July 16, 2026 | Faith, Community and Non-Profit Leader Check-In Meeting
- meckmin
- 11 hours ago
- 16 min read
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
56 participants
OPENING REFLECTION
Selected Passage from Today’s Rumis by M.Fethullah Gulen
When faced with unpleasant attitudes or behaviors, we’ve urged ourselves toward patience and tolerance. We haven’t magnified minor issues or turned differences into sources of conflict. We’ve refrained from confrontation… and resisted creating new ones. We’ve seen this approach—not reacting with hostility, but rather embracing understanding—as a vital path to building reconciliation and mutual respect across social divides.
Problems that could not be resolved through force or fury slowly began to unravel through love. Rusted locks on hearts that harshness could never open began to yield to gentleness.
Human beings… cannot remain indifferent to sincere acts of goodness. Throughout history and even today, efforts rooted in love and tolerance have always been worthy and noble pursuits in the eyes of humanity.
To embrace everyone purely on the basis of shared humanity, to open one’s heart without discrimination… to demonstrate that the essence of existence is rooted in love—what harm could there possibly be in any of that?
In the face of such moments… it is only natural that one’s inner strength may sometimes be shaken. We may find ourselves asking, “Are we doing something wrong?”
But in reality, there is nothing wrong.
None of this should discourage anyone or weaken their inner strength. On the contrary, these good efforts must continue—and grow—by being multiplied.
In places where there is tension, we take steps inspired by love, dialogue, human embrace, and positive action.
Our goal is clear: to win hearts… by helping build a world of shared peace and harmony.
We have made a vow: we will not see anyone as “the other.” Even toward those who see us that way, we will keep our arms open.
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:
July 30
August 13
August 27
Sept 10
Sept 24
October 8
October 22
November 5
November 19
December 3
December 17
No meeting December 31
Consider how MeckMIN can ease the way. We are excited to offer schools a dynamic way to expand understanding of different faith traditions.Through two interactive interfaith panels—one designed for students in grades 6–12 and another for teachers and administrators at all levels—we provide opportunities to learn directly from people who practice these traditions and to build greater understanding across communities.
Help us expand religious literacy in our schools by sharing these flyers with educators and administrators in your network.If you would like to host an interfaith panel, please contact LeDayne at ledayne@meckmin.org
Cultural Displays at Friendsgiving!
MeckMIN Interfaith Friendsgiving 2026 Call for Cultural Display Tables
Looking for an independent financial review recommendation Independent review – does anyone work with an accountant (likely an independent person or small firm) who could do a nonprofit independent financial review for a reasonable price? Please contact
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.
RoofAbove
Jeremy Hall | Chief Philanthropy Officer (CPO)
945 North College Street | Charlotte, NC 28206
Office: 704-334-3187 ext. 1053
Mobile: 704-226-8117 JHall@roofabove.org
Roof Above powers through roof collapse |
Roof Above’s Day Center, just north of Uptown, suffered a “catastrophic” roof collapse during last Tuesday’s overnight storms, leaving Charlotte’s centerpiece homeless services center with mud-caked floors and the summer sun pouring in from overhead, as WFAE reported. |
Roof Above’s chief philanthropy officer, Jeremy Hall, said in an email to donors on Thursday that the team worked throughout the night, and was operating by 10 a.m., less than nine hours after the collapse. By 11:15 a.m., they were serving lunch as normal — barbecue, cole slaw, watermelon — and chef Sandra Smith said, “We’ve been serving lunch for 30 years, and this isn’t going to stop us,” according to Hall’s email. |
The day services building, which provides laundry services and showers and mail for people experiencing homelessness, will likely be closed for six months and cost at least $5 million to repair and renovate, the email said. |
Email: philanthropy@roofabove.org to let us know you would like to sponsor a lunch or another service. We will get back to you as quickly as possible!
OTHER FAITH/INTERFAITH OPPORTUNITIES
Raksha Bandhan from Brahma Kumaris Charlotte
Raksha Bandhan on Aug 2nd 4 -6 PM
Nira Andharia <niraneel13@gmail.com>
On behalf of Brahma Kumaris Charlotte, I would like to invite you to celebrate Raksha Bandhan on Aug 2nd 4 -6 PM at our center where you visited in February. At Brahma Kumaris, this festival signifies a sacred thread that binds us in God’s love and fosters a sense of protection, self-transformation, and elevated thought.We will be officially celebrating the weekend of August 1–2, 2026, and are honored to host Sister Gita, a senior Raj Yoga teacher from Los Angeles, for this occasion.
