There are many nonprofit organizations working to provide disaster relief response that impacts communities in the United States. Many of these organizations also respond to disasters outside the U.S. Listed below is a selection of nonprofits you can find on the Groundswell app:

SBP - St. Bernard's Parish

SBP is a nationally recognized disaster resilience and recovery organization whose mission is to shrink the time between disaster and recovery. Founded in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina, SBP has grown to an organization with more than 80 employees and 240 AmeriCorps members. Still headquartered in New Orleans, SBP has nine additional active operating sites around the country.

Convoy of Hope

Convoy of Hope is an American nonprofit humanitarian and disaster relief organization that provides food, supplies, and humanitarian services to impoverished or otherwise needy populations throughout the world.

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross, also known as The American National Red Cross, is a non-profit humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and disaster preparedness education in the United States.

Operation BBQ Relief

Armed with a caravan of cooks, mobile pits, kitchens, and volunteers, Operation BBQ Relief delivers the healing power of BBQ in times of need, feeding first responders and communities affected by natural disasters along with year-round efforts to fight hunger through The Always Serving Project® and Camp OBR™ programs.

Team Rubicon

Team Rubicon’s mission is to provide disaster relief response to those affected by natural disasters, no matter when or where they strike. By pairing the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders, medical professionals, and technology solutions, Team Rubicon aims to provide the greatest service and impact possible. Founded in 2010, Team Rubicon has deployed across the United States and around the world to provide immediate relief to those impacted by disasters and humanitarian crises.

World Central Kitchen

World Central Kitchen uses the power of food to nourish communities and strengthen economies in times of crisis and beyond. WCK is first on the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises. We build resilient food systems with locally-led solutions.

All Hands And Hearts

All Hands and Hearts is an organization committed to effectively and efficiently addressing the immediate and long-term needs of global communities impacted by disasters. All Hands and Hearts arrives early for the first response and stays late to rebuild schools and homes in a disaster-resilient way.

Doctors Without Borders

Doctors Without Borders provide medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare. Their teams are made up of tens of thousands of health professionals, and logistic and administrative staff - most of them hired locally. Their actions are guided by medical ethics and the principles of impartiality, independence, and neutrality.

International Rescue Committee

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises and helps people affected by these crises—including the climate crisis—to survive, recover and rebuild their lives.

International Medical Corps

International Medical Corps is a global, nonprofit, humanitarian aid organization dedicated to saving lives and relieving suffering by providing emergency medical services, as well as healthcare training and development programs, to those affected by disaster, disease or conflict.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps acts as a connector, a collaborator, a catalyst, and an advocate for change. For 40 years and in more than 40 countries, Mercy Corps has helped communities forge new paths to prosperity in the face of disaster, poverty, and the impacts of climate change.

Direct Relief

Direct Relief is a nonprofit humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical assistance and disaster relief response in the United States and internationally. Direct Relief works to expand access to medicine and healthcare by equipping doctors and nurses with lifesaving medical resources.

International Committee of the Red Cross

Established in 1863, the ICRC operates worldwide, helping people affected by conflict and armed violence and promoting laws that protect victims of war. An independent and neutral organization, its mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We are based in Geneva, Switzerland, and employ over 20,000 people in more than 100 countries. The ICRC is funded mainly by voluntary donations from governments and from National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Americares

Americares saves lives and improves health for people affected by poverty or disaster so they can reach their full potential. Americares meets urgent health needs of survivors in shelters and those cut off from care, often in remote areas.

CARE

CARE works around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty and achieve social justice. Whether it is a sudden emergency or an ongoing crisis, CARE works to aid people in need around the world.

Donate to any of these organizations using the Groundswell app.

As the world celebrates Earth Day on April 22, we are shining a spotlight on one of the greatest threats to this planet: climate change. It is an issue that the United Nations calls a defining crisis of our time. And many Americans agree, with over 60% believing that governments are not doing enough to address climate change. In five of the last six years, costs from climate and weather-related disasters have exceeded $100 billion annually, intensifying the need to support nonprofits focused on tackling the challenges head on.

Consider supporting one of these high-impact climate change charities fighting to save our planet.

The Clean Air Task Force (CATF)

The Clean Air Task Force (CATF) is a nonprofit environmental organization that focuses on reducing air pollution and promoting clean energy solutions. The organization was founded in 1996 and is based in Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

What does Clean Air Task Force do?

CATF works to advance policies and technologies that can reduce harmful air pollutants, including greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. They collaborate with government agencies, industry leaders, and other organizations to promote clean energy solutions such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the electrification of transportation.

In addition to policy advocacy, CATF also conducts scientific research and analysis to identify the most effective solutions for reducing air pollution and improving public health. They work to educate the public and raise awareness about the importance of clean air and a healthy environment.

What has Clean Air Task Force accomplished?

Some of CATF's notable achievements include contributing to the development of the Acid Rain Program in the United States, which successfully reduced sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from power plants. They have also been involved in the development of clean energy policies in several states, including Massachusetts and New York.

The Clean Air Task Force is a respected and influential organization that is making a significant impact on reducing air pollution and promoting clean energy solutions.

Action for the Climate Emergency

Action for the Climate Emergency (ACE) is a UK-based grassroots organization focused on climate change activism and advocating for government action on the climate crisis. The organization was founded in 2019 and has since grown to become a national network of local groups.

What is Action for Climate Emergency’s mission?

ACE's mission is to build a mass movement of people demanding urgent action on the climate emergency. They work to mobilize communities and individuals to take action through protests, lobbying, and other forms of direct action. The organization also promotes education and awareness-raising around climate issues, with a focus on empowering individuals and communities to take positive action.

What does Action for Climate Emergency do?

ACE's campaigns and initiatives focus on a range of issues related to the climate crisis, including renewable energy, divestment from fossil fuels, and ending government subsidies for the fossil fuel industry. They also advocate for policies that would support a just transition to a low-carbon economy, such as a Green New Deal.

In addition to their direct action campaigns, ACE also provides resources and support for local climate groups across the UK. They offer training, toolkits, and other resources to help groups organize effective campaigns and actions.

Overall, Action for the Climate Emergency is an important voice in the climate movement, working to build a powerful, grassroots movement for urgent action on the climate crisis.

Carbon 180

Carbon 180 is a US-based nonprofit organization focused on developing and promoting carbon removal solutions to address climate change. The organization was founded in 2015 and is based in Oakland, California.

What does Carbon 180 do?

Carbon 180's mission is to accelerate the transition to a net-zero carbon economy by promoting the development and deployment of carbon removal solutions. They work with policymakers, businesses, and other organizations to raise awareness about the importance of carbon removal and to advocate for policies that support its development.

The organization conducts research and analysis to identify the most promising carbon removal technologies and strategies and works to promote their deployment at scale. Carbon 180 also works to support the growth of the carbon removal industry by providing funding, technical assistance, and other forms of support to startups and other organizations working on carbon removal solutions.

What does Carbon 180 focus on?

Carbon 180's work is focused on three main areas: policy, innovation, and market development. They advocate for policies that support carbon removal, work to accelerate innovation in the field, and promote the development of markets for carbon removal solutions.

Overall, Carbon 180 is an important organization in the effort to address climate change by promoting the development and deployment of carbon removal solutions. Their work is helping to accelerate the transition to a net-zero carbon economy and reduce the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on the environment.

Sunrise Movement Education Fund

The Sunrise Movement Education Fund is a US-based nonprofit organization that focuses on climate advocacy and education. The organization was founded in 2017 and is based in New York City.

What does Sunrise Movement Education Fund do?

The Sunrise Movement Education Fund's mission is to build a movement of young people and their allies to advocate for bold action on climate change. They work to engage young people in the political process and to promote policies that address the climate crisis.

Where does Sunrise Movement Education focus its efforts?

The organization's work is focused on several key areas. They advocate for policies that support a just transition to a clean energy economy, including a Green New Deal. They also work to engage young people in the political process by organizing events, rallies, and other forms of activism.

The Sunrise Movement Education Fund also provides education and training for young people on climate issues and advocacy. They offer workshops, training, and other resources to help young people learn about the climate crisis and how to advocate for change.

The organization is affiliated with the larger Sunrise Movement, which is a grassroots organization that works to mobilize young people to take action on climate change. The Sunrise Movement Education Fund provides support for the Sunrise Movement's advocacy and organizing work.

The Sunrise Movement Education Fund is an important organization in the climate movement, working to engage young people in the political process and to advocate for bold action on climate change.

Conservation International

Conservation International (CI) is a US-based nonprofit environmental organization that is focused on protecting the natural world and promoting sustainable development. The organization was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

What is Conservation International’s mission?

CI's mission is to protect nature for the benefit of humanity. They work to conserve biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and promote sustainable development around the world. The organization's work is focused on four key areas: oceans, freshwater, climate, and biodiversity.

What does Conservation International do?

CI collaborates with governments, businesses, and communities to promote conservation and sustainable development. They work to promote policies that support conservation and sustainable development and provide technical assistance and other forms of support to help implement those policies.

The organization also conducts scientific research to understand the impacts of human activity on the natural world, and to identify strategies for conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. They work to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote public engagement in conservation efforts.

CI's work is focused on several key initiatives, including the protection of tropical forests, the conservation of marine ecosystems, and the promotion of sustainable agriculture and fisheries. The organization has also been involved in the development of several international agreements related to conservation and sustainable development, including the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Conservation International is an important organization in the global environmental movement, working to protect the natural world and promote sustainable development for the benefit of both people and the planet.

Climate Solutions Accelerator

The Climate Solutions Accelerator is a US-based nonprofit organization that focuses on accelerating the transition to a clean energy economy and addressing the climate crisis. The organization was founded in 2018 and is based in Charlottesville, Virginia.

What is Climate Solution Accelerator’s mission?

The Climate Solutions Accelerator's mission is to mobilize communities and promote policies that will lead to a rapid and just transition to a sustainable, clean energy economy. They work to promote the development and deployment of clean energy technologies and to support the growth of clean energy jobs and businesses.

What does Climate Solution Accelerator focus on?

The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including transportation, buildings, renewable energy, and climate policy. They advocate for policies that support the adoption of clean energy technologies and provide technical assistance and other forms of support to help communities and businesses transition to a clean energy economy.

The Climate Solutions Accelerator also works to raise awareness about the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for action. They organize events, workshops, and other educational programs to engage the public and promote climate action.

In addition to their advocacy work, the Climate Solutions Accelerator provides funding and support for clean energy startups and other organizations working on climate solutions. They also collaborate with other organizations and networks working on climate issues to promote collective action and impact.

The Climate Solutions Accelerator is an important organization in the effort to address the climate crisis and accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. Their work is helping to promote policies and solutions that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote a more sustainable, equitable future for all.

Climate Resolve

Climate Resolve is a US-based nonprofit organization that focuses on addressing the impacts of climate change and promoting resilience in the face of climate-related risks. The organization was founded in 2010 and is based in Los Angeles, California.

What is Climate Resolve’s mission?

Climate Resolve's mission is to promote climate resilience and equity in communities, ecosystems, and economies. They work to advance policies and solutions that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change, and promote social and economic equity in the face of climate risks.

Where does Climate Resolve focus its efforts?

The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including water, energy, transportation, and land use. They work to promote policies and practices that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote resilience in these areas, while also addressing the needs of vulnerable communities and ecosystems.

Climate Resolve also conducts research and analysis to better understand the impacts of climate change and the effectiveness of different policy solutions. They work to promote public awareness and engagement on climate issues and to build networks and collaborations that can help advance climate action.

In addition to their advocacy work, Climate Resolve provides technical assistance and other forms of support to help communities and businesses prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change. They work with local governments, businesses, and community organizations to identify climate risks and develop strategies to address them.

Climate Resolve is an important organization in the effort to address the impacts of climate change and promote resilience in the face of climate risks. Their work is helping to promote policies and solutions that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems, and build a more sustainable, equitable future.

The Praxis Project

The Praxis Project is a US-based nonprofit organization that works to build healthy, just, and equitable communities. The organization was founded in 2002 and is based in Oakland, California.

What is the Praxis Project’s mission?

The Praxis Project's mission is to advance community-driven solutions for social, economic, and environmental justice. They work to promote policies and practices that can help reduce health disparities and address the underlying social and economic determinants of health.

What does Praxis Project do?

The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including food and agriculture, health care, environmental justice, and social justice. They work with grassroots organizations and community leaders to develop and implement strategies that can improve community health and well-being.

The Praxis Project also provides training, technical assistance, and other forms of support to help build the capacity of community-based organizations to address health and social justice issues. They work to promote community engagement and leadership in decision-making processes and to build networks and collaborations that can help advance social and environmental justice.

In addition to their domestic work, The Praxis Project also engages in international advocacy and capacity-building efforts. They work to promote global health equity and to support community-led solutions to health and social justice issues around the world.

Overall, The Praxis Project is an important organization in the effort to promote healthy, just, and equitable communities. Their work is helping to address the underlying social and economic determinants of health and to build a more just and sustainable future for all.

The National Resources Defense Council

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) is a US-based nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect the environment and promote sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. The organization was founded in 1970 and is based in New York City, with offices across the United States and around the world.

What is National Resources Defense Council’s mission?

The NRDC's mission is to safeguard the earth—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends. They work to promote policies and practices that can help protect the environment, promote clean energy and sustainable solutions, and protect the health and well-being of communities around the world.

What does the NRDC do?

The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including climate and clean energy, water and oceans, wildlife and habitat, and health and communities. They engage in research, advocacy, and litigation to promote environmental protection and sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.

The NRDC also works to promote public awareness and engagement on environmental issues and to build partnerships and collaborations with other organizations and stakeholders. They provide resources and support to individuals, businesses, and communities to help them reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.

In addition to their domestic work, the NRDC engages in international advocacy and capacity-building efforts. They work to promote global environmental protection and support community-led solutions to environmental challenges around the world.

Overall, the NRDC is an important organization in the effort to protect the environment and promote sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. Their work is helping to promote policies and practices that can protect the health and well-being of communities around the world, and to build a more sustainable future for all.

Project Drawdown

Project Drawdown is a research and communications organization that focuses on identifying and promoting the most effective solutions to reverse global warming. The organization was founded in 2014 and is based in San Francisco, California.

What is Project Drawdown’s mission?

The mission of Project Drawdown is to help the world reach "drawdown," the point at which greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere begin to decline. They work to identify and promote a wide range of solutions that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and draw carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.

Project Drawdown conducts research and analysis to identify and rank the most effective solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reversing global warming. They publish this research in their annual "Drawdown Review," which ranks the top 100 solutions for addressing climate change.

What does Project Drawdown focus on most?

The organization's work is focused on several key areas, including energy, transportation, buildings, food and agriculture, land use, and materials. They work with businesses, governments, and other organizations to promote the adoption of these solutions and to help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

In addition to their research and advocacy work, Project Drawdown also provides resources and support to individuals, communities, and organizations to help them take action on climate change. They provide educational materials, tools, and resources to help people reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable solutions in their daily lives.

Overall, Project Drawdown is an important organization in the effort to reverse global warming and address the impacts of climate change. Their work is helping to identify and promote the most effective solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building a more sustainable future for all.

Learn more about the Groundswell.io giving platform and schedule a meeting with one of our corporate giving program consultants to find out how you can launch a giving program for your company.

Hunger awareness campaigns are initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the issue of hunger and food insecurity, both locally and globally. These campaigns aim to educate people about the extent of the problem, its causes and consequences, and to inspire individuals and communities to take action to address it.

Hunger awareness campaigns can take various forms, including social media campaigns, public service announcements, fundraising events, food drives, and community outreach programs. They often involve collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.

The primary goal of these campaigns is to draw attention to the problem of hunger, which affects millions of people worldwide. According to the United Nations, an estimated 690 million people suffered from hunger in 2019. Hunger is a complex issue that is often caused by poverty, conflict, climate change, and other factors, and its impact is felt by individuals and communities around the world.

Hunger awareness campaigns aim to highlight the fact that hunger is a solvable problem, and that individuals and communities can play a role in addressing it. 

By supporting organizations that provide food aid, advocating for policies that promote food security, and reducing food waste, we can work towards a future where no one goes hungry.

Here’s a list of nonprofits at the front lines of tackling world hunger:

Second Harvest Heartland

Second Harvest Heartland is a non-profit organization based in Minnesota, United States, that aims to end hunger through community partnerships and innovative programs. Founded in 2001, Second Harvest Heartland is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the country.

Second Harvest Heartland's mission is to "end hunger through community partnerships." To achieve this, the organization collects surplus food and other resources from various sources, including grocery stores, restaurants, and food manufacturers. These donations are then distributed to a network of more than 1,000 food shelves, meal programs, and other hunger-relief organizations across Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Second Harvest Heartland also offers a variety of programs to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.

Second Harvest Heartland is one of the largest food banks in the United States, distributing more than 103 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Houston Food Bank

Houston Food Bank is a non-profit organization based in Houston, Texas, that works to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1982, Houston Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the country.

Houston Food Bank's mission is to "lead the fight against hunger" by providing access to nutritious food and other resources to individuals and families in need. The organization operates a 308,000 square-foot warehouse and distribution center, where it collects and distributes donated food and grocery items to a network of more than 1,500 hunger-relief organizations across southeast Texas.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Houston Food Bank offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.

Houston Food Bank is one of the largest food banks in the United States, distributing more than 159 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Dare to Care

Dare to Care is a non-profit organization based in Louisville, Kentucky, that works to end hunger and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1971, Dare to Care partners with more than 200 local agencies, including food pantries, shelters, and community centers, to distribute food and other resources to individuals and families in need.

Dare to Care's mission is to "lead our community to feed the hungry and conquer the cycle of need." To achieve this, the organization operates a 190,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center, where it collects and distributes donated food and grocery items to its partner agencies across the region.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Dare to Care offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.

Dare to Care is one of the largest food banks in Kentucky, distributing more than 20 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Neighborhood House

Neighborhood House is a non-profit organization based in St. Paul, Minnesota, that works to empower individuals and families in the local community through education, advocacy, and support services. Founded in 1897, Neighborhood House offers a range of programs and services that aim to address the root causes of poverty and promote social and economic justice.

Neighborhood House's mission is to "help people gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in diverse communities." The organization provides a variety of services to support individuals and families, including adult education and job training programs, youth development programs, health and wellness services, and immigrant and refugee support services.

Neighborhood House also operates a food shelf and distribution program that provides emergency food assistance to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization partners with local food banks and grocery stores to collect and distribute food to those in need.

Neighborhood House serves more than 14,000 individuals and families each year, with a focus on supporting underserved communities and addressing systemic barriers to social and economic opportunity. The organization is committed to promoting equity and social justice in the St. Paul community and beyond.

Second Harvest Food Bank

Second Harvest Food Bank is a non-profit organization based in Silicon Valley, California, that works to alleviate hunger and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1974, Second Harvest Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the United States.

Second Harvest Food Bank's mission is to "lead the community to ensure that anyone who needs a healthy meal can get one." To achieve this, the organization operates a 75,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution center, where it collects and distributes donated food and grocery items to a network of more than 300 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters, across Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Second Harvest Food Bank offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.

Second Harvest Food Bank is one of the largest food banks in the San Francisco Bay Area, distributing more than 94 million pounds of food in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Northwest Harvest

Northwest Harvest is a non-profit organization based in Seattle, Washington, that works to end hunger in the local community. Founded in 1967, Northwest Harvest is a member of Feeding America, a national network of food banks working to end hunger across the United States.

Northwest Harvest's mission is to "lead the fight for hungry people statewide to have access to nutritious food while respecting their dignity and promoting good health." To achieve this, the organization operates a statewide network of food banks, meal programs, and other partner agencies to distribute donated food and grocery items to individuals and families in need.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Northwest Harvest offers a variety of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger, such as job training, nutrition education, and advocacy initiatives. These programs aim to empower individuals and communities to take action against hunger and poverty.

Northwest Harvest is one of the largest food banks in Washington State, distributing more than 32 million meals in 2020 to individuals and families facing hunger. The organization is committed to working towards a future where every person has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Feeding America

Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, with a network of 200 food banks and 60,000 partner agencies that work together to fight hunger and food insecurity in local communities. Founded in 1979, Feeding America operates as a nationwide network of charitable organizations that distribute donated food and grocery items to individuals and families in need.

Feeding America's mission is to "feed America's hungry through a nationwide network of member food banks and engage our country in the fight to end hunger." The organization works to address hunger and poverty through a variety of programs and initiatives, including food distribution, disaster relief, child hunger programs, nutrition education, and advocacy efforts.

Feeding America's network of food banks and partner agencies serve every county in the United States, providing access to nutritious food for millions of Americans each year. In 2020, the organization distributed more than 6 billion meals to individuals and families facing hunger.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, Feeding America is committed to addressing the root causes of hunger and advocating for policies and programs that promote food security and economic opportunity for all. The organization works with lawmakers, corporations, and community partners to promote solutions that can help end hunger and poverty in the United States.

Food Forward

Food Forward is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California, that works to reduce food waste and increase food access in the local community. Founded in 2009, Food Forward collects surplus fresh produce from local farmers' markets, wholesalers, and backyard fruit trees, and distributes it to local food banks, pantries, and other hunger relief organizations.

Food Forward's mission is to "fight hunger and prevent food waste by rescuing fresh surplus produce, connecting this abundance with people in need and inspiring others to do the same." The organization's produce recovery and distribution program, known as the "Harvest Program," is run entirely by volunteers who collect and transport donated produce to hunger relief organizations across Southern California.

In addition to its produce recovery efforts, Food Forward also offers a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting food justice and sustainability. These include education and outreach programs, community-building events, and advocacy initiatives that aim to address systemic issues of food insecurity and food waste.

Since its founding, Food Forward has rescued more than 100 million pounds of fresh produce and donated it to hunger relief organizations in Southern California. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable food system, where everyone has access to healthy, nutritious food.

Hollywood Food Coalition

The Hollywood Food Coalition is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles, California, that works to provide meals and other essential services to people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in the local community. Founded in 1987, the organization operates a nightly meal service, seven days a week, serving hot, nutritious meals to individuals and families in need.

The Hollywood Food Coalition's mission is to "provide a reliable source of nutritious meals and support services to the homeless and food insecure people in Hollywood, and to foster a sense of community among our volunteers and patrons." In addition to its meal service, the organization offers a variety of support services, including medical and dental care, mental health counseling, and legal aid, among others.

The Hollywood Food Coalition operates with the help of hundreds of dedicated volunteers, who prepare and serve meals, provide services, and help with fundraising and other tasks. The organization is committed to providing a welcoming, respectful, and safe environment for all individuals who come to its meal service, and to promoting social justice and community-building initiatives that address the root causes of hunger and homelessness.

Since its founding, the Hollywood Food Coalition has served millions of meals to people experiencing food insecurity and homelessness in Los Angeles. The organization is committed to continuing its efforts to provide essential services and support to the most vulnerable members of the local community.

Meals on Wheels America

Meals on Wheels America is a non-profit organization based in Arlington, Virginia, that works to address senior hunger and isolation by providing nutritious meals and other support services to seniors in need. The organization was founded in 1954 and has since grown to become a national network of local programs that serve seniors in communities across the United States.

Meals on Wheels America's mission is to "empower local community programs to improve the health and quality of life of the seniors they serve so that no one is left hungry or isolated." The organization supports local programs by providing funding, training, and other resources to help them operate effectively and efficiently.

In addition to its support for local programs, Meals on Wheels America also advocates for policies and programs that address senior hunger and isolation at the national level. The organization works with lawmakers, corporations, and other stakeholders to promote solutions that can help ensure that every senior has access to nutritious food and a supportive community.

Meals on Wheels America's network of local programs serves millions of meals each year to seniors in need, delivering hot meals to their homes or providing meals at community centers and other gathering places. The organization's programs also offer a variety of support services, such as home visits, transportation assistance, and socialization activities, that help seniors stay connected and engaged with their communities.

Overall, Meals on Wheels America is committed to helping seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life by providing them with the essential support services they need to thrive.

Move for Hunger

Move for Hunger is a non-profit organization that works to reduce food waste and fight hunger by mobilizing the relocation industry to donate non-perishable food items to food banks and other hunger relief organizations. The organization was founded in 2009 and is based in Asbury Park, New Jersey.

Move for Hunger's mission is to "mobilize the moving, relocation, and multi-family industries to reduce food waste and fight hunger." The organization works with moving companies, apartment communities, and other businesses to collect unopened, non-perishable food items that are typically discarded during moves or apartment clean-outs, and donates them to local food banks and pantries.

Move for Hunger has partnered with more than 1,000 moving companies across the United States and Canada, as well as with hundreds of apartment communities, to collect and donate food to those in need. The organization also provides resources and training to its partners to help them promote food donation and reduce food waste in their operations.

In addition to its food donation efforts, Move for Hunger also works to raise awareness about hunger and food waste, and advocates for policy solutions that can help address these issues. The organization has been recognized for its innovative approach to fighting hunger and reducing food waste and has received numerous awards and accolades for its work.

Overall, Move for Hunger is committed to using the power of the relocation industry to fight hunger and reduce food waste, and to create a more equitable and sustainable food system for all.

Feed the Children

Feed the Children is a non-profit organization based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, that works to fight childhood hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world. The organization was founded in 1979 and has since grown to become one of the largest international charities in the world, with operations in more than 10 countries.

Feed the Children's mission is to "provide hope and resources for those without life's essentials." The organization provides food, educational resources, and other support services to children and families in need, both domestically and internationally.

In the United States, Feed the Children operates a variety of programs to support children and families in low-income communities, including food distribution, backpack programs that provide food to children for weekends and holidays when school meals are not available, and disaster relief efforts in areas affected by natural disasters. The organization also works to provide educational resources, such as school supplies and books, to children in need.

Internationally, Feed the Children operates a variety of programs to support children and families in developing countries, including food distribution, clean water initiatives, and child sponsorship programs that provide education, healthcare, and other support services to children in need.

Feed the Children's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to providing hope and resources to those who need them most, and to creating a world where every child has access to the essentials they need to thrive.

City Harvest

City Harvest is a non-profit organization based in New York City that works to fight hunger and food waste by rescuing excess food from restaurants, grocery stores, and other food businesses and redistributing it to those in need. The organization was founded in 1982 and has since grown to become the largest food rescue organization in New York City.

City Harvest's mission is to "end hunger in communities throughout New York City by rescuing and redistributing food, educating the public, and addressing the root causes of poverty." The organization works with more than 2,500 food donors and 400 community food programs to collect and distribute more than 66 million pounds of food each year.

In addition to its food rescue efforts, City Harvest also provides educational resources and training to its partner organizations and the broader community to help promote healthy eating habits, reduce food waste, and address the root causes of hunger and poverty.

City Harvest's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable food system for all, and to ensuring that no New Yorker goes hungry due to a lack of access to nutritious food.

Capital Area Food Bank

The Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB) is a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. that works to fight hunger and improve nutrition in the Washington, D.C. metro area. The organization was founded in 1980 and has since grown to become one of the largest food banks in the region.

CAFB's mission is to "create access to good, healthy food in every community." The organization works with more than 450 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community organizations, to distribute more than 30 million pounds of food each year to individuals and families in need.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, CAFB also operates a variety of programs to promote healthy eating habits and improve nutrition in the communities it serves. These programs include nutrition education classes, cooking demonstrations, and community gardens that provide fresh, healthy produce to residents in low-income neighborhoods.

