September 25, 2025 | Faith, Community and Non-Profit Leader Check-In Meeting
- meckmin
- 15 hours ago
- 27 min read
Updated: 3 minutes ago
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
60 participants
OPENING REFLECTION
Rabbi Shira Stutman: [T]his comes from the Book of Exodus. And it's when the Israelites stood at Sinai and they were receiving revelation. And they said in front of God, Naesh v'Nishema, we will do and only then we will understand.
And since that moment for the last 3,000 years, it has stood as a core Jewish understanding that faith is lovely. It's nice if you can believe in God. It's nice if you can be in relationship with God.
But faith is not at the core. What is at the core is doing the work of tikkun olam, right? Doing the work of healing this world.
If we are asking questions of why are we here in the first place, which at some point in all of our lives, I would imagine that we ask, we are here to do the work of building a better world so that the world, because we believe that the world as it is, is not the world as it could be. And that we are in partnership with the God that we may or may not believe in to heal this broken world.”
From How God Works: The Science Behind Spirituality: Bonus: Losing Our Religion or Finding What Matters?, Jul 20, 2025
This material may be protected by copyright.
1. MECKMIN UPDATES
MECKMIN TALKS AND TRAININGS
MeckMIN offers a series of talks and trainings developed from many years of working to create community and connect across differences. These include:
CONFLICT TRANSFORMATION
DEEPER CONVERSATIONS WORKSHOPS
DIVERSITY and PLURALISM
TAKING ACTION WORKSHOPS
TRAUMA WORKSHOPS
OPEN TABLES - OCTOBER 14
Open to ALL. Join us for a vegetarian dinner provided by the host community and a chance to have a meaningful conversation around the table with people of various faiths on Tuesday, October 14 at 6:00 PM (if you'd like to participate in a service project) or 6:30 PM for the session.
We're being hosted by members of the Hindu Center of Charlotte (7400 City View Dr Charlotte, NC 28212-6403)
Our previous conversations on grief have been so powerful and helpful that we'll be taking up this topic again, focusing this time on ANGER - the 4th stage of the Grieving Process. You'll be able to participate fully whether or not you attended the previous sessions. We hope you'll join us as we consider together this universal experience -- a great opportunity to connect in a deep and transformative way.
*A vegetarian dinner will be provided. If you wish to bring something to share, you are invited to bring a vegan dessert made without eggs.
Register HERE
GATHERING FOR TEACHERS OF WORLD RELIGIONS and RELATED FIELDS
Wednesday, October 15 | 4 to 6 PM | Queens University
Teachers of World Religions and related fields are invited to join this gathering to meet one another, share resources we love, and ask for resources we wish we had. If you teach these topics at the collegiate or graduate level, please consider joining us to connect and share ideas. A catered meal will be served at no cost to you. Email ledayne@meckmin.org to get more details.
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.
PLEASE SAVE THE DATE AND SHARE THE WORD ABOUT FRIENDSGIVING
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
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
Parking and program information will be sent prior to the event.
MECKLENBURG COUNTY UPDATES
APPLICATIONS FOR THE METROPOLITAN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (MPTA)
Mecklenburg County’s Clerk’s Office will be accepting applications for the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA), between Sept.17 and Oct.13, 2025.
The MPTA will finance, provide, operate, and maintain a safe, clean, reliable, adequate, convenient, energy-efficient, economically, and environmentally sound public transportation system for its service area. Members will accomplish these goals through the granting of franchises, ownership, and leasing of terminals, buses, and other transportation facilities and equipment, as well as through the exercise of other granted powers and duties to enhance mobility in the region and encourage sound growth patterns. The activation of the MPTA will rest on the outcome of the Nov. 4 Transportation Referendum.
To apply, visit MeckNC.gov or contact the County Clerk’s Office at 980-314-2939 or Clerk@MeckNC.gov. Applicants must reside in Mecklenburg County to qualify for an appointment.
