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September 11, 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.




Click HERE to Access Zoom Recording

70 participants




OPENING REFLECTION



We shared reflections on 9/11, acknowledging the pain and loss that continues to this day and also the deep good in the brave and compassionate responses of many. 


“Compassion constitutes a radical form of criticism, for it announces that the hurt is to be taken seriously, that the hurt is not to be accepted as normal and natural but is an abnormal and unacceptable condition for humanness.”


– Walter Brueggemann, The Prophetic Imagination


1. MECKMIN UPDATES 



MECKMIN TALKS AND TRAININGS


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INTERFAITH SPEAKERS BUREAU 


MeckMIN is always happy to help connect groups with local speakers. We have members who are Bahá’í, Buddhist, Christian, Christian Science, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Science of Mind, Sikh, Quaker and Unitarian Universalist who can speak to those specific traditions. We also have connections to a variety of other faiths as well as specific cultures and traditions. We can also help you find someone who can offer a more general introduction to interfaith work and/or speak to specific topics such as gender, sexuality, climate care, health care, race and more. 


Please complete this form to request our help in finding a speaker.

Request a speaker: 




PLEASE SAVE THE DATE AND SHARE THE WORD ABOUT FRIENDSGIVING 


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Please share and invite your circle of friends!


This years’ service will be hosted at Myers Park Baptist Church and will center on the themes of UNITY IN DIVERSITY, GRATITUDE, and SHARED HUMANITY, offering space for people of all backgrounds to connect across differences.

 

Join us as we honor the legacy of the original Thanksgiving services while opening new doors for participation, reflection, and community building in a way that reflects the vibrant diversity of Mecklenburg County today.

 

This event is free. When you register, you'll have the opportunity to make a voluntary donation of $10 per person to help cover the costs of food.




INTERFAITH HARMONY MONTH - BUILDING BRIDGES IN A DIVIDED WORLD


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Since 1987, MeckMIN has been connecting people, faith groups, and organizations to create understanding and trust.

 

In February 2026, MeckMIN aims to help create opportunities for houses of faith, spiritual groups, and community organizations to connect peoples so we can better understand each other and serve side-by-side.

 

The initiative called Interfaith Harmony Month - Building Bridges in a Divided World aims to create a series of events across the month that promote the values of interfaith bridgebuilding by providing wonderfully diverse opportunities for our communities to get to know one another in engaging ways to help reduce prejudice and build empathy.

 

If your house of faith, group, or community organization would be interested in hosting an event, you might consider the ideas below, come up with your own idea, or invite people to a February event you've already planned that would be appropriate for a wide audience.

 

  • Service project

  • Prayer ceremony

  • Festival/Concert

  • Film screening

  • Religious Class

  • Spiritual site tour


Register HERE to host an event



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


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. 



OTHER INTERFAITH OPPORTUNITIES



Tuesday, October 28th, 2025, 6:30pm- 8:15pm, Queens University, Belk Chapel


Interfaith in Our Time commemorates the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, the groundbreaking Vatican II declaration that transformed Jewish-Christian relations and opened new doors to interreligious dialogue. Held at Belk Chapel at Queens University of Charlotte on Tuesday, October 28, from 6:30 to 8:15 pm, the evening will bring together Charlotte’s campus and interfaith communities to honor the past and envision the future of multifaith collaboration. The event includes an interfaith welcome, reflections from Bishop Martin of the Diocese of Charlotte, and the presentation of the Greenspon Center Upstander Award to Dr. Marc Zvi Brettler, a Biblical scholar from Duke University, who will deliver a keynote address. A concluding multifaith panel will explore how Nostra Aetate's legacy can promote interreligious understanding and action. The event is sponsored by the Stan Greenspon Holocaust Education Center and the Belk Chapel and will be followed by a reception with refreshments. 


Parking and program information will be sent prior to the event.Click here to register




MECKLENBURG COUNTY UPDATES


CIP PROGRAM


Chanda Martin | Chanda.Martin@mecklenburgcountync.gov | (O) 980-314-6848

(C) 704-591-4157

Social Services Coordinator, Department of Community Resources | Economic Services Division


Individuals and families experiencing a heating or cooling-related crisis may apply for assistance through the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP). Applicants can complete a CIP application by mail, email, fax or drop-off at their local DSS. A face-to-face interview is not required at this time. In addition, disconnect notices are not required at this time. Applicants can present a final notice or past due utility bill and must have a health-related or life-threatening emergency to potentially be eligible for crisis funds. Access the application. En Espanól aplicar.


