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January 29, 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


82 participants



OPENING REFLECTION


When we talk about loving our neighbors, we also have to love the neighborhood that neighbor emerges from and be concerned about the challenges that neighborhood faces. -- Terence Lester


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. ​​


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.




New Date: February 28th, 9am - 1pm, Location: Myers Park United Methodist


Rescheduled due to weather, if you were registerd for the January date you are still registered for the new date: Saturday, February 28 – 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.

Register for FREE vegetarian dinner: https://tinyurl.com/vwew4nwj 

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: 


Wednesday Night Zen: February 4 @ 7pm

Meditation for All: February 5 @ 7pm

Open Heart, Calm Mind: February 6 @ 3pm

Church Tour & Family Preservation: February 7 @ 4pm

Sunday, February 7 · 4:00 – 5:00pm, 2500 Rocky River Rd, Charlotte, NC 28213, USA

Event: Church Tour and Information Session

Time: 4:00-5:00PM

Contact: Nellie Johnston

Presbyterian & Pluralism Week at Queens University: Feb. 9-13

Ash Wednesday at First Presbyterian: February 18 @ 12pm

Community Iftar Dinner: February 20 @ 5:45pm

Friday, February 20 · 5:45 – 8:00pm, 1609 East 5th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA

Hosted by: Mosaic Muslim Community of Charlotte

Time: 5:45-8:00PM

Contact: Minister Shari Hill

Hosted at: Caldwell Presbyterian Church Email: info@mosaicofcharlotte.org  

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:

A total of 28 events across the county including a Bahá’í celebration 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.


Fridays, Share Shabbat is an invitation to reclaim Shabbat as a practice of radical welcome

Nicole Sidman, nsidman@templebethel.org

Rabbi Lexi Erdheim, rabbierdheim@templebethel.org

In a world that often pushes us to withdraw and in a moment when fear can feel like the safest response, we are choosing something different. We are choosing courage. We are choosing to open our doors


If you are interested in visiting a Shabbat service, please reach out to Nicole. You will be welcomed and clergy will be available to answer questions afterwards. If you would like to bring a larger group to learn more about Shabbat and about Judaism, a private tour of the synagogue can be arranged with a Q&A session afterwards. 200 people have already reached out and they would like to see that number grow.



Updated Event Details, Saturday, February 14, 1:00–5:00 PM

@ Hope Hall at Caldwell Presbyterian Church 1609 East 5th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204）


A quarter of the world’s 8.2 billion people will celebrate Chinese Lunar New Year, also called the Spring Festival, on Feb. 17. One of the most important holidays in Chinese culture, it was placed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2024. This celebration is sponsored by Charlotte Chinese Story Time, a nonprofit that brings families together through Chinese stories, songs and cultural activities. This festival gets a jump on the Year of the Horse with an afternoon filled with hands-on activities and crafts including lantern making, Chinese calligraphy, woodblock printing, traditional bead-working, Peking Opera mask-painting and more.


Kennedy Lecture

Women Leaders in the Early Jesus Movement Saturday, January 31, 9:30–11:30 AM

St. Peter's Catholic Church

A conversation with Sr. Barbara Reid, OP a leading feminist theologian, teacher and author and former president of Catholic Theological Union (CTU) in Chicago.




 

Building Digital Confidence

Contact: Ansley Romero, MPA (she,her,hers), Neighborhood Training & Development Program Coordinator, Housing & Neighborhood Services – Community Engagement, (980) 420-2015, ansley.romero@charlottenc.gov

The City of Charlotte’s Housing and Neighborhood Services and Smart Charlotte invite neighborhood and community leaders to join EmpowerTech: For Community Leaders, a free six-session series designed to strengthen digital skills and build confidence.


Each workshop includes a short presentation on key technology topics, followed by hands-on lab time, where participants will have dedicated time to practice new skills on a computer, receive guided support, and complete simple, real-life digital tasks.


Participants are welcome to attend any session of their choice. Those who participate in four or more sessions will earn the EmpowerTech Excellence Award, recognizing their commitment to personal growth, innovation, and effective community leadership.

Sessions: 

  • January 27 6pm-7:30pm | Digital Basics | Hickory Grove Library

  • February 24 6pm-7:30pm | Introduction to AI | TBD

  • March 24 6pm-7:30pm | Productivity Tools | TBD

  • April 28 6pm-7:30pm | Tech Tools for Better Meetings | TBD

  • May 26 6pm-7:30pm | File Management | Allegra Westbrook Regional Library

  • June 23 6pm-7:30pm | Streamlined Digital Communication | University City Regional Library

Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptops, and a dinner will be provided at each session. Register for the first session here: https://charlottenc.seamlessdocs.com/f/EmpowerTech



 



NONPROFIT UPDATES 


League of Women’s Voters: Civics 101 now open for registration.  

