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January 15, 2025 | Faith, Community and Non-Profit Leader Check-In Meeting

Welcome to MeckMIN's Thursday Zoom Check-In Meetings




These meetings are open to anyone interested in supporting compassionate community response, especially in partnership with the most vulnerable among us. 


Meetings are held online every other Thursday from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Email LeDayne Polaski for Zoom access code. In addition, if you would like to receive notification when these minutes are posted, please email LeDayne and ask to be added to the Thursday meetings email list.



You can find the recording HERE


65 participants



OPENING REFLECTION


Our souls will not be soothed by what we achieve, how we look or all the hard work we do, even if we managed to make all the money in the world, we’d be left feeling empty for something our souls ache for, community. Our deepest being craves one another. We need to be connected to feel alive. 

― Rupi Kaur, Home Body


1. MECKMIN UPDATES 

PLEASE SHARE THESE EVENTS WITH YOUR NETWORK AND WITH ANYONE YOU THINK MIGHT BE PARTICULARLY INTERESTED – AND PLEASE CONSIDER COMING YOURSELF


THURSDAY MEETINGS 

We are meeting in 2026:

  • Jan 29

  • Feb 12

  • Feb 26

  • Mar 12

  • Mar 26

  • Apr 9

  • Apr 23

  • May 7

  • May 21

  • No meetings in June 

  • July 16

  • July 30 


BUILDING BRIDGES CAMPAIGN: 


HELP US KEEP THESE MEETINGS GOING: 

We know MeckMIN is important to you and that you value these meetings. Help us show our board and our community that this work matters and is worth the substantial investment of staff time and resources by supporting this work with a financial donation. If you feel moved, please mention this meeting in particular. There are several ways you can support us. We hope you will choose one, two or all:


Become an Affliate Member (for nonprofits and community groups)

If you become an affiliate member, you can publicize your work as often as you like throughout the year through our e-newsletter, website, Facebook and Instagram. You'll also get recognition of your membership on MeckMIN's website. Depending on your budget, affiliate memberships are as little as $100 a year and give you access to share the good work you are doing all year long. It's a true win-win! To become an affiliate member, use this link.


Houses of faith can also become members and receive the same benefits. ​​https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/rI28hPbVGOL9fhrJnX5XAw?t=1739915976


For $200 organizations can sponsor a specific general MeckMIN newsletter which goes out to almost 4,000 people and has a 53% open rate (well over average). As a sponsor you’ll have:

  1.  your logo at the top of the newsletter

  2.  an acknowledgement for your sponsorship

  3.  your content as the top article.


Only one sponsor will be accepted per newsletter, making your message highly noticeable. To sign up for a specific date, use this link.

You can also sponsor a Faith, Community and Nonprofit Leader newsletter for $100. This more targeted newsletter goes out to over 800 clergy, community leaders, and nonprofit leaders and has an open rate of 55% (well over average). As a newsletter sponsor, you will be thanked in the newsletter as a sponsor, have your logo featured, and be able to share an announcement as the featured article. Only one sponsor will be accepted per newsletter, making your message highly noticeable.  To sign up for a specific date, use this link. 


Again,  you can do one, two, or all. 


EMBROIDERY CLUB - FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH @7 PM @ Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church, 9704 Mallard Creek

The first session was January 8, 2026 and will continue on the first Thursday of every month. You are invited to join the group to work on embroidery projects chosen in advance that will come from a variety of embroidery traditions across the globe. Before each session you will get a supply list so you can come prepared.  

 

Beginners are welcome. There will be friendship and an opportunity to learn a new skill or expand and hone the skill you already have. 

 

If enough people participate, they may host a sale of their products in the future with the proceeds donated to a worthy cause. To join, please email sara.canakkus@gmail.com.




