Giving Tuesday in Charlotte: A Celebration of Kindness!
Good morning, Charlotte! Today is a joyful Tuesday, December 3, 2024, and it’s not just any Tuesday; it’s Giving Tuesday! A day celebrated globally, Giving Tuesday encourages all of us to show our love and support for the causes that matter most to us. Here in our beloved city, there’s no shortage of amazing local charities striving to make a positive impact in our community.
In the spirit of giving, we’re thrilled to share the second part of our annual Charity Shout-Out. Last month, we asked our vibrant community of members to tell us about the local charities they admire the most. This year, our fantastic readers contributed insights on 57 different charities! To make it easier for you to find a cause that resonates, we’ve categorized them. Yesterday, we highlighted organizations focusing on arts, community development, education, environmental conservation, and healthcare. Today, let’s dive into the amazing charities that are all about human services, human rights, and social advocacy.
Access2Success
Based in Davidson, Access2Success aims to break the cycle of poverty in Nigeria through education, career development, and community empowerment. Founded by a Davidson College grad, this organization operates an after-school academy for over 250 students, awards scholarships, and supports local entrepreneurs. What a wonderful way to uplift communities!
Assistance League of Charlotte
If you’re looking for an organization that truly gives back, Assistance League of Charlotte is the place! Their incredible volunteers provide food, clothing, mentoring, and education opportunities for those in need. They’re committed to supporting students through school uniforms, food pantries, and even a college scholarship program. Their mission is inspiring!
Baby Bundles
Celebrating 15 years in Charlotte, Baby Bundles delivers essential items to moms and babies in need. Each bundle acts as a little shower in a bag, helping families feel hope and support during tough times. Last year alone, they provided over 3,000 individual bundles to families. Talk about making a difference!
Bunk 57 Ministries
Bunk 57 is dedicated to mentoring teens, nurturing resilience, and helping those who were formerly incarcerated reintegrate into society. They provide life skills needed for a successful future and strive to create a safer, more vibrant community. Their work truly uplifts our youth!
Charlotte Clubhouse
For adults living with mental illness, Charlotte Clubhouse offers a safe and supportive space. They follow the Clubhouse International model, allowing members to develop job skills, pursue meaningful work or education, and connect with resources that enhance their quality of life. It’s all about encouraging independence and growth!
Charlotte Moms Foundation
The Charlotte Moms Foundation is on a mission to bring joy to families during the holidays by meeting real needs in the community. With a completely volunteer team, every donated dollar goes directly towards helping local moms and their children feel valued and supported.
Dress for Success Charlotte
Empowering women is what Dress for Success Charlotte does best! Since its inception, they’ve helped over 12,000 women achieve economic independence by providing professional attire and workforce development programs. They believe that every woman deserves the resources to reach her full potential.
Emerald School of Excellence
The Emerald School of Excellence serves as a nurturing recovery high school, providing crucial support to students’ educational, social, and mental health needs. A safe and loving environment allows students to thrive and overcome challenges—something we can all appreciate!
Feeding Charlotte
Food scarcity is a pressing issue, but Feeding Charlotte is tackling this head-on! They rescue fresh food and ensure it reaches those in need, all while minimizing waste. Their work is essential to creating a food-secure community.
Friendship Circle
Friendship Circle focuses on finding companionship and happiness for children and young adults with special needs. Through various programs, they celebrate individuality and help participants build lasting friendships—an invaluable aspect of growing up!
Furnish For Good
Furnish For Good repurposes donated furniture to help those in need. Providing hope, dignity, and the chance for a fresh start, they work with numerous agencies across Mecklenburg County. A cozy home can truly transform lives!
Gigi’s Playhouse Charlotte
Providing free programs for those with Down syndrome, Gigi’s Playhouse Charlotte ensures everyone feels belonging. It’s a space for education, support, and empowerment for individuals and families alike.
Good Friends Charlotte
Founded by a group of caring friends, Good Friends Charlotte has raised over $6.2 million, aiding 3,000 families each year in collaboration with 40 community partners. Their annual Gather & Give Luncheon is just around the corner!
Hearts United for Good Charlotte (HUG)
HUG Charlotte is a hands-on organization dedicated to connecting with those in need. They actively listen and provide meaningful support based on individuals’ unique circumstances, showcasing true compassion.
InReach Inc.
Marking 50 years of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, InReach focuses on empowering people to achieve their personal goals, offering community activities and safe housing options to enhance their quality of life.
Matthews Help Center
Providing relief to families in financial crisis, the Matthews Help Center assisted over 2,600 households last year, with community support and revenue from their thrift store, Backporch Treasures. They show us that compassion really does go a long way!
MiraVia
As a lifeline for young women facing unexpected pregnancies, MiraVia offers vital support and resources, ensuring that these women have hope and the assistance they need. Their work is a true testament to compassion!
NourishUp
More than just a food bank, NourishUp acts as a nutrition educator and a friendly face for meal delivery. They are committed to providing local resources while helping to create healthy communities.
PFLAG Charlotte
The goal of PFLAG Charlotte is to create a caring and affirming environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. The priceless support, education, and advocacy they provide strive to build a more inclusive world.
Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy
This amazing organization works hard to ensure access to justice for all. The Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy provides vital services to protect people’s safety and rights, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those served.
Friends of CMAS
For pet lovers, Friends of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Shelter is essential in providing services such as vaccines and spay/neuter clinics. Their work strengthens animal welfare in our community!
Foster Village Charlotte
Support, education, and advocacy for foster parents are the main focuses of Foster Village Charlotte. Their belief in strengthening families is pivotal in breaking childhood adversity cycles.
Health Care Justice • NC
A retired physician advocates for universal healthcare with Health Care Justice • NC. They work tirelessly to bridge the gap in our healthcare system and ensure all Americans have access to healthcare, a cause that couldn’t be more important!
So, as we bask in the spirit of giving, consider checking out these fabulous charities. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, your involvement can make a massive impact. Let’s give back to our beautiful Charlotte community this Giving Tuesday!