Want a clearer understanding of how local government works—and how residents can actually have a voice?Civics 101, offered by the League of Women Voters of Charlotte Mecklenburg, is a nonpartisan, in-depth learning experience designed to demystify local government and help residents engage confidently in civic life.


Over seven Wednesday evenings, participants hear directly from elected officials and public servants, explore how decisions are made at the city, county, school board, court, and state levels, and learn where community input truly matters.


Whether you’re new to Charlotte, newly engaged, or simply want to better understand how our local systems function, Civics 101 provides practical insight, meaningful connections, and tools you can use right away.


Program Details

  • Wednesdays, 6:00–8:30 P.M.

  • February 4 – March 18, 2026

  • Mecklenburg County Government Center, 600 E. 4th Street

  • Free parking

  • Class size limited to 70 participants


Registration is now open, and spots fill quickly. Questions? civics101@goleaguego.org 



The United Way  is celebrating its 95th anniversary! There will be events and opportunities to join the celebration throughout the year.  One way to get involved with the United Way is through their United Neighborhoods program. Launched in 2017, United Neighborhoods is changing the odds in disinvested communities through resident empowerment and partnerships with lead partner agencies in each community. Transformation and revitalization efforts begin with residents and a coalition of community stakeholders identifying their community’s needs. United Way works alongside the community’s quarterback to convene and provide funding to nonprofits whose services address the needs identified by residents.


Reach out to Jamese to imagine ways that your organization could connect with the United Neighborhoods effort and to ask any questions you have about the work.



Brennan Henderson, bhenderson@habitatCLTregion.org, Homebuyer Education Sr. Specialist, (980)859-5576

Money Matters is a proven financial literacy program that equips individuals with the knowledge and tools to:

  • Improve financial stability: Increase savings, reduce debt, and build credit.

  • Enhance employee engagement and retention: Boost morale and create a more supportive work environment.

  • Strengthen your community: Promote homeownership and contribute to economic growth.


The three engaging workshops are designed to help participants achieve their financial goals (e.g., debt reduction, closing cost assistance, etc.).


We are interested in putting together a faith-based cohort before July. We want to create more homeowners.  A good class size would be 40-60 so if you have congregants or people you work with you might be good candidates for this program, please reach out. Classes are currently taught at Myers Park Presbyterian but a large enough group centered elsewhere could meet at an alternative location.


Kristin Tokic, tokick@queens.edu

International House is creating a Faith-Based Resource Directory highlighting services for our newest Charlotteans. International House Charlotte - Faith-Based Directory Survey – Fill out form. These are essential partnerships to build and support across the community. It will be internal for now, as a reference but they may make it public in time. 


Legal Aid update

Hannah Guerrier, HannahG@legalaidnc.org, she/her/hers,  Managing Attorney, Charlotte Office, 704-594-8684 Direct, 704-971-0180 Fax 

They are a state-wide legal law firm for people facing a multitude of legal issues that threaten safety and stability. They have several new or important initiatives that can help connect their resources with your congregants or clients. 


•(LegalAid) JusticeHub

Over the past year, many of you told us about the challenges your clients faced when trying to reach Legal Aid of North Carolina; long hold times, limited hours, and frustration with our outdated intake process. We heard you, and we took action.

We're launching JusticeHub, a new shared resource, an Intake and Client Portal that will:

  • Be available 24/7, so people can apply for help at any time, on any device.

  • Quickly let applicants know if they’re eligible for our services.

  • Provide access to legal information, self-help tools, and community education resources, even for those we can’t represent.

  • Reduce the need to wait on hold, making the process faster and less stressful.


If the caller is asking about resources that Legal Aid does not supply, the Justice Hub will use AI to off-ramp applicants and direct them to other resources.


JusticeHub is part of our Modernizing Access Initiative, a multi-year effort funded in part by the State Employee Credit Union Foundation, aimed at making our services more accessible, efficient, and client-centered. If we can’t help someone who calls in, we can redirect them to the correct resource.