January 24th, 9am - 1pm, Location: Myers Park United Methodist


Saturday, January 24 – 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – FREE. Ever wondered how AI could support your work for the common good but find yourself unsure of how to even start? Join us for this FREE introduction led by former MeckMIN Board Member Pawanjit Singh. It is four hours and registration is required. We expect it to fill up so register soon. 

 

This type of training costs up to $1,500 – and thanks to Pawan’s generosity, we are offering it for FREE!





Nominations are open for the 2026 Community Leaders Awards Breakfast, and we want you to nominate amazing individuals or organizations building bridges every day.  Save the date for breakfast – May 7 at 7:30 a.m. 

·       Sydnor Thompson, Jr. Community Leader Award: for people/groups who embody the ideals of MeckMIN primarily through their professional endeavors

·       Bridge Builder Award: for people/groups who embody the ideals of MeckMIN primarily through their volunteer endeavors

Interfaith Youth Leader Award: For students (middle, high or college) whose efforts embody the values and ideals of MeckMIN




INTERFAITH HARMONY MONTH - Building Bridges in a Divided World


MeckMIN invites Mecklenburg's faith community to join in the celebration of Interfaith Harmony Month during February 2026 starting with our Kick-off Celebration February 3rd! Interfaith Harmony Month is a series of events across the month that promote and celebrate the values of interfaith bridgebuilding by providing wonderfully diverse opportunities for our communities to get to know one another in engaging ways. Check out the calendar for February on the MeckMIN site to find something that inspires you. ALL ARE WELCOME!!



EVERYONE is invited to join the celebration when we officially kick-off Interfaith Harmony Month on Tuesday, February 3.

Location: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3020 Hilliard Dr, Charlotte,

Featuring: Vegetarian dinner, County proclamation, Mini-service project, Interfaith Library





MeckMIN and JustServe will collaborate on a Service Day during Interfaith Harmony Month. Join us at Samaritan's Feet International as we Prepare and Pack Shoes


Where: Samaritan’s Feet, 4808 Chesapeake Dr, Charlotte

When: 8:45 am - 12:00 pm

Co-hosted by MeckMIN & JustServe.org


 


One of our favorite events of the year! High school youth from various faith traditions narrate their religion's values and traditions and share how they live their faith in a modern world. Though created for middle and high school youth, the event is open to people of all ages and includes time for conversation and snacks. 

When, February 15 from 5-7pm

Where: Myers Park United Methodist Church, 1501 Queens Rd, Charlotte, 

Host: MeckMIN

 




Interfaith Harmony Month events planned so far: 


Awaken Spiritual Community Worship Service: February 22

Sunday, February 22 · 4:30 – 5:30pm, 7300 Mallard Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262, USA

Event: Worship Service, Please feel welcome.

Time: 4:30-5:30PM

Contact: Minister Shari Hill

Phone: (704) 906-9770


Other events:

There is also an Iftar dinner planned, a Bahá’í celebration organized and many more. Go to Meckmin.org to find out all the amazing events.



OTHER INTERFAITH EVENTS


The views and opinions expressed below are those of the speakers/presenters and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the MeckMIN board or our member organizations.


January 18, Remembering MLK Jr.: Legacy of Courage and Inspiration Documentary and Discussion


This MLK weekend, in addition to all the wonderful celebrations taking place (list of some attached), we’re focusing our monthly Discourse2Action gathering to learn and reflect.


We’d love for you to join us this Sunday at the Charlotte Bahá’í Center to watch the documentary "Remembering MLK Jr.: Legacy of Courage and Inspiration." It’s a powerful look at the mechanics of the movement—not just the speeches, but the strategy and the sacrifice behind them.After the film, we want to shift gears and turn the conversation to us. The second half of our time we'll be consulting together to figure out:

What the Most Meaningful Next Steps are for this Series in 2026?


Come for the film, stay for the conversation. We really need your voices in the room.


When: Sunday, January 18 @ 2:00 PM

Where: Charlotte Bahá’í Center (3514 Marvin Rd)

Details: Everyone is Welcome. Light refreshments provided.