Program Includes: • Spiritual Significance of Raksha Bandhan• Rakhi Tying Ceremony by Sister Gita • Experiential Meditation, Uplifting Conversations and more.
• Light refreshments will be served.
Details: Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026 Time: 4:00 - 6:00 PM Venue: Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center 8145 Ardrey Kell Road, Suite 207, Charlotte, NC 28262
Registration Link:
Charlotte Pride Interfaith Service
This year's Charlotte Pride Interfaith Service is coming up on August 9th at 4 p.m. at Holy Trinity.
Theme - Many Paths, One Affirmation – Reception afterwards
Covenant For Our Future - Greenfaith
Amy Brooks <amy@greenfaith.org>
Next week, people of faith from across the country will come together to prepare for the Covenant for Our Future Week of Action (August 23–30)—and we hope you'll be with us.
Join GreenFaith on Tuesday, July 21 at 5:00PM PT / 8:00 PM ET to learn how faith communities can take meaningful action for climate justice, immigrant rights, economic dignity, healthcare, racial justice, and democracy.
During the call, you'll hear from GreenFaith leaders and coalition partners about the opportunities to participate during the Week of Action and how your congregation or community can get involved. Whether you're planning to organize an event or simply looking for ways to faithfully take action, this call will provide the resources and inspiration you need.
Together, we'll explore ways to:
Share the Covenant with your congregation or community.
Advocate with your Members of Congress for policies that protect people and the planet.
Host educational events that connect faith and justice.
Participate in public witness through prayer, vigils, marches, and other acts of faithful solidarity.
Our faith calls us to care for one another and for Creation. At a time when so many communities are facing injustice, our collective witness matters more than ever.
We hope you'll join us next Tuesday as we prepare for a powerful Week of Action.
In solidarity,
Rev. Amy Brooks ParadiseGreenFaith US, Organizing Coordinator
PS: If you haven’t made your affirmation of the Covenant for Our Future yet, now’s your chance! You can do so here.
MECK COUNTY UPDATES
Partnering With Faith Leaders to Strengthen Children, Families, and Our Community
MECK COUNTY UPDATES
Meck HOMES: property tax relief program applications are live! Up to $650 per eligible household.
CITY OF CHARLOTTE UPDATES
Street Tree Planting Program
Street Tree planting program: CleanAIRE NC is currently partnering with the City of Charlotte’s Tree Management team on a Street Tree Planting Program aimed at increasing awareness of free street tree planting opportunities. As part of this effort, they are focusing on neighborhoods that experience significant heat impacts and would like to help connect residents with available tree-planting resources. Request a tree here.
NONPROFIT UPDATES
Elon University Physician Assistant Program
Elon University is developing a new Physician Assistant Studies Program at its Charlotte campus, designed to prepare future physician assistants to provide compassionate, high-quality care while understanding the unique health and social needs of the communities they serve. As part of the program, students will engage in community-based learning during their classroom education, visiting nonprofit organizations throughout the Charlotte area to participate in service opportunities, conduct community needs assessments, and learn about local resources that support the health and well-being of residents.
The program is seeking partnerships with nonprofit organizations interested in hosting students for service-learning experiences and community engagement activities. These partnerships will help future healthcare providers better understand the social determinants of health and connect patients with valuable community resources.
Organizations interested in learning more or exploring a partnership are encouraged to contact:
Dr. Lavette Shirley, Assistant Program Director
Email: lshirley4@elon.edu Elon University Charlotte
Office: 980-276-1106
Additional information is available at www.elon.edu/PA-CLT.
Centralina Area Agency on Aging
The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model is a Medicare program designed to support individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. The program provides comprehensive care coordination, caregiver education and support, assistance navigating community resources, and respite services to help caregivers maintain their well-being while caring for a loved one. The goal is to improve quality of life for both individuals with dementia and their caregivers while helping participants remain safely in their homes and communities for as long as possible.
I look forward to speaking with your group on Thursday and sharing more about how GUIDE can support families affected by dementia.
Interested individuals may contact Austin Caton at Centralina to discuss the GUIDE program by calling 1-800-508-5777 or by submitting an interest form https://www.cognitoforms.com/CentralinaRegionalCouncil4/GUIDEInterestForm
Austin Caton; MS; CDP; MHP; AIRS Aging Program Coordinator, GUIDE Care Navigator
704-348-2708 (C) | 704-879-2398 (F) | acaton@centralina.org
10735 David Taylor Drive, Suite 250 | Charlotte, NC 28262 www.centralina.org | www.centralinaaging.org
Matthews Help Center
Aurora Palmer
Aurora@MatthewsHelpCenter.org Director of Programs & Services @ the Matthews Help Center.