CAFB's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and just food system for all, and to ensuring that every member of the community has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Alameda County Community Food Bank

The Alameda County Community Food Bank (ACCFB) is a non-profit organization based in Oakland, California that works to fight hunger and improve nutrition in Alameda County, which includes cities such as Oakland, Berkeley, and Hayward. The organization was founded in 1985 and has since grown to become one of the largest food banks in Northern California.

ACCFB's mission is to "end hunger in Alameda County by providing nutritious food and support to our neighbors in need." The organization works with a network of more than 300 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, and other community organizations, to distribute more than 30 million pounds of food each year to individuals and families in need.

In addition to its food distribution efforts, ACCFB also operates a variety of programs to promote healthy eating habits and improve nutrition in the communities it serves. These programs include nutrition education classes, cooking demonstrations, and community gardens that provide fresh, healthy produce to residents in low-income neighborhoods.

ACCFB's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more equitable and just food system for all, and to ensuring that every member of the community has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Food Recovery Network

Food Recovery Network (FRN) is a non-profit organization based in College Park, Maryland, that is dedicated to fighting food waste and hunger. The organization was founded in 2011 by a group of college students who wanted to find a solution to the problem of food waste on their campus.

FRN works with college and university campuses across the United States to recover surplus food from dining halls, sporting events, and other sources, and redistribute it to local organizations that feed people in need. The organization also works with restaurants, grocery stores, and other food businesses to rescue excess food and donate it to local hunger relief organizations.

Since its founding, FRN has recovered more than 3 million pounds of food and donated it to people in need. The organization's efforts not only help to fight hunger but also reduce food waste and promote sustainability.

In addition to its food recovery efforts, FRN also operates a variety of educational and advocacy programs to raise awareness about food waste and promote sustainable food practices. These programs include workshops, training sessions, and advocacy campaigns that engage students and community members in the fight against food waste and hunger.

FRN's programs are made possible through the support of individual donors, corporate partners, and volunteers who work tirelessly to help the organization achieve its mission. The organization is committed to creating a more sustainable and just food system for all, and to ensuring that no one goes hungry due to lack of access to nutritious food.

Autism Awareness Month takes place every year in April. The purpose of the campaign is to promote awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

The color associated with Autism Awareness Month is blue. Many buildings and landmarks around the world are illuminated in blue lights during the month to support the cause.

Autism Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to educate people about ASD and to dispel common myths and misconceptions about the disorder. It also helps to promote early intervention and treatment for individuals with ASD, which can greatly improve their quality of life.

Donate to these nonprofits for Autism Awareness Month:

Organization for Autism Research (OAR)

The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. OAR was founded in 2001 by parents and grandparents of children with autism and is based in Arlington, Virginia.

OAR's mission is to apply research to the challenges of autism. OAR also seeks to disseminate information about autism and to advocate for the needs of individuals with ASD.

OAR offers several programs to support its mission:

• The OAR Scholarship Program awards scholarships to students with ASD who are pursuing post-secondary education.
• The Hire Autism initiative connects employers with job-seekers with ASD, providing support and resources for both parties.
• The Kit for Kids program provides free resources to educators and parents of children with ASD, including guides on behavior management, communication, and social skills.
• The Autism in the Military initiative provides support and resources for military families with children with ASD.

The organization is committed to improving the lives of individuals with ASD and their families through research, education, and advocacy.

The Autism Community in Action (TACA)

The Autism Community in Action (TACA) is a non-profit organization that educates, supports, and advocates for families affected by autism.

TACA offers a variety of programs and services:

• Parent Education and Support: This program provides information, resources, and support to parents of children with autism, including workshops, webinars, and one-on-one mentoring.
• Autism Journey Guides: These guides help families navigate the complex process of autism diagnosis and treatment, including tips on finding the right doctors and therapists, and how to obtain insurance coverage for treatment.
• Family Events: TACA organizes events and activities for families affected by autism, including picnics, bowling nights, and sensory-friendly movies.
• Medical Outreach: TACA works with healthcare providers to increase awareness and understanding of autism, and to promote best practices for diagnosis and treatment.
• Advocacy: TACA advocates for better services and treatment options for individuals with autism and their families, working with policymakers and other organizations to improve access to care.

TACA's ultimate goal is to help families affected by autism achieve the best possible outcomes for their loved ones.

Have Dreams

Have Dreams is a nonprofit organization that provides programs and services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families.

The organization's mission is to help individuals with autism achieve their full potential, by providing individualized programs and services that address their unique needs and strengths.

Some programs Have Dreams’ offers include:

• Life Skills Training: Have Dreams offers a comprehensive life skills training program that focuses on social, communication, and independent living skills. This program is designed to help individuals with ASD to achieve greater independence and to prepare them for adulthood.
• Vocational Training: Have Dreams offers vocational training and job placement services for individuals with ASD, providing them with the skills and support they need to succeed in the workplace.
• Family Support: Have Dreams provides support and resources to families of individuals with ASD, including workshops, counseling, and advocacy services.
• Recreational Programs: Have Dreams offers a variety of recreational programs and activities for individuals with ASD, including sports teams, arts and crafts, and music and dance programs.

Have Dreams is committed to helping individuals with autism to achieve their full potential. The organization provides them with the support and resources they need to succeed. Through its innovative programs and services, Have Dreams is helping to build a more inclusive and supportive community.

Autism Society of America (ASA)

The Autism Society of America (ASA) is a non-profit organization that advocates for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, as well as their families and caregivers.

Founded in 1965, ASA is one of the oldest and largest organizations dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by autism. The headquarters of ASA is located in Rockville, Maryland.

ASA's mission is to improve the lives of all affected by autism by promoting awareness, advocacy, and support. 

Some ways in which ASA works towards this mission include:

• Advocacy: ASA works to advocate for policies and legislation that benefit individuals with ASD and their families, including increased funding for research, improved access to services, and more inclusive education and employment opportunities.
• Support: ASA provides various resources and support services to individuals with ASD and their families, including local support groups, educational materials, and an online community.
• Awareness: ASA aims to increase public awareness and understanding of autism through public education campaigns, media outreach, and community events.
• Research: ASA supports research efforts aimed at improving our understanding of autism and developing more effective treatments and therapies.

The Autism Society of America is a leading advocacy organization for individuals with ASD and their families, working to promote greater awareness, understanding, and support for this community.

The Asperger/Autism Network (AANE)

The Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) provides information, education, and support to individuals with Asperger syndrome (AS) and autism spectrum disorder, as well as their families and professionals.

Some of the programs and services offered by AANE:

• Workshops and Training: AANE offers workshops and training programs for individuals with AS and ASD. These programs cover a range of topics, from social skills and communication to employment and transition planning.
• Peer Support: AANE provides opportunities for individuals with AS and ASD to connect with others who share similar experiences.
• Coaching and Mentoring: AANE offers coaching and mentoring services to individuals with AS and ASD. The organization provides them with personalized support and guidance to help them achieve their goals.
• Information and Resources: AANE provides a wide range of information and resources to individuals with AS and ASD. These resources include educational materials, online forums, and referrals to other services and organizations.

AANE is committed to improving the lives of individuals with AS and ASD, by providing them with the support, information, and resources they need to thrive. Through their innovative programs and services, AANE is helping to build a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with AS and ASD and their families.

Autism National Committee (AUTCOM)

The Autism National Committee (AUTCOM) is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the rights and interests of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, as well as their families and caregivers.

AUTCOM's mission is to promote the rights and interests of individuals with autism through advocacy, education, and support. 

Ways in which AUTCOM works towards this mission include:

• Advocacy: AUTCOM advocates for policies and legislation that benefit individuals with ASD and their families, including increased funding for research, improved access to services, and more inclusive education and employment opportunities. AUTCOM also advocates for the rights of individuals with ASD, including their right to self-determination and their right to participate fully in their communities.
• Education: AUTCOM provides a wide range of educational resources and materials to individuals with ASD, as well as their families and professionals. These resources include publications, webinars, and conferences, covering a range of topics related to autism advocacy and self-advocacy.
• Support: AUTCOM provides a supportive community for individuals with ASD, as well as their families and allies. This includes local support groups, online forums, and a network of advocates and allies who can offer guidance and support.

AUTCOM is dedicated to promoting the rights and interests of individuals with ASD and ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met.

Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is a non-profit organization that advocates for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. Founded in 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism, Autism Speaks is one of the largest autism advocacy organizations in the world, with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia.

The mission of Autism Speaks is to promote solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

Some of the ways in which Autism Speaks works towards this mission include:

• Autism Speaks advocates for policies and legislation that benefit individuals with ASD and their families, including increased funding for research, improved access to services, and more inclusive education and employment opportunities.
• Autism Speaks supports research efforts aimed at improving our understanding of autism and developing more effective treatments and therapies. The organization has funded a number of important research studies, including the Autism Genome Project, which helped to identify genetic markers associated with ASD.
• Autism Speaks provides a variety of resources and support services to individuals with ASD and their families, including an autism response team that can provide information and referrals, a 24/7 support line, and a website with educational materials and resources.
• Autism Speaks aims to increase public awareness and understanding of autism through public education campaigns, media outreach, and community events.

The Autism Science Foundation

The Autism Science Foundation (ASF) is a non-profit organization that supports and funds autism research. ASF was founded in 2009 by a group of parents, scientists, and other advocates, with the goal of promoting innovative research and improving our understanding of autism spectrum disorder.

The mission of the Autism Science Foundation is to support autism research by:

• Funding research grants: ASF provides funding for innovative research projects aimed at improving our understanding of autism, developing new treatments and therapies, and addressing the needs of individuals with ASD and their families.
• Promoting collaboration: ASF works to foster collaboration among researchers and stakeholders, bringing together scientists, clinicians, individuals with ASD, and their families to share knowledge and expertise.
• Supporting education and outreach: ASF provides educational resources and outreach programs to increase awareness and understanding of autism, as well as to promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with ASD.
• Advocating for policies and legislation that benefit individuals with ASD and their families: ASF advocates for policies and legislation that increase funding for autism research, improve access to services, and promote the inclusion and acceptance of individuals with ASD.

The Autism Science Foundation is committed to promoting high-quality research that can make a real difference in the lives of individuals with ASD and their families. Through its funding, advocacy, and outreach efforts, ASF is helping to build a more comprehensive and evidence-based understanding of autism and supporting the development of effective treatments and therapies for individuals with ASD.

Art of Autism

The Art of Autism is a non-profit organization that promotes the creative abilities of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Founded in 2011 by Debra Muzikar, a mother of a son with autism, The Art of Autism provides a platform for individuals with ASD to showcase their artwork, share their stories, and connect with others in the autism community.

The mission of The Art of Autism is to:

• Promote the talents and abilities of individuals with ASD: The Art of Autism believes that individuals with ASD have unique talents and perspectives, and seek to showcase their artistic skills and creativity through various platforms.
• Increase awareness and understanding of autism: Through its exhibits, publications, and events, The Art of Autism seeks to raise awareness and understanding of autism, and promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with ASD.
• Provide opportunities for individuals with ASD to connect and share: The Art of Autism provides a supportive community for individuals with ASD, where they can connect with others, share their experiences, and find inspiration and encouragement.

Some of the ways in which The Art of Autism works toward its mission

• Art exhibits and events: The Art of Autism showcases the artwork of individuals with ASD through exhibits, events, and online galleries. These exhibits provide a platform for individuals with ASD to showcase their talent and creativity and help to raise awareness and understanding of autism.
• Publications: The Art of Autism publishes books, magazines, and other materials featuring the artwork and stories of individuals with ASD. These publications provide a unique perspective on autism and help to promote greater acceptance and understanding of individuals with ASD.
• Workshops and programs: The Art of Autism offers a variety of workshops and programs for individuals with ASD, as well as their families and caregivers. These programs provide opportunities for creative expression, as well as social connection and support.

The Art of Autism is a unique and inspiring organization that celebrates the creativity and talent of individuals with ASD, while also promoting greater awareness and understanding of autism. Through its exhibits, publications, and programs, The Art of Autism is helping to build a more inclusive and accepting world for individuals with ASD.

NEXT for Autism

NEXT for Autism is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Founded in 2003 as the New York Collaborates for Autism, the organization was renamed NEXT for Autism in 2018 to reflect its national focus.

The mission of NEXT for Autism is to create and support innovative programs that improve the lives of individuals with ASD and their families.

NEXT for Autism focuses on four key areas:

1. Innovative programs and services: NEXT for Autism partners with leading organizations and experts to develop and support innovative programs and services that help individuals with ASD and their families. These programs cover a wide range of needs, including education, employment, housing, healthcare, and more.
2. Research and development: NEXT for Autism supports research and development efforts aimed at improving our understanding of autism and developing new treatments and therapies for individuals with ASD.
3. Advocacy and public awareness: NEXT for Autism advocates for policies and legislation that improve the lives of individuals with ASD and their families. The organization also works to increase public awareness and understanding of autism through public events, media outreach, and other initiatives.
4. Collaboration and partnership: NEXT for Autism believes in the power of collaboration and partnership to achieve its mission. The organization works with a wide range of stakeholders, including individuals with ASD, families, advocates, researchers, and service providers, to develop and implement effective programs and services.

Some of the programs and initiatives supported by NEXT for Autism include:

• The Center for Autism and the Developing Brain: A state-of-the-art clinical and research facility in New York City that provides comprehensive care and support for individuals with ASD and their families.
• The Autism Job Club: A program that helps individuals with ASD find and maintain employment through job coaching, skills training, and other support services.
• The Spectrum Support Program: A program that provides support and resources for families of children with ASD, including educational workshops, peer support groups, and advocacy services.

NEXT for Autism is a dynamic and forward-thinking organization that is making a real difference in the lives of individuals with ASD and their families. Through its innovative programs, research, advocacy, and partnership efforts, NEXT for Autism is helping to create a brighter future for individuals with ASD.

Groundswell is a donation platform powered by DAFs, giving employers and their employees the power to make an impact in their local community. Learn more about Groundswell.io.

Los Angeles is a beautiful, metropolitan city that’s as diverse as they come. LA has become the destination for many communities, including many nonprofit organizations dedicated to making a difference in their local and global communities. 

Here’s a growing list of nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles categorized by theme. Bookmark this page and check back as we add more nonprofits to this list.

Categories

• Community and Youth
• Environmental
• Education
• Animals
• Health
• Social Justice
• Veterans
• Disaster Relief
• Poverty
• Arts & Culture

Community and Youth

Inner City Arts: This organization provides arts education to underserved youth in the Skid Row neighborhood of Los Angeles.

LA Works: This organization connects volunteers with local schools and community organizations to support various community service projects.

LA Promise Fund: This organization works to improve education and life outcomes for young people in Los Angeles through a variety of programs and initiatives.

Los Angeles Youth Network: This organization provides housing, education, and other support services to homeless and at-risk youth in the Los Angeles area.

Partnership for LA Schools: This organization works to improve academic achievement and support the development of students in high-need schools in Los Angeles.

Environmental

Heal the Bay: This organization works to protect and restore Santa Monica Bay and other southern California coastal waters. They focus on issues such as water quality, plastic pollution, and habitat protection.

The Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters: This group works to promote environmental policies and elect pro-environmental candidates to public office.

The Nature Conservancy of Los Angeles: This nonprofit works to protect and restore natural habitats in the Los Angeles region, with a focus on preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable land use.

Los Angeles Waterkeeper: This organization works to protect and restore the quality of Los Angeles' waterways and coastal waters through advocacy, education, and community engagement.

TreePeople: This group works to promote urban forestry and green infrastructure in the Los Angeles region, with a focus on increasing tree canopy cover, improving air and water quality, and enhancing the urban environment.

Education

LA Promise Fund: This organization works to improve public education in Los Angeles by supporting school leadership and teacher development, providing resources for students and families, and advocating for policies that benefit students.

LA Education Partnership: This nonprofit works to close the achievement gap in Los Angeles by providing resources and support to schools in high-need areas.

Partnership for Los Angeles Schools: This organization partners with the Los Angeles Unified School District to improve academic achievement and create a positive school culture at a group of high-need schools in Los Angeles.

LA's Best: This after-school program serves elementary school students in the Los Angeles Unified School District, providing them with academic enrichment and recreational activities.

LA Fund for Public Education: This organization supports public education in Los Angeles by providing grants to schools and teachers, advocating for policies that benefit students, and engaging community members in the education process.

Animals

The Animal Wellness Foundation: This nonprofit organization is based in Los Angeles and works to improve the lives of animals through a variety of programs and initiatives.

The Best Friends Animal Society: This national animal welfare organization has a chapter in Los Angeles that operates a pet adoption center and works to reduce the number of animals killed in shelters.

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation: This nonprofit organization supports the work of the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, through fundraising and public education efforts.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (SPCA LA): This nonprofit organization provides animal welfare services in the Los Angeles area, including pet adoption, spay and neuter services, and cruelty investigation and rescue.

The Wildlife Waystation: This nonprofit sanctuary in Los Angeles County provides rescue, rehabilitation, and permanent care for exotic and indigenous wildlife.

Health

AltaMed Health Services Corporation: AltaMed is a community health center that provides a range of medical, dental, and mental health services to underserved populations in the Los Angeles area.

St. John's Well Child and Family Center: This community health center offers primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services to patients of all ages.

Children's Hospital Los Angeles: This pediatric hospital provides comprehensive medical care to children and adolescents, including specialized services such as cancer treatment, heart surgery, and trauma care.

The Los Angeles Free Clinic. This non-profit organization provides free medical, dental, and mental health services to uninsured and underserved individuals in the Los Angeles area.

The Venice Family Clinic: This community health center provides primary care, dental care, and mental health services to low-income and uninsured individuals in the Los Angeles area.

Social Justice

The American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California: This group works to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution and laws of the United States.

The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA): This organization works to advance the human and civil rights of immigrants and refugees in Los Angeles.

Black Lives Matter Los Angeles: This group works to combat police brutality and racial profiling, and to advocate for the rights of black people in Los Angeles.

LAXart: This nonprofit organization works to promote social justice and equity through contemporary art exhibitions and public programming.

Veterans

The Veterans Affairs (VA) Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System: This government-run organization provides healthcare and support services to military veterans in the Los Angeles area.

The American Legion: This nonprofit organization supports veterans and their families through a variety of programs, including assistance with healthcare, education, and employment.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): This national organization provides support to military veterans and their families through a variety of programs and services, including financial assistance, healthcare, and education.

The Wounded Warrior Project: This nonprofit organization provides support to military veterans who have been wounded or injured during their service. This includes physical and mental health support, as well as assistance with employment and education.

The Los Angeles Veterans Collaborative: This coalition of organizations works together to support military veterans in the Los Angeles area through a variety of programs and services, including healthcare, housing, and education.

Disaster Relief

Team Rubicon: This nonprofit organization uses the skills and experiences of military veterans to respond to disasters and provide humanitarian aid. Since its inception, Team Rubicon has responded to numerous disasters including earthquakes, hurricanes, and wildfires, and has provided assistance to communities in need all over the world. The organization is known for its unique approach to disaster response, which combines the speed and agility of a military operation with the compassion and care of a humanitarian organization.

American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles: This organization provides disaster relief services, including emergency shelter, food, and support for those affected by disasters in the Los Angeles area.

Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Foundation: This organization provides funding and support for the Los Angeles County Fire Department's emergency medical services, which respond to disasters and other emergencies.

Salvation Army Los Angeles: This organization provides disaster relief services, including emergency shelter, food, and support to those affected by disasters in the Los Angeles area.

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: This organization provides support and funding for the Los Angeles Fire Department, which responds to disasters and other emergencies in the area.

LA Family Housing: This organization provides temporary housing and support services to individuals and families affected by homelessness, including those who have been displaced by disasters.

Poverty

Los Angeles Mission: This organization provides services such as meals, shelter, and healthcare to people experiencing homelessness in LA.

Union Rescue Mission: This is another organization that provides services such as meals, shelter, and healthcare to people experiencing homelessness in LA.

LA Family Housing: This nonprofit provides affordable housing and support services to low-income individuals and families in LA.

St. Vincent de Paul of Los Angeles: This organization helps low-income individuals and families in LA by providing them with basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter.

The People Concern: This nonprofit organization provides a range of services to people experiencing homelessness in LA, including case management, housing assistance, and access to healthcare.

Arts & Culture

Los Angeles County Arts Commission: This nonprofit organization supports and promotes the arts in Los Angeles County, including visual and performing arts, literature, and film and media arts.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): LACMA is a nonprofit art museum that features a wide range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.

The Music Center: This organization supports and presents performing arts in Los Angeles, including music, dance, and theater.

The Hammer Museum: The Hammer Museum is a nonprofit museum focused on contemporary art and ideas. It offers exhibitions, public programs, and a research library.

The J. Paul Getty Museum: The J. Paul Getty Museum is a nonprofit museum that features a wide range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. It is located in the Getty Center in Los Angeles.

Women's History Month is a month-long celebration of women's contributions to history, culture, and society.

Women have been the backbone of society, and their indomitable strength and courage have enabled us to achieve incredible feats. Women have been instrumental in pushing for social and political change, breaking down barriers, and making strides in a multitude of fields.

Women's History Month gives us the chance to celebrate and recognize the achievements of these remarkable women and to raise awareness and appreciation of the women who have shaped our society. It is an invaluable opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the immense impact women have had and continue to have on our world.

This list of nonprofit organizations is leading the way for women’s rights on Women's History Month.

Donate to any of the organizations below using the Groundswell app.

Nonprofits to support for Women’s History Month

Girls Inc.

Girls Inc. is a non-profit organization that works to help empower girls and young women to reach their full potential in life. Through their research-based programming, they strive to provide girls with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to break down gender, economic, and social barriers.

Girls Inc. works to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold by providing resources and support so that they can become healthy, educated, and independent adults. They believe that by helping young women to reach their goals, they are creating a better future for all.

National Women's Law Center

The National Women's Law Center is dedicated to ensuring that women and girls have the same rights and access to quality healthcare, education, and economic security as everyone else. They strive to create an equitable society where all individuals, regardless of gender, can access these essential services to reach their full potential.

To achieve this, the Center works to combat discrimination, advocate for policies that protect women and girls and expand access to vital resources.

She Should Run

She Should Run works to increase the number of women in public office by providing a range of resources and support to women seeking office.

They strive to create an inclusive network of organizations and individuals to help support and empower women candidates. This network includes a variety of different organizations and individuals, from party-affiliated groups to grassroots activists, who are all dedicated to advancing the cause of female representation in politics. 

Additionally, She Should Run provides mentorship and leadership opportunities for women interested in running for office, as well as access to networks of experts and professionals who can help them build their campaigns and become successful political leaders.

AnitaB.org

AnitaB.org works to empower and advance women in the technology and industry sectors. Through their comprehensive resources and opportunities, they are able to provide a platform for women to succeed and thrive in the tech industry. This includes access to mentorship and networking, as well as job openings from leading tech companies. 

Moreover, AnitaB.org also offers a range of programs to support the development of women in the tech sector, such as coding boot camps and hackathons. 

Their mission is to create a more inclusive technology workplace, where women can feel empowered to pursue a career in tech.

The National Organization for Women Foundation (NOWF)

The National Organization for Women Foundation (NOWF) is devoted to ending discrimination and promoting full civil and political rights for women. Through its legal advocacy, research, public education, and advocacy initiatives, the NOWF works to ensure that all women have equal access to education, employment, and other rights. 

The foundation has a long history of successful litigation and continues to fight for the rights of women everywhere.

500 Women Scientists

500 Women Scientists works to advance gender equity in science by cultivating a diverse and equitable scientific community. Through their programs and partnerships, they strive to create an inclusive atmosphere that empowers and uplifts women in the sciences.

Their initiatives provide support and resources to female scientists, helping to ensure that their voices and contributions are heard. By providing a platform for collaboration, 500 Women Scientists furthers their mission of creating an equitable scientific environment that encourages and celebrates the contributions of all genders.

Equality Now

Equality Now is a non-profit organization that works to end violence and discrimination against women and girls around the world. They use the law to advocate for gender equality and justice and provide legal and policy resources to support their work.

The 19th

The 19th is a media and advocacy organization devoted to elevating the voices of women of color and those from other marginalized communities.

Their mission is to ensure that the power of women's voices is heard and that their perspectives are represented in the discourse and decisions that shape our society.

The Institute for Women's Policy Research

The Institute for Women's Policy Research is a public policy research organization dedicated to improving the lives of women through research, public education, and advocacy. 

By conducting groundbreaking research and providing crucial policy insights, the Institute works to elevate the voices of women and girls in public discourse and to create a more equitable and just society.

Women Deliver

Women Deliver is a global advocacy organization that works to not only ensure that every girl and woman is able to realize her full potential but to also ensure that they are able to make a positive contribution to society. 

The Women's Funding Network

The Women's Funding Network is a vibrant global network of foundations and funders that supports and invests in organizations around the world that are dedicated to advancing gender equality. 

Through their generous contributions and commitment to the cause, this network helps to fund a variety of initiatives that focus on providing critically needed resources to organizations striving to create meaningful and lasting change in the lives of women everywhere.

Girls Who Code

Girls Who Code is a national non-profit organization that works to bridge the gender gap in technology and equip girls with the skills and confidence they need to pursue careers in computer science, programming, and other related fields. 

Their programs range from summer immersion programs to clubs and workshops, giving girls of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to gain the skills they need to succeed in the tech industry.

Girls Educational and Mentoring Services (GEMS)

Girls Educational and Mentoring Services (GEMS) is dedicated to providing support and resources to girls and young women who have experienced exploitation and violence, such as sex trafficking, sexual abuse, and domestic violence.

GEMS works to provide these young women with safe and secure housing, access to education, job training and placement, counseling, and other resources in order to help them transition to a healthy, productive, and independent future.

Donate to any of these organizations using the Groundswell app.

World Water Day is an international observance day held annually on March 22. It is a day to recognize the importance of freshwater and to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. World Water Day is celebrated around the world with various events, including educational activities, conferences, and campaigns.

The theme of World Water Day 2023 is "accelerating change". This theme encourages us to consider how water has an economic value and to think about how we can better understand, protect, and manage our water resources.

Become an advocate for World Water Day by supporting any of the nonprofits in this article.

Donate to any of the organizations below using the Groundswell app.

List of nonprofit organizations supporting World Water Day

Water.org

Water.org is an international nonprofit organization that has been making a difference since 2009. They worked to provide access to safe water and sanitation to people in developing countries. Water.org has improved the lives of over 24 million people in 17 countries so far.

The organization is committed to helping communities with water stewardship and sanitation, and has implemented various projects that are helping to create sustainable solutions. Their mission is to ensure that all people have access to clean, safe water and improved sanitation, and they continue to strive towards this goal every day.

Charity:Water

Charity:Water is an esteemed global not-for-profit organization whose mission is to bring safe and clean drinking water to people in developing nations.

Working closely with local partners and members of the community, Charity:Water strives to build sustainable, community-owned water projects that have a long-term impact. Since its launch, the organization has made a powerful impact, providing clean water to over 13.2 million people in 31 countries.

The Wetlands Initiative

The Wetlands Initiative (TWI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration and protection of wetlands in the Midwest and Great Plains regions of the United States. With the help of farmers, scientists, policymakers, and other stakeholders, TWI has worked to identify, protect and restore over 35,000 acres of wetlands and to improve the water quality of over 1,000 miles of rivers and streams.