CITY OF CHARLOTTE UPDATES 

 

Mya.Alexander@charlottenc.gov, Youth Partnerships & Engagement Specialist,  Office of Youth Opportunities, she/her/hers, (980)-416-3005


The Mayor’s Youth Employment Program (MYEP) is gearing up to celebrate 40 years of providing meaningful career experiences to Charlotte youth. We serve young people ages 16–18 from CMS, home schools, and charter schools, partnering with private and nonprofit organizations to offer hands-on, paid work experiences.

We are currently recruiting registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit partners to host interns during the summer internship period from June 22–July 31. MYEP offers a grant that sponsors the intern’s experience, making participation accessible for eligible nonprofit organizations.


The first step in the process is completing the registration form:

Register here: https://wkf.ms/3KdgDI9

To be eligible as a new nonprofit partner, organizations must:

  • Be a registered 501(c)(3) organization

  • Have a brick-and-mortar location

  • Ensure interns complete 150 hours by the end of the internship

  • Provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) reflecting at least $1 million in coverage (as you will be working with youth)

  • Submit a job description outlining intern responsibilities


Please feel free to reach out with any questions. I'm happy to connect and share more details.

 



NONPROFIT UPDATES 


CAROLINA CARING 

Amanda Buck, Director of Community Engagement, 828.466.0466 x2134, 704.433.9271 (cell)

Carolina Caring has been a nonprofit for 46 years; we serve 12 counties. We serve individuals of all ages (prenatal to 100+ years old) who are facing a serious illness (along with those that love/support them) with programs to address a holistic perspective on quality of life (not just “what’s the matter with the body?” but also “what matters in to them in regards to body, mind, and spirit).

Carolina Caring has a large staff of professionals, including doctors, nurses, CNA’s, social workers, chaplains, bereavement counselors, and others who make serving our patients holistically possible.

The programs are designed to meet the needs of patients throughout their journey of serious illness (from first diagnosis to end-of-life support and care). These programs include:

  • House Calls (Home-Based Primary Care)

  • Palliative Medicine

  • Hospice Care

  • Cardinal Kids

  • Caregiver Solutions

  • Specialty Programs such as Advance Cardiac Care, Advance Lung Care, Dementia Care, and Veteran Care

  • Bereavement Support for anyone who has experienced a loss

We are honored to have volunteers serve alongside our professionals for our hospice patients.


Queen City News recently profiled the Carolina Caring Foundation. We offer Houses of Faith, nonprofits, and civic organizations free educational programs on a variety of topics. These include:

  • differences between hospice and palliative care

  • caregiving, 

  • grief, 

  • dementia, 

  • living a life with laughter and purpose


Reach out to Amanda for more information. 








ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS charlotteaa.org  (Spanish meetings too)


AA is a fellowship of people sharing experiences, strengths and their hopes for recovery from alcoholism. The only requirement to be a member is a desire to stop drinking.  They want to work in partnership with houses of faith. AA is not in conflict with any religion or philosophy; rather it is a spiritual but not a religious framework that allows members to consider a higher power of their choosing whether that is the group, nature, or a traditional religious entity. 


Let them support your work with congregants. Know your local contacts, identify members for referral, open your doors as a meeting space (they pay to rent) or attend and learn at an open meeting. Reach out if you’d like to offer your space.  See the powerpoint for more information. 


If you want AA to come and speak to your congregations or staff, please reach out to Cpc-pi@charlotteaa.org or just call 704-377-0244.