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.
I'd be happy to answer your questions.
You can reach me at 704-847-8383 or Aurora@MatthewsHelpCenter.org
The Park CDC
Danyae Thomas at danyae@theparkcdc.org
The Park CDC shared updates on several initiatives focused on strengthening communities through affordable housing, healthy living, and economic mobility. A new initiative launching this September is a series of collaborative, multigenerational economic mobility sessions to be held at West Charlotte High School, designed to support individuals and families in building long-term financial stability and opportunity.
Organizations and community members interested in learning more about The Park CDC's work or exploring opportunities to collaborate are encouraged to connect with
RÜTS (Rising Up Through Support)
RUTS Foundation (Rising Up Through Support) shared plans for its annual Back-to-School Community Event on Sunday, August 9, an event dedicated to connecting families with resources, community organizations, and one another. Building on last year's success of serving more than 1,500 community members and distributing over 750 backpacks, the Foundation hopes to welcome up to 3,000 attendees this year and provide 1,000 backpacks, along with health resources, children's activities, food, music, and information from more than 20 community organizations.
RUTS Foundation is currently seeking volunteers, sponsors, school supply donations, collection drive hosts, and community partners to help make the event a success. A donation of $25 sponsors one backpack for a local student. Those interested in volunteering or supporting the event can sign up through the Foundation's volunteer registration pages or contact Jennifer Trujillo at jennifer@rutsfoundation.org for more information.
Jennifer Trujillo
Volunteer sign up:
International House
International House
Anna Linares alinares@ihclt.org
I will primarily be sharing about myself and my role. I am new in my role, so I would love to inform everyone that I help coordinate our volunteers, and volunteer opportunities. My email is alinares@ihclt.org if that can be shared in the minutes with everyone.
I will also share about our People of the World (POTW) event we are hosting this Saturday, July 18th. Each month, IH highlights a country and its culture to share with the Charlotte community. This month we are highlighting Argentina and will have Argentinian empanadas available for all attendees. This is a free, casual event, from 12-1:30PM at the International House (1161 E 7th St) for folks to learn about other countries from their neighbors.
Attached are the 2 sides of our POTW flyer to be included in the minutes as well. It includes the dates and countries for events to come as well, so folks are welcome to mark their calendars.
Our exhibit, the Journey, is still accepting applications for artists to be displayed. See flyer for eligibility and timeline.
Learn more: ihclt.org/the-journey
🔗Submit your proposal here: ihclt.org/call-for-artists
Anna Linares (she/her)
Community Engagement Manager
1611 East 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204
alinares@ihclt.org | (704) 333.8099
Visit our website to support our programming: www.ihclt.org
Sign up to Volunteer!: Volunteer Interest Form
THE RELATIVES
The Relatives is looking to engage with our faith communities about possible programming for our On Ramp Resource Center clients (ages 16-24) who have an interest in spiritual growth. We are hosting group conversations to discuss potential program structure, and explore ways your faith community may want to participate or engage.
We have scheduled two virtual meetings, and the content will be the same at each. If you are interested in learning more and exploring ways to support our young adults, please email Redia Baxter at rbaxter@therelatives.org, to let me know which one you plan to attend and I’ll send calendar invitations.
· Option 1: Wednesday, August 12 — 2:00-2:40 PM
· Option 2: Wednesday, August 20 — 10:30-11:10 AM
You are also welcome to forward this invitation to others who may be interested in the conversation or better suited to participate.
We are grateful for your partnership and look forward to continuing this conversation together.
Redia Baxter
Volunteer Engagement Officer
The Relatives
MAIN 980.556.1517
EMAIL rbaxter@therelatives.org
CLA
Tyris Rorie <chosenlaorg@gmail.com>
Good morning we are still accepting signups for Cheerleading Tackle Football Girls Flag Football.
Great news we offer discount pricing for all students.
Give me a call today 704-776-1476.
No experience necessary for Cheerleading please contact Coach Tamika (704) 942-0193, Team Mom Tara (980) 407-9440
Reimagining America Project
Cheryl Spainhour <caspainh@gmail.com>
Good Trouble Lives On - a week of civic engagement, education and community action
Join us in honoring the legacy of Congressman John Lewis through Good Trouble Lives On, a week of civic engagement, education, and community action.
From voter registration and community conversations to opportunities for advocacy and collective action, this weekend's events are a reminder that democracy isn't something we simply observe. It's something we practice together.