Chanda can come on site and help out if you cannot make it to their sites. She can even come to your location for several hours and help people to sign up.  CIP pays up to $600 on the shut off. 


VACCINE CLINICS


The County is encouraging parents to get their children vaccinated. Multiple Public Health clinics are offered.  

  • Saturday, Sept. 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center (430 Stitt Road). 

  • Evening clinic hours will also be offered Sept. 15 through Sept. 19 until 7 p.m. at the Southeast Health Department (249 Billingsley Road) and the Northwest Health Department (2845 Beatties Ford Road).

  • Schedule appointments by calling 704-336-6500.




Mecklenburg County Commissioner Susan Rodriguez-McDowell, District 6, invites the public to a community meeting on Thursday, September 25 from 6:00PM - 7:45PM (doors open at 5:30PM).  

 

The meeting will feature a presentation from Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), a panel of community stakeholders who will present differing views and include information for residents to consider regarding the 1-cent sales tax referendum.  Interested residents are encouraged to RSVP via the registration site no later than Monday, September 22.  




CITY OF CHARLOTTE


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2025-26 FAITH IN HOUSING COHORT APPLICATIONS OPEN: Due by 11:59 p.m. on September 12, 2025


Jessika McNeill, Housing Project Manager, jessika.mcneill@charlottenc.gov

Applications for the City of Charlotte's Faith in Housing Cohort are live. Applications are due by 11:59pm on September 12th.


If you have any questions regarding the application, please reach out to Tim Block at tblock@enterprisecommunity.org. To ensure a timely response to your email, be sure to include "Faith in Housing RFA Question" in the subject line. 




The 2026 Dr. MARTIN LUTHER KING Jr. EVENTS and CELEBRATIONS PARADE:


2026 Parade Registration is Now Open. Sign up your group, organization, or community members to participate in the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Parade. 

 

2026 Holiday Volunteer Opportunities

Join us in honoring Dr. King’s legacy by serving as a volunteer during the celebration events. Submit your 2026 MLK Volunteer registration

 

2026 Growing the Dream & MLK Medallion Awards

We are now accepting nominations for the Growing the Dream Award and the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Medallion Award, recognizing individuals and organizations carrying forward Dr. King’s vision.

 

Stay Connected

For updates, event details, and additional opportunities to get involved, please visit: Charlotte-Mecklenburg MLK Celebration.  Together, let’s continue growing the dream and celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in 2026.




NONPROFIT UPDATES 



DONATIONS NEEDED FOR STUDENTS


Coach Tyris Rorie,  chosenlaorg@gmail.com 


Anyone have any hygiene bags of soap, deodorant, toothpaste, or toothbrushes for Coach Rorie’s students?  If so, please reach out to him. 




Jose Hernandez-Paris CEO@mylac.org 

Edwin Gil cdo@mylac.org


The 35th annual Latin American Festival will be September 20th from noon - 9 pm in Ballantyne Backyard. This event is an important fundraiser that offsets recent defunding of immigrant organizations including LAC. The event promises to be joyful and celebratory and all are welcome. Check out our website for more details.


The community is under pressure so please reach out if your community can help support their work by contacting Jose Hernandez-Paris directly by email or phone:  704-531-3845, CEO@mylac.org 





Annsley Banks | Office: (704) 535-8803  

Pre-Arrival Coordinator/ Resource Coordinator


In honor of Welcoming Week, join us as we explore the challenges refugees face through film and real-life stories! Together, we’ll watch The Good Postman, learn from Carolina Refugee Resettlement Agency representatives, and hear firsthand from a local refugee as they share their experiences coming to the United States. We will serve light refreshments (including delicious Syrian goodies!) Be sure to register so we can have enough food for all. 


*Please note that the film contains depictions of intense situations.  The film also uses coarse language that some may find objectionable.  


Annsley also shared that, though there have been no NEW refugee arrivals since January due to federal changes, CRRA still has much work in supporting previous arrivals. If you want to join them in supporting refugees, please reach out.






The American Red Cross can offer community organizations a number of opportunities through their disaster services. Home fires, storm damage, trees on homes, and vehicles crashing into homes are all events where the Red Cross can help. Mecklenburg County Red Cross receives more calls for assistance than 90% of all counties in the Southeast and Caribbean division of the American Red Cross.  