Sheila Laury, Executive Director, Office: 704.705-9797, Mobile: 704.605.4366, Director@fmcliteracy.org 

Dr. Ulysees L. Gilbert II, Board Chair, ulysees97@gmail.com 

Fill My Cup! Is dedicated to improving adult literacy across Mecklenburg County and beyond.  They provide free, accessible, high‑quality literacy instruction to adults seeking to strengthen reading, writing, and comprehension skills and help to remove barriers that prevent adults from achieving academic, personal, and professional goals. Their programs include:

  • 1:1 tutoring and small‑group instruction tailored to each learner’s needs

  • Safe, supportive learning environments across multiple community locations

  • Equipping  learners with practical literacy skills for Employment readiness, Daily living, Civic engagement, and Family support and intergenerational learning


They would love to collaborate with you and expand access even further. They serve: 

  • Adults ages 18+ seeking to improve reading and writing skills;

  • Learners facing educational gaps, life transitions, or limited access to traditional schooling

  • Individuals striving for better employment, independence, and confidence

  • Community members who want to contribute meaningfully to their families and neighborhoods


Please consider partnering in one or more of these ways:

  • Volunteer as a tutor or mentor

  • Provide space for tutoring sessions

  • Donate to support program expansion and learner resources

  • Partner with us to reach more adults in need

  • Share our mission within faith communities, civic groups, and workplaces



Aurora Palmer, Director of Programs & Services, 704-847-8383, Aurora@MatthewsHelpCenter.org 

The Matthews Help Center opened in 1979 and has a mission to provide short-term crisis financial assistance (rent, utilities and daycare) to our neighbors in the Greater Matthews community. We serve people living in six zip codes in and around Matthews; 28105, 28105, 28211, 28226, 28270, and 28079.


We also offer non-financial assistance. Anyone needing food or clothing  assistance should visit our site at Client Inquiry Form - Matthews Help Center It’s a very simple process to apply for food and clothing  assistance. Reach out to Aurora with any questions.



The 2026 Come to the Table Conference will take place on March 12-13 at Ardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC. The Conference is RAFI’s biennial gathering that brings together farmers, faith leaders, anti-hunger advocates, and community organizations to learn, share, and collaborate on building a more just and equitable food system. The 2026 conference theme is “Food & The Common Good,” which will explore what and who is affecting our food system.

 

 Early bird registration ends tomorrow 1/16 -  Food & The Common Good - RAFI



For those that are concerned about food insecurity and the risks to SNAP from recent policy changes, 1/15/26  is a National Day of Action. You can learn more at the Food Research and Action Center Home - Food Research & Action Center

 



Kristin Tokic,M.S./MBA/Paralegal (she/her), Asst. Dir. for International Student services, NAFSA Region VII Liaison KC-ISSS, Myrta Pulliam Center for International Education, 704.337.2382 | direct­­, tokick@queens.edu

January 24th is Grandparent’s Day at Children’s Theatre, at ImaginOn. This event is being offered in conjunction with special offers at the 7th Street Market. It will be a beautiful day for our youngest and oldest generations in Charlotte to bond. This event is part of our effort to join forces with Mecklenburg for the “Silver Wave” that is on the horizon.


The Children's Theatre of Charlotte is a nationally-recognized theatre company in Charlotte, North Carolina, founded in 1948. They produce professional theatre experiences for children and families through Mainstage productions, educational programs, and outreach initiatives, inspiring generations to explore the wonder of their world. While reaching more than 250,000 children, families, and educators annually with their programming, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte provides a space that cultivates creativity and gives children a sense of belonging. The Theatre takes pride in leading the storytellers of tomorrow, asking children to think and dream big and stay true to themselves. This philosophy, coupled with viewing the world through the lens of kindness, led the company to form the initiative, The Kindness Project. To learn more about the Theatre and its programs, visit ctcharlotte.org   Flyer: CTC_TVHC flyer.pdf



International House FAITH BASED DIRECTORY 

Kristin Tokic, M.S./MBA/Paralegal (she/her), Asst. Dir. for International Student services, NAFSA Region VII Liaison KC-ISSS, Myrta Pulliam Center for International Education, 704.337.2382 | direct­­, tokick@queens.edu

International House is creating a Faith-Based Resource Directory highlighting services for our newest Charlotteans. These are essential partnerships to build and support across the community.