CITY OF CHARLOTTE
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, Jr. DAY EVENTS
Willie Ratchford, Executive Director, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Relations, Office: 704-336-2195 | Mobile: 704-726-3320, wratchford@charlottenc.gov
The City of Charlotte invites you to be part of the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. events and celebrations!
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Emerging Youth Leader Award
The City of Charlotte is now accepting applications for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Emerging Youth Leader Award. This annual recognition celebrates the next generation of leaders making a positive impact in our community. One outstanding student will be selected as the 2026 Emerging Youth Leader Award Winner and honored during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend of events. Don’t miss this opportunity to be recognized for your leadership, service, and dedication!
Submit your 2026 Emerging Youth Leader Award Application - Application deadline: November 29, 2025
MLK Day Parade Registration
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.
Parade date: Saturday, January 17, 2026 – 9:30AM
Registration deadline December 13, 2025 - Submit your 2026 MLK Parade registration
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.
Submit your 2026 Growing the Dream Nomination – Nomination deadline: November 29, 2025
Submit your 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medallion Award Nomination – Nomination deadline: December 13, 2025
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.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – GLOBAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP WEEK
Juan Garzón | (704) 350-5826 | juan.garzon@charlottenc.gov | charlottenc.gov
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Economic Development
600 East 4th Street | 2nd Floor, Suite 201 | Charlotte, NC 28202
Global Entrepreneurship Week is coming up this November 17-23. During this celebratory week, we are asking for partners to host and participate in events that support small business and entrepreneurship in the Charlotte area. We will once again coordinate Charlotte’s calendar of events and promote them throughout the community to highlight the many ways our ecosystem supports founders while giving partners like you the opportunity to showcase your own programs and connect with a wider audience.
Visit the GEW global site to learn more about this year’s theme and to check out ideas for hosting your own events. Once you have an event planned, please submit it to us using this form. We will use these submissions to create the local calendar for promotion. Please submit your event to us by September 12th so that we can have ample time to coordinate and promote it. Here is that submission form link again: https://tally.so/r/meqvQl.
NONPROFIT UPDATES
KAIZEN POVERTY SIMULATION and FALL CLASSES
Walk in My Shoes: A Community Poverty Simulation
Oct 4 | 9AM - 1 PM |Friendship Missionary Baptist Church (3400 Beatties Ford Rd Charlotte, NC 28216)
Ashten Hansley ashten@tkfnc.org
Kimberly M. Hansley | Executive Director & Co-Founder,
Office: (980)239-1871, Kimberly@tkfnc.org
The Kaizen Foundation of NC, dedicated to improving upward mobility in underserved communities through financial literacy and empowerment, invites you to participate in an upcoming Poverty Simulation.
What is a Poverty Simulation?
The Poverty Simulation is a facilitated experience where participants can experience what it's like to live with limited resources. During a simulated "month," participants navigate the complexities of daily life with limited resources. They face difficult choices and challenges when trying to meet basic needs and access essential services. This simulation is based on the stories and experiences of real individuals and families served by Community Action agencies across the country.
Why participate?
Gain a Deeper Understanding: The Poverty Simulation offers a unique opportunity to experience the realities faced by low-income individuals daily, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges associated with poverty.
Stimulate Community Dialogue: The simulation is designed to spark conversations about local poverty and empower communities to seek solutions.
Increase Empathy and Awareness: Participants gain insight into the situational trauma and stress that accompany poverty and how daily life is compounded without a financial safety net.
Promote Positive Change: The goal is to translate these insights into action, encouraging participants to think about ways to bring about positive change in their communities.
Who should attend?
This simulation is ideal for community and government leaders, business professionals, faith leaders, front-line support staff, and anyone seeking to gain a better understanding of poverty and its effects.
The experience is intended to be transformative and inspire participants to advocate for stronger safety nets and support systems.
him.