The organization has also helped to create sustainable plans to continue the restoration and protection of wetlands in the Midwest and Great Plains regions in the future, ensuring long-term success.

US Water Alliance

The US Water Alliance is a national nonprofit organization with the mission of driving collaboration, innovation, and investment in sustainable water solutions.

With a focus on protecting the health of people and the environment, it works with diverse partners to develop a range of programs and initiatives that promote water sustainability.

Pure Water for the World

Pure Water for the World (PWW) is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing clean and safe drinking water, hygiene, and sanitation education, and sustainable water solutions to communities in Haiti, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.

Since its inception, the organization has implemented over 2,000 water, sanitation, and hygiene projects, reaching an astounding 850,000 people in some of the world's most impoverished and underserved communities.

PWW's commitment to sustainable water solutions has helped to improve the quality of life for thousands of individuals and families, providing them with the basic needs of life.

Water for People

Water for People is an international nonprofit organization that works to improve access to safe and sustainable water and sanitation services in 10 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The organization works with local partners to develop and improve water and sanitation infrastructure, promote water stewardship, and create lasting solutions to water and sanitation issues.

Since its inception, Water for People has provided access to safe and reliable water and sanitation services to over 4.4 million people in the countries it serves, and its work has made a lasting and positive impact on the lives of those it serves.

Donate to any of these organizations using the Groundswell app.

On Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, a devastating 7.8 earthquake hit Turkey and Syria, followed by a magnitude 7.5 aftershock - killing more than 21,000 people and injuring thousands more.

Each day the death toll continues to rise, as rescue workers race against the clock to clear the rubble.

The epicenter of the quake was located in Syria, and it was felt in both countries, as well as in other nearby countries. The quake caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. Several relief organizations, like the American Red Cross and Team Rubicon, are on the scene working tirelessly against the clock and through unfavorable weather conditions to save as many lives as possible and provide aid in the form of food, shelter, and medical assistance.

So far, they have provided temporary housing, food, and medical assistance to those in need. As the search and rescue operations continue, the full extent of the damage is still being assessed. It is clear that the earthquake has had a tremendous impact, and it will take time for the area to fully recover.

Here's how to take action.

We encourage you to support nonprofits on the ground and offer to match donations. Here’s a list of nonprofits on the scene.

The Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF)

The Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) is a non-profit organization that works to support meaningful projects in Turkey.

Founded in 2002, TPF has invested in over 200 projects that address social and economic issues in Turkey, from health and education to culture and the environment.

The Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) has responded to the earthquake in Syria and Turkey by investing in relief efforts in the affected areas, providing emergency aid, and supporting local organizations working to rebuild the communities.

Additionally, TPF has been working with its partners to raise awareness and funds to support the ongoing relief efforts.

UNICEF

UNICEF is a United Nations agency that works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first, tackling the challenges that affect them the most and providing the solutions to help them fulfill their potential.

They are responding to the urgent needs of children and families affected by the recent earthquake in Syria and Turkey by providing lifesaving health, nutrition, education, protection, and water and sanitation services. UNICEF is also working with local and international partners to ensure that children and their families have access to essential goods, services, and supplies.

CARE

CARE is an international nonprofit organization that works to fight global poverty and provide humanitarian aid.

They are providing emergency relief including providing food, shelter, water, and non-food items. They are also helping people access health services and providing psychosocial support.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an independent, impartial humanitarian organization that helps people affected by armed conflicts and other situations of violence.

They are assisting with emergency relief efforts in Syria and Turkey in response to the earthquake. This includes providing medical assistance, shelter, food, and other essential items. Additionally, the organization is providing psychological support to those affected by the disaster.

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian aid and development organization that works to help people affected by humanitarian crises.

They are providing emergency relief for those affected by the earthquake, including shelter, food, and medical supplies. They are also providing mental health support and access to safe spaces for women and children.

Team Rubicon

Team Rubicon is a veteran-led disaster response organization, founded in 2010, that has a mission to unite the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams to areas affected by disasters.

They have sent teams to both Syria and Turkey in response to the earthquake, in order to provide timely and effective relief to those in need. The organization is providing aid such as medical supplies, food, and water, as well as helping to rebuild damaged infrastructure.

Save The Children

Save the Children is an international non-governmental organization that provides humanitarian aid and advocacy for children in over 120 countries.

They are focused on improving the lives of children in need at the scene. They’re responding with emergency kits amid the harsh winter weather.

Doctors Without Borders

Doctors Without Borders is an international humanitarian medical organization that provides medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from health care in nearly 70 countries.

They are providing medical care and resources to refugees affected by the earthquake in Syria and Turkey. They are also providing mental health support and distributing essential items such as shelter, water, and food.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a global organization that works around the world to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities.

They are providing emergency relief such as food and shelter to those affected by the earthquake in Syria and Turkey and helping people recover and rebuild their lives. They are also providing mental health and psychosocial support to those affected.

Animals are living creatures that deserve to be respected and treated with care.

Animal rights are an important part of any society, as animals provide many benefits to the environment, to humans, and to each other. Animal rights ensure that animals are not subjected to cruel and inhumane treatment and that their care and welfare are taken into consideration.

This article touches on what animal rights are and the importance of animal rights, and lists animal rights organizations in Los Angeles supporting the cause.

What are animal rights?

Animal rights is the idea that all animals should be treated with respect and not be subjected to cruelty or exploitation. It is a philosophy that extends the basic rights of humans to the animal kingdom, and advocates for their protection and welfare.

Animal rights include the belief that animals should be free from cruel and unusual pain and suffering and should be treated in a humane manner.

Why are Animal Rights Important?

Many believe animals are sentient beings that deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.

Studies have shown animals have the capability to feel emotions, form relationships, and suffer just like humans do. Therefore, it can be essential to recognize their rights and protect them from cruelty, exploitation, and neglect. By respecting animals, we can create a better world for them and ourselves.

While there has been much moral debate on animal rights and whether they should be held to the same standards as human rights, there’s no denying the importance of animals as part of the earth’s ecosystem. Animals are an integral part of not just human life but all life on earth.

Animals are responsible for grazing fields and balancing the ecosystem. At the very least, animal rights are important because it contributes to greater sustainability.

Donate to any of the organizations below using the Groundswell app.

List of animal rights organizations in Los Angeles:

The Jane Goodall Institute

The Jane Goodall Institute is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles that works to protect chimpanzees and their habitats. They operate the Chimpanzee Sanctuary at the Los Angeles Zoo, and also engage in research, education, and advocacy efforts to protect chimpanzees and other primates around the world.

Best Friends Animal Society Los Angeles

Best Friends Animal Society Los Angeles is a nonprofit organization that works to end the killing of dogs and cats in shelters. They operate the Best Friends Pet Adoption and Spay/Neuter Center in Los Angeles, the largest no-kill animal shelter in the city.

The Animal Wellness Foundation

The Animal Wellness Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles that provides medical care and support for animals in need. They operate a low-cost spay/neuter clinic and provide medical care for sick and injured animals.

The Animal Protection League of Southern California

The Animal Protection League of Southern California is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of animals in Los Angeles through advocacy, education, and direct care. They operate a low-cost spay/neuter clinic and provide medical care for sick and injured animals.

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control. They provide funding for medical care, spay/neuter services, and other programs to improve the lives of animals in the county.

The Wildlife Waystation

The Wildlife Waystation is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles that provides care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wild animals. They work to release animals back into the wild when possible and also provide a permanent home for animals that cannot be released.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA)

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA) is a nonprofit organization that works to protect and improve the lives of animals in the Los Angeles area. They operate a low-cost spay/neuter clinic, provide medical care for sick and injured animals, and offer adoption services.

The Stray Cat Alliance

The Stray Cat Alliance is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles that works to improve the lives of stray and feral cats through advocacy, education, and direct care. They operate a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, provide medical care for sick and injured cats, and work to find homes for adoptable cats.

The Los Angeles Animal Services

Los Angeles Animal Services is a nonprofit organization that operates the city's animal shelters and provides animal control services. They work to find homes for adoptable animals, provide medical care for sick and injured animals, and operate a low-cost spay/neuter clinic.

The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles that works to protect ocean wildlife and their habitats. They use direct action tactics to defend marine life and engage in education and research projects.

Donate to any of these animal rights organizations in Los Angeles using the Groundswell app.

This guide is intended to provide resources and inspiration for Groundswell users on how to donate to causes they care about. It provides tips to best identify and donate to charities that have a proven track record of impact. It also discusses how to think about geography and size when deciding where to donate, and explains the ways in which even small, recurring donations can have be powerful for charities working on the frontlines every day.

Groundswell can be your partner in your journey as a modern philanthropist. Your donations are a critical part of addressing society's myriad issues, such as poverty, education, healthcare, and environmental concerns. And giving to others is also good for you. It has been shown that people who donate to charity experience increased happiness and well-being compared to those who do not give. This sense of satisfaction comes from the knowledge that your actions are making a positive impact on the world and helping those in need.

Through Groundswell, you can easily add funds to your account, browse or search for charities, and donate in a matter of minutes. In this guide, we help demystify some of the questions you might have as you consider where, when and how to donate.

Six Tips to Becoming a Modern Philanthropist

Summary

1. Pick causes and charities that align with your values: When deciding what you want to support, start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most.
2. Understand impact through the lens of size & geography: The geographic reach of different charities' programs, and how large or small they are, can help as you determine what to support.
3. Evaluate best in class charities: Learn how to assess not only the financial health of an organization, but also what questions to ask when looking at other impact metrics.
4. Set a giving goal: Decide how much you want to give annually through Groundswell, and follow the simple steps to set up contributions to achieve that goal.
5. Maximize impact through recurring donations: Simplify your giving and provide nonprofits with a steady stream of revenue through monthly, recurring donations.
6. Optimize your giving through tax-efficient strategies: Leverage the versatility of Groundswell to reduce your tax burden through payroll giving, stocks contributions, and bunching.

1. Pick Causes & Charities that Align with Your Values

Your giving journey often is deeply personal, rooted in your own values and lived experiences. When deciding what causes you want to support, it’s important to start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most. Who or what do you want to impact? What cause is most aligned with that? Use that as a starting point to then find the charities best positioned to have an impact on what you care most about. Focusing on specific cause areas allows you to be more intentional about how you donate.

There are thousands of causes and more than a million nonprofits on the Groundswell platform that tackle challenges from all angles, from improving K-12 education or finding a cure for Alzheimer’s to reducing plastics in the ocean or protecting women’s rights.

After determining what causes matter most to you, it’s also helpful to identify the type of impact you are seeking to make. Are you interested in supporting organizations that are “on the ground” providing direct services or those doing longer-term, important policy and research work? That can help guide you in picking the charities that you want to donate to.

2. Understand Impact: Size & Geography

Where to donate

When deciding where to donate, it’s also important to determine where you want that impact to happen. For many people, where they give is closely linked to where they live – their local food pantry, homeless shelter, house of worship, or neighborhood school.

Others may want to focus their giving beyond where they live and donate to organizations that operate in certain regions or even other countries. There’s no ‘right’ answer - and many people choose to donate both locally and globally to a cause they care about. For example, you may want to support an organization that is both on the frontlines supporting refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, as well as helping resettle refugee families near your town in the U.S.

Does size matter?

Similarly, there is no right answer for what size organization is best to donate to. Whether they are large or small, if they have a strong track record of impact and do not have a pattern of mismanagement of funds, they are worthy recipients of donations.

Many people want to donate to organizations that have a proven track record of implementing large-scale programs, or are on a strong growth trajectory, year over year. Larger organizations generally have shown their ability to receive larger amounts of funding, and in turn design and implement programs at a scale that have a greater impact towards the causes you care about most. But small organizations can also be extremely impactful - even if the radius or scope of impact is smaller. Although many of today’s social and environmental problems are massive in scale, the vast majority of nonprofits are tiny; indeed, most nonprofits in the United States are small, grassroots organizations - and 20% have annual budgets of less than $50,000. For smaller nonprofits, even the smallest donation on an annual or monthly, recurring basis can have a huge impact on their ability to sustain programs or even expand.

3. Evaluate "Best in Class" Charities

There are multiple ways to assess the quality of a charity; many ratings sites focus primarily on financial metrics, but it is equally important to assess not only how an organization is managing its funds, but also the quality of its work. And while a rating system like Charity Navigator can be helpful, it is important to know that no rating system is comprehensive. Groundswell offers an important starting point - we only feature organizations that are in good standing with the IRS and eligible to receive tax-deductible donations.

• Programmatic Impact: Understanding a nonprofit’s impact - through its programs and the populations that it serves - is an important way to evaluate its effectiveness in tackling the causes you care about. Many nonprofits provide details about programming approaches on their websites, including testimonials, photos, and reports detailing specific results. Keep in mind that understanding and assessing impact is highly qualitative - there is no clear ‘score’ - especially because what or who is being impacted varies across the thousands of nonprofits.

• Financial Management: Nonprofits, especially larger ones, are required to disclose details related to their financial performance annually – to include assets, revenue and breakdown of expenses in forms submitted to the IRS. Many nonprofits are proactively transparent about their finances and post audited financial statements and other reports on their websites. But financial data does not always tell a complete story. There may be important investments in fundraising staff, which two years later yield a windfall in donations that can be put towards programs.

• Advisories: Sometimes there are advisories based on pending or ongoing legal action. Groundswell works to monitor these advisories and remove any charities that it believes are acting improperly or mismanaging donor funds. We also remove any charities that have had their nonprofit status revoked by the IRS.

• Groundswell-curated Featured Causes: While many donors might want to do their own research, sometimes it’s far easier (and efficient) to put your trust in others. Groundswell’s impact team provides donors with additional inspiration, and has done the vetting work to determine cause-specific organizations that are well run and most importantly having a strong impact.

4. Aim High with a Giving Goal

You can use Groundswell’s calculator found under your Profile to set or edit your annual giving goal. This can be a flat amount, or a percentage of your annual salary. While estimates vary, a common range for giving as a percentage of annual salary is between 2-6%.

The good news is that with your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, you can easily set up recurring contributions to stay on track to meet your goals. It’s also important to maximize the matching offered by your company’s giving program, where applicable.

Your giving goal can help fund recurring donations, as well as account for unexpected events that you may want to donate to.

5. Level Up with Recurring Donations

Recurring donations can be a great component of your philanthropic strategy. As a bonus, there are benefits for both donors as well as nonprofits.

For donors, setting recurring donations to autopilot every month or quarter means you don’t have to think about it or go through the steps to do it on a regular basis.

Put simply, it’s a smart use of your time. It is also a symbol of a donor’s commitment to a cause, and a belief in the nonprofit’s ability to have a positive impact - not just in a moment of crisis, but on a continuous basis. Groundswell’s recurring contributions and donations features help facilitate recurring giving.

For charities, recurring donations provide a steady, predictable stream of revenue that helps with budget planning. For many organizations, large or small, recurring donations can have a huge impact. Similar to the trends in grassroots political fundraising, having many small-dollar donors is good for nonprofits.

It helps them build awareness and shows to the larger-dollar donors that there is a community that believes in the nonprofit’s mission. It also helps de-risk; nonprofits with one or two large donors and very few small-dollar donors can run into major problems if any of those large donors stop supporting their work.

6. Optimize Your Tax-Efficient Giving

You can leverage the versatility of your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, which is underpinned by a Donor-Advised Fund, to be strategic and reduce your tax burden. 

Donate appreciated stock

If you have appreciated stocks that you've held for more than a year and you donate them through your Groundswell account, you won't have to pay capital gains tax on the appreciation when those shares are exchanged for their market value.

Plus, you'll be eligible for a tax deduction for the full fair market value of the stock at the time of contribution into your Groundswell account.

Give with payroll

You can leverage Groundswell’s Payroll feature to make giving more tax efficient. Contributions to Groundswell through payroll deductions are eligible for an immediate tax deduction for the amount contributed. This means that your taxable income for the year is reduced by the amount of your contribution. Contributing on a recurring basis via payroll also makes it easier to “set and forget” and achieve your giving goals more efficiently.

Bundle contributions

You can also take advantage of the Donor-Advised Fund structure of Groundswell to make a larger contribution in a single tax year and maximize tax benefits by itemizing deductions in the year that the larger contribution is being made - commonly known as “bunching.” 

For example, if you typically give $5,000 to charity each year but decide to give $25,000 to your Groundswell account in one year, you can itemize your deductions that year and take the standard deduction in the following years. By doing so, you may be able to minimize your tax burden over time while still supporting the charities you care about.

Want access to other toolkits like this?

Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.

Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.

It’s easy enough to give away that old sofa stashed in the corner of your garage. But why do people donate to charity? What causes you, or anyone else, to send a $100 check to a foundation or spend an evening tutoring underserved youth? We have dozens of sayings about giving. Do good and good things will happen to you. To whom much is given, much is expected. I can’t do everything, but I can do something. There’s more, but the point is that giving is a part of the human experience. Without a doubt, for many people, it seems the right thing to do. People give because it feels good to do so. Americans are a particularly generous lot. In fact, 60% of us give money, 72% help strangers and 42% volunteer, often just because we are asked. And during the pandemic? Americans became even more generous. In 2020 and 2021, donations were higher than they were in 2019. The average donation per person was $574 in 2021.What’s more, there are undeniable psychological and scientific benefits that make donating important to the human spirit and will keep people giving generously into the foreseeable future.

The Science of Giving: What Happens in the Brain

For Americans, there are plenty of opportunities to spend money which, researchers admit, provide a dopamine hit. So it can be tempting to think that we’re just a purchase away from nirvana. But the accumulation of things is not the type of spending that makes a difference in our lives or the lives of others. We get more bang for the buck, so to speak, when we give to others. That’s because giving has a positive impact on the brain. It makes sense that our brains would reward us for helping to preserve society, releasing the same types of feel-good chemicals as during exercise. It is one of the evolutionary traits that has helped us build prosperous civilizations. In fact, in 2006, Jorge Moll and Jordan Grafman, neuroscientists at the National Institutes of Health, were able to measure the neural activity of giving, thus proving what we intuitively knew already. Subjects were allocated money that they could either keep for themselves or donate to selected charities. By tracking the impact on the pleasure centers of the brain, researchers discovered that the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) and the subgenual area lit up when subjects donated the money. These are the same parts of the brain that light up when presented with a delicious meal or when talking about a romantic partner.

Why Do People Donate to Charity?

For years, there has been a philosophical discussion about whether or not charitable giving is altruistic. Do people give their money and donate their time just for the purpose of doing good, expecting nothing in return? Psychologists and philosophers argue that because charitable acts lead to feelings of happiness and satisfaction, true altruism does not exist.But many people consider this argument flawed. When it comes to human behavior, there are many shades of gray. If a benefactor feels happier following an act of kindness, that doesn’t mean that the motivation is self-serving.

Altruism

Altruism is a hallmark of cooperation. Cooperation underpins our society and is, in part, what separates humans from animals. Why do people donate? Because it feels good. Our society is built on the values of empathy, compassion and solidarity, among others. People give because doing so fosters a sense of belonging and generates meaning and purpose in their lives. There are other good outcomes, as well.

Giving May Help Depression

It’s pretty obvious that giving makes people happier. Michael Norton, professor of psychology at Harvard and co-author of the book, “Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending,” agrees. “When we tell people ‘Hey, did you know that giving to other people can make you happy?’ Most people are not blown away. They’ve had experiences that make them happy. They understand the concept, but it doesn’t occur to us that often to give instead of getting stuff for ourselves.”If you’re assuming that depression is not a major factor in your company, don’t be so sure. According to a July 2021 survey by SilverCloud Health, approximately two-thirds of U.S. workers suffer from clinical levels of depression or anxiety. Depression may mean that employees exhibit a high rate of absenteeism and fall short in key areas of performance, including decision-making, focus and communications. When an employee is depressed, it can have a devastating effect on the workplace. Depression is generally accompanied by a decline in how an individual views themselves. It may seem intuitive for those suffering from depression to attempt to bolster their self-image by focusing on, for example, getting others to notice their positive qualities. But researchers found that goals centered around self-image will likely make matters worse. Alternatively, they found that the pursuit of compassionate goals, that is, helping others, seems to alleviate the symptoms of depression and improve personal relationships. Perhaps that’s because helping others puts one’s own life into perspective and generates a more optimistic outlook.

Giving Increases Longevity

Charitable volunteering could even increase your lifespan. A classic study published in the Journal of Health Psychology concluded that elderly volunteers had a 44% lower mortality rate within the next five years after controlling for health habits, social support and other factors. According to researchers, prosocial spending or spending money on other people (which includes charitable donations) can even lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation, both risk factors for a number of health conditions.

The Charitable Brain and Your Corporate Giving Programs

According to Michael Norton, automatic withdrawals may not be enough to engage your employees. “(Automatic withdrawals are) not going to have as big an impact on my life as if I’m thinking about who I’m giving to and why I’m giving to them and the impact that I’m having.” When you understand how and why charitable giving makes people happy, you can leverage this information to make your corporate giving program one that will not only engage and delight your employees but accrue benefits to the company and to the broader society as well. The best programs align with corporate values and help employees establish habits that facilitate giving in a memorable and meaningful way. Certainly, it makes sense for companies to implement programs that are easy to administer. But they must also ensure that employees are involved in selecting charities, auditing themselves, managing their giving targeting, tracking the good deeds of the non-profits and maybe even volunteering. With a properly executed corporate giving program, companies can realize the many benefits that such a plan has to offer to its employees and to the communities it serves. At Groundswell, we can help you give your corporate giving program a whole new look and feel and make it a pillar of your compensation system. Contact us for more information.

This week we dive into an interview with Wendy Norden, Director of Science and Global Strategies at Seafood Watch Program at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, discussing the interconnected depths of consumer buying, aquaculture, climate change, and economics of seafood.Celebrating seafood sustainability is a cause bigger than itself affecting human populations around the world as much as the species we fish and farm, and a cause that Meg Vandervort of Groundswell is particularly passionate about. Meg sat down with Wendy Norden from the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch Program with questions to help all of us non-marine biologists understand the challenges and successes surrounding sustainable seafood. Wendy spent years working underwater as a marine biologist and researcher, before moving to New Zealand and working in a government role overseeing their seafood industry. For the past twelve years, Wendy has been with the Monterey Bay Aquarium and is currently the Director of Science and Global Strategies for their Seafood Watch Program, responsible for the overall scientific integrity, vision, innovation, and direction of the program. She’s also in charge of maintaining global strategic direction and partnerships that support global fisheries and aquaculture improvement.

Welcome! In celebration of World Oceans Day this year, I’m excited to dive into a topic near and dear to me—seafood sustainability. I’m a huge fan of Monterey Bay Aquarium and have been following the Seafood Watch program for some years now. For those who aren’t as familiar, can you give a brief overview of what Seafood Watch is doing to advance healthier oceans?

Wendy: Sure, and of course. Seafood Watch provides the information needed to make better choices at the supermarket, and we'll work with business partners to really source seafood and see that it’s more responsibly done. And it really boils down to very difficult subject matter into a guide, like red, yellow, and green, knowing what to source and also knowing that you know, consumer choices really do matter quite a bit. You know, that also has very broad reaching applications as well. So when consumers make choices in the United States, our business partners kind of come to the table—they want to source those seafood products that the consumers are looking for and also to make a better planet as well. But on top of that, it also gives producers around the world an idea of where their product is in terms of sustainability. And it is a big landscape, right, from really great production to really poor and everything kind of in between. So, we provide that information that helps guide purchasing but also helps industry understand about sustainability in order to make change and make things better, because our goal really is about celebrating seafood, making the right choices, and hopefully improving the rest.

That’s wonderful! I’m actually curious to learn a little bit more about you. We always love to highlight the people behind some of these amazing movements that are happening, but can you give us a brief history or your journey to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Seafood Watch program, and have you always had a passion for the ocean growing up?

Wendy: It’s a very winding path. Growing up I got into scuba diving. Before college, I worked several jobs and saved a lot of money because I wanted to travel, so then I went to New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji as a young person. When I went scuba diving in most of these places for the first time, I did not realize at that point that it could be a job, like you could actually do this kind of work. The minute I came back home, I officially got advanced certified and I enrolled in college to really be a marine biologist. Everyone told me at that point, “that's nice, you'll never get a job”, but I was determined to do it anyway because I knew I’d figure it out. Throughout college, I had a lot of great internships, and I did a lot of work underwater. I got more experience doing research, but I wanted to do more. I ended up moving to New Zealand for several years, and I got a really great job working for the government working on a program to reduce bycatch, and I actually worked on the observer program for the whole country. That really helped me understand how to work better with the industry, how to set goals that maybe people didn't agree with, but learned how to actually work together. That and science, plus understanding what to actually call it, really helped me. With that experience, I ended up working in academics for a while. When I got to Seafood Watch, all that experience helped me understand how to apply science in an understandable way—how to work with the industry, knowing that you might be at odds at some point, but you actually all want the same end goal as well. It really helped me set up my career, and I’ve been with Seafood Watch for almost twelve years now. It’s been a very exciting journey. I learn every day—something different, something new—and I have amazing partners.

That’s exciting! Sounds like a dream job.

Wendy: Yeah, I feel really lucky. I never get bored. I find I'm amazed at the people that I meet all the time because I travel—or I used to before COVID— all over the place, talking to people about seafood, working with producers, understanding where everyones’ values are. At the end of the day, everyone wants to do a good job for seafood sustainability.

You touched on something that leads me to my next question about seafood sustainability in general, which is that it's actually an extremely complex thing, and it's not so cut and dry, like just buying from the local fisherman, or don’t eat fish.

But between sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture and the seafood supply chain – it's a lot to wrap your head around. What would you say for someone who's just getting into understanding this topic? What is the most pressing thing we can focus on?

Wendy: I feel like at any level, if you want to get involved, there's a place for you. I think if you really just want to, say, I want to understand the source of a particular seafood and I'm going to purchase responsibly, use our information. We boil it all down into very simple red, yellow and green. All of our reports and assessments are online, so if you want to dig a little deeper, you can read those assessments and understand the issues. There really is a place for any level of information you want, essentially, because we put it all out there. It's all out there publicly available. I think it really is important to know that the choices we make do matter at the grocery store. They do mean something. And they help us do our work and improve, because we want to celebrate seafood. We think eating seafood is a great thing. We want to have all seafood produced in a way that's sustainable and when I say sustainable, I mean the environment. I mean food security. I also mean things like better equity and supply chains. So, it really has to be good for people and the ocean.

Oh, that's so interesting. I'm also curious, from the general consumers’ perspective, a question that might come up is “should I potentially avoid buying a particular type of seafood?” For example, if I'm buying shrimp, is it more likely that it's unsustainably caught or has human trafficking attached to it?

Wendy: I go back to using our recommendations. The red is really what things you should avoid. Our hope is that red doesn't stay red. Our hope is not like you just abandon it and say, I'm not buying this again. But it does matter because when consumers don't buy something because it's red, that gives us a lot of incentives to go to the industry and say look, this is really what people are wanting. They want more sustainable products. That does go a long way. What we do in our reports is dig into those major issues. Why does it cause red? So we have standards that we develop from wild-capture and fisheries. We know scientifically why it's not sustainable, and it gives us the consumer demand. It really gives us that extra incentive for the industry to make those changes, which are also good for them. Any seafood product generally can be the best choice, farmed from any country that has a species—it's just a matter of us getting the right data, and us being able to say it isn't being done the right way. So the ability is there, like our green listing isn’t completely aspirational. It is doable, but it's a high bar. Everyone can actually get there. And that is our goal: To push the entire industry and have a much more sustainable industry overall.