Please fill out this form if you are a faith leader! 



  • Centralina Area Agency on Aging helps connect older adults to different programs and services (such as nutrition, transportation, in home aide services, etc.) in the community that helps support older adults age in place.

  • We serve as subject matter experts in other aging related topics such as long-term care assistance, elder abuse, advocacy, ageism awareness, and more.

  • One branch of Centralina Area Agency on Aging is the Health and Wellness team, which promotes evidence-based health workshops and leader recruitment in our region. These workshops are proven to work and hold such great value and benefits for those who participate.

  • My team would like members of MeckMin to consider a variety of engagement opportunities:

    • Participating or referring older adults to participate in workshops

    • Becoming a leader

    • Becoming an Ambassador

    • Sponsor (should they feel lead to do this)

  • For those who are interested, they can reach out to me at adawson@centralina.org


Centralina Area Agency on Aging is hosting a series of trainings in 2026 for individuals to become certified to lead evidence-based health programs.  These leader trainings will cover everything one would need to know to provide workshops in the community to help people adopt healthier habits, better self-manage their chronic conditions, build confidence in preventing falls, and more! 

 

Attached, you will find a flyer with information about our different programs, training dates, and registration links. Please feel free to share this information with others, as Centralina Area Agency on Aging's goal is to help as many individuals as possible in becoming healthier versions of themselves. If you are interested or can assist in identifying potential leaders, let us know! No healthcare experience is needed to be a leader - we only ask for your time and dedication to promote healthy living in the community. There are many other ways to connect but we are most eager for new ambassadors.




A BINDING TRUTH VIEWING

Lucy Crain, Associate Pastor of Outreach & Mission, First Presbyterian Church, p: 704.927.0279,  e: lcrain@firstpres-charlotte.org 

Two high school classmates from 1965—Jimmie, a Black football star, and De, a white student who respected him from afar—reunite 50 years later after a discovery linking their families changes their lives forever. This personal yet profoundly American story reveals the legacy of slavery, the complexities of race and privilege, and the power of truth in their journey toward healing.This powerful film was shown nationwide on PBS and  Jimmie and De will join us for conversation and questions following the viewing.  

First Presbyterian Church 

200 West Trade St

Sunday, 2/1 4:00 - 6:00pm.  

Free parking and great movie snacks

All ages welcome.  




GENERAL INFORMATION


Chica’s Market Returns January 17 from 12–5 PM. Join the community celebration at Spark Centro – 8801 E W.T. Harris Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28227.

Chelsea Hidalgo, reelly creative, chelseahidalgo1@gmail.com, 

Norma Zuniga, Dulce Dreams Cafe, infothecomunidad@gmail.com

Chicas Market CLT, the Queen City’s first and only market dedicated to uplifting Latina culture and entrepreneurship, will host a community celebration and market at Spark Centro in East Charlotte. This event is presented in collaboration with The Comunidad and centers on supporting local Latinx small businesses following recent targeted attacks and fear-driven disruptions that deeply impacted the Hispanic community and led to the cancellation of a previous market.


January is traditionally one of the slowest months for small businesses, making this event especially critical for vendors who rely on community support. “Better Together” is both a celebration and a call to action, inviting the Charlotte community to come together, uplift one another, and invest intentionally in local Latina and Latine-owned businesses.


This family-friendly event is FREE and open to the public. It will feature over 35 vendors offering artisanal goods, authentic Latin food and drinks, vintage finds, and handmade items. The event is led by a team of Latina entrepreneurs committed to uplifting, protecting, and uniting the local community.


Highlights:

  • FREE access to the market and associated activities

  • FREE parking

  • Latina-owned vendors featuring fashion, art, home goods, food, and more

  • Cultural activities, food trucks, music

  • Bouncy house for kids

  • Instagrammable moments and a strong sense of community!