The ABA/NLADA Equal Justice Conference is taking place May 13-16, 2026 in Charlotte. If you’re not familiar with this program, it’s a large, annual justice-focused conference that brings together legal services and pro bono advocates from across the country to share and learn about developments and innovations in the civil legal services space. This is the first time the conference has been hosted in North Carolina, and we expect about 1,000 attendees. If anyone from a house of faith associated with MeckMIN might be interested in attending, you can learn more and register for EJC here: https://events.americanbar.org/event/cc48bb08-7a15-49f3-b76e-7e90ceb2bb56/summary

 

A couple of things to note:

  1. Early bird registration ends February 6.

  2. There is a discounted rate for group registrations (4+ attendees) if you want to register individuals from your group together.

  3. There are a limited number of scholarships available: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/probono_public_service/ejc/scholarships-ejc/?login

 

There are a ton of panel programs planned (featuring many of our legal services colleagues from across the state). Some topics include:

  • Justice Starts in Law School: Expanding Pro Bono Through Academic Partnerships

  • Emergency and Estate Planning for Vulnerable Communities

  • Bringing Home the Crisis in Legal Aid Funding

  • Centering Clients, Expanding Reach: Pro Bono in Rural Communities

  • ChatGPT Isn't Your Lawyer: Building AI Digital Literacy


Liz Clasen-Kelly from Roof Above is going to be the keynote speaker at the opening plenary on Thursday, May 14!

 

You can also support this work by sponsoring this important event. There are multiple ways to financially support the Equal Justice Conference, but one I'd highlight is the scholarship sponsor where the sponsor helps donate three conference registrations to public service lawyers from local and regional provider organizations (like Legal Aid of North Carolina, Pisgah Legal Services, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy and others).


• (LegalAid) SNAP Training

We invite you to join us for SNAP Training Series for Community Partners. This is a three-part series presented in collaboration by the Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, Legal Aid of North Carolina, and Pisgah Legal Services. Each training begins at 12:00pm. You must register for each session individually.


Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 - SNAP Work Requirements: What's Changing and What's Not - Register at: https://lnkd.in/euM7mYfx


Ginger Williams, williamsv@winthrop.edu 

Frontera de Cristo is a multi-faceted border ministry on the Arizona-Mexico border. On February 7th from 6-8 you are invited to join a fundraising dinner on behalf of Frontera de Cristo and the Carolina Immigrant Alliance. The dinner will be held at Oakland Presbyterian Church, next to Winthrop University and tickets cost $25. 


The program is going to be fantastic. A panel of immigrants will share their stories through a series of questions posed to them.  Past events of this nature have been very moving.  We hope you will register and join us.




Rose Marie Tresp, RTresp@sistersofmercy.org

The Sisters of Mercy are an international community of Roman Catholic women who dedicate their lives to the Gospel of Jesus and take vows of poverty, chastity, obedience and service. In addition to the three vows – poverty, chastity and obedience – that all Catholic sisters take, we, as Sisters of Mercy, also take a fourth vow of service.


With over 6,000 Sisters of Mercy around the world, we are part of a global network. The Belmont chapter sponsors and operates many ministries, some which may be unfamiliar to you. They include: 

  • Holy Angels: This community provides people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with successful programs and services-for infants to older adults- including residential living, day services, vocational opportunities, medical services, physical therapy, special education and habilitation services, creative arts, speech therapy, recreation, spiritual opportunities and family support services through social work.

  • Catherine’s House: Catherine’s House is designed to provide a safe and peaceful refuge for the women and children who find themselves in need of transitional housing.Each resident has her own private, locked bedroom that includes a dresser with a lamp, a bed with new linens and towels and a small closet. We offer a total of fifteen rooms, of which two will accommodate a family of four if needed. There are private bathrooms shared by our residents, as well as a laundry room with washer and dryer. Essential toiletries are available in addition to cleaning products needed to complete assigned chores. A fully stocked food pantry allows residents to “shop” for non-perishable foods which helps reduce a resident’s out of pocket expenses.

  • House of Mercy: What began as a hospice for those suffering from HIV/AIDS has become House of Mercy  which empowers those living with HIV or AIDS in their transformation toward a more independent life. 

  • Heritage Center: This resource is available to all. The archivists at Mercy Heritage Center welcome the opportunity to use our robust collection to help answer your research questions. Please provide us with information about your research topic and we will be happy to assist.

  • Sisters of Mercy North Carolina Legacy: Funded by the sale of Mercy Hospital, Sisters of Mercy offers grants to those serving the area once serviced by Mercy Hospital.   Grants are offered multiple times a year..  See site for details.