On a brighter note, what are some of the bigger recent accomplishments that the Seafood Watch program has had that maybe people don't know about?

Wendy: Well, I think a big one that we haven't talked about enough is our development of our improvement verification platform, which doesn't sound very exciting, but it really is. We have developed the technology with partners to collect data efficiently and quickly on a farm and then scale it up to a region to understand. We actually can assess thousands of farms and in little time spent, get them to that green level. That has not happened in the past. We've developed technology that basically works online or offline and collects data efficiently and quickly, and then we scale it up to a region so you can have more scalable change. It also identifies areas needing improvement. We already have 2,000 shrimp farms going through the system that are green. To me, that's a huge accomplishment that's taken us a long time to develop. Very exciting. We also have recently launched aquaculture governance indicators, which again doesn't sound exciting, but it is because we have developed these indicators. We don't really know what makes really good aquaculture governance structures. What do you need to have? What are the key elements? We worked on developing those key elements to help the governance structures, and it isn't just about legislation, it's about how the industry is formed, and how reactive it is to change and how adaptable it is that the system in place in a country or region that allows for good things to happen allowing for sustainability. Understanding those underlying conditions and what gets in the way of sustainability is super important, because it isn't as simple as saying, here's a checklist. There's a reason why that isn't happening. And it could be infrastructure, it could be poverty, it could be too many illegal things happening. It could be many different things. It helps us understand underlying conditions that exist. A third one I'll just briefly talk about, one issue, is why use antibiotics for aquaculture? And that’s spread across every production system from farm salmon, shrimp, tilapia, you name it. We convened a large working group of fifty people from over twenty-one countries in the last year with the World Bank and came up with the key areas of impact on antibiotics, because we still don't even know that necessarily. What are our key recommendations going forward about what we think we should do, and how do you actually make sure the antibiotic issue doesn’t get out of control? Because right now, with warming water temperatures, you're gonna have more disease, more need for antibiotics. And in poor countries, you often don't even have labels on bottles for these things. Some people don’t really know what they're putting in their ponds. We are going to be launching our key recommendations very soon on that government and industry and then we're also doing a series of workshops to talk to farmers directly and find out what their needs are.

Wonderful, thank you so much for your insight and time, Wendy!

For Seafood Watch’s consumer guides to buying sustainable seafood that Wendy mentions, you can find them at SeafoodWatch.org.Log into your Groundswell Personal Giving Account to support Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Seafood Watch Program.

If you’re wondering how to become a philanthropist, it’s easier than you think. Anyone can do it and, contrary to popular belief, it’s not just for the wealthy. Make no mistake about it: Humans are social creatures. We love to help one another. That’s why philanthropy is so popular. It’s a feel-good activity that improves our world. And the benefits far outweigh the costs. Before you start contributing to worthy causes, however, it helps to understand the options available to you. You’ll want to make good decisions so that you maximize the impact you want to make in the world. No worries, either, about how much — or how little — money you have. All you need is a vision and a plan.

What Is Philanthropy?

A philanthropist is an entity, either a person or a corporation, that provides time, money, or resources — and perhaps all three — to people or nonprofits in need of assistance. The overarching goal is to make lives better for others (or the world we inhabit). Philanthropy is often associated with large sums of money and wealthy people. But, as mentioned, philanthropists can be any person or entity. Even a tiny business can be philanthropic.Some philanthropists rise to rockstar status and are known for their generosity. For example, Warren Buffett, Melinda Gates and Oprah Winfrey are just a few among the mega-rich who have given large sums and had an impact on important social and environmental issues. But you don’t have to be a millionaire, and indeed - many nonprofits are supported by hundreds of thousands of people who give modestly. Even a relatively small donation - alongside hundreds of others who also are giving a small amount - can add up to hugely impactful levels of support for nonprofits working to support communities in need.

What Philanthropy Looks Like

Philanthropy can take a number of forms. These include, for example:Money: Donations may be one time only or on a regular basis. Philanthropists may also bequest money after death or establish a trust.Time: Those who don’t have money to donate or prefer to contribute in other ways can donate time and labor. Examples include volunteering at a homeless shelter or tutoring students after school. As with monetary donations, these can be one-time, yearly or more frequent contributions. Many small, community-based nonprofits are dependent upon the generosity of their volunteers’ time to extend the impact of their mission.Resources: These donations, known often as “in-kind,” include furniture, vehicles, food, clothing, toys, computers, etc.

Benefits of Changing the World With Philanthropy

It may seem to be a cliche, but the benefits of philanthropy are immeasurable for those donating time, money or other resources:

• Lends perspective: Philanthropy heightens your sense of connectivity to the world and the things that really matter.
• Better health: Your mental health and physical wellbeing both improve when you give back.
• Lower stress levels: Volunteering has been proven to lower stress and enhance feelings of well-being by releasing dopamine.
• Tax reductions: Donations may be written off on personal taxes.
• Social interaction: Volunteering can offer opportunities to network and meet others who are committed to similar causes, and connections can be formed among a group of donors providing financial support.
• Improved skill set: As a volunteer or a donor who has researched the causes that nonprofits are working on, you will learn new skills, both hard and soft, and improve your leadership acumen.

How To Become a Philanthropist

As with any good strategy, you’ll need a road map to get to your final destination. Follow these seven steps to become a philanthropist:

1. Clarify Your Goals

Before you decide where to put your time and effort, you’ll need to understand what’s most important to you. What do you value? Where can you make a difference? What would feel good to do? Include your personal or professional goals such as expanding your network. Whether it’s working for climate change or helping your community’s underserved population get the resources they lack, make sure that you feel passionate about the issue.

2. Determine Your Commitment

Before you decide what to do, you need to determine how to do it. Do you want to give money or time? If it’s money, what can you afford? If you plan to volunteer, how much time do you have? When can you volunteer?

3. Choose Your Organization

Once you know the type of commitment you can make, research and vet organizations. Do they align with your mission and values? Where do they work? If you know you want to focus on homelessness in your community, determine if the organization is serving the homeless population in your city. Most organizations share information about their programs, their leadership and how they use their charitable donations. If you have questions, ask. The organization should be transparent and credible.

4. Check With Your Company

Before you completely nail down a target nonprofit, check out the support your company may offer – whether that be a match or volunteer opportunities.

5. Establish a Plan

Based on the causes you care about, the resources you want to commit to and the organizations you want to support, determine your giving cadence. For many, setting up recurring, monthly donations means you can ‘set it and forget it.’ But you might also want to consider setting aside some funds for donating during an emergency - whether it's a hurricane on the Gulf Coast, the war in Ukraine, or a social justice issue.

6. Stay Engaged and Curious

Find your community, and learn about other organizations that are doing important work in support of the causes you care about. You might find that in order to tackle an issue that you’re passionate about, multiple organizations are needed to make change. You can create social connections in-person or online to discover more organizations.

7. Trumpet the Cause

Now that you’re a practicing philanthropist, tell others about the organizations you support and why. They may be inspired to help or to find a cause of their own.

Have Fun With It!

Philanthropy is something anyone can do. Whether you donate time or money, it offers great benefits and improves the lives of others. Find the organization or cause you want to support and go for it. It’s a fun and easy way to give back to the community and expand your horizons.If you would like to know more about a corporate giving program, contact Groundswell. We can help turn philanthropic giving into an essential employee benefit.

Donating directly to a charitable organization might be the simplest way to give, but there are also various philanthropic vehicles available for minimizing taxes and maximizing impact. Two of the better known structures are donor-advised funds (DAF) and private foundations.

Donor-Advised Fund vs. Private Foundation

While there are 1.4 million registered public charities in the United States, less than 1% are donor-advised funds. Likewise, private foundation numbers, at around 90,000, are relatively modest. The impact of these nonprofit organizations, on the other hand, can be considerable. Here are the key differences between donor-advised funds and private foundations.

What Is a Donor-Advised Fund?

The donor-advised fund (DAF) is a tax-advantaged personal giving account established at a public nonprofit sponsor organization. The account is opened in the donor’s name and contributions are made to the organization(s) chosen by the donor. That might be a charity, but it could also be a university, religious foundation or financial institution. DAFs are enjoying unprecedented popularity with donations jumping by 27% since 2019. Giving from DAFs topped $34.67 billion in 2020, with the five largest — Fidelity, National Philanthropic Trust, Schwab, Vanguard and Silicon Valley Community — accounting for $24.5 billion alone. That said, the size of the average fund is a lot less, at around $150,000. Donors can gift cash, stock, real estate or other assets to a donor-advised fund. Traditionally, DAFs have been viewed as a tax-efficient way to give over a longer period of time without any annual obligation to distribute funds (thus the nickname “zombie philanthropy”), but now Groundswell is empowering corporations to unlock the advantages through our Philanthropy-as-a-Service platform. Whereas DAFs have conventionally been the preserve of the ultra-rich and brokerages, we’re offering access starting at $1 million (the lowest minimum contribution in the industry) to help employees with meaningful giving that benefits communities.

What Is a Private Foundation?

A private foundation, on the other hand, is a legal entity established solely for charitable purposes. Usually launched as a family or organization’s legacy initiative, the private foundation is a long-term project whose influence can spread worldwide. That’s certainly true of three of the biggest three: the Bill and Melinda Gates, Ford and Getty foundations. Private foundations are administered by a board of directors and can receive funds via real estate, investment assets or charitable donations. Unlike public charities, however, they usually derive their financial support from a single source, whether it’s a person, family or organization.

Key Differences Between Donor-Advised Fund vs. Private Foundation

There are a few important distinctions to note between the two, particularly when it comes to the overarching mission and vision.

Longevity

Most donor-advised funds are intended to support charitable giving during the philanthropist’s lifetime, although some do extend to a further generation or two. One of the criticisms of DAFs is that rather than distributing donations to non-profit organizations in need, they are used by the rich to “park” private wealth in a tax deductible fund. That’s not the Groundswell approach. Our platform is designed to establish a minimum annual distribution for DAFs to bring communities to life, not mothball zombie philanthropy funds. Private foundations, by contrast, focus firmly on the future legacy, and most are established as permanent entities that will outlive the founder.

Control

The board of directors (which can include the founder) manages a private foundation. For a DAF, the sponsor organization has control, although the donor may give their recommendation or advice on how grants are distributed.

Profile

Private foundations often celebrate a particular goal or set of values, so concealing the founder’s identity is rarely a concern. DAFs do offer confidentiality, so they are a useful vehicle for benefactors who want to support a charitable organization anonymously.

Establishment

There is a lower barrier to entry for donor-advised funds, some of which can be set up with as little as $5,000, although upwards of $100,000 is more common. Because all legal formalities are covered by the parent organization, DAFs are relatively easy to set up. By contrast, private foundations take longer to establish, and the legal, administrative and tax affairs require professional support. Private foundations usually start with funds of $10 million or more.

Tax Matters

Arguably the biggest difference between the two is in terms of tax regulation. For private foundations, the IRS dictates that a 5% minimum of net investment assets must be distributed annually in the form of grants or administrative expenses. To set up a private foundation, the founder(s) must apply for recognition of exemption under Section 501(c)(3) with the IRS, and will subsequently need to file detailed tax returns on board members’ compensation, fees and grants. All are a matter of public record. Donor-advised funds, on the other hand, do not require any annual grants to be administered but do offer immediate tax advantages, particularly if the donor is receiving a windfall, inheritance or revenue from a business or property sale. Neither do DAF donors have to file tax returns to the IRS, not least because ultimate control of the DAF is with the sponsor nonprofit organization.

We’re Here To Support Your Giving Efforts

Despite the “zombie” tag, DAFs are by no means evil by nature. In fact, they can be an effective way to drive meaningful giving that brings communities to life. To find out how we’re raising zombie philanthropy from the dead with an employee benefit that benefits the world, get in touch with us today.

At Groundswell, we are privileged to talk to a wide range of individuals about philanthropy in all its forms. That is why we are so grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with New York Times best-selling author of The Three Mothers, Anna Malaika Tubbs. The Three Mothers shines a light on mothers Alberta King, Louise Little, and Berdis Baldwin, who raised and shaped Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X., and James Baldwin. The book celebrates their legacy and Black motherhood which has shaped much of American history. Anna believes in supporting philanthropic organizations that recognize the importance of motherhood, particularly for black women in America.

Thanks for joining us, Anna. It’s an honor to speak with you. You begin your book by outlining your personal tie to three very incredible mothers — Alberta King, Louise Little, and Berdis Baldwin — and how their history spans over the past century. That’s incredible. What ultimately led you to exploring these three incredible women in particular?

It was done out of curiosity, and it was a sort of elimination process, in the sense that I knew I wanted to do a project like Hidden Figures, Margot Lee Shetterly's book. I wanted to be a person who discovered other hidden figures; other black women whose tales we should have known all along but had been lost, erased, or hidden.

I had an amazing mother who was always talking about the significance of celebrating mothers and paying more attention to the crucial role that moms play in our society.

So I've always had this idea in my head that I'm going to do something about black mothers who should have been known.I wanted to focus on the civil rights movement because it comes up so frequently in our policy debates and other discussions. I whittled it down to these three since they were born within six years of each other, and their famous kids were born within five years of each other. This brought them together over time without reducing their complexity and diversity, while celebrating their differences; each chapter covers ten years of their lives.

What I think is so great about your book is your approach to research, and how you were so honest about what information you could find and what you could not. The absence of history is equally as important. That said, you talk about the erasure of Black Women in history, especially through the eyes of Alberta, Louise, and Berdis. Even through your initial research it was hard to nail down exact details like birthdays, and you say Berdis’s name wasn’t even listed in the US. Census. For those who are unaware, can you outline why this Is so important to explore this history and how it better informs us today?

The research process was really difficult, and I'd like to point out that this was also the subject of my PhD dissertation, so this is completely original research.

I needed to dig for every single detail that I uncovered, and even if I found a small nugget of information, I needed to push further to understand the context behind it.

Also, I needed to remember that a lot of what I was finding had been filtered via men, typically white men, who recounted these stories quite differently from how I would. So it was highly complicated, requiring a variety of procedures such as contacting local historians, searching census data, locating land deed, birth certificates, death certificates, and interviewing family members. I'm doing my best to fill in the blanks with information from documents I discover. But it is a reminder to us, first and foremost, of how we value various lives in different ways.

I like to speak about each of our lives as if they are puzzles, and certain puzzles we put together, frame, and hang, either on a mantel or on a wall, to treasure, marvel at, celebrate, and honor.

Then there are the puzzles that we just leave on the ground; every time we move, we leave some pieces in one house, we may throw them away, or the dog may chew on them; no one is ensuring that we retain this information, notice it, or care about it. So I was there, putting the puzzle pieces together.

What I believe is important is that we do this for more people; each story does matter, especially when we see how black women have contributed everything they could to the progression of this nation.

Unfortunately, we continue to disregard their lives, saying, your history doesn't matter, your contributions don't matter. As a result, we've arrived at a point where we don't understand what's going on in our country. We believe that all of these instances of sexism and racism, the intersectionality of the two, as well as the many other isms with which it intersects, occur at random or independently of one another, rather than as a product of years and years of devaluing lives.It's done through systems, regulations, and extremely strategic tactics to eliminate people in order to keep those puzzle parts scattered and concealed. So I simply want more of us to take on that project. I don't want this to be the only book about the three of them. I was declaring that they are worthy of study, worthy of celebration, and worthy of being on the cover of a book. Because what they deserve, in my opinion, was to be seen, celebrated, and honored.

Speaking especially of Alberta, Louise, and Berdis' stories, what surprised you when writing your book, and what was left out of their history?

When I first came up with the idea, I merely wanted to recognize them as individuals with their own interesting lives. I knew they'd be not just intriguing, but also valuable to our society in the ways they were generating life beyond their children through activism and creativity. I wasn't trying to argue that since Alberta [King] did this, Martin [Luther King] did this—I wasn't trying to emphasize the sons in that way. But every piece of information madethe relationship and connections so evident, they’re undeniable.Even if I didn't tell you their names and only described the women based on their passions and approach to fighting for freedom, you'd be able to connect them with their sons. Even if you only know a little bit about the sons.Those are the instances where it's surprising we didn't already know their names.

Moms affect their children in a variety of ways, and you can't dispute it in these three cases.

Because you almost had to work at separating them, it made the erasure even more infuriating. You must purposefully leave out the fact that they are linked. During the course of writing this book, I discovered that the sons did give credit to their mothers. So it's not really their fault; rather, it's those of us who have researched them and determined that they don't fit our racist patriarchal view of who matters. Those who have said, we'll leave that as a footnote but we're not going to center it in the way you believe it should be centered in the record.

You talk about how the media played a role in the erasure of these women’s stories, which essentially shaped what the narratives would become. How does this affect those that are intentionally being erased?

This is a fantastic segue for me to speak about my TED talk, because it's all about storytelling and how we follow the stories that we’re told and how our policy reflects that. In the TED talk, I address the way we talk about moms in the stories we share, not only on an interpersonal level, but in media and in literature. We thank moms for being selfless and putting everyone else's needs ahead of their own.

Moms themselves then believe they should be individuals who don't have their own needs and don't have their own identities.

That can be excruciatingly painful, frustrating, and confusing. It also expands on the stories we're telling in the media that don't highlight the contributions of mothers. We as a society believe that mothers are exclusively important in the domestic sphere, or we take those contributions for granted, or employers will try to fire mothers because they believe they are distracted, even though there is no evidence to support this.Then we see that when it comes to voting for policies that could actually help moms and provide them the support and resources they need for their important job, we can't get them passed because people don't seem to believe they're required. So, if you don't believe the role is important, or that it is easy, you're not going to vote for things like parental leave.We live in a country that does not value motherhood; we do not have affordable childcare, universal preschool, or even universal health care, all of which overlap with the role of motherhood. During the pandemic, we saw many women, particularly moms of color, leave their work because they had no other option. I do believe that a lot of that stems from our cultural understanding of motherhood; if more of us understood the essential nature of the job, stay-at-home moms, for example, what they do for all of us, not just for their children, but for all of us day in and day out, it would be easy for us to say, "Yeah, let's vote for those things. We need that," so I want us to see more stories that represent mothers accurately and their role more appropriately.

Out of curiosity, are you aware of any other cultures outside of America that properly values motherhood?

We've seen these rankings in terms of maternal health and motherhood happiness in the United States, which is really low when compared to other countries. We have a maternal health problem that is disproportionately affecting black women and women of color, but it also affects all women; women are dying at higher rates in this country. That is something that we should all be very concerned about.

Mothers are reporting higher levels of postpartum depression, they're burning out, they're exhausted.

They feel like there's something wrong with them, because they've been told they're supposed to take care of all of this, and then not be thanked for it. As if it's okay to be invisible.Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, for example, have models and policies that we may replicate in the United States. Scandinavia has a more homogeneous culture than the United States; we have a lot more diversity here. However, this does not preclude the adoption of universal parental leave or the distribution of baby boxes in the United States. In Sweden, for example, parents receive a package including the fundamental necessities that they will require when raising a child. That is something we could do in the United States. We could create daycare centers in companies so that if parents do return to work outside the home, they may bring their children with them to the same location, which would increase production for the entire company.

There are many bits and pieces and policies from other countries that I believe we can still apply to the United States, despite the fact that our population is considerably more diverse than that of most other countries.

What organizations would you include now in your own giving portfolio for advocacy work, particularly around motherhood?

The first one I think of is Black Mama's Matter. In the United States, black women, particularly black moms, are still considered as less than human beings. Their effort to build this alliance of people with diverse knowledge, backgrounds, and experiences to address the core causes of black maternal health and the black mother’s experience in the United States is critical.

I wanted to write about black mothers because the dehumanization is evident when you look at the relationship between our country and black mothers in the United States – mothers being refused basic treatment, denied human respect, and being treated with a lack of basic decency.

I also really love the work of the Young Women's Freedom Center. It's in San Francisco, and it works with women who have been impacted by various systems, such as incarceration or juvie. All of these other things that have locked our young women of color away and then blamed them for their experiences, rather than the systems that have pushed them to the margins and forgotten about them and tried to ignore them. Through working with the center, they can reclaim their identity and use their voice.Essie Justice Group is another. It is led by a friend of mine. We see that the cost of having a loved one in prison is quite high, and black women are spending a lot of their money paying into this mass incarceration system in the United States. Instead of addressing the various issues that lead to them being taken away and locked up, we continue to place that burden on the shoulders of black women. So anything that relieves that weight, anything that reminds us that this isn't just a black woman's problem to fix, but that it will affect our entire nation is work that I support and a message that I try to elevate.

If we can come together and really focus on the experience of black women, it will be beneficial to us all.

All of those organizations sound incredible. What is your process of finding which organizations to support around a cause?

I like to begin by asking why we want to talk about black women, and by discussing the legislation that has existed from the beginning of slavery and states that black women are the producers of property rather than the producers of life. It is important to understand that from the start, the idea that a black person's life begins as property is key to understanding the ills of our nation.That is what we want to examine, as well as how this concept about the life of a black person has permeated so many different systems. Then we'd want to know who the organizations are that are dealing with those various systems. So whether that's through tackling mass incarceration – which continues to say that these people are objects and not people, and we can control their lives and their lives matter less than other people's lives – or through thinking about the American gynecological system, and how it's based on experimenting on the bodies of enslaved black women.I’d ask: How is all that still playing out today? Who are the organizations that recognize black women as having been viewed as less than human? What are they doing now to fight for humanity? That's how I'd organize a portfolio.

For our last question, what advice would you give to someone who wishes to be a true ally, especially after reading your book?

That's a great question. When the topic of allyship comes up, I remember my mother, a white woman with black children.

She would approach me and say, "In this world, I have no idea what it's like to be a black girl or a black woman. And I'm not going to pretend I know; I'm not going to claim to understand your experiences. But what I can say is that I believe you are worthy of the same respect and dignity that everyone else is, and I will walk with you, learn with you, and do my best to make this world a better place for you."

I'm paraphrasing; these are not exact words; they are a compilation of lessons learned throughout the last 29 years of my life. But this was her general approach to things, and that's exactly what we're looking for in allies.We're not expecting somebody to say, "I know what it's like to be a black woman," because that's not the correct thing to say. Don't say anything like that. It's fine to recognize that your and mine experiences will differ in this regard. You may say "I feel you are entitled to be regarded as a human being and to have access to the same resources as I do. And I will do my part to help with that. And I will walk beside you and learn alongside you. And it shouldn't be much more complicated than that as a result of that mindset, there will be sacrifices. And I'm not going to pretend that I understand what it's like to be you." I believe it is an accurate summary. And perhaps, more individuals will feel at ease embracing that charge.

No one likes zombies. They’re noisy. They’re disgusting. Worst of all, they try to eat your brain.But perhaps the spookiest thing about them? They’re mindless. Zombies are automatons who amble along without thinking. Left to their own devices, they would go on like that, mindlessly, forever. Never changing, never helping, never improving.It is this critique of the undead that gets levelled at a form of charity dubbed zombie philanthropy. In this critique, the drivers of zombie philanthropy are Donor-Advised Funds (DAF)s. To quote The Washington Post:This is problematic. We’re in a world where there is no time to waste. There are too many crises facing our country and global community and it serves no one to have money sitting on the sidelines. At Groundswell we’re going to change that by building a platform that will better facilitate these funds and empower donors to make an impact quickly.

WTF is a DAF and who contributes to them?!

A Donor Advised Fund allows donors to put all of their charitable dollars into one single fund, receive an immediate tax deduction, grow those assets over time, and distribute assets to nonprofits of their choice at any given time. It was established in the 1930’s to handle charitable donor-advised fund contributions on behalf of organizations, private individuals, and families. Since then, DAFs have been primarily utilized by the ultra-wealthy. According to the 2020 Donor-Advised Fund Report, grants to qualified organizations from DAF accounts totaled $27.37 billion in 2019, up 15.4% from $23.72 billion in 2018. But considering there are over $140 billion in total assets squirreled away in DAFs, $27 billion is merely a fraction of the impact potential they represent.

Why Do DAFs (Sometimes) Become Zombies?

Donor Advised Funds are popular due to their ease of use. Donors typically struggle with deciding where to direct their philanthropic contributions, especially when large sums of low-value assets are contributed. Managing several beneficiaries while meeting a deadline might be difficult. As a result, one-stop-shop giving simplifies the philanthropic process.Why have DAFs become the target of “zombie philanthropy” accusations? The critiques typically go like this:

• Unlike with private foundations, there is no requirement for minimum distributions from Donor Advised Funds. As a result, investors routinely deposit significant amounts of equity or cash in those accounts with no need to distribute them right away. This means that a DAF’s capital can sit static for years or decades, and never actually reach a nonprofit.
• This is particularly worrisome at a time when nonprofits need funds urgently, not in a distant future.
• Some individuals use DAFs primarily for income tax reductions, balancing their tax bill with their giving, so that the upside, like capital gains, is neutralized. Others use DAFs to pass on money to their offspring, once again with minimal taxes.

With DAFs, people can sidestep learning about the best causes in place of simply dumping the money in a pot on the advice of someone else.We recognize these critiques. Any tax instrument can be manipulated depending on a user’s intentions (we’re looking at you, Peter Thiel). However, we don’t believe DAFs are inherently evil and are instead breathing new life into the zombie philanthropy model.Groundswell reaps the benefits of DAFs without the downsides. And we believe that this approach can be scaled to reach any prospective donor, not just the ultra-rich.

How Groundswell is Raising Zombie Philanthropy From the Dead

Groundswell is built differently.Legacy DAF providers also happen to be massive asset managers. No wonder their platforms are designed to keep money in the DAF, and not move it out to charity. In fact, it’s in their best interest for it to play out that way.However, Groundswell is built to move money as efficiently as possible out of the system and into the hands of charities.The objectives of our platform are aligned directly with the goals of charities – including the goal of disbursing as much money as possible into the community. That’s probably because we were founded by a former nonprofit executive, a key difference in Groundswell vs. the competition.We have no beef with DAFs and not every DAF fund is a zombie. The fact is, when funds are transferred to a DAF, they will eventually finance a program sponsored by the donor, though it may be slow and delayed funding means delayed impact.As we already mentioned, we believe that Donor Advised Funds are not inherently evil – even if they are exploited by a large number of ultra-wealthy individuals and fail to generate as much good as intended. In principle, DAFs can be powerful but, like everything else, they must evolve.That’s why Groundswell is supportive of recent talks aimed at reforming Donor Advised Funds to include, among other things, a minimum annual distribution. DAFs, built and leveraged appropriately, can bring massive efficiencies to the nonprofit sector and the giving of ordinary Americans.So instead of allowing these legacy Donor Advised Funds to shuffle around mindlessly like zombies, let's build an alternative like Groundswell that breathes life back into the Donor Advised Fund and democratizes philanthropy for the 99%.

In today's business environment, having the right and highest performing talent is more critical than ever. With benefits packages playing a vital role in these decisions, how can companies truly gauge their effectiveness? By initiating regular employee benefits surveys.

Scroll down for a free survey template below.

Let's dive in to the importance of asking the following questions.

Is our workforce satisfied with the current employee benefits package?

Gaining insights from "how satisfied are you with our company’s benefits package?" can offer companies a quick pulse on the effectiveness of their benefits. A dip in satisfaction might signal a need for re-evaluation, especially if you're looking to maximize your budget.