Sign up HERE
TKFNC Fall Financial Literacy Course
Financial literacy is a crucial skill that empowers individuals to make informed financial decisions, build stability, and achieve long-term success. Understanding how to budget, save, invest, and manage debt can help prevent financial stress and create opportunities for growth. Unfortunately, many people never receive proper financial education, leaving them vulnerable to common pitfalls such as overspending, high-interest debt, and inadequate savings for emergencies or retirement.
To help our community gain the financial knowledge they need, we are offering a five-class Financial Literacy Course covering essential topics for financial well-being. Participants can choose to attend the full course or select individual classes based on their interests and needs. Each session will be practical, informative, and designed to provide real-world strategies for managing money effectively. Sign up HERE
HEARTSHARE STUDY
Nicole Cyrille Superville | nicole.cyrillesuperville@advocatehealth.org
HeartShare is a pivotal NIH sponsored program, ongoing at 7 sites across the US, which aims to learn more about heart failure preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a condition that affects majority women and minorities. Patients with this type of heart failure often have conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and irregular heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. They often have symptoms of fatigue, shortness of breath with activity and sometimes swelling in their legs with need for diuretic medications such as Lasix, furosemide, hydrochlorathiazide, chlorthalidone etc.
This program allows eligible participants to gain free comprehensive testing including cardiac MRI, CT chest, CT abdomen pelvis, pulmonary function tests, exercise echocardiogram etc and we offer compensation of up to $750. We also offer transportation.
Our team has been doing outreach to churches, conferences and other community events to raise awareness to ensure women and minorities are well represented given we stand to benefit the most.
We would appreciate sharing this information with the community. Interested persons can call or email. We are also happy to arrange site visits to screen patients.
Learn more or sign up: beinvolved.atriumhealth.org/studies/5/irb00094642
Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute is proud to be one of only seven sites in the U.S. participating in the HeartShare Study — a groundbreaking, NIH-funded research initiative aiming to uncover the root causes of heart failure, particularly HFpEF, a lesser-known form that disproportionately affects women and people of color.
Leading this important work in Charlotte is Dr. Nicole Cyrille-Superville, a nationally respected heart failure cardiologist whose journey from Dominica to Harvard-trained specialist is as inspiring as the research she leads.
The study is currently enrolling participants — including both healthy individuals and those with heart conditions or risk factors. Free advanced testing is provided, along with compensation of $500–$750 and help with transportation.
Learn more or sign up: beinvolved.atriumhealth.org/studies/5/irb00094642
Check out the article I wrote here: https://www.pridemagazineonline.com/heart-health-research-how-you-can-help-and-benefit-from-the-heart-share-study/
Share with your networks.
We need diverse participants for studies like these to help us advance healthcare for all.
Rosy Crumpton, NBC-HWC | rosy@sophrosynewellness.com
Certified HUB- Minority- Owned and Woman- Owned Business
Sophrosyne Wellness
Office Phone: (980) 209-0721 | Mobile: (704) 641-1919
HUG SEARCH FOR NEW SPACE
Bethany McDonald | executivedirector@hugclt.org | office: 704-626-5980 (ext 5202)
Executive Director
Hearts United for Good (HUGCLT)
Coming Together | Changing Lives | Building Futures
2920 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28206
Hearts United for Good (HUG) is a Charlotte-based nonprofit dedicated to feeding families, supporting unhoused neighbors, and empowering underserved communities through compassion-driven programs and partnerships.
We are hoping for a minimum of 10,000sq ft,, affordable, and located within the community we serve so our neighbors can easily access our programs. We also need the space to have a bay door or loading dock so our food trucks can deliver our large donations that keep our Food Assistance and Homeless Outreach Programs running.
LOCAL FBI
SA Marisa Brown | Mbrown4@fbi.gov
SA Jessica Clay | jclay@fbi.gov
I'm Jess Clay. I'm a special agent for the FBI. I'm a part of the Civil Rights unit, so that specifically means I investigate color of law investigations, so perhaps if a police officer uses excessive force or any other violation of someone's constitutional rights. But another big part of that is we investigate hate crimes, so any kind of physical threat due to your race, religion, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or disability.