Fire Prevention:

The American Red Cross works to reduce fire fatalities and reduce injuries through our Home Fire Campaign. Any person living in our state can call 1-800-RED-CROSS or go online and request FREE smoke alarms.  All Red Crossers have a background check and we keep minimal information which stays internal to the American Red Cross.   We will set an appointment to come to the home and check that all smoke alarms are working and install free smoke alarms to ensure all sleeping spaces have a functioning smoke alarm. Does your bedroom have a working smoke alarm?  Did you know that the alarms expire and can stop working?  Do you test your alarms?  


Did you know Residents have only 2 minutes to exit their home safely in the event of a fire?  The Red Cross can help you make a fire plan so you know where you would go, what you would grab, and where you would meet up with your loved ones if you experienced a home fire in the middle of the night. In the event of a fire, you can call 1-800-Red-Cross and we will come stand beside you and support your immediate needs and provide recovery services.  We also offer free Preparedness chats appropriate for any age which teaches how to prepare for when disaster strikes, and noncertificate Hands Only CPR instruction to help sustain life until first responders arrive.  We want to empower and build resilience in our communities. 1-800-REDCROSS.


Community Volunteers:

Looking for community volunteers as role players in an active violence event. Opportunities for 16-18 years olds with chaperones. The event, October 7, 8th and 9th, will be at Carowinds adn will evaluate our mass casualty response and family support plans.  The Red Cross alongside other non-government agencies and government partners will be establishing a Family Assistance Center. Please email Dara.rickles2@redcross.org for more information on how to participate. 




SAFE ALLIANCE: NC driver's license support for human trafficking survivors 


Kasi Walker | kasi.walker@safealliance.org | 704.367.2703,

Safe Alliance | Director of Anti-Human Trafficking Initiatives


Human Trafficking is an issue that is happening in our local communities, and as survivors of human trafficking and immigrants, foreign nationals often experience additional barriers to restoration. One barrier that has been identified is obtaining a NC driver's license. Survivors often lack the road knowledge, language skills, and confidence to pass the written portion of the driver's exam. Having a valid driver's license would open more opportunities for survivors. Navigating the DMV and preparing for the road knowledge test can be overwhelming for anyone let alone those recovering from trauma and facing additional barriers related to language, culture, and immigration status. In order to better support these survivors, human trafficking service providers would like to offer some bilingual (English/ Spanish) workshops to help prepare them for their exams. We are trying to gather instructional materials and looking for suitable instructors, but we realize we are not experts in this department and are reaching out to those who may be able to provide guidance.


To learn more about what constitutes human trafficking and the state of trafficking in Mecklenburg County, view this slideshow.






Rev. Pat Jackson | patjackson@interwovencongregations.org | (301) 658-4457

Executive Director


Interwoven Congregations is dedicated to helping faith communities of all traditions be agents for racial justice and healing.  We have developed our services and products to specifically address the following four challenges:


  • Many of us have a limited understanding about the systemic nature and ongoing impacts of racism;

  • Our worship spaces are largely segregated, dividing us further along the lines of race;

  • Many congregations are unsure of how to go about advancing racial justice; and

  • We all can struggle to sustain our efforts for racial justice.


To meet these needs we can provide personal consulting and events, a congregational toolkit, and the Interwoven Congregations Network. Please reach out to Schedule a chat with Pat and learn more.





Cate De Mallie | catedemallie@gmail.com | 704-870-1431


The weekend of September 20th, Reimagining America is hosting a weekend of Justice with three different events. These include:

1. Film Screening of American Coup: Wilmington 1898

2. Collective Liberation Church Worship Service 

3. Congressional Forum: 

     a. Charlotte Restorative Justice Initiative 

     b. NC Poor People’s Campaign Moral Monday Project 

     c. Interwoven Congregations new global online network for racial justice

Please RSVP to ensure your seat.


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Emily Hurd | Program Director |  emily@solarcrowdsource.com 


Please join us on Sept. 25 at 12:30 p.m. for the Solarize Charlotte-Mecklenburg Solar Workshop for Businesses and Nonprofits. This online event will explore the benefits of solar power, how to implement it in commercial settings, and financial incentives available. Whether you're a church or nonprofit director, a small business owner, or part of a large corporation, this virtual workshop is ideal for anyone interested in sustainable energy practices for businesses. Don't miss out on this informative session. Register on Eventbrite to receive the zoom link. 