We hope you'll join us throughout the weekend as we continue building the kind of communities Congressman Lewis envisioned: communities rooted in courage, compassion, and collective action.
Pastors for NC Children
Suzanne Miller <director@pastorsforncchildren.org>
We are offering a workshop for faith communities or community organizations who partner with public schools (either already do or want to get started) to share best practices and ideas. It will be August 11 at noon or 6pm… they can join either. It will be a repeat.
Compassion Closet calls for donations
Our Compassion Closet inventory is currently running very low, and we could use our community's support to help keep this important resource available for those who need it. We encourage everyone to check out the "Most Needed" section of our website for the items we are currently seeking. Every donation, big or small, helps us continue providing clothing and essentials with dignity and care.
For a list of all our accepted items, please click the link below.
Greater Bethel Back to School
RESOURCES FOR NONPROFITS NONPROFITS
Galilee Ministries - Self Care Workshop
Galilee Ministries is hosting a "Caring for Self as you Care for the World" workshop on August 24th. During this workshop, you will explore practical tools for building resilience, identifying and preventing burnout, and maintaining wellbeing while serving vulnerable populations during trying times. Register here.
GRANTS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Local
Regional
National
Grassroots Grants for Community Safety, Justice, and Civil Rights
Application deadline: NoneGrant amount: Up to $200,000Target population: Community membersDescription: Borealis Philanthropy's Just Futures Initiative supports grassroots organizations shaping democracy through community safety, reform, justice, and belonging. Funded work includes building community-led safety strategies, reducing harm from policing and incarceration, protecting civil and human rights, and strengthening community power and civic participation. General operating grants are available for 12-month periods to local organizations and collaborative formations led by directly impacted communities.
Funding Youth Sports Facilities in Under-Resourced Communities
Application deadline: August 15, 2026Grant amount: $50,000–$100,000Target population: Underserved communitiesDescription: The LISC and DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation's Game On-Community Places to Play program supports the development and renovation of safe, accessible athletic spaces for youth in under-resourced communities. Funding is combined with technical assistance to strengthen sports and recreation infrastructure for organized youth sports. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and local parks and recreation departments in collaboration with nonprofits.
Seed Grants for Innovative Mental Health Pilot Programs
Application deadline: September 1, 2026Grant amount: VariesTarget population: Individuals experiencing mental health challengesDescription: The Ittleson Foundation provides seed money for innovative pilot, model, and demonstration projects in the mental health field that have national scope or significance. In 2026, funding focuses on projects that fight stigma associated with mental illness, utilize new technology to improve programs and services, and advance preventive mental health efforts, particularly for youth and adolescents. The Foundation supports projects with practical evaluation plans and credible strategies for dissemination and real-world impact.
Expanding Healthy Food Access in Underserved Communities
Application deadline: July 31, 2026Grant amount: $20,000–$250,000Target population: Underserved communitiesDescription: America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative's Food Access and Retail Expansion Fund supports food retailers and food enterprises proposing projects that create or expand access to staple and perishable foods in underserved communities across the United States and its territories. Grants are available for planning-stage and implementation-ready projects, with technical assistance also available for early-stage planning. Priority is given to projects in very low-income or rural communities, those that create quality jobs for low-income residents, and women-owned or BIPOC-owned businesses.
Community Wellbeing Grant: Applications Opening Soon
We’re excited to share that applications for our 2027 Community Wellbeing Grant will open from July 6 to July 31, 2026. Powered by lululemon Gives, the Community Wellbeing Grant is our annual application-based grant program that provides funding to community-led charitable organizations around the globe that are advancing wellbeing through movement. Organizations interested in applying must first complete a registration form, which is open now until July 24 at 5:00pm Pacific Time (PT). Please note completing the registration form does not guarantee an organization will move forward to the application phase. We recognize the time and resources needed to prepare a successful application and strongly encourage all organizations to review our FAQ page thoroughly to help inform them of their decision to register.
Expanding Access to Organic Food for People in Need
Application deadline: August 14, 2026Grant amount: $30,000–$150,000Target population: Individuals experiencing food insecurityDescription: The Simply Organic Giving Fund supports nonprofit organizations across the United States and Canada working to address food insecurity by expanding access to organic, nutrient-dense food. Funded efforts include community meal programs, food banks, urban gardens, culturally relevant food access initiatives, and organic agriculture education. The Fund prioritizes organizations meeting immediate food needs while strengthening long-term access to healthy food for populations experiencing food insecurity.