We find that hate crimes are under-reported. So we really appreciate opportunities like this to put it out to the community. Remind people that you can call us directly to report.
There are other violations within the Civil Rights unit. One's called the church arson Act is a little bit of a misnomer, because it's all houses of worship, and it doesn't necessarily have to be an arson attack. It can be extreme vandalism, any destruction of religious property or symbols, so even if you had your own like personal cross or Star of David attacked, things like that. So that is, like the criminal aspect is what we do for a unit.
But as I said, hate crimes are underreported, so we're big on community outreach. We really like to attend community events. Sometimes we'll have a booth. Just last weekend, we hosted a booth at the festival of India.
North Carolina does not have hate crime statutes, so the state might be able to charge something as communicating threats or intimidation, but we can hit on a federal level, which, you know, gets the most justice for the victim as possible. So give us a call, and if anyone does have any kind of community events occurring, you know, we love the opportunities to attend.
We can also give presentations. So we do talk about active shooter scenarios. We have a civil rights training. We can also talk about child protection as far as like internet use, because you know you have crimes against children and human trafficking divisions as well.
Areas of investigations (Hate Crime and Color of Law investigations)
-Hate crimes are underreported. These are crimes committed on the basis of race, color, and religion; many also include crimes committed on the basis of sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and disability.
Reach out if their houses of faith or organizations are interested in specific training. We offer child protection, active shooters training, among many other topics
THE BULB - PRODUCE TO THE PEOPLE
Lisa Mathews | lisa@thebulbgallery.org
The Bulb is a nonprofit mobile farmers market bringing fresh, nutritious produce to underserved communities in and around Charlotte.
Their mission is to provide equitable access to fresh, nutritious produce in Mecklenburg County. The Bulb operates 13 markets, with a 14th location launching in November, serving between 50 and 100 families per market. The organization works with local grocery stores and small to medium-sized farms to ensure high-quality produce and supports local agriculture.
The Bulb relies on volunteers and has distributed over 178,000 pounds of fresh produce to 32,000 individuals through 180 markets by June 2023.
-Focused on the distribution of more equitable fresh produce, they turn leftover food quickly
-Create access points in coordination with community partners for the food insecure
-Their markets create choice based dignity for shoppers
-They compost what is not edible
-Staff is comprised of 8 members, operate 50 weeks a year
-Continue elevating the experience and looking for ways to grow
If you have a need come, we don’t ask nor require docs
CRISIS ASSISTANCE
Ashley Medford | AMedford@crisisassistance.org
Crisis Assistance Ministry provides assistance and advocacy for people in financial crisis, helping them move toward self-sufficiency.
-Operating in the CLT since 1975 - celebrating 50 years this year
-Provide rent assistance to individuals experiencing short term financial assistance
-Have a clothing & households store operating Tues - Fri where people can shop for free
-They offer a financial empowerment program, providing financial literacy education and one-on-one support for long-term financial goals. The organization also offers poverty simulation classes in the community to raise awareness about financial challenges and provide advocacy support.
-Must have a qualified emergency and support with documentation to be determined of eligibility
PEAS GROCERY DELIVERY
Austin Caton; MS; CDP; MHP | 704-348-2708 (C) | 704-879-2398 (F) | acaton@centralina.org
Aging Program Coordinator
10735 David Taylor Drive, Suite 250 | Charlotte, NC 28262
We have started a new Grocery Box delivery program that is free for seniors age 60 and over with impairments. I have attached the flyer. This is a free program that can help so many!
The program provides home-delivered meals, produce boxes, pantry boxes, or a combination of these. Eligibility is based on age and impairment, such as dementia or physical limitations. Austin encourages the community to refer eligible individuals and mentions the use of Mom's Meals as the vendor.
Centralina Area Agency on Aging : Main intake line phone number is 800-508-5777
Call Austin Caton at PEAS intake number 704-348-2708
-Provide essential services for seniors (home repair, health awareness program, etc.)
