Holiday Cheer & Charity in Charlotte

Finding a cause you love and dedicating your time and effort to it is said to be priceless—and there’s no better time than now to think about what your own cause might be. If the most wonderful time of the year makes you think about giving back, check out this shortlist of charity and volunteering options in Charlotte. Read on to spread the cheer.

Urban Ministry Center / Men’s Shelter of Charlotte

Urban Ministry Center and Men’s Shelter of Charlotte have officially merged. You will continue to see their identities separate or co-branded until a final identity for their new organization is rolled out. These wonderful people work together to end homelessness in Charlotte. This season, if you’re looking to join their cause, there are many ways to help, especially since any small amount of good goes a long way for someone in need! Check the detailed Wishlist on the website and donate money or goods, get involved in Operation Sandwich, or volunteer for any other support program. You won’t regret it!

A Better World

A Better World describes itself as an after-school program for at-risk children, but it is so much more than that! You can help by volunteering to become a reading buddy or helping school kids with homework for an hour a day. Or, be an ally in after-school academic activities for children who are less fortunate by simply making a donation anytime. Finally, if you’d like to make this December special for the children, get involved in this year’s Christmas party and spread the joy!

HOPEmatch

This December is guaranteed to be special for those in need thanks to HOPEmatch. Originally a Christmas-specific organization, it has evolved into a pillar of the Charlotte community and now lends a helping hand to families in need all year long. You, too, can participate in holiday sponsorship programs to make the end of the year easier and more cheerful for those who are less fortunate.

Friendship Trays

The people at Friendship Trays create healthy meals and deliver them to the elderly and infirm in Charlotte. This non-governmental organization depends on the involvement of volunteers in the community, and they could really use your support—especially around the holidays! You can help by donating or becoming one of the many volunteers needed to help those in need of a hot meal. Don’t be shy; come and say hi and witness the wonderful work they do in the kitchen.

The Arthritis Foundation

At the Arthritis Foundation, the mission is clear: provide access to information, advocacy, and support to those living with arthritis. While also pursuing a cure for one of the most common forms of disability in the United States, the organization makes it its mission to help and support people who battle this joint disease every day. If you’re looking for something other than a donation, the foundation also organizes the Jingle Bell Run! This festive race will happen on December 12 in Charlotte, so put on your jogging shoes and run for a good cause.

Florence Crittenton Services of North Carolina

Florence Crittenton Services of North Carolina is a place for understanding and education for at-risk mothers and single women, whether they are pregnant or not. The organization strives to help young women and their babies, and they need as many allies as possible in this noble mission. Make a donation or get involved in any of their upcoming events to support the cause and help them reach their goals.

The Humane Society of Charlotte

We can’t let the year pass us by without thinking about our furry friends. The Humane Society of Charlotte provides shelter for homeless animals and this has been at the center of its work for years. If you’re unable to adopt one of the many cats and dogs at the shelter, you can always leave a donation. Lend a paw and follow the Humane Society’s advice for the holidays: don’t forget about the animals.

The end of the year is a good reminder that it’s never too late to give back. So, make this December a memorable one for those in need in Charlotte!