  • EVENT: Feb 14th discussion of Dilexit Te, the Love that Calls us Back.  “Dilexit Te” (“He loved you”) captures the heart of the Christian story: before we sought God, God sought us. Please come to this special “Valentine’s Day” offering by Catholic Charities.  Drawing on Pope Leo’s inaugural exhortation, we’ll explore the depth, dignity, and daily implications of being loved first by God. Through story, scripture, and practical practices, you will discover how to receive this love more deeply and live it more freely. “Dilexit Te” is not simply a phrase; it is the transforming truth at the center of the Christian life.


In addition, there is a convent for Sisters who need assisted living and and office of administration which is always available to act as a resource.  Come out and meet the Sisters and learn more about their work.



Audra Murray (She/Her), Program Director, Phone:704.680.6677 ext 004, Email: audram@namicharlotte.org

NAMI Charlotte provides advocacy, education, support and connections to resources so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build healthier lives. You can connect with their resources in a number of ways:

  • NAMI Navigator Charlotte is a program designed to ensure that no one in Mecklenburg County has to navigate mental health concerns alone. With a robust website featuring a mental health resource directory and a call line with compassionate trained Navigators, NAMI will provide tailored resource emails to callers, and then follow-up to make sure individuals are connecting with the resources they or their family member needs.To connect with resources visit www.naminavigatorcharlotte.org  or call the Navigator Call Line at 704-705-7004. To learn about the 1-hour training to become a Navigator Connector and best help others seeking mental health support, contact Andrea Towner. Watch Our Video

  • FaithNet - NAMI FaithNet is an interfaith resource network of NAMI members, friends, clergy and congregations of all faith traditions who wish to encourage faith communities who are welcoming and supportive of persons and families living with mental illness. This is a free presentation that lasts about 60 min.

  • Volunteering with NAMI - NAMI is always working with new volunteers to support/grow current programs (support groups, classes, presentations) as well as help to create additional programs (community events, culture-based programming, etc..)

  • Overall NAMI offerings - NAMI offers a variety of support groups, educational classes, presentations, and additional community programs on an often recurring basis, but also one-time programs. All NAMI programs are free to the public and led by volunteers. See the great slideshow for information about programs for caregivers, peers, parents, military families, those dealing with suicide loss and more.  They will be happy to present to any group that is interested in the programming


Latin American Coalition program GANAS - Great Achievement through Non-Traditional Academic Support

Nancy Apolinar, yecmanager@mylac.org

Becca Jackson, Youth Education Center Associate, 704-531-3849

GANAS is a culturally relevant mentorship program that fosters a genuine connection and helps students awaken their inner motivation, or “ganas,” to stay on a path of academic and lifelong success. The term “ganas” is difficult to translate directly from Spanish, but it encompasses the idea of giving one’s full effort and will to achieve something, similar to the phrase “give it your all.”


Are you ready to empower the next generation of multilingual leaders?   GANAS is seeking dedicated mentors to support students as they build confidence, resilience, and future-ready skills. We offer two mentorship opportunities: 

In-School Program  

  • March 5 – May 25 

  • Biweekly Mondays at 12-2 PM 

  • Garinger High School, 1100 Eastway Dr, Charlotte, NC 28205 

After-School Program  

  • March 16 – May 21  

  • Biweekly Thursdays at 6-8 PM 

  • Latin American Coalition, 4938 Central Ave # 1, Charlotte, NC 28205 


If you're ready to make an impact this spring, sign up (Spanish)  to become a mentor today!  https://forms.gle/QDTh8NR22ZwTvQAw9 (English)


There will be a session on February 10th to learn more about the program. Reach out to Nancy for more information.




Kamaria E. Lawrence, politikel77@gmail.com 

There are a large number of candidates seeking first term and re-election this Spring. To educate and prepare our voting population, Friendship Missionary Church is hosting two Candidate Forums on February 10th and 12th. Early voting begins February 12th and the Primary Election will be held March 3rd.

  • Tuesday, February 10 @ 6:00 - 8:30 pm - Candidates: Appellate and Trial Judges, Mecklenburg County Commission, Sheriff

  • Thursday, February 12 @ 6:00 - 8:30 pm - Candidates: United States Congress, North Carolina General Assembly

Please register.




CMPD and community relations dep City of Charlotte

Keep your eyes peeled for information about a Feb 24th event connecting faith leaders with the new CMPD chief.  Details to come. 