-Provide grocery boxes comprised of 4 categories: non frozen meals, produce, pantry or mixture of two
Duration: now until next September
-Trying to serve the community as much as possible
-Looking for volunteer
THRIVE LIBERATION COMMUNITY CENTER
Gia Claybrooks | gia@thrivelcc.org
Thrive is a non-profit organization located in Charlotte, NC, with a mission to provide a safe haven for Black youth and young adults ages 13 - 30 to gather, learn, heal, and be.
What we need:
- Space in centralized locations (we are city-wide, so this will support us as we build our base)
- Volunteers, specifically those who are gifted in planning/executing events (bi-monthly Sunday Fellowships), cooks (bi-monthly Sunday Fellowships), social media volunteers, and volunteers for setup/breakdown.
- We are looking for 2 new board members: one in advocacy and one as Treasurer.
- Produce at low or no cost for our bi-monthly Sunday Fellowship.
How we can support:
- We are developing a civic engagement curriculum that will be both trauma-informed and critical race theory-based.
- We are developing a program for Black high school students called Safe Space that will highlight community belonging, rest, and activism. (looking to partner with high schools, BUT are open to other outlets).
SURVIVOR SANCTUARY YOGA
Desiree Eatmon | deatmon@survivorsanctuaryyoga.org
Survivor Sanctuary Yoga is a nonprofit supporting survivors of human trafficking through yoga, recovery, and support groups. Desiree shares her personal experience as a survivor and the lack of resources for survivors. The organization provides one-on-one yoga sessions, group workshops, and wellness packages for survivors worldwide. Desiree seeks funding, volunteers, and support to continue her important work.
-Works with survivors in trauma recovery while doing yoga
-Brand new org has less than 1 year operating, looking for funding to continue one on one
FREE HOLISTIC CAREGIVER TRAINING VIDEOS
Carolyn Dowdy | cdowdy@caregivermentalwellness.com
Coming Soon: Free Holistic Caregiver Training Videos on our Website
Note: our holistic video training programs and eLearning videos for caregivers, which will be released on our website in the next few weeks for personal use (not-for-commercial use).
If you would like to receive a notification when the videos are launched, please join our email list here: https://mailchi.mp/caregivermentalwellness/email-sign-up-page so you can make your family, friends, co-workers, and family caregivers you may serve in your organization aware of this valuable resource.
What’s Included?
Five full training video programs designed for different caregiver roles to include:
Parents of children with special needs or chronic illness
Grandparents raising grandchildren
Kinship caregivers, adoptive/foster parents/guardians
Youth caregivers
Adult children, spouses, other family, or friends caring for aging loved ones (including seniors caring for seniors)
Ten additional eLearning videos on practical self-care techniques:
Setting healthy boundaries
Time management
Exercise and energy renewal
Benefits of gratitude
Mindfulness meditation
…and more
Our four adult video programs have been reviewed by a Ph.D. mental health therapist and professor, and our Youth Caregiver Program was co-authored by a Ph.D. mental health therapist/professor and her doctoral student.
We’re making unseen caregivers visible—and giving them information, strategies, and techniques to help reduce stress, minimize worry, sustain energy, and ultimately help to prevent burnout so they can thrive instead of just surviving on their caregiver journey.
We envision our training videos to be the standard for caregivers everywhere! We hope you will let your caregivers know this valuable resource is available for personal use.
If you have questions, please let us know.
Warm regards,
THE FOOD SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT
Rich Armenia | rich@feedingcharlotte.org
When: September 27th, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Please arrive around 12:30-12:45 for registration and marketplace)
Where: Oasis Shriners Hall, Charlotte, NC
Who: Families, kids, and folks of ALL ages ready to have a BLAST!