 

Solarize Charlotte-Mecklenburg presents a powerful opportunity for businesses and organizations in Mecklenburg County to both drive local economic development and reduce energy costs by participating in a community-led group-purchase program that lowers solar and battery installation costs through volume discounts. Businesses and organizations can participate by 1) signing up for a free solar assessment for the place of business before the enrollment deadline of Oct. 31; and 2) helping to promote the program within their networks. Interested participants may go to SolarizeCharMeck.com now to learn more about the program and enroll.  


To learn more, please review our slide presentation.

n workshops that showcase what our immigrant community goes through



GALILEE MINISTRIES: 10/10 POWER of 10 CELEBRATION


Donnie Simmons | dsimm1012@gmail.com,

Yolondra Lonnie Hall Cochran | prettyrn57@gmail.com 


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Join us as we celebrate 10 years of open doors, open hearts, and open hands at Galilee Ministries of East Charlotte!  Please join us Oct 10 from 10-11 am at Galilee for food, fellowship and music.The Power of 10 honors our partners, neighbors, volunteers, and friends. This milestone is about gratitude, community, and the future we will shape together. Tickets are free, and donations are welcome to support Galilee’s mission. 


Please bring shelf-stable food, cleaning supplies, or dignity products, including diapers.We hope you will share the flyer and come. Tickets are free, and donations are welcome to support Galilee's mission of building a stronger East Charlotte by welcoming, connecting, and empowering collaborations in a shared space of belonging.


Location: Galilee Ministries of East Charlotte, 3601 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205

Date and time: Fri, Oct 10, 2025 10:00 AM ET

Organizer: Emily Parker, (704) 900-5210, edgalileeeast@gmail.com 






Nia Brown | nia42091@gmail.com


The Co-Parenting Hub is a non-profit creating safe, peaceful exchanges for children, helping families build healthier co-parenting relationships. Right now, thousands of children are being exchanged between parents in parking lots, fast food restaurants, or police stations. These are the places where families try to heal, but they were never meant for that. That’s where Co-Parenting Hub steps in making changes.


What We Provide:

  • A private, peaceful exchange space

  • On-site staff for structure & security

  • Calm, faith-rooted environment

  • Programs that strengthen co-parent communication

  • The Second Home Project – furniture for a child’s other home

  • Grace Café – A mini cafe designed to foster healthy conversation


Please reach out to learn more.





Courtney Oates | coates@nourishup.org 

Marketing and Events Director, Cell: (704) 763-8796  | Office: (704) 594-5807


Nourish Up needs Meals on Wheels delivery drivers M-F each week 60-90 min commitment at ~9:45 a.m. Meals on Wheels is a paid service ($1-$5) for a nutritionally balanced, medically tailored, midday meal delivered to more than 500 people each day via 70 delivery routes. Pick up is from one of three different hubs: Our Hunger Hub on Carrier Drive, Sardis Presb, Huntersville UMC, and St. Giles Presb. Please Email: volunteer@nourishup.org  to sign up.  Sign up is easy, the shift is easy and the reward is the connection with neighbors. Email: volunteer@nourishup.org to sign up. 


Please share this need in your bulletins and emails.




EMBRACE CHARLOTTE



Youth Ambassadors Applications Open for High School Students with a $200 Scholarship


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If you are a High School student in Charlotte (NC), Raleigh (NC), or Goose Creek (SC) and want to lead actions that improve health access in your community, this program is for you. It consists of 8 months of training, with two sessions per month (one online lab and one monthly practical action), plus an in-person seminar in Charlotte in March, with all costs covered by EMBRACE. There are 6 spots available in Charlotte and applications close September 15th.  It is available to ages 14-18 (9th - 12th grade) and there are many benefits to completing the work including: 

  • $200 financial incentive

  • A laptop

  • Certificate of completion and EMBRACE Ambassador in Health Access

  • Official statement of volunteer service hours for High School and résumé

  • Recommendation letter signed by the Executive Director

  • Additional scholarship: one ambassador will receive $1,000 to support college application and related expenses


Check out our website or call the EMBRACE team at 704-369-4145for more details. 


Support the Community

The Dept. of Homeland Security has been parked outside of the organization. Embrace is looking to build a safe neighborhood network by enlisting White traditional looking American citizens to use their voices and come interact with the officers. Please come be our voice. 