How comprehensive are the employee benefits we offer?

Do employees feel that the organization covers a wide range of their needs? Asking, "do you feel our benefits package is comprehensive in its offering?" can shed light on any potential gaps in coverage.

Are we showing true commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion through our benefits?

Are the company's efforts in promoting DE&I resonating? This can be gauged by asking if the benefits genuinely support diversity and inclusion. If they aren't, here's an opportunity to collect ideas directly from your employees.

Read more about how to make sure your giving program is equitable and inclusive.

Do our benefits reflect our company culture and values?

The question, "do you feel our benefits package supports our cultural values?" will highlight any potential discrepancies in practicing what you're preaching.

Did you know? Two-thirds of employees say it’s important for a company to align to their values.

Are we catering to the needs of a remote or multi-location workforce?

With remote work on the rise, is the company adapting its benefits accordingly? It's essential to find out if employees feel supported, regardless of their work setting.

Would employees recommend the company based on our benefits?

This is an easy one to skip, but it's a great question to ask. See how influential your benefits package is for employee referrals. Determining if employees would advocate for the company based on its benefits can be a key metric for recruitment.

How do specific benefit categories fare?

By querying satisfaction levels across various benefits – physical health, social impact, mental health, financial health, and fringe benefits – can companies discern which areas are thriving and which need enhancement?

What additional benefits do employees desire?

Is there a particular benefit that could make a difference in employee satisfaction and retention? Discovering this can be as straightforward as asking, "if you could choose one benefit not currently offered, what would it be?"

If your workforce desires a more meaningful benefit, see why decentralizing your corporate philanthropy strategy can achieve greater impact at scale.

How often should I send an employee survey about our benefits?

While every business has their own set of unique needs, conducing a quarterly employee survey at minimum can help you get a pulse check.

There will be some natural and unplanned peaks in valleys throughout the year that can drastically affect employee morale and company culture. By proactively seeking feedback through surveys, companies can foster a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring they remain at the forefront of employee satisfaction.

What are some affordable benefit options we can provide employees?

Corporate matching or giving programs can be a low-cost addition to your benefit offering that supports your employees’ unique passions and perspectives through charitable giving and boosts your company’s commitment to social impact.  Groundswell offers a comprehensive solution with a simple implementation and nearly zero administration burden.

1. How satisfied are you with our company’s benefits package?
2. Do you feel our benefits package is comprehensive in its offering?
3. Do you feel our benefits package supports our cultural values?
4. Do you feel our benefits package supports our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion?
5. Do you feel our benefits package supports our remote or multi-location workforce?
6. How likely are you to recommend applying based on our benefits package?
7. How satisfied are you with our physical health benefits (i.e. health care, sick leave, etc)?
8. How satisfied are you with our social impact benefits (i.e. corporate matching, volunteering, etc)?
9. How satisfied are you with our mental health benefits (i.e. vacation time, EAP, etc)?
10. How satisfied are you with our financial health benefits? (i.e. retirement, student loan assistance, etc)
11. How satisfied are you with our fringe benefits and perks? (i.e. fitness subsidies, stipends, etc)
12. If you could choose one benefit not currently offered, what would it be?

This guide is intended to provide resources and inspiration for Groundswell users on how to donate to causes they care about. It provides tips to best identify and donate to charities that have a proven track record of impact. It also discusses how to think about geography and size when deciding where to donate, and explains the ways in which even small, recurring donations can have be powerful for charities working on the frontlines every day.

Groundswell can be your partner in your journey as a modern philanthropist. Your donations are a critical part of addressing society's myriad issues, such as poverty, education, healthcare, and environmental concerns. And giving to others is also good for you. It has been shown that people who donate to charity experience increased happiness and well-being compared to those who do not give. This sense of satisfaction comes from the knowledge that your actions are making a positive impact on the world and helping those in need.

Through Groundswell, you can easily add funds to your account, browse or search for charities, and donate in a matter of minutes. In this guide, we help demystify some of the questions you might have as you consider where, when and how to donate.

Six Tips to Becoming a Modern Philanthropist

Summary

1. Pick causes and charities that align with your values: When deciding what you want to support, start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most.
2. Understand impact through the lens of size & geography: The geographic reach of different charities' programs, and how large or small they are, can help as you determine what to support.
3. Evaluate best in class charities: Learn how to assess not only the financial health of an organization, but also what questions to ask when looking at other impact metrics.
4. Set a giving goal: Decide how much you want to give annually through Groundswell, and follow the simple steps to set up contributions to achieve that goal.
5. Maximize impact through recurring donations: Simplify your giving and provide nonprofits with a steady stream of revenue through monthly, recurring donations.
6. Optimize your giving through tax-efficient strategies: Leverage the versatility of Groundswell to reduce your tax burden through payroll giving, stocks contributions, and bunching.

1. Pick Causes & Charities that Align with Your Values

Your giving journey often is deeply personal, rooted in your own values and lived experiences. When deciding what causes you want to support, it’s important to start by taking into consideration the people, places, or problems that you care about most. Who or what do you want to impact? What cause is most aligned with that? Use that as a starting point to then find the charities best positioned to have an impact on what you care most about. Focusing on specific cause areas allows you to be more intentional about how you donate.

There are thousands of causes and more than a million nonprofits on the Groundswell platform that tackle challenges from all angles, from improving K-12 education or finding a cure for Alzheimer’s to reducing plastics in the ocean or protecting women’s rights.

After determining what causes matter most to you, it’s also helpful to identify the type of impact you are seeking to make. Are you interested in supporting organizations that are “on the ground” providing direct services or those doing longer-term, important policy and research work? That can help guide you in picking the charities that you want to donate to.

2. Understand Impact: Size & Geography

Where to donate

When deciding where to donate, it’s also important to determine where you want that impact to happen. For many people, where they give is closely linked to where they live – their local food pantry, homeless shelter, house of worship, or neighborhood school.

Others may want to focus their giving beyond where they live and donate to organizations that operate in certain regions or even other countries. There’s no ‘right’ answer - and many people choose to donate both locally and globally to a cause they care about. For example, you may want to support an organization that is both on the frontlines supporting refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, as well as helping resettle refugee families near your town in the U.S.

Does size matter?

Similarly, there is no right answer for what size organization is best to donate to. Whether they are large or small, if they have a strong track record of impact and do not have a pattern of mismanagement of funds, they are worthy recipients of donations.

Many people want to donate to organizations that have a proven track record of implementing large-scale programs, or are on a strong growth trajectory, year over year. Larger organizations generally have shown their ability to receive larger amounts of funding, and in turn design and implement programs at a scale that have a greater impact towards the causes you care about most. But small organizations can also be extremely impactful - even if the radius or scope of impact is smaller. Although many of today’s social and environmental problems are massive in scale, the vast majority of nonprofits are tiny; indeed, most nonprofits in the United States are small, grassroots organizations - and 20% have annual budgets of less than $50,000. For smaller nonprofits, even the smallest donation on an annual or monthly, recurring basis can have a huge impact on their ability to sustain programs or even expand.

3. Evaluate "Best in Class" Charities

There are multiple ways to assess the quality of a charity; many ratings sites focus primarily on financial metrics, but it is equally important to assess not only how an organization is managing its funds, but also the quality of its work. And while a rating system like Charity Navigator can be helpful, it is important to know that no rating system is comprehensive. Groundswell offers an important starting point - we only feature organizations that are in good standing with the IRS and eligible to receive tax-deductible donations.

• Programmatic Impact: Understanding a nonprofit’s impact - through its programs and the populations that it serves - is an important way to evaluate its effectiveness in tackling the causes you care about. Many nonprofits provide details about programming approaches on their websites, including testimonials, photos, and reports detailing specific results. Keep in mind that understanding and assessing impact is highly qualitative - there is no clear ‘score’ - especially because what or who is being impacted varies across the thousands of nonprofits.

• Financial Management: Nonprofits, especially larger ones, are required to disclose details related to their financial performance annually – to include assets, revenue and breakdown of expenses in forms submitted to the IRS. Many nonprofits are proactively transparent about their finances and post audited financial statements and other reports on their websites. But financial data does not always tell a complete story. There may be important investments in fundraising staff, which two years later yield a windfall in donations that can be put towards programs.

• Advisories: Sometimes there are advisories based on pending or ongoing legal action. Groundswell works to monitor these advisories and remove any charities that it believes are acting improperly or mismanaging donor funds. We also remove any charities that have had their nonprofit status revoked by the IRS.

• Groundswell-curated Featured Causes: While many donors might want to do their own research, sometimes it’s far easier (and efficient) to put your trust in others. Groundswell’s impact team provides donors with additional inspiration, and has done the vetting work to determine cause-specific organizations that are well run and most importantly having a strong impact.

4. Aim High with a Giving Goal

You can use Groundswell’s calculator found under your Profile to set or edit your annual giving goal. This can be a flat amount, or a percentage of your annual salary. While estimates vary, a common range for giving as a percentage of annual salary is between 2-6%.

The good news is that with your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, you can easily set up recurring contributions to stay on track to meet your goals. It’s also important to maximize the matching offered by your company’s giving program, where applicable.

Your giving goal can help fund recurring donations, as well as account for unexpected events that you may want to donate to.

5. Level Up with Recurring Donations

Recurring donations can be a great component of your philanthropic strategy. As a bonus, there are benefits for both donors as well as nonprofits.

For donors, setting recurring donations to autopilot every month or quarter means you don’t have to think about it or go through the steps to do it on a regular basis.

Put simply, it’s a smart use of your time. It is also a symbol of a donor’s commitment to a cause, and a belief in the nonprofit’s ability to have a positive impact - not just in a moment of crisis, but on a continuous basis. Groundswell’s recurring contributions and donations features help facilitate recurring giving.

For charities, recurring donations provide a steady, predictable stream of revenue that helps with budget planning. For many organizations, large or small, recurring donations can have a huge impact. Similar to the trends in grassroots political fundraising, having many small-dollar donors is good for nonprofits.

It helps them build awareness and shows to the larger-dollar donors that there is a community that believes in the nonprofit’s mission. It also helps de-risk; nonprofits with one or two large donors and very few small-dollar donors can run into major problems if any of those large donors stop supporting their work.

6. Optimize Your Tax-Efficient Giving

You can leverage the versatility of your Groundswell Personal Giving Account, which is underpinned by a Donor-Advised Fund, to be strategic and reduce your tax burden. 

Donate appreciated stock

If you have appreciated stocks that you've held for more than a year and you donate them through your Groundswell account, you won't have to pay capital gains tax on the appreciation when those shares are exchanged for their market value.

Plus, you'll be eligible for a tax deduction for the full fair market value of the stock at the time of contribution into your Groundswell account.

Give with payroll

You can leverage Groundswell’s Payroll feature to make giving more tax efficient. Contributions to Groundswell through payroll deductions are eligible for an immediate tax deduction for the amount contributed. This means that your taxable income for the year is reduced by the amount of your contribution. Contributing on a recurring basis via payroll also makes it easier to “set and forget” and achieve your giving goals more efficiently.

Bundle contributions

You can also take advantage of the Donor-Advised Fund structure of Groundswell to make a larger contribution in a single tax year and maximize tax benefits by itemizing deductions in the year that the larger contribution is being made - commonly known as “bunching.” 

For example, if you typically give $5,000 to charity each year but decide to give $25,000 to your Groundswell account in one year, you can itemize your deductions that year and take the standard deduction in the following years. By doing so, you may be able to minimize your tax burden over time while still supporting the charities you care about.

Want access to other toolkits like this?

Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.

Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.

Your Best Practices Guide for Maximizing Your Employee Giving Participation

This guide provides you with tools and tips to maximize employee participation in your giving program, not just when the program launches but throughout the entire year.

Leveraging our expertise in the social impact and nonprofit sectors, Groundswell is here to support you and your employees on your impact journey.

Overview

Employee giving programs can be a great way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility, engage employees, and make a positive impact on the community. But too often, employees don’t take full advantage of the opportunities provided through their giving programs, leaving billions of funds unmatched every year. For some, this is due to either a lack of awareness about their company's giving program, or for others because an unwieldy donation portal and match process that leaves employees frustrated. Groundswell's technology brings corporate giving into the 21st century and unleashes the modern philanthropist in all of your employees.

Whether your goal is to grow the percentage of employees participating in your giving program, increase the amount of funds going to nonprofits, or to better understand the causes that matter most to your employees, these best practices can help you achieve those goals.

By reducing the administrative burden required to launch and implement a Giving Program, Groundswell frees you up to focus on what matters most: inspiring your employees and having a positive impact on the world through your company’s support for charitable causes.

6 Tips for Maximizing Participation in Your Employee Giving Program

1. Communicate Early and with Intention

Communication is a critical component of any successful giving program. We want you to have the tools to effectively share program details and encourage participation - whether launching a new employee giving program or transitioning from an existing one.

The key is to help employees understand why and how Groundswell fits into your company’s broader vision around corporate citizenship and employee engagement - and build enthusiasm around the potential to collectively have a positive impact on the world through donations to charities.

Program Launch Communications:

Here are some ways to think about the program launch. Depending on whether this is a new program or transitioning from an existing one, your adoption plan may change. You don’t want to inundate employees with too much information, while also providing them with the resources they need to successfully enroll in the program and easily engage on the platform.

• Keep it short, and emphasize that the intent is to center employees in corporate philanthropy and make it as easy as possible for employees to give.
• If the Giving Program is new: Why now? How does it align with your company’s values? Why is Groundswell a good fit for the company?
• If the program is replacing an existing program: Why now? What’s different (and better) from the previous program? New matching or gifting features? It may also be helpful to highlight the tax effectiveness of the donor-advised fund model.

Monthly Program Communications

In order to encourage ongoing participation in your program, and for employees to take advantage of the gifts and matches offered by your company, we encourage monthly nudges to remind employees about the program.

Monthly Cause Spotlights

• Start off the month by highlighting some timely causes - make sure to link to Groundswell-curated “Featured Cause” Portfolios that Groundswell uploads to the dashboard every month for a hand-off approach to spotlighting.
• Share “Cause of the Month” information with employees, leveraging the toolkits found in Groundswell’s Resource Center.

Engagement & Impact Reporting

• Utilize the data that you can find on your company Dashboard or download via CSV to highlight some of your company’s collective impact - including a percentage of employees enrolled, the total dollar amount that has been donated, as well as top nonprofit donation recipients and/or cause areas.
• This helps employees see how their individual donations are having a larger impact as part of your company’s collective giving program.

2. Drive Early Adoption through Gifts

Gifts can be a terrific way to get employees to sign up and start using the Groundswell platform immediately. Here are a few tips on how to drive early adoption using the Gifting feature:

• Launch with a one-time gift into employees’ Giving Accounts that will show up as soon as employees enroll. This can be a great way to create buzz about the program and empower employees to donate and make an impact immediately - even before they contribute their own funds to their Groundswell account.
• Throughout the year, provide unexpected, ad hoc gifts into employees’ accounts - for work anniversaries, milestones, great performance, etc.
• A way to make it fun is to do a lottery at All Hands meetings by randomly selecting an employee to receive $25 in their Groundswell account. Follow this link or reach out to the Groundswell Customer Success team to learn more.

3. Inspire Engagement through Matching

• Set up a matching program that immediately doubles the impact when an employee puts funds into their Groundswell Giving Account. This creates a feeling of “we’re in this together” - and drives home the message about an equitable approach to corporate philanthropy.
• A match program can run for an entire year, or be tailored to specific months.
• With the Groundswell match happening at the point of contributing funds to the Groundswell account, employees can tangibly see and feel what it means to double the impact for the charities and causes that matter most to them.

4. Leverage Cause Campaigns & Respond to the Emergent Events

Planned Campaigns:

• Utilize a Social Impact Cause Calendar to plan monthly or bi-monthly communications to employees highlighting specific causes - with resources to educate employees about the cause, and a curated list of nonprofits most relevant to the cause. You can refer to Groundswell’s monthly cause portfolios that are updated to reflect timely causes and issues.
• Tip: Plan your annual budget to launch match campaigns focused on specific charities or cause areas throughout the year.

Unforeseen Events:

• Utilize Groundswell’s curated list of best-in-class nonprofits responding to disasters in the United States or globally. Being able to quickly and confidently point your employees to vetted nonprofits to donate to shows that you are responsive as a company and empowering employees to take action in moments of crisis.
• Tip: Keep a portion of your annual budget in reserve so that you can match employee donations and/or provide gifts to employees to expand the impact in response to the unforeseen emergency.

5. Engage Employee Resource Groups

Another mechanism to center employees in corporate philanthropy and recognize their own lived experiences: provide Employee Resource Groups (ERG) a platform to speak to key cause areas (e.g. AAPI Awareness, Black History Month, etc).

• ERGs can take the opportunity to recommend nonprofits that they think are most effective and related to the cause, and share their commitment to specific causes with the tag-line “My cause is ____ “
• Tip: Solicit recommendations from the Employee Resource Group for books to read, films, and documentaries to watch, and podcasts to listen to. This can generate a deeper understanding of causes and lead to engagement via donations to support the causes.

6. Lean Into End-of-Year Giving Spirit

30% of annual giving happens in December, with about 10% of all annual donations coming in the last three days of the year. For nonprofits, this can be a critical time to raise funds and prepare programming budgets for the next year.

You can leverage Groundswell's Giving Tuesday resources to launch an end-of-year donation campaign, featuring specific cause areas and nonprofits.

Tip: Set a budget aside for a surprise end-of-year gift - leveraging the fact that a large percentage of people prefer to donate at the end of the year.

Read related articles

• Is Your Donation Matching Program Inclusive and Equitable?
• The Workplace Giving Handbook: Everything You Need to Know
• 8 Workplace Giving Trends and How to Use Them

Groundswell is your ally in corporate philanthropy.

Corporate giving programs aim to empower employees and help companies facilitate and support philanthropic efforts. As global access grows and corporations become more diverse, employee representation becomes an increasingly important subject.

Groundswell enables companies to lay the foundation for their employees to adopt a generous giving attitude towards charities and world-shaping efforts.

Corporate grants are financial support provided by a business to a nonprofit organization, educational institution, or another type of community group.

These grants can be used to fund a wide range of projects, including programs and initiatives that align with the values and mission of the funding organization.

In this ultimate guide, we will explore the various types of corporate grants available, how to find and apply for these grants, and tips for success in securing funding.

Types of Corporate Grants

There are several types of corporate grants that organizations can apply for, depending on their needs and the focus of the funding organization. Some common types of corporate grants include:

General Operating Support: These grants provide funding for the general operations and administration of an organization, including salaries, rent, and other overhead costs.

Project-Specific Grants: These grants are provided to fund a specific project or initiative, such as a research project, community development program, or arts and culture event.

Capital Grants: These grants are provided to fund the purchase of long-term assets, such as equipment, real estate, or vehicles.

Sponsorship Grants: These grants provide financial support for a specific event or activity, such as a charity fundraiser or sporting event.

Matching Grants: These grants require the recipient organization raises a certain amount of funds on their own, which is then matched by the funding organization.

How to Find Corporate Grants

There are a few different ways to find corporate grants that may be a good fit for your organization. Here are some tips:

Research funding organizations: Many businesses have corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that provide grants to nonprofit organizations. Research the CSR programs of businesses in your industry or local area to see if they offer grants.

Use grant databases: There are many online databases that list corporate grants, such as Grants.gov and the Candid, formally known as Foundation Center. These databases allow you to search for grants based on your organization's location, mission, and area of focus.

Join grant-seeking networks: There are many online networks and forums for grant seekers, such as Candid, formally known as GrantSpace, and the Grant Professionals Association. These communities can be a valuable resource for finding corporate grants and learning about the grant-seeking process.

How to Apply for Corporate Grants

Once you have identified a corporate grant that is a good fit for your organization, the next step is to prepare and submit a grant proposal. Here are some tips for success:

Follow the application instructions carefully: Each grant program will have its own application requirements and guidelines, so it is important to follow these instructions carefully. Be sure to complete all required forms and provide any supporting documents that are requested.

Clearly articulate your needs and objectives: In your grant proposal, be sure to clearly explain your organization's needs and the specific objectives that you hope to achieve with the funding. Use specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals to demonstrate the impact that the grant will have.

Demonstrate your organization's capacity to deliver: In addition to outlining your needs and objectives, it is important to demonstrate your organization's capacity to deliver on its proposed project or initiative. This may include information about your staff, volunteers, resources, and past successes.

Proofread and edit: A well-written and well-organized grant proposal is more likely to be successful. Be sure to proofread your proposal carefully and have at least one other person review it before submitting it.

Tips for Success in Securing Corporate Grants

Start early: Many corporate grant programs have deadlines that are several months in advance of the funding period. It is important to start researching and preparing your grant proposal as early as possible to allow sufficient time for revisions and any additional information that may be requested by the funding organization.

Build relationships with funders: Building relationships with potential funders can be a valuable asset in the grant-seeking process. Attend events and networking opportunities where you can meet with representatives from funding organizations, and consider reaching out to them directly to introduce your organization and its work.

Be persistent: Securing corporate grants can be competitive, and it is not uncommon to be rejected on the first try. Don't be discouraged by rejection – use it as an opportunity to learn and improve your grant proposal for the next round of funding.

In conclusion, corporate grants can be a valuable source of funding for nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community groups. By researching and identifying appropriate grant programs, preparing a strong grant proposal, and building relationships with potential funders, your organization can increase its chances of success in securing corporate grants.

More about Groundswell

Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.

Subscribe to our newsletter and reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io.

Workplace giving programs offer employees an important benefit.

It gives employees a way to support the causes they care about and trust that their support is actually doing good in the world.

It's not news that people are skeptical of corporate charity — it's why words like pink-washing and greenwashing have entered the public vocabulary. Workplace giving programs offer a way to combat that skepticism and give employees a reason to feel good about the places where they work.

But what exactly is workplace giving, and how do you set up an employee-powered giving program at your company?

What is Workplace Giving?

Workplace giving is any organized program that collects employee donations for charitable causes through payroll deductions and/or one-time donations. The company then disburses those donations to nonprofits.

Over the years, the term has evolved to include volunteer giving programs, and other forms of employee giving programs. These giving programs take many forms today, including payroll deductions, donation match programs, and volunteer giving programs.

Matching Gift Programs

Donation match programs are among the most popular types of workplace giving programs, offered at nearly 65% of Fortune 500 companies, and accounting for $2 billion to $3 billion in donations annually. 

The concept is simple in theory: an employee donates to a qualified nonprofit, and the company then makes a matching donation to the same nonprofit. 

In practice, matching gift programs can be cumbersome and difficult to manage. In fact, for every dollar donated through matching gift programs, more than $2 goes unclaimed.

Volunteer Programs

In addition to typical volunteer programs — serving dinners at a local shelter or reading to school kids, for example — many companies create or participate in volunteer fundraising events, such as walk-a-thons or charity 5k runs. 

Employees participate as a team, and the money raised is donated to the specific non-profit named. These campaigns can be great for team building and bonding, not to mention providing high-profile PR opportunities for the company.

Volunteer Grants

Many companies offer grants to organizations where their employees volunteer. This kind of program ensures that the company is helping to support genuine community organizations that their employees care about. They help deepen the ties between the company and the community and send the message to your employees that you care about the things that are important to them.

Volunteer Hours Matching

The third iteration of volunteer donation programs rewards your employees with the extra cash they can donate to others based on hours that they spend volunteering with community organizations. 

Giving employees paid time off for volunteering can make it difficult for workers to keep up with their workload and make more work for nonprofits. Some companies have found ways to reimburse employees for their time working in their communities.

One way is to deposit the equivalent of their salary for hours spent into a Groundswell Personal Giving Account. From there, the employee can direct the donation to their chosen cause, effectively doubling their impact on the ground.

Donations Through Payroll Deduction

Many companies offer employees the opportunity to make giving easy by enrolling in an automatic payroll deduction for a chosen charity. Payroll deductions allow employees to essentially budget their charitable contributions over the course of the year. 

However, the choice of charities to support is usually very narrow — often only one or two charities are chosen by the board. 

A growing number of CEOs are moving away from the top-down approach to corporate giving, and moving to a model that puts the choice in the hands of their employees.

What Is a Workplace Giving Campaign?

Workplace giving campaigns are typically annual events companies hold to encourage employee donations to a cause.

They're often held in the fall, to coordinate with the holiday season — and of course, the end of the tax year. They can, however, take place at any time. Their purpose is to publicize and raise awareness of any company-sponsored employee giving programs, and get more people involved in them.

Campaigns may also revolve around a specific need or event. These campaigns include disaster relief campaigns, or campaigns to support specific needs in the local community — supporting the unhoused, or providing funds for meals during a pandemic, for example.

How Does Workplace Giving Work?

The nuts and bolts of employee giving programs are rapidly evolving. Legacy workplace giving programs collected donations from employees then combined them and funneled them to one or two charities chosen by the board of directors or the CEO. Historically, there are two major models for doing this.

Payroll Deduction

Programs that collect charitable donations through payroll deductions are the most common workplace giving programs, accounting for nearly 75% of all employee giving annually. Payroll deductions make charitable giving easy on employees — they fill out a payroll deduction form once, and HR/Payroll does the rest. It's so easy, in fact, that when Google implemented a pilot payroll giving program, it increased the likelihood of donations to a promoted charity by 50% without reducing the average amount donated.

In addition, each participating employee has a running record of their deductions on their pay stub, with the current and year-to-date donations recorded. That's a big boon at tax time — their pay stub serves as proof of their donation, so they don't have to scrounge around looking for acknowledgment letters from the nonprofits they donate to.

Nonprofits also benefit from this type of workplace giving program in several ways: they get predictable, sustainable donations, and often get more donations. Just as important, a payroll deduction model reduces the amount of work that falls on their shoulders by transferring much of it to the company's payroll department. Managing a workplace giving campaign is a complex undertaking involving multiple steps and responsibilities.

• The company creates a campaign to engage and encourage employees to sign up for the giving program. This is no small undertaking — entire toolkits are devoted to teaching employees and volunteers to run successful campaigns.
• The employee fills out a pledge card, designating the amount of the donation and/or the amount to be deducted each pay period. If the company allows it, they may also choose one of several pre-approved nonprofits to receive their donation.
• The payroll department — or the company's payroll provider — sets up the recurring deduction for each employee. 
• If the company also operates a matching donation program, HR processes all donations to set up the matching donation.
• Each pay period, the payroll department deducts and deposits the funds from each employee into a central account, then sends the final donation amount to the paying agent, such as the United Way.
• The paying agent distributes the funds to the designated organizations.

Donation Matching Programs

Donation match programs can also be time-consuming and difficult to navigate — so much so, that billions of dollars in matching funds go unclaimed every year. A typical donation match program works like this:

• The company determines which organizations will qualify for a matching gift and makes the list of qualifying organizations available to employees, and creates rules to determine the amount of the match. There may be differing amounts depending on the employee's position or other criteria. For example, all full-time employees may qualify for 100% matching, while managers qualify for 200% matching.
• The employee makes a donation to the charity of their choice.
• After determining that their chosen organization qualifies for a match, the employee fills out and submits a request to HR for their employer to match their donation.
• HR processes the request and determines the match amount based on the rules.
• The company sends a check for the matching amount to the qualifying organization. 