Hold onto your hats, Charlotte, because the 2nd Annual Food Sustainability Summit is zooming into Oasis Shriners Hall for an unforgettable, high-energy, family-friendly fiesta! This isn’t just an event—it’s a supercharged, feel-good mission to tackle food insecurity while having a rip-roaring good time from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on September 27th! Kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone in between—get ready to dive into a day packed with fun, learning, and teamwork that’ll leave you buzzing with excitement!
LIFE CONNECTIONS
Glenn Smith from Life Connections encourages the community to support their partnership with Pasta and Provisions, where a portion of sandwich sales this month benefits their organization.
RESOURCES FOR NONPROFITS
THE LENDING TREE FOUNDATION
The LendingTree Foundation is gathering input from nonprofit partners on an important community initiative: exploring shared warehouse space in Charlotte. Your perspective will help illuminate the needs, challenges, and appetite for collaboration among local nonprofits. The survey takes less than 15 minutes to complete, and to thank you for your time, all organizations that complete the survey will be entered into a random drawing for one $1,000 Amazon gift card and two $500 gift cards. Take the survey now.
NATIONAL WEBINAR: WHAT NONPROFITS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE CURRENT FEDERAL GRANT LANDSCAPE
Register today to join the National Council of Nonprofits for a national webinar on Monday, October 6th at 3:00 pm Eastern to learn more about what nonprofits need to know about the current federal grant landscape. Many nonprofits are struggling to understand how to best navigate recent changes to federal grants. New executive orders, agency memoranda, and grant agreements have caused confusion and concern from nonprofits that regularly partner with the federal government to provide essential services in their communities.
Register HERE
EXTREME WEATHER RECOVERY UPDATES
Dec 31, 2025 – Deadline to apply for assistance with repairing or rebuilding homes impacted by Hurricane Helene through the Renew NC Single Family Housing Program.
Renew NC Single-Family Housing Program is now accepting applications
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: Know your rights as an immigrant before, during, and after disasters. Lee esto en español.
“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.”
Click Here to view these Hurricane Preparedness PSAs (YouTube videos)
These PSAs are provided by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association) NWS (National Weather Service) National Hurricane Center.
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 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.
EXTREME WEATHER FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
From 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 that serve one or more of the following purposes:
Reducing flood risk and vulnerability at drinking water/wastewater treatment works
Enhancing resiliency to rapid hydrologic change or natural disasters at treatment works
Any local government unit or nonprofit water/wastewater corporation affected by Hurricane Helene may apply for this funding. Investor-owned drinking water corporations affected by Hurricane Helene may also apply for the DWSRF Helene funds.
Additionally, funding is available for projects eligible for CWSRF Decentralized Wastewater Systems (septic systems) funding for one or more of the following purposes in Helene-affected areas:
Repairing, replacing and improving the resilience of septic systems to flooding
Assessing the potential to connect homes served by decentralized wastewater treatment systems to centralized wastewater treatment systems, or funding such connections
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)
From 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:
Centering impacted communities to address incidents of hate, violence, or regressive policies.
Fostering solidarity by strengthening community connections and collective action.
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!
MENTAL HEALTH, RESILIENCE and WELL-BEING GRANTS for YOUTH SERVING ORGANIZATION
Background Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation across western North Carolina, leaving a lasting impact on the region. Yet, in the midst of this tragedy, local organizations demonstrated incredible strength and resilience. They responded quickly and compassionately, putting community needs first and working together in creative ways to support recovery.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation (Blue Cross NC Foundation) recognizes that the disaster affected not only those who lost homes, livelihoods, or loved ones, but also the nonprofit professionals who have been caring for them. Nearly a year later, many of these individuals are still serving their communities while continuing to deal with their own personal challenges.
We see a need for flexible support to help sustain this vital workforce.
Available Funding To support these efforts, we are offering grants to up to 20 western North Carolina nonprofit organizations who work within our shared priority area of youth mental health. Each grant will provide $25,000 over a one-year period to support staff with the time and resources they need to rest, recover, and continue healing from the storm’s impact.