Education, Environment, and Community Funding in Company Areas
Application deadline: August 31, 2026Grant amount: VariesGeographic scope: Company communities in Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, West Virginia (They have a facility in Statesville, NC) Target population: Community membersDescription: The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation supports nonprofits in communities where the company operates across three areas: education including STEM skills and workforce readiness, environmental protection and restoration, and healthy and vibrant communities including programs for underserved populations, healthy lifestyles, and arts and civic institutions.
Oriental Trading Company - Donation Request Form NEW!
Deadline: Rolling
Award Amount/Ceiling: Unspecified amount
Description: Together with its national and community partners, the Oriental Trading Corporate Giving program strives to enhance the enrichment of the lives of children through education, youth programming, healthcare and human services. Oriental Trading Company supports organizations and programs in the following areas:
Education, Youth, Healthcare, and Human Services. To be eligible under the Oriental Trading Corporate Giving Program, organizations must have a current tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or be a public school, college or university operated exclusively for public purposes. https://orientaltrading.requestitem.com/
Truist Foundation - Truist Grant Opportunity NEW!
Deadline: July 31, 2026 and November 30, 2026
Award Amount/Ceiling: Minimum of $15,000
Description: The Truist Foundation funds 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in two focus areas:
building career pathways to economic mobility for adults age 18 and older, and
strengthening small businesses through access to capital, technical assistance, and ecosystem support.
The foundation supports sustainable, non-recurring needs such as new program launches, curriculum development, equipment, and capital campaigns (the latter only once 60% of fundraising goals are secured).
Enbridge Gas - Giving Program NEW!
Deadline: November 15, 2026
Award Amount/Ceiling: Unspecified amount
Description: Enbridge Gas directs community investments to communities that fall within its service areas including Enbridge Gas North Carolina. The program is guided by three focus areas:
safe communities, vibrant communities, and sustainable communities.
Enbridge Gas considers opportunities that are important to the local community, benefit the greatest number of people, support the community’s long-term interests, and align with one of its core focus areas.
Organizations must apply through Enbridge Gas’ Benevity application. Before applying, organizations should ensure they are registered with Benevity and have Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) set up as a disbursement option.
American Psychological Foundation - Direct Action Visionary Grants NEW!
Deadline: Rolling; LOIs evaluated after July 31, 2026 and October 30, 2026.
Award Amount/Ceiling: Up to $60,000
Description: The APF Direct Action Visionary Grants seek to fund innovative interventions, based on psychological knowledge, that directly address pressing needs of communities. APF is particularly interested in supporting communities and populations dealing with prejudice, bias, intolerance, and all forms of bigotry, including racism, antisemitism, homophobia, and misogyny.
Projects should support APF’s four Visionary Priorities: Serve Marginalized Communities, End Prejudice & Stigma, Prevent Violence, and Explore Mind-Body Health Connections. Project applicants may be individuals or organizations and are not required to be psychologists or mental health professionals, but an expert in the relevant evidence-based psychological intervention or resource used for the project must be centrally involved throughout the funding timeline. APF accepts LOIs year-round and evaluates them quarterly with upcoming deadlines including July 31, 2026, and October 30, 2026.
PRAYER FOR LEADERS
Do the Dishes, Byron Katie
I would often return from a long trip to find the house full of dirty laundry, piles of mail on my desk, the dog dish crusted, the bathrooms a mess, and the sink piled high with dishes. The first time this happened, I heard a voice that said, "Do the dishes". It was like coming upon the burning bush, and the voice from the bush said, "Do the dishes." It didn't sound very spiritual to me, but just followed its directions. I would stand at the sink and just wash the next dish, or sit with the piles of bills and pay the one on top. Just one at a time. Nothing else was required.
At the end of the day, everything would be done, and I didn't need to understand who or what did it. When a thought appears, such as "Do the dishes" and you don't do them, notice how an internal war breaks out. It sounds like this, "I'll do them later. I should have done them by now. My roommate should have done them. It's not my turn. It's not fair. People will think less of me if I don't do them now." The stress and weariness you feel are really mental combat fatigue.
What I call "doing the dishes" is the practice of loving the task in front of you. Your inner voice guides you all day long to do simple things such as brush your teeth, drive to work, call you friend, or do the dishes. Even though it's just another story, it's a very short story, and when you follow the direction of the voice, that story ends. We are really alive when we live as simply as that -- open, waiting, trusting, and loving to do what appears in front of us now. What we need to do unfolds before us, always -- doing the dishes, paying the bills, picking up the children's socks, brushing our teeth. … there is always just one thing to do…
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