 



RESOURCES FOR NONPROFITS



NONPROFIT OFFICE HOURS WITH FFTC: Opportunity to Connect and Ask Questions


Come meet the Foundation For The Carolinas' team in a casual environment. You can ask questions about grants, FFTC’s services, or just say hi. There’s no set agenda or presentation. It’s a chance for genuine conversations, relaxed networking, and support


Drop in between 10am -1pm:Sept 24: Julia's Cafe & BooksOct 29: Higher Grounds by Manolo's




CHANGES TO CHARITABLE GIVING


This really helpful article spells out clearly the recent changes to charitable giving – good for you and your donors to understand



TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES 


What Nonprofits Need to Know About the Current Federal Grant Landscape

Monday, October 6 at 3:00 Eastern

Many nonprofits are struggling to understand how to best navigate recent changes to federal grants. Register for a free national webinar hosted by the National Council of Nonprofits on what nonprofits need to consider as they plan for future federal grants - from what to think about in the application process, how to navigate new grant certifications, and how to plan for new processes.


Trainings from The Forum at HopeHaven

  • September 12: Ethics and Boundaries-- 9am-1pm-- 4 hours of training credit—Required class for most disciplines presented in an innovative way!

  • September 19: Trauma Informed Care 9am-12: Basics of understanding how trauma affects us and our clients. Informative and engaging!

  • September 23: Housing Problem Solving Conversations: Day 1: 9am-4pm:  A must 2 day class for all staff serving Meck County homeless populations. Day 2 on September 30:  12 CEU's for both days.

  • September 26: 9am-1pm Foundations in Cultural Sensitivity: Level 2:Builds on the first class but also can be stand alone-- look closely at how to interact with cultural humility and understanding!

CEU'S for all classes: Register here: www.theforumathopehaven.org 



**Leadership Series Cohort #5 begins September 3rd!!! with Lo Myrick-- Don't miss this!!! Scholarships available for COC?ESG funded agencies.


Motivational Interviewing 9 Month learning Community certificate course: For everyone who has completed Advanced MI-- Increase your skills, learn with Colleagues and earn the certificate! Registration open.


LA MESA De COCINA


SOMOS El Poder is hosting La Mesa De Cocina, a free, 90-minute virtual gathering that brings Latino-focused nonprofits together with foundation professionals to learn from one another and foster real dialogue. These small-group, moderated sessions are designed to help nonprofits better understand foundations, while giving funders a clearer picture of nonprofit's work, challenges, and successes. This is a unique opportunity to build trust, ask questions, and help shift the dynamics of philanthropic funding for the Latino communities.


Contact williams@geofunders.org for more information.



MEETING SPACES


Looking for affordable space for your next meeting or event that has plenty of free parking? Consider hosting at Goodwill Opportunity Campus, which offers meeting rooms to accommodate small groups or large events.




EXTREME WEATHER RECOVERY UPDATES




  • Access the Toolkit with more information:

  • The Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program  is a centralized housing rehabilitation, reconstruction or replacement program that will prioritize  low-to-moderate income  families with seniors aged 62 and older, children, and/or disabled household members impacted by Hurricane Helene in the following 29 counties:  Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg (28214), Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin and Yancey.


Have questions? View the Resources Page here or reach out to: Maggie Battaglin, Single-Family Housing Director, Division of Community Revitalization maggie.battaglin@commerce.nc.gov



KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: 


  • “This guide offers up-to-date information on some of those resources, as well as examples of community organizing and policy work that have made it easier for immigrants to find help. It also includes best practices for navigating disaster relief and recovery at a time when there is a heightened risk of deportation for certain immigrants. This information is fact-checked and will be updated periodically as laws, practices, and resources change.”


This information comes from Grist, “a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to reporting on climate change.”



FREE WATER TESTING


Was your home’s water source damaged or affected

during Hurricane Helene? Wine To Water can help by providing free water testing at your home.



GLOBAL EMPOWERMENT MISSION: Hurricane Heline 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




  • 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. These grants are made possible under the American Relief Act of 2025 and reflect EDA’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every region has the tools it needs to recover and thrive after major disaster declarations. Readiness and Implementation grant applications will be accepted and reviewed on an ongoing (rolling) basis until funds are exhausted or the Notice of Funding Opportunity is canceled. 

  • Three main pathways to funding include:

    • projects to build local capacity

    • standalone construction and non-construction projects that help communities recover

    • coalition-led, multi-project portfolios that transform regional economies through industry development

  • Click here to view the Fact Sheet (PDF link)





  • As we look to the anniversary of Tropical Storm Helene on September 27, our community will pause to remember the past year, grieve all that we lost, and honor the bonds forged by the storm. 