Event Details:

 

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is reporting an increase in flu activity and flu-related deaths. You can help North Carolinians defend themselves against serious illness from flu, COVID and RSV by sharing our new bilingual Respiratory Illness Communications Toolkit.  

What’s it about: This toolkit was created for partners like you  and covers a range of topics, including: 

  • How the flu, COVID and RSV spread and their symptoms  

  • What preventive actions people can take 

  • Why vaccines are the best defense 

  • Where to get vaccinated, including low/no-cost options 

What is in it: Materials are ready for posting, printing, and distribution and include

  • Fact sheets

  • Social media graphics and post copy

  • Short public service announcements

  • Posters 

  • Rack cards. 


Why Now? This is an urgent need as respiratory viruses are already circulating, and transmission typically increases as more people gather indoors during colder months. Last season, North Carolina recorded the highest number of flu deaths since statewide reporting began in 2009. Together, we can help North Carolinians defend themselves and their families from these viruses. Why You? As a trusted voice, you are one of the most effective messengers of health information. Please share the toolkit materials with your networks and communities.


What do I do? Consider: 

  • Posting content on social media and websites 

  • Printing and displaying posters and rack cards in high-traffic locations 

  • Sharing fact sheets at events, clinics, or outreach activities 

  • Playing videos in waiting rooms, classrooms, or at community meetings 

  • Integrating messages into newsletters, listservs, or bulletins 

Visit MySpot.nc.gov to learn more and help spread the word about the Respiratory Illness Communications Toolkit








Funding Opportunities


Funding for Survivors of Disaster 


Renew NC Single Family Housing Repair and Rebuilding Program

Deadline to apply HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO JANUARY 31st, 2026. Learn more: https://renewnc.org/. Get free help with your application and other disaster legal issues from Pisgah Legal Services: https://www.pisgahlegal.org/helene.


NEW: Renew NC Small Rental Rehabilitation Program

Helping eligible rental property owners (landlords) repair, reconstruct, or replace small rental properties damaged by Helene. Learn more: Renew NC Small Rental Rehabilitation Program Toolkit.


N.C. Private Road and Bridge Reimbursement Program

If you paid out of pocket for storm access repairs, you may be eligible for reimbursement from the state. Funds limited — apply soon.


Now serving people outside of Yancey County, with grant funding from the Governor Josh Stein’s Recovery Office for Western NC. Apply for help.


Land and Waterway Restoration

Debris clearing and restoration on private property. Apply for help.


Global Empowerment Mission: Helene Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

The Rental Assistance Program (RAP) provides up to three months of rent support to individuals and families affected by Hurricane Helene. Assistance can help cover move-in costs for a new lease or support those behind on rent to avoid eviction. Click here to view the flyer and additional information.


Find your local long-term recovery group

These community-based coalitions often have “unmet needs” committees that help survivors get connected to resources, especially when help from traditional, immediate sources run out. Learn more: https://www.ncvoad.org/coads-ltrgs/. 


Grist: 

 


Funding for Organizations and Communities Preventing and Responding to Disasters

This grant program provides direct investment in community-based efforts that address the triple bottom line (environmental stewardship, social justice, and sustainable economic development benefits). Applications open January 5, 2026 and are due February 13, 2026. Learn more: https://legacyworksgroup.com/cnef.

 

The program prioritizes funding for communities that include historically disinvested populations at increased risk to climate-related impacts. It is open to US-based project teams composed of a climate adaptation practitioner and representatives from a local or regional government entity and a community-based organization. Deadline: March 12, 2026. Learn more: https://climatesmartcommunity.org/funding/. 

 

The Allen Family Philanthropies has issued a call to non-profit organizations across the U.S. that are working in the Natural Climate Solutions (NCS) space. The foundation is particularly interested in U.S.-based projects consisting of diverse teams of scientists, practitioners, and key stakeholders (e.g., community members, landowners, state land managers, etc.) to co-develop, test, and deploy science and technology solutions addressing barriers to NCS implementation. Learn more. 