Centering Prayer Workshop 

Pr. Dick Little

The local chapter of Contemplative Outreach of Piedmont NC is offering an Introductory Program locally here in Charlotte for anyone interested in learning more about the contemplative prayer practice known as “Centering Prayer”.  


We recently had 19 Buddhist monks “Walking for Peace” through our state encouraging us to live more in the ‘present moment’ and to be in touch with that ‘peace’ that is in us already so we can share that peace with others  Thousands of people gathered to hear their message.  The monks challenged people of all faiths to realize that we will not have peace until there is peace within each of us. 


Centering prayer is a Christian discipline to deepen our relationship with God and learn to live from our ‘center’.  This workshop is designed to introduce this practice of 'praying in silence' and ‘resting in God.’


Registration is on line on the COPNC.org website (see link below).  Contact COPNC if you have any questions.  


We invite you to be part of McLeod’s first ever Jogger January: a cozy clothing drive for patients in need in our residential recovery program, many of whom arrive at our facility with only the clothing on their backs. Our clothing closet for patients is lacking loungewear: sweatshirts, sweatpants, socks, fleece cozy layers, comforting wardrobe items that you would want to wear should you ever find yourself in a 28-day residential recovery program for substance use disorder.  We really need cozy clothing or Amazon gift cards that can be used to buy some new ones. 


Thanks in advance for helping those doing the important work of recovery in Charlotte and across the state. 


Samwel Otachi, Phone: sotachi22@gmail.com +254 727098368, Email: info@empowereddreamsinit.co.ke 

Empowered Dreams Initiative (EDI) is a community  based organization  based in Nairobi, Kenya, dedicated to empowering vulnerable children, young mothers, and youth in Korogocho slums. We address challenges like poverty, hunger, limited education, and access to healthcare by offering community-driven programs that build resilience and sustainable change. 


They support kids in the slums of Nairobi through feeding programs, menstrual dignity programs and more. Check out what they are doing and please consider supporting them. 


You can also find them on social media at: LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/samwel-otachi-a9a441108 

Instagram: @edreamsinitiative.  


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

Our mission is 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; 28104, 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.


Women’s Impact Fund Lunch & Learn: The State of Women in Charlotte — One Year Later

When: Tuesday, February 3, from 12–1 pm.

In person: WFAE Center for Community Engagement, 301 E. 7th Street (parking available in the 7th Street deck and flat lot near 7th Street Market)

Virtual option: Zoom link for registered participants

Moderator: Jane Hoffmann, President, League of Women Voters

Panel highlights:

  • Economic Mobility: Dr. Emily Jensen Wheeler, CEO, Dress for Success Charlotte

  • Education: Tehia Starker-Glass and Janaka Bowman Lewis, UNC Charlotte

  • Women in Media: Ju-Don Marshall, President & CEO, WFAE

Bonus: Purse Drive benefiting Dress for Success Charlotte. New or gently used purses welcome.


If you can’t attend in person but want to donate, contact syounger@womensimpactfund.org 


GENERAL INFORMATION


“Duke Energy” SPAM messages

There are spam texts and emails circulating that purport to be from Duke Energy.  Please stay wary and do not click on these links. An example is below.


Severe Weather

Given the severe weather we just experienced and the weather storm predicted for this weekend, it may be handy to keep this list of resources readily available for neighbors, congregants and others:


HOW CAN I GET HELP?

  • For life-threatening emergencies, dial 9-1-1.For community resources like shelters, warming centers, and meals, dial 2-1-1.

  • For small tree removal, tarping, and moving debris to the curb, call Crisis Cleanup to be matched to volunteer crews at (844) 965-1386. Available nationwide. 

  • Disability & Disaster Hotline: Call/Text: +1 (800) 626-4959, Email: hotline@disasterstrategies.org 


HOW CAN I OFFER HELP?


To sign up for resources and meeting information from the NC Inclusive Disaster Recovery Network (NCIDR), please use this quick form: https://idr.powerappsportals.com/join.



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 

Apparo FREE cohort and grant programs

Attend an info session to find out more: 

Mission Possible Economic Opportunity Award open to Charlotte and Triangle- area nonprofits 

  • About: This award program is a pro bono technology and process improvement consulting opportunity and one nonprofit in the Charlotte market and the Triangle Area will receive a $10,000 grant plus up to $50,000 in consulting support. All participants benefit from up to 15 hours of pro bono strategy support.Program is limited to 20 Charlotte and 12 Triangle-area participants

  • Attend the information session on February 13, 2026, from 9-9:45 AM to find out more about Mission Possible powered by Accenture. 