  • Events throughout our county will reflect on the stories of neighbors who stood together, the lives forever changed, and the lessons carried forward – acknowledging the past while we shape a stronger, more connected future together.

  • This list will be updated as additional events are confirmed, and it is by no means comprehensive. Many other organizations are also planning commemorative events around the region for those who wish to reflect on the past year and honor the community that came together.




GRANTS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES 




Local/Regional



SEED20 

Seed20 is an annual program of Social Venture Partners Charlotte that connects the community to the region’s most promising social entrepreneurs tackling pressing challenges - with a $20K grand prize. Learn more.




The Junior League of Charlotte 

JLC is accepting applications to become a Community Partner for 2026-2027. This opportunity is available to organizations that focus on mental and physical health programs and services for children in kindergarten through fifth grade in Mecklenburg County. Apply by September 26.




Regional 


Funding for Critical Community Needs

Application deadline: December 15, 2025Geographic scope: Company communities in AL, AZ, CA, FL, GA, ID, KY, NM, NC, OR, SC, TN, TX, UT, WA, and WV – INCLUDES CHARLOTTE Grant amount: $2,500–$25,000Description: The Sundt Foundation funds nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving quality of life in communities where the company operates. Its giving priorities include youth development, hunger and nutrition, basic needs and social services, as well as support for military members and veterans. Through these focus areas, the foundation aims to strengthen individuals, families, and communities facing pressing challenges.


Local Giving and Food Access Initiatives

Application deadline: October 12, 2025Geographic scope: Company communities in AL, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, DCDescription: The Whole Foods Market Community Giving Program supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. by addressing local needs related to food access, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. Stores provide both cash and in-kind product donations, which can be applied toward program-specific or general operating expenses. Organizations apply directly through their local store to be considered for support. Additionally, through its Nourishing Our Neighborhoods initiative, Whole Foods funds refrigerated vans for food recovery groups participating in its Grocery Rescue Program to enhance food distribution in local communities.


The American Heart Association

The American Heart Association, with support from Novant Health, is funding organizations to implement heart health interventions in Cape Fear, Greater Charlotte, and Triad market regions. Community organizations are eligible for awards ranging from $2,500 - $10,000 to support heart-healthy policies and environments. Organizations may include houses of faith, food pantries, senior centers, health centers, housing authorities, colleges, and municipal governments. 

 

Heart disease is the No. 1 leading cause of death in North Carolina and stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in North Carolina, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Health Statistics. Many of those deaths are preventable.  The American Heart Association works with clinical and community partners on evidence-based strategies to improve health outcomes.  Here are some examples of interventions this funding may be eligible for:

  

  • Community or clinical-based blood pressure screening and referral program 

  • Fresh or frozen produce capacity at a food pantry/bank (e.g. purchase of refrigerator, sink, shelving, etc.) 

  • New food distribution site (e.g. pop-up market, mini-pantry, etc.) 

  • Launch EBT (SNAP & WIC) payment system at a Farmers Market, mobile market, or other healthy food outlet (except corner stores) 

  • Maternal health and cardiovascular disease initiatives for pregnant women 

 

Which counties are included in the eligible regions?

  • Greater Charlotte:  Mecklenburg, Gaston, Cabarrus, Iredell, Catawba and Union  

  • Triad:  Forsyth, Guilford, Alamance, Davidson, Randolph and Rockingham  

  • Cape Fear: New Hanover, Brunswick, Columbus and Pender  

 

Where do I go to apply? 

  

When is the application deadline?

We will be accepting applications through midnight September 19, 2025. Award announcements will be made public in November 2025.  

  

Who can I email with questions?

Necesita una aplicación en español?  Liliana Marin, Community Impact Director, Triangle Market liliana.marin@heart.org 


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.

  • The fund prioritizes:

    1. Centering impacted communities to address incidents of hate, violence, or regressive policies.

    2. Fostering solidarity by strengthening community connections and collective action.

    3. Efforts that center collective action and organizing as a primary strategy to build power.

  • The fund will offer small monthly grants of $500 – $3,000. Funding decisions will be made by the Community Advisory Board – read more about our board!

  • Click here to learn more about this funding opportunity.