The grants are flexible and can be used in ways that best support each organization’s team. Blue Cross NC Foundation does not require a specific approach, allowing each grantee to decide how to use the funds based on their staff’s needs and priorities.
Eligibility
Organization Type:
Nonprofit organization that is exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and is classified as “not a private foundation” under Section 509(a).
- OR-
Fiscally sponsored program – A group or project with a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization acting as a fiscal sponsor. Please note that the fiscal sponsor is considered the grantee and is responsible for all legal aspects of the project including reporting and financial management.
Location
Organizations must be based in the following counties designated as the most impacted and distressed from Hurricane Helene [Source: FEMA and HUD, as of 6 February 2025]: Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cleveland, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, and Yancey.
Please Note: Organizations that are currently receiving funding from the Blue Cross NC Foundation are not eligible to apply for this opportunity. Additionally, universities, government entities, professional associations, hospitals, and pass-through intermediaries are not eligible to apply. If you have a question about whether your organization is eligible, please contact the Foundation at grants@bcbsncfoundation.org.
Timeline
Deadline or Activity | Date(s) |
Funding Opportunity Announced | September 18, 2025 |
Question and Answer Session | September 25, 2025 |
Deadline to Apply | October 16, 2025 |
Grant Awardees Notified | October 30, 2025 |
GRANTS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
Local/Regional
Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation Opens Fall Grant Cycle
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation recently opened its fall grant cycle. Applications will be accepted from eligible 501(c)3 publicly supported charities through Friday, October 3, at noon.
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation (CMCF) announced several changes to grantmaking earlier this year, including aligning investments to Leading on Opportunity’s Opportunity Compass and expanding eligibility to include requests for operating support. Program-specific requests will continue to be accepted. CMCF will consider applications from organizations that support youth from cradle to career, provide family stability, build social capital, or encourage civic engagement.
A Tool Kit is available to support applicants during the application process. The Tool Kit includes a copy of the application, answers to frequently asked questions, and the scoring rubric that will be used to review applications. CMCF will also host a virtual information session on Thursday, September 4, at 11:00 a.m. outlining the priority areas of this grant opportunity, along with the application and review processes. Registration is available online.
To apply – or for complete criteria – please visit the Online Grants Centerand select “Charlotte Mecklenburg Community Foundation” in the Grant Program Name field. Visit www.charmeck-cf.org for a complete list of grants. For more information about the fall grant cycle, contact Nicole Fote at nfote@fftc.org or 704.973.4559.
Regional
Investing in Higher Education and Community Needs in South Carolina (For those with affiliates in our neighboring state)
Application deadline: November 3, 2025
Grant amount: $4,000–$300,000
Geographic scope: South Carolina
Target population: Students and communities in need
Description: The Abney Foundation funds nonprofit organizations that serve communities across South Carolina. The majority of its grantmaking is focused on expanding access to higher education, while additional funding is directed toward programs in health, cultural affairs, youth services, and social services. The Foundation seeks innovative and creative projects that are responsive to changing community needs.
National
Support for Nonprofits in Environmental and Human Services Fields
Application deadline: October 31, 2025
Grant amount: $5,000–$10,000
Target population: Communities impacted by disasters and human services issues
Description: The Lawrence Foundation provides grants to U.S.-based nonprofits addressing pressing issues in the environment, human services, disaster relief, and other critical areas. Funding supports both program-specific initiatives and general operating costs, with no geographic restrictions on eligible projects.
Pathways to Employment for Youth and Veterans with Disabilities
Application deadline: November 1, 2025
Grant amount: Up to $70,000
Target population: Youth and veterans with disabilities
Description: The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) provides national grants to nonprofit organizations that support youth with disabilities and returning veterans with disabilities. Funding prioritizes innovative projects that develop leadership and employment skills, break down workplace barriers, and create measurable career opportunities. Grants also promote inclusion alongside peers without disabilities and support model projects with national impact and replication potential.