Emerging Trends in Workplace Giving

Since the early 2000s, there's been a growing movement to allow employees more choices of donors. Many donation match programs, for example, will match employee donations to any 501(c)3 charity. New platforms are streamlining corporate and employee giving, reducing the amount of work and time that goes into managing workplace giving campaigns and employee giving programs in general. 

The newest trends in corporate giving include making charitable giving part of the employee's benefits package and providing granular control and choice on when and where to donate their funds. 

Advances in technology provided new tools — yes, there's an app for that — to help companies manage and deploy their corporate giving programs in ways that make sense for their workforces. As the workplace and trends in giving continue to evolve, employee giving programs will also evolve to keep pace and provide the most seamless, empowering giving experience.

Benefits of Workplace Giving Programs

Employee giving programs are not just good for the causes that get the donations. They provide important positives for employees, the company, and the community. These are a few of the most important.

• Improved Employee Recruitment: 55% of employees — including 75% of Millennials — would choose to work for a socially responsible company, even if they got paid less. 
• Increased Employee Engagement: Employees are more engaged at work when they feel their employer aligns with their values.
• Increased Profitability: Companies with the most engaged workers are 21% more profitable.
• Better Public Image: People think more positively about businesses that give back to the community.
• Deeper Community Connections: A well-planned employee giving program helps the business connect and cement relationships with organizations in the community.
• Increased Employee Loyalty: Employees are more likely to recommend businesses that support them and their interests.
• Higher Retention Rates: Employees who take advantage of employee giving programs stay with the company 75% longer.

What Employees Care About

According to a recent Deloitte Workplace Giving survey, 37% of workers donated to charity through a workplace giving program, but — and this is a big but — when they looked at Millennial and Gen Z employees, that percentage skyrocketed to 58%. 

Younger workers, those destined for leadership positions in future companies, care deeply about doing good in the world, and they reflect it in their behavior. They donate because they are connected to a cause or charity, because they want to support their community, and because giving makes them feel good. 

When you make it easy for them to plant a tree, buy a kid a desk, or adopt sheltered puppies, your company is showing them that they respect and support the people that they are, not just the work that they do for your business.

Why Is Employee Giving Important?

In addition to the benefits to your employees and your business bottom line, employee giving also brings an immense benefit to the community. 

In 2021, workplace giving programs raised more than $5 billion, with about 50% of that coming from matching gift programs. Those donations went to

• Education-related causes: 29%
• Health and wellness causes: 25%
• Community and economic development causes: 15%

Employees who donated through workplace giving programs reported that they donated to

• Hunger and homelessness relief: 47%
• Education: 23%
• Social and racial equity causes: 20%

The right workplace giving program empowers your employees to support the causes closest to their hearts, without judgment and with the confidence that their employer trusts them to put their money where it will matter the most.

How to Set Up a Workplace Giving Program

If this is your first time setting up a workplace giving program, there are some important steps to consider. You want a program that reflects your company's mission and core philosophy, one that your employees will embrace and be proud to use. These are some key principles to keep in mind and some action steps to get you started.

Evaluate Your Company's Corporate Social Responsibility Policy. If You Don't Have One, This Is A Good Time To Brainstorm.

• Create a vision for your CSR that balances your responsibilities to your shareholders/owners, your employees, the community, the planet, and any other stakeholders.
• Evaluate your current activities in light of community service. Do you partner with local organizations? Host volunteer activities? Make donations to local charities? Any of these would fit under the umbrella of CSR.
• Establish a corporate code of ethics detailing how your company will treat employees, customers, the environment, and competitors in all your dealings.
• Get strategic with your giving program to ensure that it aligns with your company's values and ethics.

Set a Budget for Your Giving Program.

• The amount you budget for corporate giving should be no more than you can afford to give without affecting the cash flow you need to operate your business.
• Many large companies earmark 1% - 5% of their pre-tax earnings for charitable giving. Small companies often donate 6% or more to charity.
• Consider designating profits from one particular product for giving.
• Use the Sabsevitz Ante-Up Formula — multiply last year's pre-tax net income by 1.2% to come up with a donation budget.
• Check out more suggestions for setting your budget in this blog post.

Set Up Guidelines for Your Program

• Employees: will all employees be included in your benefits program? Will they all be level-funded, or will some positions qualify for a higher workplace giving benefit? 
• Moments That Matter: Can you make donations more meaningful by tying deposit amounts to specific events in the lives for your employees? 
• Decide which charities/causes your company will support. Will you restrict employee giving to designated nonprofits? How expansive will your list of eligible organizations be? 

Establish A Process For Collecting, Matching, And Donating Contributions. 

• See the section on How Does Workplace Giving Work?
• (Hint: Groundswell takes the stress out of this step.)

Publicize The Program.

The key to a successful workplace giving program is awareness. Your employees can't use a benefit they don't know about, and your company won't reap the benefits if your customers and employees don't know what you're doing. These are a few suggestions for raising awareness of your new employee giving program.

• List it as a benefit in your recruitment materials.
• Provide an easy — and very visible — way to access your program's front end on your employee website, Discord, or other communication software.
• Highlight your program in the company newsletter.
• Create and distribute flyers explaining the program, its benefits, and how to use it to your employees.
• If you offer donation matches, make sure that local nonprofits are aware of it.
• Partner with local nonprofits and community organizations when it makes sense.

Is Workplace Giving Tax Deductible?

The simple answer is yes, in most cases, workplace giving is tax deductible, and has been since 1935 when Congress passed a law allowing corporations to deduct up to 10% of their pretax income on their tax returns. That limit was raised to 25% to encourage more giving during the pandemic. 

Maximizing Tax Benefits for Workplace Giving

It's important to understand how tax-deductible donations work in order to maximize the benefits of a workplace giving program. 

Some types of corporate giving offer more benefits than others. 

DAFs offer unique tax benefits, but until recently, they've been reserved for high-dollar donors. Briefly, a DAF allows your company to make a donation at the most advantageous time — before the end of the tax year, for example — and take the deduction immediately, and decide when and where that money should be donated to nonprofits. In addition, DAFs make it more efficient to donate non-cash assets, such as stock and real estate, to charity, without incurring an additional tax burden.

Workplace Giving with Groundswell

Groundswell's innovative Philanthropy as a Service model democratizes workplace giving by setting up a Personal Giving Account — an individual DAF — for each employee, effectively putting the power of a DAF in the palm of their hand. 

The company can make donations into each Personal Giving Account as part of an overall corporate giving strategy, timing the donations to provide the most benefit. The employee then decides when and where to make donations to the causes that are most important to them. 

If you're ready to increase the impact of your workplace giving programs, contact us to learn more about how Groundswell can empower you and your employees to do more good and make the changes they want to see in the world.

In an interconnected world where compassion and empathy transcend boundaries, the issue of animal welfare has emerged as a crucial aspect of our collective consciousness.

The treatment and care of animals, whether they are pets, wildlife, or livestock, reflect our society's moral and ethical values. As stewards of this planet, it is our responsibility to advocate for the well-being of our fellow creatures, recognizing their inherent rights and ensuring their protection from unnecessary suffering.

Supporting animal welfare encompasses a range of efforts, from advocating for legislative reforms and promoting responsible pet ownership to encouraging sustainable farming practices and preserving natural habitats. While the journey towards comprehensive animal welfare remains ongoing, it is imperative that we acknowledge the progress made thus far, as well as the challenges that lie ahead.

With every voice raised and every step taken to support animal welfare, we move closer to building a more humane and just world. Together, let us embark on this enlightening journey to explore the myriad ways we can make a difference and champion the rights of our fellow sentient beings.

These nonprofits are on the forefront of animal welfare and fighting for equality and rights for animals.

The Humane League

The Humane League is an international animal advocacy organization that works to end the suffering of animals raised for food. Founded in 2005, The Humane League aims to create a more compassionate world by promoting ethical choices and advocating for systemic change.

The organization focuses primarily on the treatment of farmed animals, which constitute the majority of animals used for food production. They work to raise awareness about the inherent cruelty and environmental impact of factory farming practices, while also promoting the benefits of a plant-based diet.

Humane League’s Multi-faceted Approach to Achieve Its Goals

1. Corporate Campaigns: The organization engages in corporate outreach and advocacy, targeting major food companies and urging them to adopt more humane policies and practices. By pressuring corporations to improve animal welfare standards, The Humane League aims to create significant changes in the industry.
2. Public Outreach and Education: The Humane League conducts public outreach campaigns to raise awareness about the realities of factory farming and the benefits of choosing plant-based alternatives. They aim to inspire individuals to make more compassionate choices in their everyday lives and provide them with the resources and support to do so.
3. Lobbying and Legislative Advocacy: The Humane League works to influence legislation and public policy related to animal welfare. They engage in lobbying efforts to push for stronger legal protections for farmed animals and to ban or restrict inhumane practices.
4. Open Wing Alliance: The Humane League is a founding member of the Open Wing Alliance, a coalition of global animal advocacy organizations focused on ending the abuse of hens used in egg production. They collaborate with other groups to drive corporate commitments to eliminate cage confinement for hens.

Mercy for Animals

Mercy for Animals is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to farmed animals and promoting compassionate food choices. Founded in 1999, Mercy for Animals (MFA) works towards creating a more compassionate and sustainable food system.

The organization's mission is to expose and combat the systemic abuse of animals raised for food, primarily focusing on farmed animals such as chickens, cows, pigs, and fish. MFA believes that all animals, regardless of their species, deserve to be treated with respect and compassion.

MFA employs a variety of strategies to achieve its goals

1. Undercover Investigations: MFA conducts undercover investigations to expose the realities of factory farming and the inherent cruelty inflicted upon farmed animals. Through these investigations, they gather evidence of animal abuse and neglect, and then use that evidence to raise public awareness, push for legal reforms, and encourage corporations to adopt more humane practices.
2. Corporate Outreach: MFA engages in corporate outreach campaigns to persuade major food companies and retailers to adopt stronger animal welfare policies. They work with companies to implement meaningful changes in their supply chains, such as eliminating cruel confinement systems, improving living conditions for animals, and transitioning to plant-based alternatives.
3. Public Advocacy: Mercy for Animals actively advocates for legislation and public policies that protect farmed animals and promote animal welfare. They work with lawmakers and other advocacy organizations to introduce and support bills that seek to ban cruel farming practices, increase transparency in the industry, and improve animal welfare standards.
4. Public Education and Outreach: MFA conducts public education campaigns to raise awareness about the treatment of farmed animals and the benefits of choosing plant-based alternatives. They provide resources, online materials, and tools to help individuals transition to a more compassionate diet and lifestyle.

Faunalytics

Faunalytics is a nonprofit organization that provides animal advocates with access to research and analysis of various animal issues. Founded in 2000, Faunalytics is headquartered in Olympia, Washington. The organization's research director is Jo Anderson.

Faunalytics' mission is to "empower animal advocates with access to research, analysis, strategies, and messages that maximize their effectiveness to reduce animal suffering." The organization does this by conducting original research, maintaining an online research library, and directly supporting advocates and organizations in their work to save lives.

Faunalytics' research covers a wide range of animal issues, including animal agriculture, animal testing, wildlife conservation, and animal cruelty. The organization's research is used by animal advocates around the world to inform their campaigns and strategies.

Ways that Faunalytics Helps Animal Advocates

• Conducts original research on animal issues
• Maintains an online research library
• Directly supports advocates and organizations in their work to save lives
• Offers a variety of resources to animal advocates, including trainings, webinars, and online courses
• Publishes a quarterly newsletter and an annual report on the state of the animal advocacy movement

Animal Haven

Animal Haven is an animal rescue organization based in New York City, United States. Founded in 1967, Animal Haven focuses on finding permanent homes for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals, particularly cats and dogs.

The organization operates an animal shelter and adoption center where animals in need are provided with temporary care, medical treatment, and socialization. Animal Haven aims to give each animal the opportunity to thrive and find a loving and responsible forever home.

Key Aspects of Animal Haven's Work

1. Rescue and Shelter: Animal Haven rescues animals from various situations, including shelters, overcrowded facilities, and emergency situations. Once rescued, the animals receive necessary veterinary care, vaccinations, and are spayed or neutered. They are then placed in a safe and comfortable shelter environment.
2. Adoption Services: Animal Haven facilitates the adoption process by matching prospective adopters with suitable animals. They have an adoption center where potential adopters can meet and interact with the animals. Animal Haven's staff works to ensure that each adoption is a successful and lifelong match.
3. Community Engagement: Animal Haven actively engages with the community to promote responsible pet ownership, humane education, and the importance of spaying and neutering pets. They offer resources, workshops, and events to educate the public about animal welfare issues and how they can make a positive impact.
4. Rehabilitation and Behavior Support: Animal Haven provides behavioral assessments and rehabilitation programs for animals with special needs or behavioral challenges. This helps increase their chances of finding suitable homes and ensures that adopters receive the necessary support and guidance.
5. Volunteer and Foster Programs: Animal Haven offers volunteer and foster programs, allowing individuals to contribute directly to the care and well-being of the animals. Volunteers assist with tasks such as socializing animals, walking dogs, and helping with administrative duties. Foster families provide temporary homes for animals awaiting adoption, helping them adjust to home life and providing valuable insights into their personalities.

Spokane Humane Society

The Spokane Humane Society is a nonprofit organization located in Spokane, Washington, dedicated to promoting the welfare of animals and providing them with shelter, care, and advocacy.

Key aspects of Spokane Humane Society’s work

1. Animal Shelter: The Spokane Humane Society operates a shelter facility that provides a safe haven for homeless and neglected animals. They strive to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals, offering them a second chance at finding loving and permanent homes.
2. Adoption Programs: The organization actively promotes animal adoptions, encouraging the community to choose adoption as the first option when considering adding a new pet to their family. They facilitate the adoption process by matching individuals and families with suitable companion animals.
3. Spay/Neuter Services: The Spokane Humane Society recognizes the importance of controlling the pet population to reduce the number of homeless animals. They offer low-cost spay/neuter services to pet owners, helping to prevent the birth of unwanted litters and promoting responsible pet ownership.
4. Animal Medical Care: The organization provides veterinary care to animals in need, including vaccinations, routine check-ups, and necessary medical treatments. They also have a medical team that ensures the well-being and health of the animals in their care.
5. Humane Education: The Spokane Humane Society is committed to raising awareness and promoting compassion for animals through education. They offer programs and resources that teach children and adults about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare issues, and the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect.
6. Community Outreach: The organization actively engages with the community through various outreach programs. They organize adoption events, fundraising activities, and awareness campaigns to involve the public in their mission. They also collaborate with other local organizations and agencies to address broader animal welfare issues.

ASPCA

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is one of the oldest and largest animal welfare organizations in the United States. It was founded in 1866 by Henry Bergh with the mission of preventing cruelty to animals throughout the country.

The ASPCA's work encompasses a wide range of programs and initiatives aimed at protecting animals, preventing animal cruelty, and promoting animal welfare.

Key Aspects of the ASPCA's Work

1. Animal Rescue: The ASPCA operates a dedicated Animal Hospital in New York City and a Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinic that provides medical care and treatment for animals in need. They also have a team of professionals that respond to animal cruelty cases and provide rescue and rehabilitation services for animals affected by cruelty, neglect, or natural disasters.
2. Adoption and Placement: The ASPCA promotes the adoption of homeless animals and works to find loving and permanent homes for animals in their care. They have an adoption center where potential adopters can meet and interact with available animals. The ASPCA also provides resources and guidance to help individuals find the right pet for their lifestyle and support the successful integration of the animal into their home.
3. Advocacy and Legislation: The ASPCA is actively involved in advocating for stronger laws and regulations to protect animals from cruelty and improve their welfare. They work with lawmakers, government agencies, and other animal welfare organizations to promote animal-friendly legislation and ensure the enforcement of existing laws.
4. Humane Education: The ASPCA believes in the power of education to prevent cruelty and foster compassion towards animals. They develop and provide educational resources and programs to schools, communities, and individuals, promoting responsible pet ownership, animal welfare awareness, and empathy towards animals.
5. Community Outreach: The ASPCA engages in various community outreach programs to provide assistance and resources to pet owners in need. This includes low-cost or free spay/neuter services, vaccination clinics, and temporary emergency sheltering for pets during times of crisis.
6. Anti-Cruelty Initiatives: The ASPCA works to combat animal cruelty through investigations, legal actions, and public awareness campaigns. They collaborate with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute individuals involved in animal cruelty cases, raise public awareness about animal abuse, and encourage the reporting of cruelty incidents.

PAWS

PAWS, which stands for the Progressive Animal Welfare Society, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare and providing support for homeless and abused animals. Founded in 1967, PAWS is based in Lynnwood, Washington, and operates in the Puget Sound region of Washington State.

Key Aspects of PAWS' Work

1. Animal Shelter and Adoption Services: PAWS operates an animal shelter where they provide temporary care and shelter for homeless cats, dogs, and other companion animals. They work to find permanent, loving homes for these animals through their adoption programs. PAWS also provides post-adoption support and resources to adopters to ensure the successful integration of animals into their new homes.
2. Wildlife Rehabilitation: PAWS operates a wildlife rehabilitation center that cares for injured, orphaned, and sick wild animals. Trained staff and volunteers provide medical treatment, rehabilitation, and release services for various wildlife species. The goal is to give these animals the best chance of survival and eventual return to their natural habitats.
3. Humane Education: PAWS is committed to raising awareness and promoting compassionate treatment of animals through education programs. They offer workshops, school programs, and community outreach initiatives that focus on responsible pet ownership, wildlife conservation, and animal welfare issues.
4. Spay/Neuter and Vaccination Services: PAWS provides low-cost spay/neuter services to help control pet overpopulation and reduce the number of homeless animals. They also offer affordable vaccination clinics to ensure that pets receive necessary vaccinations for their health and well-being.
5. Advocacy and Outreach: PAWS actively advocates for policies and laws that promote animal welfare and protect animals from cruelty and neglect. They engage in community outreach, collaborate with other organizations, and work with lawmakers to improve animal protection laws and regulations.
6. Volunteer and Foster Programs: PAWS relies on the support of volunteers and foster families to help care for animals in their shelters and provide temporary homes for animals awaiting adoption. Volunteers assist with animal care, socialization, and various administrative tasks, while foster families offer a nurturing environment for animals until they find permanent homes.

Best Friends Animal Society

Best Friends Animal Society is a prominent national animal welfare organization based in the United States. It was founded in 1984 with the goal of ending the killing of homeless pets and building a society in which all animals are treated with compassion and find loving homes.

Key Aspects of Best Friends Animal Society's Work

1. Animal Rescue and Shelters: Best Friends operates animal rescue centers and shelters across the country, providing care and support for homeless animals. They work to find loving homes for animals in their care and provide medical treatment, rehabilitation, and behavioral support to ensure the animals are ready for adoption.
2. No-Kill Initiatives: Best Friends has been at the forefront of the no-kill movement, advocating for and implementing strategies to save the lives of animals. They collaborate with local shelters, rescue groups, and communities to establish no-kill programs and initiatives, aiming to achieve a 90% or higher save rate for all animals.
3. Advocacy and Policy Work: Best Friends actively engages in advocacy and policy initiatives to promote animal welfare. They work with lawmakers and stakeholders to support legislation that improves animal protection laws, prevents animal cruelty, and promotes responsible pet ownership. They also work to end breed-discriminatory legislation and promote community-based solutions to animal welfare challenges.
4. Community Programs: Best Friends believes in the power of community engagement and education. They offer various community programs to help pet owners, such as low-cost spay/neuter services, vaccination clinics, and pet food banks. They also provide resources, educational materials, and workshops to promote responsible pet ownership and address common challenges faced by pet owners.
5. National Initiatives: Best Friends leads national initiatives to address specific animal welfare issues. For example, they have launched initiatives focused on ending the killing of cats in shelters, promoting pit bull terrier advocacy and awareness, and advocating for the welfare of animals in puppy mills and pet stores.
6. Collaboration and Partnerships: Best Friends collaborates with a wide range of animal welfare organizations, rescue groups, shelters, and communities. They work together to share best practices, provide support, and drive collective impact in saving animal lives and improving animal welfare nationwide.

Wild Animal Initiative

Wild Animal Initiative (previously known as Wild-Animal Suffering Research) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the well-being of wild animals. It was founded in 2016 by a group of academics and advocates concerned about the welfare of animals living in the wild and the need for scientific research in this field.

The primary focus of Wild Animal Initiative is to conduct rigorous scientific research to better understand the challenges faced by wild animals and develop strategies to alleviate their suffering. They aim to bridge the gap between academia and animal advocacy by fostering collaboration and supporting research projects related to wild animal welfare.

Key Aspects of Wild Animal Initiative's Work

1. Research: Wild Animal Initiative supports and conducts research projects that aim to improve our understanding of wild animal welfare. This includes studying topics such as population dynamics, predator-prey relationships, disease prevalence, and interventions to reduce suffering in the wild.
2. Collaboration and Networking: The organization actively collaborates with researchers, academics, and organizations working in the field of wild animal welfare. They aim to build a strong network of researchers and advocates to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and foster cooperation in addressing the welfare of wild animals.
3. Advocacy and Outreach: Wild Animal Initiative engages in advocacy and outreach efforts to raise awareness about wild animal welfare and promote the integration of this issue into animal advocacy and conservation discussions. They provide resources, organize conferences and workshops, and engage with the public to encourage thoughtful consideration of wild animal suffering.
4. Grant Funding: Wild Animal Initiative offers grant funding to support research projects focused on understanding and improving the lives of wild animals. They provide financial support to researchers and organizations working on impactful and innovative projects that align with their mission.
5. Public Engagement: Wild Animal Initiative strives to engage the public in conversations about wild animal welfare. They aim to increase public awareness, generate discussion, and encourage ethical considerations regarding the well-being of animals living in the wild.

Wild Animal Initiative is committed to using evidence-based approaches and promoting a scientifically rigorous understanding of wild animal welfare. By conducting research and fostering collaboration, they seek to make a positive impact on the lives of wild animals and promote the adoption of ethical principles in wildlife conservation and management.

PETA

PETA, which stands for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, is one of the largest and most well-known animal rights organizations in the world. Founded in 1980, PETA is dedicated to promoting the ethical treatment of animals and advocating for their rights across various industries and aspects of human life.

Key Aspects of PETA's Work

1. Animal Advocacy and Campaigns: PETA conducts numerous campaigns and advocacy efforts to raise awareness about animal cruelty and promote animal rights. They focus on a wide range of issues, including factory farming, animal testing, fur and leather industries, circuses, zoos, and entertainment that exploits animals. PETA uses various tactics, such as protests, investigations, public education campaigns, and legal advocacy, to push for change and raise public consciousness.
2. Investigations and Exposés: PETA carries out undercover investigations to expose and document animal abuse and cruelty in various industries. They gather evidence through undercover work in factory farms, laboratories, slaughterhouses, and other facilities, and then release this information to the public and relevant authorities to spark change and push for legal reforms.
3. Corporate Outreach: PETA engages in corporate outreach efforts to encourage companies to adopt more animal-friendly policies and practices. They work with businesses to eliminate animal testing, transition to cruelty-free and vegan products, ban fur and exotic animal skins, and improve animal welfare standards in their supply chains.
4. Public Education and Awareness: PETA aims to educate the public about animal rights, ethical choices, and the impacts of animal exploitation. They provide educational resources, online materials, documentaries, and campaigns to inform and empower individuals to make compassionate choices, such as adopting a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, avoiding products tested on animals, and supporting cruelty-free alternatives.
5. Legislation and Legal Advocacy: PETA works on legal fronts to push for stronger animal protection laws and regulations. They lobby for animal-friendly legislation, file lawsuits against animal abusers and industries that violate animal welfare standards, and advocate for animals in courtrooms and legislative processes.
6. Rescue and Sheltering: PETA operates an animal shelter called the Sam Simon Center, where they provide care and find homes for rescued animals. They offer temporary shelter, veterinary care, and adoption services for companion animals in need.

Petco Love

Petco Love (formerly known as the Petco Foundation) is a national nonprofit organization in the United States that is dedicated to improving the lives of animals. Established in 1999, Petco Love works to promote animal welfare by supporting animal shelters, rescue organizations, and other animal welfare initiatives.

Key Aspects of Petco Love's Work

1. Grant Programs: Petco Love provides financial support to animal welfare organizations through its grant programs. These grants help fund various initiatives, such as spay/neuter programs, adoption events, medical care for shelter animals, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives.
2. Adoption Efforts: Petco Love partners with animal shelters and rescue groups across the country to promote pet adoptions. They collaborate with these organizations to host adoption events at Petco stores, providing a platform for animals to find loving homes. Petco Love also supports initiatives to increase pet adoption rates and reduce the number of homeless pets.
3. Emergency Relief: In times of natural disasters or emergencies, Petco Love works to provide aid and support to animals and their owners. They provide resources, emergency grants, and supplies to help animal shelters and rescue groups during crises and facilitate the rescue and care of animals affected by disasters.
4. Lifesaving Programs: Petco Love develops and supports lifesaving programs that focus on reducing euthanasia rates and increasing positive outcomes for animals. They collaborate with animal welfare organizations to implement innovative programs, such as community cat initiatives, foster care networks, and pet retention programs, which aim to improve the well-being of animals and keep them out of shelters.
5. Community Engagement: Petco Love engages with communities to promote responsible pet ownership, animal welfare awareness, and the human-animal bond. They offer educational resources, workshops, and events to encourage responsible pet care and provide information on topics such as training, nutrition, and health.
6. Advocacy and Collaboration: Petco Love advocates for animal welfare and collaborates with other organizations and stakeholders to drive positive change. They work with lawmakers, government agencies, and industry partners to support animal-friendly policies, regulations, and initiatives that protect animals and promote their well-being.

Corporate giving programs are a way for companies to give back to the communities where they operate. These programs can take many different forms, but they all share the same goal of making a positive impact on the world.

Here are some of the benefits of corporate giving programs:

• Improved corporate image: Companies that give back to their communities are seen as more responsible and caring organizations. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and attract top talent to work there.
• Stronger community relationships: When companies invest in their communities, they show that they are committed to making a difference. This can lead to increased support from local governments and businesses.
• Improved lives of people in the community: Corporate giving programs can help to improve the lives of people in need. This can lead to improved quality of life for everyone in the community.

Here’s a list of 5 American corporate giving programs that have found success to inspire your corporate philanthropy.

Groundswell for Corporate Giving

If you are a company that is looking for ways to give back to your community, Groundswell can help.

Groundswell is a corporate giving program provider for employee gifting and matching program opportunities as an employee benefit to corporations of all sizes.

Want to elevate your corporate philanthropy and offer employees a benefit that leaves a lasting positive impact on local and global communities? Learn how Groundswell is leading the charge in democratizing corporate philanthropy and supercharging employee benefits.

5 Successful American Corporate Giving Programs

Microsoft’s Corporate Giving Program

Microsoft has a long history of corporate giving, and the company is committed to making a positive impact on the world. In 2022, Microsoft donated over $1.1 billion to charitable organizations around the world. This funding supported a variety of initiatives, including:

• Education: Microsoft supports a variety of educational programs, including scholarships, grants to schools and universities, and support for STEM education.
• Environmental sustainability: Microsoft supports a variety of environmental sustainability initiatives, including renewable energy projects, carbon capture and storage projects, and support for environmental organizations.
• Economic development: Microsoft supports a variety of economic development initiatives, including job training programs, small business grants, and support for community development organizations.
• Health and wellness: Microsoft supports a variety of health and wellness initiatives, including programs to fight poverty, hunger, and disease.
• Humanitarian relief: Microsoft supports a variety of humanitarian relief initiatives, including programs to help people affected by natural disasters and other crises.