National 


Young Leaders Shaping a Better Digital World

Application deadline: October 10, 2025Grant range: $25,000–$100,000Description: The Responsible Technology Youth Power Fund supports youth-led and intergenerational organizations driving the responsible technology movement. Funding focuses on projects that use technology to protect human rights, promote digital inclusion, and maximize positive social impact. The Fund is especially interested in initiatives addressing artificial intelligence, mental health and well-being, or climate-related technology solutions.


Supporting Grassroots Activism for Systemic Change

Application deadline: October 20, 2025Grant range: Up to $10,000Description: The A.J. Muste Foundation supports grassroots movements committed to advancing human rights, building equality, and dismantling systems of oppression. Grants are available to U.S.-based activist projects fighting for systemic change, especially those challenging militarism, economic injustice, and mass incarceration. The Foundation prioritizes smaller groups with bold, creative strategies and limited access to mainstream funding.


Small Grants for Big Community Impact

Application deadline: November 10, 2025Grant range: $1,000–$20,000Description: The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation supports community-based nonprofits across the U.S. where modest grants can have a meaningful impact. Funding priorities include museums, arts and cultural programs, schools, hospitals, youth and senior services, disability programs, environmental and wildlife protection, and other local initiatives. Grants may be used for projects, activities, or general operating support.




GENERAL INFORMATION



HEART WALK CHARLOTTE SEPTEMBER 27th at 7:30 am



Our Greater Charlotte Heart Walk is coming up quickly – a little over 2 weeks away, but there’s still time to register! Heart Walk will take place on the morning of Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Romare Bearden Park. The event begins at 7:30am, with a short program at 8:30 am and the walk starting at 9am. Each year, individuals come together to raise funds to support the American Heart Association and to inspire people to take that first step in improving their cardiovascular health. The Greater Charlotte Heart Walk is our cornerstone community event we hold each year with thousands joining us to walk for their health, honor their loved ones, and support the health of our community. There are 3-mile & 1-mile routes that are family & pet friendly along with a festival area full of helpful resources and entertainment provided by supporting companies in our community. We even celebrate and recognize our registered survivors in unique ways throughout the walk! Participating in the Heart Walk is about coming together, getting hearts pumping, honoring survivors, raising lifesaving funds – and having FUN along the way.

 

Will you join us? You’re welcome to start your own team today or join our team of Community Walkers!

 

To start your own Heart Walk team: 2025 Greater Charlotte Heart Walk: Community Teams

 

To register as an individual under our Community Walkers team: 2025 Greater Charlotte Heart Walk: Community Walkers

 

Check out the fun from last year’s Heart Walk: 2024 Greater Charlotte Heart Walk

 

If you have any questions about Heart Walk or have any issues with registration, please email Alex Ware at alex.ware@heart.org.




HEALTH CONNECTION EXPO


Omega Hightower | omegaandernest@aol.com  


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READY TO BUILD AN ADU?



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Are you a property owner considering an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) but not sure where to start? The City of Charlotte has launched a dedicated ADU website designed to answer your questions and guide you through the process.


This one-stop resource includes everything you need to know about building an ADU in Charlotte—from zoning and permitting to size requirements, utility connections, FAQs, and key contacts.


First things first - what is an ADU?

An ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, is a smaller independent home built on a qualifying residential lot. It can be attached to or detached from the primary home and includes its own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and separate entrance—making it a fully functional living space.

 

Why visit the site?

Building an ADU is a process that involves many rules and regulations. The new ADU website puts all the information in one central location to help you navigate each step with confidence.





About the program:

  1. The NC Clean Energy Fund is announcing the launch of Carolina SURE (Smart Upgrades for Residential Efficiency), a consumer lending program designed to make home electrification and energy efficiency improvements accessible to homeowners across North Carolina and South Carolina. 

  2. The program targets projects that help homeowners transition to all-electric, high-efficiency technologies while reducing long-term energy costs.

  3. Eligible improvements include:

    • heat pump HVAC systems, 

    • heat pump water heaters, 

    • solar installations, 

    • battery storage systems, 

    • air sealing and insulation,

    • roof repairs, 

    • septic system improvement, and 

    • other residential improvements that bolster resiliency.