Footprint Project: Microgrids for Long Term Recovery and Resilience in North Carolina

The Footprint Project has a mission to provide cleaner energy for communities in crisis. 

 

NC Department of Environmental Quality: Western NC Recovery Grants Program to support communities harmed by Hurricane Helene

The program provides free-of-charge grant writing support to rural towns, counties and regions (and nonprofits working with a local government) to increase federal and state funding for projects within Western North Carolina, offering a comprehensive approach to long-term financial planning through grant strategies that leverage state funds. Learn more: https://www.deq.nc.gov/news/key-issues/storm-season/hurricane-helene-response/western-nc-recovery-grants-program.

 

NC Department of Environmental Quality: Application open year-round for Hurricane Helene-related funds for drinking water, wastewater and septic systems

The funding is available for State Revolving Fund (SRF)-eligible drinking water and clean water (wastewater) projects. Additionally, funding is available for projects eligible for CWSRF Decentralized Wastewater Systems (septic systems) funding in Helene-affected areas. Click HERE for more information.

 

EDA will be working to support locally driven economic recovery and disaster resilience efforts in communities affected by FEMA-declared disasters in 2023 and 2024. Learn more: https://www.eda.gov/strategic-initiatives/disaster-recovery/supplemental/2025. If you are interested in getting support with your application, please fill out THIS FORM.

 

Southern Vision Alliance - Block and Build: Rapid Response Grant

The Block and Build Rapid Response and Defense Fund provides immediate, flexible resources to frontline organizations in the Southeast as they face rising authoritarian threats and incidents of hate or violence. This fund supports organizations in responding quickly to crises in ways that center the voices and leadership of directly impacted individuals.Small monthly grants of $500 – $3,000. Funding decisions will resume in 2026. Learn more: https://southernvision.org/blockgrant/.

 

NEW: Carolina Community Impact: InSPIRe—the Insurance Supplement Program for Inclusive Recovery

A pilot grant initiative supporting small businesses in Western NC impacted by Hurricane Helene. Learn more: https://ccifund.org/inspire

 

RESOURCES FOR NONPROFITS



GRANTS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 

Local 

Mecklenburg County now has a  Community Health Grants page which shares grant opportunities with Mecklenburg County Public Health community partners. Once someone clicks the link, they will be prompted to share an email address, so every visitor can be sent updates when new grants are added. The current schedule calls for sharing these resources quarterly. 


Juvenile Crime Prevention Council Funding for Programs TargetingAt-Risk and Delinquent Youth

The Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) is now accepting applications for funding of programs that serve at-risk and delinquent youth, or those under the supervision of juvenile court in Mecklenburg County. More than $2 million has been allocated for fiscal year 2026-2027 (July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027). 


Criminal Justice Services supports the JCPC in its mission to address gaps in youth services by promoting prevention, intervention, treatment, and aftercare strategies and programs which strengthen families and support community safety. Over the years, the Mecklenburg County JCPC has funded programs that provide mentoring, vocational skill building, behavioral health supports, community service and more.

 

Deadline: Feb. 13.  

Required:  Attendance at a pre-bid information session on 1/28 from 10-noon OR 1/28 from 1-3. 

Where: Both mandatory sessions will be held at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, 2nd Floor, Room 267, 600 East 4th Street, Charlotte, NC 28208.  


Regional  

Stantec: Community Engagement Funding

Deadline: Rolling-basis

Award Amount/Ceiling: Unspecified amount

Description: Stantec invests in organizations that share its commitment to creating

lasting, meaningful change through four core areas: arts, education, environment, and

health and wellness. Funding supports visual and performing arts organizations,

museums, art education programs, symphonies, and public media; youth scholarships

and educational programs with a focus on design disciplines; programs promoting

sustainable development, environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, air quality,

and climate change; and health charities, hospitals, and health centers. Eligible

applicants are organizations whose initiatives are located in areas where Stantec

operates or serve those communities, with preference given to initiatives in operation

areas including Asheville, Charlotte, Raleigh, and Winston-Salem in North Carolina.