AI Foundations Cohort sponsored by Bank of America - open to Charlotte nonprofits

  • About: This is an education and mentorship program designed to help increase your AI knowledge and put it to work. Program is limited to 10 nonprofit participants. 

  • Attend the information session on February 12th at 12:30 PM to learn more.

Cybersecurity Foundations Cohort in partnership with LexisNexis Risk Solutions - open to Atlanta nonprofits

  • About: An education and mentorship program designed to help you gain knowledge and skill needed for your organization's cybersecurity.

  • Attend the information session on February 27th at 11 AM.


Share Charlotte - grants from their compiled list: 

Thanks to our friends at Share Charlotte for compiling the following local grants. If you are not already a member of Share Charlotte, you may want to explore it. 

Inaugural Bertram Scott Leadership Award, Established by Equitable Foundation 

This new award recognizes a Charlotte-based nonprofit leader who exemplifies impact, innovation, collaboration, and inclusion, creating meaningful pathways to opportunity and economic mobility in their community. Learn more and apply by February 28. 

Grant Opportunities from ASC for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Creatives 

The Arts and Science Council is offering three major grant opportunities for artists, creatives, nonprofits, and neighborhood partners, including a Venue Access Grant.  Learn more. 

Carolina Career-Connected Learning RFP

The Leon Levine Foundation has just launched a Carolina Career-Connected Learning RFP, offering unrestricted grants up to $500,000.  They are looking for established programs serving Grades 7-14 that focus on:  Scalable work experiences (apprenticeships/internships)  Industry-recognized credentials  Direct job placement for first-gen students. Details here.


Regional 

Application deadline: February 27, 2026Grant amount: VariesGeographic scope: Communities where RBC Wealth Management operates (includes Charlotte) Target population: Community membersDescription: The RBC Foundation USA supports nonprofit organizations that improve the quality of life in the communities where RBC Wealth Management operates. Grants fund programs in three areas: workforce skills and mentorship, inclusive prosperity through basic needs and accessibility, and community-based environmental initiatives for a net-zero economy. Funding may include capital support for accessibility improvements. 


National 

Application deadline: March 2, 2026Grant amount: Up to $10,000Target population: Teens and young adultsDescription: The AE Foundation’s Community Grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and Canada that promote the mental health and well-being of young people. Funding is available for programs and projects that directly benefit teens and young adults and help build healthier futures. Community-based organizations with a strong local focus are encouraged to apply.


Application deadline: NoneGrant amount: $8,500–$400,000Target population: People with disabilities, veterans, people facing mental health or substance use challenges, and senior citizensDescription: The Milbank Foundation invests in programs that promote the full integration of people with disabilities into American life. Funding priorities span disability inclusion, veteran support, mental health, substance use prevention, aging in place, and healthcare reform. Nonprofit organizations advancing inclusive, patient-centered, and community-driven solutions are encouraged to apply.


Application deadline: February 26, 2026Grant amount: $30,000–$200,000Target population: Older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregiversDescription: Community Care Corps supports U.S. organizations in developing or expanding volunteer programs for older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers. Funded projects aim to increase access to community-based care, reduce unmet needs, and strengthen supports that promote independence and well-being. Grants can support initiatives that integrate family caregiver strategies, engage students or interns, expand virtual or low-tech access, and build volunteer skills.

Application deadline: February 20, 2026


Grant amount: $100,000–$1,000,000


Target population: University students and faculty


Description: Wake Forest University’s Educating Character Initiative (ECI) provides three-year Institutional Impact Grants to U.S. colleges and universities committed to fostering moral, civic, and intellectual character among faculty, staff, and students. These grants support institutions with existing frameworks ready to lead long-term character education initiatives. Funding can be used to create practical, adaptable resources that advance the field and align with each institution’s mission and culture.



PRAYER FOR LEADERS

Lee: I'm still stuck on some of those pictures that you shared with us of all this heavy weight you're carrying with you, say, to school and grappling with stopping, starting, whether to keep going, how to keep going. And I'm wondering, what would you identify as key elements that gave you in the end enough grit or enough persistence to keep on going rather than just lying down in despair or lying down in self-pity?


Terence: I would say community. And you'll notice that it's not a large community. I'm not talking about a room full of people. It's the strangers that became family. It's people who allowed me to borrow their courage and belief until I had my own. 





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





 
 
 

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