  4. Homeowners interested in Carolina SURE can learn more and complete applications through the program’s website.




REBUILDING TOGETHER OF GREATER CHARLOTTE


Beth Morrison-North 


Rebuilding Together  is hosting our first home maintenance workshop on Saturday, 9/27. This is geared towards homeowners to empower them with more knowledge about their home and skills to address maintenance and repair needs as they arise. Learn more and register here: https://rebuildingtogetherclt.org/home-maintenance-workshops 




PARTNERING, PIVOTING, and PERSEVERING IN A CHANGING POLICY LANDSCAPE


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Julie Alexander, RN, MSN | Julie.E.Alexander@advocatehealth.org (new email address)

Project & Program Coordinator, Healthy MeckPhone: 704-355-0628


Healthy Meck and North Meck Connect are excited to invite you to our upcoming workshop and collaborative planning session in Huntersville on September 25, 2025 from 9:30 am - 2:30 pm: Partnering, Pivoting, and Persevering in a Changing Policy Landscape 


This hands-on session is designed for organizations advancing health and social well-being—including nonprofits, faith-based groups, government agencies, and philanthropic partners. Together with local and state experts, we’ll explore upcoming policy changes, discuss their impact, and begin planning for how to meet emerging community needs in 2026 and beyond.


Through panel conversations, breakout discussions, and collaborative activities, participants will:

  • Gain insight into policy timelines and implications

  • Identify areas where new partnerships may be needed

  • Begin shaping shared strategies for action


Register now to be part of this timely and action-oriented session! Additional details and registration can be found here: https://forms.office.com/r/PZPC3SeKbC




MENTAL HEALTH SYMPOSIUM, “Loving Me: Mind, Body, Soul”



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Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is excited to invite you and your community to our upcoming Mental Health Symposium, “Loving Me: Mind, Body, Soul”. This event will provide important conversations on changes with Medicaid, Obamacare, and Medicare, and how they affect the health and well-being of our communities.


Date: Sunday, September 28, 2025 

Time: 12:00 pm

 Location: FMBC Conference Center


This symposium is designed to bring together faith leaders, healthcare professionals, and community members to discuss the connections between mental health, physical health, and spiritual wellness. Together, we can better support individuals and families navigating today’s healthcare challenges. Food will be provided following the discussion. 


Please register in advance so that we may plan accordingly.





2025 HUMANITARIAN AWARD NOMINATIONS OPEN


You and your contacts are invited to  a Health Connection Expo on Saturday, October 18, 10AM through 2PM at Simpson Gillespie United Methodist Church 3545 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216.  


The Canopy Housing Foundation (the charitable arm of the Canopy REALTOR® Association) is pleased to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Humanitarian Award.  This is a perfect opportunity to recognize a deserving person, organization or project.  The ideal nominee demonstrates what it means to be a great humanitarian, benefitting our community through their efforts.  

 

This initiative is open to the entire community, and self-nominations will be accepted.  Please note that your nominee does not have to be a Realtor®, and nominations are not limited to housing initiatives.  For your reference, attached is the nomination information including an editable/fillable PDF of the nomination form.  The chosen recipient will be recognized with a crystal award at the Canopy Realtor® Association Holiday Luncheon on Friday, December 12.  In addition, the Foundation will donate $5,000 to a non-profit organization of the recipient’s choice.

 

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT A NOMINATION IS OCTOBER 31 at 5 pm.  Late applications will not be accepted.

 

Thank you, in advance, for your interest in submitting a nomination.  Please do share with others who might know someone, a project or an organization deserving of consideration.  You are welcome to contact us for additional questions or concerns.





Registration Deadline: September 12 

Bishop Tonyia M. Rawls | bishoptrawls@gmail.com

Founder/Director of Special Initiatives, Freedom Center for Social Justice,


Join us for Liberating Theologies: Love Reimagined on Saturday, September 20th at 10:00 AM at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Charlotte, NC. This gathering will bring together community voices to explore what it means to reimagine love as a force that heals, liberates, and reconciles. Tickets include lunch, so you can stay, connect, and continue the conversation with others throughout the day.


Speakers/Topics Addressed on the theme:  LOVE REIMAGINED

1.  Love From The Margins: Sr. Minister Carmarion Anderson

2.  Truth and Reconciliation as Theopractice: Rev. Dr. Peter Wherry

3.  Love In Nature and the Nature of Love - Ecotheology, Rev.Eric Eldritch


I really look forward to you being there.  PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE. Space is limited so please register by 9/12.






PRAYER FOR LEADERS


"Wherever we are, we have the capacity to enjoy the sunshine, the presence of each other and the wonder of our breathing.”


-Thich Nhat Hanh





NEXT MEETING: TWO weeks from today - Thursday at 11 a.m. 





 

 

 


 
 
 

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