National 

Nathan Cummings Foundation (NCF)

NCF is now welcoming proposals for partnerships via our Letters of Inquiry (LOI) portals year-round. “We want to learn from, work with, and support organizations that share our commitment to advancing racial, economic, and environmental justice (REEJ).” Learn more: https://nathancummings.org/become-a-partner/. 


AARP 2026 Community Challenge

Funding for “quick-action projects that make communities more livable and spark long-term change.” Deadline: March 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM. Learn more: 


NBA Foundation Grants

Deadline: March 14, 2026

Award Amount/Ceiling: Average grant size is $250,000 (typically 10–12% of an

organization’s budget)

Description: The NBA Foundation funds local and national nonprofit organizations that

support under-resourced youth ages 14–24 by promoting pathways from school to

meaningful careers. Grants focus on workforce development, job readiness, skill-

building, job placement, and career advancement, with an emphasis on projects that

equip young people with the tools and opportunities needed to achieve long-term

professional success. Funding supports defined, impactful initiatives that drive

measurable change within communities served by NBA markets. Eligible applicants

must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations (or T3010 organizations in Canada), submit

recent IRS Form 990 documentation, serve a minimum of 25 youth annually, operate in

a market with an NBA team, and provide required budget and board information.


Capital Funding to Strengthen Nonprofit Infrastructure

Application deadline: February 1, 2026Grant amount: $10,000–$250,000Target population: General populationDescription: The Bolger Foundation provides capital funding to U.S. nonprofit organizations working to strengthen their infrastructure and better serve their communities. Grants specifically support projects that improve or expand tangible property owned by the applicant. Eligible capital efforts include constructing or enlarging facilities, upgrading buildings or grounds, and purchasing long-lasting equipment such as technology or specialized tools. The Foundation aims to empower nonprofits by investing in the physical resources they need to advance their mission.


Fighting Hunger in Communities Across the U.S.

Application deadline: January 31, 2026

Grant amount: Up to $10,000

Target population: People facing food insecurity


Description: The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that are working to reduce hunger in their communities. Funding is available for programs that offer direct food assistance, rescue surplus food for redistribution, or provide nutrition education connected to food access. The Foundation aims to strengthen community-based hunger relief efforts and improve access to healthy food for people facing food insecurity.



PRAYER FOR LEADERS

Thanks to Lindsay Bridges of the Charlotte Center for Mindfulness for sharing this: 

 

"Just Like Me" practice from Ram Dass.  Bring a "neutral" person to mind, someone you can visualize but don't actually know and reflect:


This person has a body and a mind, just like me.

This person has feelings, emotions, and thoughts, just like me.

This person has experienced physical and emotional pain and suffering, just like me.

This person has at some time been sad, disappointed, angry, or hurt, just like me.

This person has felt unworthy or inadequate, just like me.

This person worries and is frightened sometimes, just like me.

This person will die, just like me.This person has longed for friendship, just like me.

This person is learning about life, just like me.

This person wants to be caring and kind to others, just like me.

This person wants to be content with what life has given them, just like me.

This person wishes to be free from pain and suffering, just like me.

This person wishes to be safe and healthy, just like me.

This person wishes to be happy, just like me.

This person wishes to be loved, just like me.


Now, allow wishes for well-being to arise:

I wish this person to have the strength, resources, and social support they need to navigate the difficulties in life with ease.

I wish this person to be free from pain and suffering.

I wish this person to be peaceful and happy.

I wish this person to be loved . . . because this person is a fellow human being, just like me.

— Ram Dass, Mirabai Bush in Walking Each Other Home 




NEXT MEETING: Two weeks from today - Thursday at 11 AM  





 
 
 

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