It is a wonderful charity to support!” —Joyce Jeffers

“The work they do in Charlotte is invaluable!” —Cathie Trosch

“I have volunteered with Lift Up Carolinas (formerly Assistance League of Charlotte) for six years. We are an all-volunteer membership nonprofit organization. Proceeds from our popular thrift shop on Old Pineville Road, as well as from grants and monetary donations, allow us to provide clothing, food, mentoring and education for children and families in our community.” —Michele Hagan

“Imagine a situation where your child or a child you know is diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition. Make-A-Wish Central & Western NC provides hope and joy for local families during these challenging situations. Wishes spark light and give kids and their families the strength to fight their illnesses!” —Peter Smul

“The Central and Western North Carolina Chapter of Make-a-Wish brings hope, joy and transformative experiences to children facing critical illnesses. By granting wishes, they create lasting memories for families, providing emotional strength and inspiring communities to come together in support of these young, courageous individuals.” —Steve Baruch

“As a volunteer and a donor, I see firsthand the numerous ways in which MHC provides urgently needed crisis assistance, as well as other programs like Back to School and Holiday Support, to members of the Greater Matthews community.” —Robert Hesselbacher

“I support MiraVia because they don’t just talk about valuing life — they show up for moms. They welcome women in crisis, give them a safe home, practical help and genuine love. Watching them surround both mother and baby with dignity and hope inspires me to give.” —Andrew Dunn

“Mitey Riders is a therapeutic riding program for children with special needs. For over 25 years, Harry Swimmer and staff have run the program free for riders through donations and volunteers. Riding benefits children in their physical, social/emotional and cognitive needs in a fun, equine-assisted program.” —Ginger Spangler

“Food for the body provides fuel for the soul. Between their food home delivery and pantry programs, Nourish Up keeps thousands of people alive and well each day.” —Douglas Morrison

“My wife and I believe OurBridge is essential and effective at supporting children who are new to our community, by helping them feel welcome and supporting their language, education and emotional needs. This leads to success in school and belonging in our community — good for them and their families.” —Bill Aheron

“For over 20 years, Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center has coordinated the investigation, prosecution and treatment of the most severe cases of child abuse in Mecklenburg County. Last year, Pat’s Place served almost 1,000 children who were sexually abused, severely physically abused or who had witnessed a violent crime.” —Kim Cornelson

“Roof Above continues to serve the needs of the homeless by providing food, shelter, a place to do laundry, etc. Additionally, they work with those in need to educate, guide and assist them into more permanent housing.” —Peggy Peterson

“I support and serve on the Board at Sanctuary Counseling Group because they focus on providing health and healing to ALL. Everyone is welcome, and they meet individuals where they are at. They provide scholarships to those that need the support but don’t have the financial resources for it.” —Deanna Baumgardner

“What’s Next opens doors for young men from underserved communities by building life-long relationships to grow their levels of character, confidence and hope for the future. Thirty-five young men spend 25 hours a week at our facility eating meals, improving academics, learning life skills and gaining social capital.” —Bob Sherrill

“YWCA Central Carolinas supports women, children, and families on its Park Road campus. In addition, they are in the process of building affordable housing on the campus. The women and the families live on the campus for up to 18 months and receive help, with the idea of getting them into permanent housing. In addition, there are 10 locations around the city where children can come to get help with reading and encouragement after school.” —George Sawyer

“I’m delighted to support ZABS Place for the uplifting work they do in our community. ZABS Place is a non-profit thrift boutique in Matthews serving as a hub for young adults with special talents. They offer individualized training to empower and equip them with valuable job and life skills.” —Michael Solender

“I’m grateful for the Charlotte Rotary Club and the friendships it’s given me locally, in our district, and internationally. I donate to The Rotary Foundation because its focus on seven areas (from promoting peace to improving health and supporting communities) creates meaningful change around the world.” —Christine Cipriano

“They reach out to an often overlooked segment of our society: queer youth, ages 13-24. Whether a youth is looking for housing, therapy or opportunities to come together with members of their community, Time Out Youth is there. It was created in 1991 by a Charlotte native to serve the LGBTQ+ community.” —Dennis Grills

“The Umbrella Center serves over 10,000 people annually facing domestic violence, sexual abuse, child abuse, elder abuse and human trafficking, providing all services in one roof.” — Marcie Shealy