GENERAL INFORMATION
OUR GREATER CHARLOTTE HEART WALK THIS WEEKEND Saturday 27th at 7:30 am
Our Greater Charlotte Heart Walk THIS WEEKEND
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.
Thank you and we hope you’ll join us!
VOTER ID and DOCUMENTARY PROOF of CITIZENSHIP WEBINAR
Jenny McKenney | 984-318-0909 | Jenny@VoteRiders.org
North Carolina State Director
As part of National Voter Education Week, VoteRiders is hosting a webinar on October 8 at 3pm ET to educate voters on Voter ID and Documentary Proof of Citizenship. We will provide an overview of the landscape, the changes we saw this year, how we can be ready for future changes, and how we can start building for 2026. Register HERE.
If you need any services like Spanish interpretation, American Sign Language interpretation, or CART services, please be sure to register and request the service before October 1st.
Hope to see you there, and please help us spread the word! -Jenny
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¡Buenas tardes!
Como parte de la semana nacional de educación al votante, VoteRiders tendrá un seminario web el 8 de octubre a las 3 (Hora Estándar del Este) para educar a votantes sobre la identificación de votante y prueba documental de ciudadanía. Proveeremos una descripción general de la situación actual, nuevos cambios que vimos este año, cómo prepararse para cambios en el futuro, y cómo empezar a planear para el 2026. Regístrese AQUÍ.
Si necesita cualquier servicio como interpretación en español, interpretación de lenguaje de señas americano (ASL), o servicios de CART, por favor asegúrese de inscribirse y solicitar el servicio antes del 1 de octubre.
¡Espero verle allá y por favor ayúdanos a correr la voz! -Jenny
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MY BROTHER'S KEEPER CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG YOUTH RESIDENCY
The Harvey B. Gantt Center is excited to announce that the application deadline for the 2025–2026 Youth Residency: At the Table student cohort has been extended until October 1st. We want to ensure that as many talented high school students as possible have the chance to apply for this opportunity.
This six-month residency in partnership with My Brother’s Keeper Charlotte-Mecklenburg provides mentorship, skill exploration, and personalized recommendations for college, internships, future careers, and opportunities for community engagement—all free to families. Students do not need an arts background to participate. Please see the flyer attached to this email for more details, and please feel free to share!
Why This Matters for Your Students
Deadline Approaching: Applications have been extended to Monday, October 1
Free Transportation: We provide transportation for all in-person sessions, removing barriers to participation.
Comprehensive Growth: Students build leadership and creativity, partner with local nonprofits, and present their work in a public showcase.
Please share this with sophomores through seniors who would benefit from career exploration, mentorship, and community
If you have questions, contact rsingh@mbkcltmecklenburg.org.
Thank you for supporting students as they discover their brilliance and prepare for college, careers, and lifelong leadership.
JOIN US FOR A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION OF WESTSIDE PRIDE
This event will be a celebration of the history, culture, and talent of West Charlotte! Attendees will enjoy a unique dining experience prepared by West Charlotte culinary creatives, musical entertainment, and insights into the evolution of this historic neighborhood.
Event proceeds will benefit the opening of Lucille Kitchen, a West Charlotte small business incubator which will support local culinary entrepreneurs, provide employment and job training for residents, and offer healthy living and economic mobility programs for community members.
Register as a SPONSOR
Purchase TICKETS
PRAYER FOR LEADERS
Thanks to Michael Graff and his new newsletter, The Charlotte Optimist, for bringing our attention to this quote:
A half-century ago, a man wrote to author E.B. White to say he was losing faith in humanity, and White responded in a letter:
As long as there is one upright man, as long as there is one compassionate woman, the contagion may spread. Hope is the thing that is left to us, in a bad time.
So, as E.B. White closed his letter to the man who’d lost faith, “Hang on to your hat. Hang on to your hope. And wind the clock, for tomorrow is another day.”
You can sign up to receive the newsletter at charlotteoptimist.com.
NEXT MEETING: TWO weeks from today - Thursday at 11 a.m.