Here are some of the specific initiatives that Microsoft supports through its corporate giving program:

• Microsoft Philanthropies: Microsoft Philanthropies is the company's primary vehicle for giving back to the communities where it operates. The foundation supports a variety of initiatives, including education, environmental sustainability, and economic development.
• Microsoft Employee Giving Campaign: Microsoft employees are encouraged to give back to their communities through the company's annual employee giving campaign. Employees can donate their time or money to a variety of nonprofit organizations. (Launch an employee giving program with Groundswell here).
• Microsoft Volunteering: Microsoft employees are encouraged to volunteer their time to nonprofit organizations in their communities. The company offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, including mentoring, tutoring, and fundraising.
• Microsoft Matching Gifts: Microsoft matches employee donations to nonprofit organizations dollar for dollar, up to $15,000 per year. (Learn to launch a matching gift program here)

Chevron’s Corporate Giving Program

In 2022, Chevron donated over $1 billion to charitable organizations around the world. This funding supported a variety of initiatives, including:

• Community development: Chevron Humankind supports employees, retirees, and corporate directors in their commitment to building better communities. Chevron offers a 1-to-1 match for your financial contributions to any eligible nonprofit, up to $5,000 per employee and $2,000 per retiree annually.
• Education: Chevron supports a variety of educational programs, including scholarships, grants to schools and universities, and support for STEM education.
• Environmental sustainability: Chevron supports a variety of environmental sustainability initiatives, including renewable energy projects, carbon capture and storage projects, and support for environmental organizations.
• Economic development: Chevron supports a variety of economic development initiatives, including job training programs, small business grants, and support for community development organizations.

Here are some examples of how Chevron's corporate giving program has made a difference in the communities where it operates:

• Chevron donated $10 million to support the construction of a new science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) center at a local high school.
• Chevron awarded $5 million in grants to support STEM education programs at schools in the company's operating regions.
• Chevron partnered with a local environmental organization to plant 10,000 trees in a community that had been affected by a natural disaster.
• Chevron supported a small business development program that helped to create 100 new jobs in a local community.

Target’s Corporate Giving Program

Target's corporate giving program offers several features unique to its business. The company uses its resources as a department store in the form of donations and community grants as part of its giving program.

The company also uses a private foundation called the Target Foundationmuch, much like how a donor-advised fund, to facilitate its donations.

Here's a list of what's featured on their corporate giving program:

• Target GiftCard donations: Target donates Target GiftCards to local nonprofits and schools. In 2022, Target donated over $20 million in GiftCards to support a variety of causes, including education, hunger relief, and disaster relief.
• Target Circle Community Giving: Target Circle is a loyalty program that gives guests the opportunity to vote on how Target donates money to local nonprofits. In 2022, Target Circle members voted to donate over $1 million to support a variety of causes, including food banks, homeless shelters, and youth organizations.
• REACH Community Grants: Target's REACH Community Grants program provides funding to Black-led organizations that are working to improve the lives of Black people in the United States. In 2022, Target awarded over $50 million in REACH Community Grants to support a variety of initiatives, such as economic development, education, and health and wellness.
• Target Foundation: The Target Foundation is a charitable organization that supports a variety of causes, including education, hunger relief, and disaster relief. In 2022, the Target Foundation donated over $100 million to support these causes.

Lowe’s Corporate Giving Program

Lowe's corporate giving program is a way for the company to give back to the communities where it operates. The program includes a variety of initiatives, such as:

• Lowe's Heroes: Lowe's Heroes is a program that encourages Lowe's associates to volunteer in their communities. In 2022, Lowe's Heroes volunteered over 2 million hours in their communities.
• Lowe's Hometowns: Lowe's Hometowns is a program that provides grants to local organizations that are working to improve their communities. In 2022, Lowe's Hometowns awarded over $50 million in grants to support a variety of projects, such as building playgrounds, renovating community centers, and providing disaster relief.
• Lowe's Foundation: The Lowe's Foundation is a charitable organization that supports a variety of causes, including education, hunger relief, and disaster relief. In 2022, the Lowe's Foundation donated over $100 million to support these causes.

Here are some examples of how Lowe's corporate giving program has made a difference in the communities where it operates:

• In 2022, Lowe's Heroes volunteers helped to rebuild a playground that had been damaged by a tornado in Oklahoma.
• Lowe's Hometowns grants helped to renovate a community center in Texas that had been damaged by flooding.
• The Lowe's Foundation donated money to help provide food and shelter for people affected by a hurricane in Florida.

Amazon Corporate Giving Program

One of Amazon's most well-known corporate giving programs is AmazonSmile. AmazonSmile is a program that allows customers to support their favorite charities every time they shop on Amazon. When customers shop through AmazonSmile, the company donates 0.5% of the purchase price to the customer's chosen charity.

Amazon also has a number of other corporate giving programs, including:

• Amazon dollar-for-dollar employee donation matching: In 2019, Amazon launched an employee donation matching program that matches any amount donated to 20 vetted nonprofits that combat homelessness, up to $5 million.
• Amazon Future Engineer: This program provides scholarships and other support to students from underrepresented and underserved communities who are interested in pursuing careers in computer science and engineering.
• Amazon STEM: This program provides grants and other support to schools and nonprofits that are working to improve STEM education.
• Amazon Disaster Relief: This program provides support to communities that have been affected by natural disasters.

Amazon's corporate giving programs have a significant impact on the communities where the company operates. In 2021, Amazon donated over $10 billion to charitable organizations around the world. This funding has helped to support a variety of causes, including education, hunger relief, and disaster relief.

Corporate giving programs are company-subsidized charity programs that businesses use to encourage their employees to participate in donations.

Successful companies build corporate giving programs into their employee benefits packages for a handful of reasons. Those reasons include making the world a better place, attracting and retaining talented employees who want to work for a purpose, and improve the public status of the company.

Corporate giving programs come in many different forms, from gifting and matching to volunteer grants.

Here’s a list of common types of corporate giving programs:

Gifting and Matching

Corporate gifting and matching programs are a way for companies to encourage their employees to give back to their communities. These programs can take many different forms, but they all have the same goal: to make it easier for employees to donate their time and money to causes they care about.

One type of corporate gifting program is a matching gift program. In a matching gift program, the company will match employee donations to certain charities, up to a certain amount. For example, a company might match employee donations to the United Way up to $500 per year. This is a great way for companies to double the impact of their employees' donations.

Another type of corporate gifting program is a volunteer grant program. In a volunteer grant program, the company will give employees paid time off to volunteer for certain charities. This is a great way for employees to give back to their communities without having to sacrifice their work hours.

Corporate gifting and matching programs are a great way for companies to show their employees that they care about giving back. These programs can also help to attract and retain top talent, as employees are more likely to want to work for a company that shares their values.

Here are some of the benefits of corporate gifting and matching programs:

• Employee engagement: Corporate gifting and matching programs can help to increase employee engagement by giving employees a way to give back to their communities.
• Employee morale: Corporate gifting and matching programs can help to improve employee morale by showing employees that their company cares about giving back.
• Company reputation: Corporate gifting and matching programs can help to improve a company's reputation by showing that the company is committed to social responsibility.
• Tax benefits: In some cases, corporate gifting and matching programs can provide tax benefits for the company.

If you are looking for a way to give back to your community and show your employees that you care, consider starting a corporate gifting or matching program.

Volunteer Grants

A volunteer grant is a monetary award given to a nonprofit organization by a corporation in recognition of volunteer work being done by a company's employees. This practice is widespread in the United States. Corporate giving programs created to encourage volunteerism by a corporation's employees by providing volunteer grants are called volunteer grant programs or Dollars for Doers programs.

Philanthropic organizations offer grants for individuals to volunteer with nonprofit organizations for an extended period of time. These are sometimes called volunteer grants but are normally referred to as fellowships. In these cases, a volunteer receives a stipend from a nonprofit to live and work within a community in need. Companies typically state that any 501(c)(3) nonprofit or school is eligible for their corporate volunteer grant scheme; most however require a minimum number of hours served.

Volunteer grants can be a great way for companies to encourage their employees to give back to their communities and to support the causes they care about. They can also be a great way for companies to build relationships with local nonprofits and to show their commitment to social responsibility.

If you are a nonprofit organization that is interested in applying for a volunteer grant, be sure to check with your local corporations to see if they offer such a program. You can also find a list of companies that offer volunteer grants online.

Fundraising Match

A fundraising match is a corporate giving program in which a company matches employee donations to a nonprofit organization. For example, if an employee donates $100 to a nonprofit, the company might match that donation with another $100, bringing the total donation to $200.

Fundraising matches are a great way for companies to encourage employees to give back to their communities. They can also help to raise more money for nonprofits.

Here are some of the benefits of fundraising matches:

• They can help to raise more money for nonprofits. When a company matches employee donations, it essentially doubles the amount of money that is raised for the nonprofit. This can be a huge help to nonprofits, especially those that are working on important but underfunded causes.
• They can encourage employee giving. Fundraising matches can make it more likely that employees will donate to their favorite nonprofits. When employees know that their donations will be matched, they are more likely to give. This can lead to a significant increase in donations for nonprofits.
• They can help to build employee morale. Fundraising matches can show employees that their company cares about giving back to the community. This can help to build employee morale and make employees feel more connected to their company.
• They can help to improve a company's reputation. When a company has a fundraising match program, it shows that the company is committed to social responsibility. This can help to improve the company's reputation and make it more attractive to potential employees and customers.

If you are looking for a way to support your favorite nonprofit organization, be sure to check with your company to see if they have a fundraising match program. It's a great way to double your donation and help make a difference in the world.

Community Grants

Community grants are financial awards given to nonprofit organizations or other community groups to support their work in the community. They can be used to fund a variety of projects, such as:

• Programs that provide direct services to community members, such as food banks, homeless shelters, and after-school programs.
• Projects that improve the community's infrastructure, such as parks, libraries, and community centers.
• Initiatives that promote social change, such as those that address poverty, hunger, or education inequality.

Community grants are often awarded by foundations, corporations, and government agencies. They can be competitive, so it is important to carefully research the eligibility requirements and application process before applying.

Here are some of the benefits of community grants:

• They can help to fund important projects that benefit the community.
• They can help to build partnerships between nonprofits and other community groups.
• They can help to raise awareness of important issues in the community.
• They can help to improve the quality of life in the community.

If you are a nonprofit organization or other community group that is interested in applying for a community grant, be sure to do your research and find a grant that is a good fit for your organization and its work. There are many different types of community grants available, so you are sure to find one that is right for you.

Dollars for Doers

Dollars for Doers is a type of corporate giving program in which a company provides monetary grants to nonprofits where its employees regularly volunteer.

These programs are sometimes referred to by other names such as:

• Volunteer grants
• Dollar for hour
• Matching time
• Volunteer matching
• Grants for time
• Matching gift per hour
• Credit per hour
• Service credit

Here are some of the benefits of Dollars for Doers programs for both companies and nonprofits:

• Companies:
• Increased employee engagement and morale
• Improved company reputation
• Tax benefits
• Nonprofits:
• Increased funding
• Increased visibility
• Increased volunteerism

If you are a company or nonprofit interested in learning more about Dollars for Doers programs, many resources are available online. You can also contact your local United Way or other community foundation for more information.

Team Volunteer Grants

A team volunteer grant is a corporate giving program in which a company provides a monetary donation to a nonprofit organization when a group of employees volunteer together. These programs encourage team building, community service, and employee engagement.

Many types of team volunteer grants are available, each with its own set of eligibility requirements and benefits. Some companies offer grants for any team of employees who volunteer together, while others require that teams meet certain criteria, such as a minimum number of volunteer hours or a specific type of service.

In addition to providing financial support, team volunteer grants can also offer other benefits to nonprofits. For example, companies may provide teams with training or resources to help them maximize their volunteer experience. They may also help to promote the nonprofit's work to the company's employees and customers.

If you are interested in applying for a team volunteer grant, you should keep a few things in mind. First, you will need to find a company that offers this type of program. You can search online or contact your company's human resources department. Once you have found a company that offers team volunteer grants, you will need to read the program's eligibility requirements carefully. These requirements may vary from company to company, so it is important to ensure your team meets all of the criteria.

Once you have determined that your team is eligible for a team volunteer grant, you will need to submit an application. The application process will vary from company to company, so be sure to read the instructions carefully. In general, you will need to provide information about your team's volunteer project, the number of hours that your team will volunteer, and the impact that your team's volunteer work will have.

If your team is selected to receive a team volunteer grant, you will be notified by the company. The company will then provide you with the grant money, which you can use to support your team's volunteer project.

Team volunteer grants are a great way to encourage team building, community service, and employee engagement. If your company offers this type of program, I encourage you to apply for a grant. It is a great way to give back to your community and to show your employees that you value their time and effort.

Here are some additional tips for applying for a team volunteer grant:

• Start planning your volunteer project early. This will give you plenty of time to find a project that is a good fit for your team and to secure the necessary permissions.
• Be clear about the impact that your team's volunteer work will have. This will help the company to see the value of your project and to make a decision about whether or not to award you a grant.
• Get creative with your project. The more unique and interesting your project is, the more likely it is to stand out to the company.
• Be sure to follow all of the company's requirements. This will increase your chances of being selected for a grant.

Volunteer Support Programs

Volunteer support programs are designed to help volunteers find, prepare for, and succeed in their volunteer roles. These programs can provide volunteers with a variety of resources, such as training, orientation, and support networks.

There are many different types of volunteer support programs available, each with its own focus and target audience. Some programs are designed for specific groups of volunteers, such as new volunteers, young volunteers, or volunteers with disabilities. Other programs are designed to provide support for specific types of volunteer work, such as disaster relief, environmental conservation, or social justice.

Volunteer support programs can be offered by a variety of organizations, including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and businesses. Some programs are free to use, while others charge a fee.

If you are interested in volunteering, I encourage you to find a volunteer support program that is right for you. These programs can help you make the most of your volunteer experience and make a difference in your community.

Here are some of the benefits of participating in a volunteer support program:

• Training and orientation: Volunteer support programs can provide you with the training and orientation you need to be successful in your volunteer role. This training can cover topics such as safety, ethics, and effective communication.
• Support networks: Volunteer support programs can provide you with a support network of other volunteers. This network can provide you with encouragement, advice, and friendship.
• Resources: Volunteer support programs can provide you with a variety of resources to help you in your volunteer role. These resources can include training materials, equipment, and funding.
• Recognition: Volunteer support programs can help you to be recognized for your volunteer work. This recognition can come in the form of awards, certificates, or public recognition.

If you are interested in finding a volunteer support program, there are a few things you can do. First, you can search online for volunteer support programs in your area. You can also contact your local nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and businesses to see if they offer volunteer support programs.

Once you have found a volunteer support program that you are interested in, you can contact the program to learn more about it. The program can provide you with information about the program's requirements, fees, and benefits.

I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Annual Giving

Annual giving is a type of fundraising that focuses on raising money from individuals on an ongoing basis throughout the year. It is a critical component of a nonprofit's fundraising strategy, as it can provide a steady stream of income to support the organization's ongoing programs and services.

There are many different ways to raise money through annual giving. Some common methods include:

• Direct mail
• Email
• Phone calls
• Social media
• Special events

Annual giving campaigns can be very successful, but they require careful planning and execution. It is important to identify your target audience, create compelling appeals, and track your results.

If you are a nonprofit, I encourage you to consider annual giving as a part of your fundraising strategy. It is a proven way to raise money from individuals and build a strong donor base.

Here are some of the benefits of annual giving:

• It is a reliable source of income for nonprofits.
• It helps to build relationships with donors.
• It can be used to support a variety of programs and services.
• It is a cost-effective way to raise money.

If you are interested in learning more about annual giving, there are many resources available online and in libraries. You can also contact your local nonprofit organization for more information.

Annual Grant Stipends

An annual grant stipend is a type of grant that is awarded to individuals or organizations on an annual basis. These grants are typically used to support ongoing programs or activities, rather than one-time projects.

There are many different types of annual grant stipends available, each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits. Some grants are open to all applicants, while others are only available to specific groups of people, such as students, artists, or nonprofit organizations.

In addition to providing financial support, annual grant stipends can also offer other benefits to recipients, such as:

• Access to resources and support networks
• Credibility and visibility
• Increased opportunities for collaboration and networking
• The ability to reach a wider audience

If you are interested in applying for an annual grant stipend, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you will need to find a grant that is a good fit for your needs and goals. You can do this by searching online or contacting your local nonprofit organization. Once you have found a grant that you are interested in, you will need to read the application carefully and make sure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements.

The application process for annual grant stipends will vary from grant to grant. However, in general, you will need to provide information about your project, your qualifications, and your budget. You may also be asked to submit letters of support from colleagues, mentors, or other community members.

If you are selected to receive an annual grant stipend, you will be notified by the grantor. The grantor will then provide you with the grant money, which you can use to support your project.

Annual grant stipends are a great way to support your work and make a difference in your community. If you are eligible, I encourage you to apply for a grant. It is a great way to get the financial support you need to achieve your goals.

Here are some additional tips for applying for an annual grant stipend:

• Start planning early. The grant application process can be time-consuming, so it is important to start planning early.
• Be clear about your goals. The grantor wants to know what you plan to do with the money, so be clear about your goals and how the money will be used.
• Tailor your application to the grant. Each grant has its own eligibility requirements and benefits, so be sure to tailor your application to the specific grant you are applying for.
• Proofread carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can make a bad impression on the grantor, so be sure to proofread your application carefully before submitting it.

I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Internal Employee Fundraising

Internal employee fundraising is a type of fundraising that takes place within a company. It is a way for employees to come together and raise money for a cause that they care about.

There are many different ways to raise money through internal employee fundraising. Some common methods include:

• Donation campaigns: Employees can donate money directly to the cause.
• Matching gifts: Companies can match employee donations, which can double or triple the amount of money raised.
• Volunteerism: Employees can volunteer their time to the cause.
• Product sales: Employees can sell products or services to raise money for the cause.
• Special events: Companies can host special events, such as bake sales or walk-a-thons, to raise money for the cause.

Internal employee fundraising can be a very successful way to raise money for a cause. It is a great way to get employees involved in giving back to their community and to build a sense of community within the company.

Employee Product Donation Programs (EPDP)

An Employee Product Donation Program (EPDP) is a corporate giving program that allows employees to donate company products to nonprofit organizations. EPDPs are a great way for companies to give back to their communities and to engage their employees in philanthropy.

There are many different ways that EPDPs can be structured. Some companies allow employees to donate any company product, while others only allow employees to donate specific products. Some companies also require employees to get approval from their manager before donating, while others do not.

The benefits of EPDPs for companies include:

• Increased employee engagement: EPDPs can help to increase employee engagement by giving employees a way to give back to their communities and to feel like they are making a difference.
• Positive public relations: EPDPs can generate positive public relations for companies by showing that they are committed to giving back to their communities.
• Tax benefits: In some cases, companies may be able to deduct the cost of donated products from their taxes.

The benefits of EPDPs for nonprofits include:

• Increased access to resources: EPDPs can help nonprofits to get access to resources that they might not otherwise be able to afford.
• Increased visibility: EPDPs can help nonprofits to increase their visibility in the community.
• Increased donations: EPDPs can help nonprofits to raise more money from donors.

If you are considering implementing an EPDP, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you must ensure you have the resources to support the program. Second, you need to ensure that you have a process for managing the program. Third, you need to make sure that you are promoting the program to your employees.

EPDPs can be a great way for companies to give back to their communities and to engage their employees in philanthropy. If you are considering implementing an EPDP, I encourage you to do so. It is a great way to make a difference in the world.

Corporate giving programs are growing in popularity among thriving businesses and for many good reasons. 

For companies, corporate giving programs can improve their reputation and brand image, attract and retain employees, increase customer loyalty, boost sales, and reduce taxable income.

For communities, corporate giving programs address social and economic needs, improve the quality of life for those in the community, promote civic engagement, and build stronger bonds between community members.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about launching and running a corporate giving program, information from what a corporate giving program is to learning the different types of corporate giving programs and choosing the right one for your organization.

What is Corporate Giving?

Corporate giving is the act of a corporation or business promoting the welfare of others, generally through charitable donations of funds or time. It is a form of corporate social responsibility (CSR) that can benefit both the company and the community.

Corporate giving is a win-win for both companies and communities. It is a way for companies to positively impact the world while benefiting their own bottom line.

How do corporations commonly make charitable donations?

There are many different ways that corporations can give back. Some common forms of corporate giving include:

• Cash donations: This is the most common form of corporate giving. Companies can donate money to nonprofit organizations that support causes they care about.
• In-kind donations: Companies can donate products or services to nonprofits. For example, a company that makes food could donate food to a local food bank.
• Employee volunteerism: Companies can encourage employees to volunteer their time to nonprofits. This is a great way to get employees involved in their communities and to give back to the causes they care about.
• Cause-related marketing: This is a marketing partnership between a company and a nonprofit. The company donates a portion of its profits to the nonprofit when customers purchase its products or services.
• Matching gifts: Companies can match the charitable donations of their employees. This is a great way to encourage employees to give back and to double the impact of their donations.

What is a corporate giving account?

A corporate giving account is a donor-advised fund (DAF) specifically designed for businesses. DAFs are charitable giving accounts that allow donors to make tax-deductible contributions and then recommend grants to charitable organizations over time. Corporate giving accounts offer many of the same benefits as traditional DAFs, but they can also provide additional benefits for businesses, such as:

• Tax benefits: Contributions to a corporate giving account are tax-deductible for the business, just like contributions to a traditional DAF.
• Flexibility: Businesses can use their corporate giving account to support a wide range of large and small charitable causes.
• Simplicity: Corporate giving accounts are relatively easy to set up and manage.
• Professional management: Many corporate giving accounts are offered by third-party providers who can help businesses with the administrative details of giving.

A corporate giving account may be a good option if your business is looking for a way to make a charitable impact.

Most common types of corporate giving programs

Gifting and Matching

Corporate gifting and matching programs are a way for companies to encourage their employees to give back to their communities. These programs can take many different forms, but they all have the same goal: to make it easier for employees to donate their time and money to causes they care about.

One type of corporate gifting program is a matching gift program. In a matching gift program, the company will match employee donations to certain charities, up to a certain amount. For example, a company might match employee donations to the United Way up to $500 annually. This is a great way for companies to double the impact of their employees' donations.

Another type of corporate gifting program is a volunteer grant program. In a volunteer grant program, the company will give employees paid time off to volunteer for certain charities. This is a great way for employees to give back to their communities without sacrificing work hours.

Corporate gifting and matching programs are great for companies to show their employees that they care about giving back. These programs can also help to attract and retain top talent, as employees are more likely to want to work for a company that shares their values.

Here are some of the benefits of corporate gifting and matching programs:

• Employee engagement: Corporate gifting and matching programs can help to increase employee engagement by giving employees a way to give back to their communities.
• Employee morale: Corporate gifting and matching programs can help to improve employee morale by showing employees that their company cares about giving back.
• Company reputation: Corporate gifting and matching programs can help to improve a company's reputation by showing that the company is committed to social responsibility.
• Tax benefits: In some cases, corporate gifting and matching programs can provide tax benefits for the company.

If you want to give back to your community and show your employees that you care, consider starting a corporate gifting or matching program.

Volunteer Grants

A volunteer grant is a monetary award given to a nonprofit organization by a corporation to recognize volunteer work being done by a company's employees. This practice is widespread in the United States. Corporate giving programs created to encourage volunteerism by a corporation's employees by providing volunteer grants are called volunteer grant programs or Dollars for Doers programs.

Philanthropic organizations offer grants for individuals to volunteer with nonprofit organizations for an extended period of time. These are sometimes called volunteer grants but are normally referred to as fellowships. In these cases, a volunteer receives a stipend from a nonprofit to live and work within a community in need. Companies typically state that any 501(c)(3) nonprofit or school is eligible for their corporate volunteer grant scheme; most however require a minimum number of hours served.

Volunteer grants can be a great way for companies to encourage their employees to give back to their communities and to support the causes they care about. They can also be a great way for companies to build relationships with local nonprofits and to show their commitment to social responsibility.

If you are a nonprofit organization interested in applying for a volunteer grant, be sure to check with your local corporations to see if they offer such a program. You can also find a list of companies that offer volunteer grants online.

Other Types of Corporate Giving Programs

Fundraising Match

A fundraising match is a type of corporate giving program in which a company matches employee donations to a nonprofit organization. For example, if an employee donates $100 to a nonprofit, the company might match that donation with another $100, bringing the total donation to $200.

Fundraising matches are a great way for companies to encourage their employees to give back to their communities. They can also help to raise more money for nonprofits.

Community Grants

Community grants are financial awards given to nonprofit organizations or other community groups to support their work in the community. They can be used to fund a variety of projects, such as:

• Programs that provide direct services to community members, such as food banks, homeless shelters, and after-school programs.
• Projects that improve the community's infrastructure, such as parks, libraries, and community centers.
• Initiatives that promote social change, such as those that address poverty, hunger, or education inequality.

Dollars for Doers

Dollars for Doers is a type of corporate giving program in which a company provides monetary grants to nonprofits where its employees regularly volunteer.

Here are some of the benefits of Dollars for Doers programs for both companies and nonprofits:

• Companies:
• Increased employee engagement and morale
• Improved company reputation
• Tax benefits
• Nonprofits:
• Increased funding
• Increased visibility
• Increased volunteerism

Team Volunteer Grants

A team volunteer grant is a type of corporate giving program in which a company provides a monetary donation to a nonprofit organization when a group of employees volunteer together. These programs are designed to encourage team building, community service, and employee engagement.

There are many different types of team volunteer grants available, each with its own set of eligibility requirements and benefits. Some companies offer grants for any team of employees who volunteer together, while others require that teams meet certain criteria, such as a minimum number of volunteer hours or a specific type of service.

Volunteer Support Programs

Volunteer support programs are designed to help volunteers find, prepare for, and succeed in their volunteer roles. These programs can provide volunteers with a variety of resources, such as training, orientation, and support networks.

There are many different types of volunteer support programs available, each with its own focus and target audience. Some programs are designed for specific groups of volunteers, such as new volunteers, young volunteers, or volunteers with disabilities. Other programs are designed to provide support for specific types of volunteer work, such as disaster relief, environmental conservation, or social justice.

Annual Giving

Annual giving is a type of fundraising that focuses on raising money from individuals on an ongoing basis throughout the year. It is a critical component of a nonprofit's fundraising strategy, as it can provide a steady stream of income to support the organization's ongoing programs and services.

Annual Grant Stipends

An annual grant stipend is a type of grant that is awarded to individuals or organizations on an annual basis. These grants are typically used to support ongoing programs or activities, rather than one-time projects.

There are many different types of annual grant stipends available, each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits. Some grants are open to all applicants, while others are only available to specific groups of people, such as students, artists, or nonprofit organizations.

Internal Employee Fundraising

Internal employee fundraising is a type of fundraising that takes place within a company. It is a way for employees to come together and raise money for a cause that they care about.

There are many different ways to raise money through internal employee fundraising. Some common methods include:

• Donation campaigns: Employees can donate money directly to the cause.
• Matching gifts: Companies can match employee donations, which can double or triple the amount of money raised.
• Volunteerism: Employees can volunteer their time to the cause.
• Product sales: Employees can sell products or services to raise money for the cause.
• Special events: Companies can host special events, such as bake sales or walk-a-thons, to raise money for the cause.

Employee Product Donation Programs (EPDP)

An Employee Product Donation Program (EPDP) is a corporate giving program that allows employees to donate company products to nonprofit organizations. EPDPs are a great way for companies to give back to their communities and to engage their employees in philanthropy.

There are many different ways that EPDPs can be structured. Some companies allow employees to donate any company product, while others only allow employees to donate specific products. Some companies also require employees to get approval from their manager before donating, while others do not.

How to start a corporate giving program for your company

Here are the steps on how to start a corporate giving program for your company:

1. Set your goals. What do you want to achieve with your corporate giving program? Do you want to raise money for a specific cause, or do you want to encourage employee volunteerism? Once you know your goals, you can start to develop a plan.
2. Choose a cause. What cause is important to your company and its employees? Once you've chosen a cause, you can start researching nonprofits working to address that issue.
3. Develop a plan. How will you raise money or encourage employee volunteerism? What are your timeline and budget? Once you have a plan, you can start to put it into action.
4. Promote your program. Let your employees know about your corporate giving program and how to get involved. You can promote your program through company newsletters, social media, and other channels.
5. Measure your results. How much money did you raise? How many employees volunteered? How did your program impact the cause you were supporting? By measuring your results, you can see how effective your program is and make adjustments as needed.

Here are some additional tips for starting a corporate giving program:

• Get buy-in from senior leadership. It's important to have the support of senior leadership in order to make your corporate giving program a success.
• Involve employees. Employees are more likely to be engaged in a corporate giving program if they feel they have a say in its run.
• Make it easy for employees to give. The easier it is for employees to give, the more likely they are to do so.
• Track your results. It's important to track your results to see how effective your corporate giving program is.

How does corporate giving affect employees?

Corporate giving can have a number of positive effects on employees, including:

• Increased employee engagement: Employees who feel like their company is giving back to the community are more likely to be engaged in their work and to feel a sense of pride in their employer.
• Improved morale: Employees who feel their company is making a difference in the world are likelier to be happy and motivated at work.
• Reduced turnover: Employees who feel like their company is committed to social responsibility are more likely to stay with their employer for the long term.
• Increased productivity: Employees who feel their work is meaningful are more likely to be productive and go the extra mile.
• Improved reputation: Companies known for their corporate giving programs are often seen as more reputable and trustworthy by customers, investors, and the general public.

In addition to these direct benefits, corporate giving can also have a number of indirect benefits for employees. For example, employees who are engaged in their work and who feel like they are making a difference in the world are more likely to be healthy and happy. They are also more likely to be involved in their communities and to be positive role models for their children.

Overall, corporate giving can be a win-win for both companies and employees. It can help companies to improve their bottom line, their reputation, and their employee morale. It can also help employees to feel good about their work and to make a difference in the world.

How companies can benefit more from their corporate giving?

Companies can benefit more from their corporate giving in a number of ways. Here are a few tips:

1. Choose a cause that is aligned with your company's values. When employees see that their company is giving back to causes that they care about, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated.
2. Get employees involved. Employees are more likely to be supportive of a corporate giving program if they feel like they have a say in how it's run. Consider allowing employees to vote on which causes the company supports, or to volunteer their time to local charities.
3. Measure your results. It's important to track the impact of your corporate giving program so you can see how it's benefiting your company and the community. This will help you to justify your investment and to make improvements as needed.
4. Get the word out. Let your customers, investors, and the general public know about your corporate giving program. This will help to improve your company's reputation and attract new business.

By following these tips, you can make sure that your corporate giving program is both effective and beneficial for your company.

National Clean Air Month is an annual observance held in the United States during the month of May. It is sponsored by the American Lung Association and is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of clean air and the dangers of air pollution.

The purpose of National Clean Air Month is to educate the public about the impact of air pollution on human health and the environment. It also encourages people to take steps to improve air quality, both in their own homes and communities.

There are many ways to participate in National Clean Air Month. Some people choose to volunteer their time to organizations that are working to improve air quality. Others may choose to make changes in their own lives, such as driving less, using public transportation, or recycling.

No matter how you choose to participate, National Clean Air Month is a great opportunity to learn more about air pollution and take steps to protect your health and the environment.

Here are some tips for participating in National Clean Air Month:

• Learn more about air pollution and its effects on human health and the environment.
• Make changes in your own life to reduce your impact on air quality.
• Get involved in your community and advocate for clean air.
• Support organizations that are working to improve air quality.

By participating in National Clean Air Month, you can help make a difference in the fight for clean air.

Earthjustice

Earthjustice is a nonprofit public interest environmental law organization. It was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in San Francisco, California. Earthjustice has 170 attorneys in 14 offices across the United States, and 14 public-interest lobbyists based in Washington, D.C. They are involved in 630 active legal proceedings.

Earthjustice's mission is to "use the power of law to protect the environment and fight for a healthy planet." They do this by filing lawsuits, conducting research, and educating the public. Earthjustice has won many important environmental victories, including:

• Stopping the construction of the Pebble Mine in Alaska, which would have been one of the largest open-pit mines in the world
• Protecting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from oil drilling
• Securing clean air and water for millions of people
• Stopping the Keystone XL pipeline
• Restoring the health of the Chesapeake Bay

Earthjustice is a powerful force for environmental protection. They are committed to using the law to make a difference for the planet.

Front and Centered

Front and Centered is a coalition of over 60 grassroots organizations based in and led by communities of color in Washington State. They work to build power and advance the leadership of communities of color on the frontlines of economic, racial, and environmental justice.

Front and Centered was founded in 2017 in response to the Trump administration's attacks on environmental and social justice. They believe that communities of color are disproportionately impacted by climate change, pollution, and economic inequality and that they must be at the forefront of the fight for a just and sustainable future.

Front and Centered's work focuses on four main areas:

• Building power: They provide training and resources to help communities of color develop their leadership skills and organize for change.
• Advocacy: They work to pass policies that protect communities of color and advance racial and environmental justice.
• Research: They conduct research to document the impacts of climate change, pollution, and economic inequality on communities of color.
• Education: They educate the public about the importance of environmental and social justice, and the need to center the voices of communities of color in the fight for a just and sustainable future.

Coalition for Clean Air

The Coalition for Clean Air (CCA) is a nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect public health and improve air quality in California. CCA was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in Sacramento.

CCA's mission is to "protect public health, improve air quality, and prevent climate change." They do this by:

• Advocating for strong air quality regulations
• Educating the public about the importance of clean air
• Supporting research on air pollution and its health impacts
• Working to build a clean energy economy

CCA is a leading voice for clean air in California. They have played a key role in the passage of many important air quality laws, including the Clean Air Act of 1970 and the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) landmark regulations on diesel emissions and greenhouse gases.

CCA is also a strong advocate for environmental justice. They believe that all Californians, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or income, have the right to breathe clean air. CCA works to ensure that air quality regulations are fair and that all communities have access to clean air.

CCA is a powerful force for clean air in California. They are committed to protecting public health, improving air quality, and preventing climate change.

Clean Air Council

The Clean Air Council is a nonprofit environmental organization that works to protect public health and improve air quality in Pennsylvania. The Council was founded in 1967 and is headquartered in Philadelphia.

The Clean Air Council's mission is to "protect the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the people we love." They do this by:

• Advocating for strong air quality regulations
• Educating the public about the importance of clean air
• Supporting research on air pollution and its health impacts
• Working to build a clean energy economy

The Clean Air Council is a leading voice for clean air in Pennsylvania. They have played a key role in the passage of many important air quality laws, including the Clean Air Act of 1970 and the Pennsylvania Air Quality Standards.

The Clean Air Council is also a strong advocate for environmental justice. They believe that all Pennsylvanians, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or income, have the right to breathe clean air. The Council works to ensure that air quality regulations are fair and that all communities have access to clean air.

Our Children’s Earth Foundation

Our Children's Earth Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is dedicated to protecting the environment for children. They were founded in 1999 and are headquartered in Napa, California.

OCEF's mission is to "protect the public, especially children, from the health impacts of pollution." They do this by:

• Lawsuits: OCEF files lawsuits against polluters who are harming children's health. They have won several important victories, including a lawsuit that forced the closure of a hazardous waste incinerator that was polluting the air in a low-income community.
• Advocacy: OCEF works to pass laws and regulations that protect children from pollution. They have been successful in passing laws that require polluters to reduce their emissions and that protect children's health from toxic chemicals.
• Education: OCEF educates the public about the health impacts of pollution and how to protect themselves and their children. They have developed educational materials for schools, families, and communities.
• Research: OCEF conducts research on the health impacts of pollution and the effectiveness of pollution control measures. They share their research with policymakers and the public to help inform decision-making.

OCEF is a powerful force for protecting children's health from pollution. They are committed to making a difference for the health of our children and the health of our planet.

Global Greengrants Fund

Global Greengrants Fund is a grantmaking foundation that provides small grants (typically $500 to $5,000) to grassroots environmental causes around the world. These funds are used to support community-based groups outside the United States and Western Europe working on issues of environmental justice, sustainability, and conservation. Since its establishment in 1993, Global Greengrants Fund has made over 14,000 grants in 168 countries, giving a total of over $100 million.

Global Greengrants Fund's mission is to "support grassroots environmental action and social justice through small grants." They do this by:

• Providing grants to grassroots organizations: Global Greengrants Fund makes small grants to grassroots organizations that are working to protect the environment and defend the rights of people. These grants are used to support a variety of projects, such as:
• Protecting forests and other ecosystems
• Promoting sustainable agriculture
• Securing clean water and sanitation
• Reducing pollution
• Advocating for environmental policies
• Building the capacity of grassroots organizations: Global Greengrants Fund also provides training and support to grassroots organizations to help them build their capacity and effectiveness. This includes providing training on project management, fundraising, and advocacy.
• Advocating for environmental policies: Global Greengrants Fund advocates for environmental policies at the local, national, and international levels. They work to ensure that environmental policies are just and effective, and that they reflect the needs of grassroots organizations.

Communities for a Better Environment

Communities for a Better Environment (CBE) is a non-profit environmental justice organization that works to protect people and our planet from the harmful effects of pollution and climate change. CBE was founded in 1971 in Chicago, Illinois, and has since expanded to California, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

CBE's mission is to build people's power to achieve environmental health and justice by preventing and reducing pollution and building green, healthy and sustainable communities and environments. CBE does this by:

• Organizing communities to fight for clean air, water, and land
• Providing legal and technical assistance to communities facing environmental threats
• Conducting research and education on environmental health and justice issues
• Advocating for policies that protect people and our planet

CBE has a long history of success in protecting communities from pollution and climate change. Some of CBE's key achievements include:

• Winning a lawsuit that forced the closure of a hazardous waste incinerator in East Los Angeles
• Helping to pass a law that requires California utilities to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions
• Securing funding for green jobs training programs in low-income communities
• Winning a lawsuit that forced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to strengthen its standards for air pollution

Center for Clean Air Policy

The Center for Clean Air Policy (CCAP) is an independent, nonprofit think tank that was founded in 1985 in the United States. CCAP works on climate and air quality policy issues at the local, national, and international levels. 

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., CCAP helps policymakers around the world to develop, promote and implement market-based approaches to address climate, air quality, and energy problems while trying to balance both environmental and economic interests.

CCAP's work focuses on the following areas:

• Climate change: CCAP works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build a clean energy economy. CCAP's climate change work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
• Air quality: CCAP works to improve air quality and protect public health. CCAP's air quality work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
• Energy efficiency: CCAP works to promote energy efficiency and reduce energy demand. CCAP's energy efficiency work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
• Transportation: CCAP works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. CCAP's transportation work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.
• International: CCAP works to promote international cooperation on climate change, air quality, and energy issues. CCAP's international work includes research, analysis, advocacy, and technical assistance.

CCAP's work has helped to shape climate and air quality policy around the world. CCAP's work has been cited by policymakers in the United States, Europe, and Asia. CCAP's work has also been featured in major media outlets, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal.

Air Alliance Houston

Air Alliance Houston (AAH) is a non-profit advocacy organization working to reduce the public health impacts of air pollution and advance environmental justice. We believe everyone has the right to breathe clean air and where you live, work, learn, and play should not determine your health.

AAH was founded in 1988 by a group of community activists and environmental professionals who were concerned about the high levels of air pollution in Houston. The organization has since grown to become a leading voice on air quality issues in Houston and the Gulf Coast region.

AAH's work focuses on the following areas:

• Community organizing: AAH works with communities to raise awareness about air pollution, build leadership, and advocate for clean air policies.
• Research and analysis: AAH conducts research on air pollution issues and develops policy recommendations.
• Advocacy: AAH works with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels to advocate for clean air policies.
• Education and outreach: AAH educates the public about air pollution issues and provides resources to help people protect themselves from air pollution.

AAH's work has helped to improve air quality in Houston and the Gulf Coast region. Some of AAH's key achievements include:

• Helping to pass the Houston Clean Air Ordinance, which is one of the strongest air quality ordinances in the country.
• Securing funding for air quality monitoring and research in Houston.
• Winning a lawsuit that forced the closure of a major air polluter in Houston.

About Groundswell

Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.

Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May.

Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor the sacrifices of those who have died in service to their country. It is a time to reflect on the cost of war and to appreciate the freedoms that we enjoy because of the brave men and women who have fought and died for our country.

There are many ways to observe Memorial Day. Some people visit cemeteries or memorials to pay their respects to the dead. Others participate in parades or other public events. Many people also take the day off from work and spend time with their families and friends.

This list of nonprofit organizations helps veterans and their families:

Transition Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)

Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is a nonprofit organization that provides compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military loved one. TAPS offers peer support, grief counseling, casework assistance, grief education, and a variety of other programs and services.

TAPS was founded in 1994 by Bonnie Carroll, who lost her husband, Air Force Colonel Bruce Carroll, in the crash of an Air Force C-130 aircraft in 1991. Carroll was inspired to start TAPS after she realized that there was no one place for families of fallen service members to turn for support.

TAPS is a national organization with over 20 chapters across the United States. TAPS also has a presence in Europe and Asia. TAPS provides services to all those grieving the death of a military loved one, regardless of the cause of death or the relationship to the service member.

TAPS's programs and services are provided free of charge to all survivors. TAPS is funded by private donations and does not receive any government funding.

Here are some of the programs and services that TAPS offers:

• Peer support: TAPS offers a peer support program that connects survivors with other people who have lost a loved one in the military. Peer support groups are led by trained volunteers who have been through similar experiences.
• Grief counseling: TAPS offers grief counseling services to help survivors cope with their grief. Grief counseling is provided by licensed therapists who specialize in grief and loss.
• Casework assistance: TAPS offers casework assistance to help survivors navigate the complex world of government benefits and entitlements. Caseworkers can help survivors apply for benefits, file claims, and understand their rights.
• Grief education: TAPS offers grief education programs to help survivors learn about the grieving process and how to cope with their grief. Grief education programs are offered in person and online.
• A variety of other programs and services:
• A national helpline
• A website with resources for survivors
• A library of books and articles about grief and loss
• A retreat program for survivors
• A scholarship program for children of fallen service members

The organization is a vital resource for families of fallen service members. TAPS provides compassionate care and support to help families cope with their grief and rebuild their lives.

Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation

The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to planning, funding, designing, and building the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The GWOT Memorial will be a lasting tribute to the courage and sacrifice of all who have served — especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice — in the nation's longest ongoing conflict to protect our country.

The Foundation is working to raise the necessary funds to build the memorial. The estimated cost of the project is $200 million. The Foundation is also working to secure a location for the memorial on the National Mall.

Here are some of the things that the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is doing to honor the service and sacrifice of all those who have served in the GWOT:

• Planning, funding, designing, and building the Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
• Raising awareness of the GWOT and the sacrifices made by those who have served
• Providing support to veterans and their families
• Advocating for policies that support veterans
• Educating the public about the GWOT

Children of Fallen Patriots

The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The organization was founded in 2002 by the parents of fallen soldiers who wanted to ensure that the children of these heroes would have the opportunity to pursue a college education.

The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation has provided over $65 million in scholarships to over 2,800 children of fallen service members since its inception. The organization also provides educational counseling and other support services to help these children succeed in college and beyond.

Here are some of the things that the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation does to help the children of fallen service members:

• Provides college scholarships
• Provides educational counseling
• Provides other support services
• Helps children connect with other children who have lost a parent in the line of duty
• Provides resources to help children cope with their loss
• Advocates for policies that support children of fallen service members

Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund

The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides support to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families. The organization was founded in 2000 by philanthropist Zachary Fisher and his wife, Gigi.

IFHF provides a variety of services to service members and their families, including:

• Financial assistance to help with medical expenses, housing, and other needs
• Support for families of fallen service members
• Educational scholarships for children of fallen service members
• Construction of state-of-the-art treatment centers for service members with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

IFHF has provided over $200 million in support to service members and their families since its inception. The organization has also built three Intrepid Spirit Centers, which provide specialized care for service members with TBI and PTSD.

Here are some of the things that the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund does to support the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and their families:

• Provides financial assistance
• Provides support for families of fallen service members
• Provides educational scholarships
• Builds state-of-the-art treatment centers
• Advocates for policies that support service members and their families

Navy SEAL Foundation

The Navy SEAL Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides critical support to the warriors, veterans, and families of Naval Special Warfare. 

The Foundation was founded in 1998 by former Navy SEALs and their families who wanted to ensure that the men and women of Naval Special Warfare (NSW) and their families had the support they needed to succeed.

The Foundation provides a variety of programs and services to NSW warriors, veterans, and families, including:

• Financial assistance for medical expenses, housing, and other needs
• Educational scholarships
• Family support programs
• Wellness and resiliency programs
• Transition assistance programs
• Advocacy for NSW warriors and their families

The Navy SEAL Foundation has provided over $100 million in support to NSW warriors, veterans, and families since its inception. The organization has also built two Navy SEAL & SWCC Memorials, one at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, Florida, and one at the Navy Special Warfare Center and School in Coronado, California.

Here are some of the things that the Navy SEAL Foundation does to support the warriors, veterans, and families of Naval Special Warfare:

• Provides financial assistance
• Provides educational scholarships
• Provides family support programs
• Provides wellness and resiliency programs
• Provides transition assistance programs
• Advocates for NSW warriors and their families

Folded Flag Foundation

The Folded Flag Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that provides educational scholarships and support grants to the spouses and children of military personnel who have been killed or disabled in the line of duty.

The organization was founded in 2014 with the mission of honoring the sacrifices of military families by providing them with financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. The Folded Flag Foundation believes that education is a critical tool for helping military families to build a brighter future, and they work to ensure that the children and spouses of fallen or disabled service members have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Since its founding, the Folded Flag Foundation has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to military families across the United States. Their impact has been significant, providing educational opportunities to those who might not have had access to them otherwise and helping to ease the financial burden on families who have already sacrificed so much.

Angels of America’s Fallen

Angels of America's Fallen (AoAF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides support to the children of fallen military and first responders. The organization was founded in 2005 by two mothers who lost their husbands in the Iraq War. AoAF's mission is to "help children of our fallen military and first responders develop into strong and successful adults by providing them positive mentoring and developmental activities at their most crucial developmental phase of life."

AoAF provides a variety of programs and services to children of fallen heroes, including:

• Financial assistance for sports, music, and art activities
• Mentoring and counseling
• Scholarships for college and trade school
• Networking opportunities
• Social events

AoAF is committed to providing comprehensive support to children of fallen heroes. The organization believes that these children deserve the opportunity to thrive, despite the loss of their parents. AoAF is working to make sure that these children have the resources they need to succeed in school, in their careers, and in life.

America’s Gold Star Families

America's Gold Star Families (AGSFO) is a nonprofit organization that provides support to the families of fallen U.S. service members. The organization was founded in 2008 by a group of Gold Star families who wanted to create a space where they could come together to grieve, heal, and support each other.

AGSFO offers a variety of programs and services to Gold Star families, including:

• Bereavement support groups
• Individual counseling
• Financial assistance
• Educational scholarships
• Social events
• Advocacy

AGSFO is committed to providing comprehensive support to Gold Star families. The organization believes that these families deserve the opportunity to heal and thrive, despite the loss of their loved ones. AGSFO is working to make sure that these families have the resources they need to cope with their grief, rebuild their lives, and honor the memory of their fallen loved ones.

Here are some additional information about AGSFO:

• The organization has served over 10,000 Gold Star families since its founding.
• AGSFO has a team of over 50 staff members and volunteers.
• The organization is governed by a board of directors made up of Gold Star family members and other community leaders.
• AGSFO is a member of the Gold Star Families of America, a national organization that supports the families of fallen U.S. service members.

Wingman Foundation

The Wingman Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides immediate post-mishap support for the Navy and Marine Corps Aviation community and their families. The organization was founded in 2014 by three Active Duty Marine Corps aviators who saw firsthand the need for a support network for families affected by aviation mishaps.

The Wingman Foundation provides a variety of services to families affected by aviation mishaps, including:

• Financial assistance for funeral, travel, and lodging costs
• Emotional support and counseling
• Assistance with navigating the military bureaucracy
• Memorial services and tributes
• Scholarships for children of fallen heroes

The Wingman Foundation is committed to providing comprehensive support to families affected by aviation mishaps. The organization believes that these families deserve the opportunity to heal and thrive, despite the loss of their loved one. The Wingman Foundation is working to make sure that these families have the resources they need to cope with their grief, to rebuild their lives, and to honor the memory of their fallen loved ones.

Here are some additional information about the Wingman Foundation:

• The organization has served over 1,000 families since its founding.
• The Wingman Foundation has a team of over 20 staff members and volunteers.
• The organization is governed by a board of directors made up of aviation professionals, family members of fallen heroes, and other community leaders.
• The Wingman Foundation is a member of the National Military Family Association, a national organization that supports military families.

About Groundswell

Groundswell is a workplace giving program built for modern businesses. It gives organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.

Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.

Mental Health Awareness Month is a national observance in the United States that is held each May. The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to raise awareness of mental health issues and to encourage people to seek help if they are struggling.

Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it is often overlooked. One in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year, and suicide is the 10th leading cause of death. Mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or socioeconomic status.

Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to talk about mental health and break down the stigma associated with mental illness. It is also a time to learn about mental health conditions and to find resources that can help you or someone you know.

Support efforts to raise awareness about mental health by setting up recurring donations to any of these nonprofit organizations:

Black Girls Smile Inc.

Black Girls Smile Inc. (BGS) is a national nonprofit organization that promotes positive mental health and educational activities geared toward young black females. Founded in 2012 by Lauren Carson, BGS's mission is to "empower Black girls and women to lead mentally healthy lives." 

BGS provides a variety of programs and resources, including:

• In-person and virtual mental health workshops and support groups
• A mentorship program that pairs Black girls with adult mentors
• A scholarship program that provides financial assistance to Black girls pursuing higher education
• A resource library that provides information on mental health, wellness, and other topics

The organization also advocates for the mental health of Black girls and women at the local, state, and national levels. They work to raise awareness of the mental health needs of Black girls and women and to promote policies that support their mental health.

BGS is committed to providing culturally responsive and gender-affirming mental health services to Black girls and women. The organization's staff and volunteers are all trained in culturally competent mental health care, and they are committed to creating a safe and supportive space for Black girls and women to heal and thrive.

Here are some ways you can support Black Girls Smile:

• Donate to the organization via Groundswell.
• Volunteer your time at one of the organization's events or programs.
• Spread the word about Black Girls Smile to your friends, family, and community.

The Headstrong Project

The Headstrong Project is a non-profit organization that provides confidential, barrier-free, and stigma-free PTSD treatment to veterans, service members, and families connected to their care. Their mission is to help our clients “Triumph Over Trauma” by providing them with effective mental health treatment. Headstrong's network of trauma-informed clinical partners provides individualized, evidence-based outpatient care to their clients.

Headstrong was founded in 2011 by a group of veterans who were passionate about providing access to quality mental health care for their fellow service members. The organization has since grown to provide services to over 10,000 veterans and their families.

Headstrong's services are provided at no cost to clients, and they are available to all veterans, service members, and family members regardless of service era, combat exposure, or discharge status.

Headstrong's services include:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Medication management
• Peer support
• Case management
• Vocational counseling
• Financial counseling
• Housing assistance
• Legal assistance

Headstrong also offers a variety of educational resources and events to help veterans and their families learn about mental health and find support.

Mental Health America

Mental Health America (MHA) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to ensuring that all Americans have access to quality mental health care. MHA was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.

MHA's mission is to "build better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness and addiction." 

MHA accomplishes this mission through a variety of programs and services, including:

• Advocacy: MHA advocates for policies that support mental health care, such as access to affordable insurance and parity for mental health care.
• Education: MHA provides information and education about mental health to the public, including through its website, publications, and public awareness campaigns.
• Support: MHA provides support to people with mental illness and their families, including through its helpline, support groups, and online resources.
• Research: MHA supports research on mental health, including through its funding of research grants and its publication in the journal Mental Health America.

HealthRIGHT 360

HealthRIGHT 360 is a nonprofit healthcare organization that provides integrated, high-quality, and affordable healthcare to people in need in San Francisco and the Bay Area. The organization was founded in 1974 and has grown to become one of the largest and most comprehensive healthcare providers in the region.

HealthRIGHT 360 offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty care, dental care, behavioral health care, and pharmacy services. The organization also provides a variety of support services, such as case management, transportation, and translation services.

HealthRIGHT 360 is committed to providing high-quality, affordable health care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. The organization offers a sliding fee scale for all services, and it accepts most major insurance plans. HealthRIGHT 360 also has a robust financial assistance program to help people who cannot afford to pay for their care.

Here are some of the ways HealthRIGHT 360 makes a difference in the community:

• Provides high-quality, affordable health care to people in need
• Offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty care, dental care, behavioral health care, and pharmacy services
• Provides a variety of support services, such as case management, transportation, and translation services
• Is committed to social justice and equity
• Advocates for policies that improve the health of all people
• Educates the public about health and wellness
• Trains the next generation of healthcare professionals

PEERS

PEERS, or Peers Envisioning and Engaging in Recovery Services, is a nonprofit organization that provides peer support and recovery services to people with mental health conditions. PEERS was founded in 1994 by a group of people with mental health conditions who were passionate about creating a more peer-driven and recovery-oriented mental health system.

PEERS has grown to become one of the largest and most respected peer-run organizations in the country. The organization has a network of over 200 peer support specialists who provide services to people with mental health conditions in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community-based organizations.

PEERS's services are based on the principles of peer support, which is a model of care that emphasizes the importance of peer relationships in recovery. Peer support specialists are people who have lived experience with mental health conditions and who are trained to provide support, encouragement, and hope to others who are struggling.

PEERS's services have been shown to be effective in helping people with mental health conditions improve their quality of life and achieve their recovery goals. The organization's services have been praised by mental health professionals and consumers alike for their effectiveness, affordability, and accessibility.

Here are some of the ways PEERS makes a difference in the community:

• Provides peer support and recovery services to people with mental health conditions
• Trains peer support specialists
• Advocates for policies that support peer support
• Conducts research on peer support
• Raises awareness about mental health and recovery
• Educates the public about peer support

The Jed Foundation

The Jed Foundation is a nonprofit organization that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation's teens and young adults. The Jed Foundation partners with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems. They equip teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. They encourage community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health.

The Jed Foundation was founded in 1999 by Peggy and Andrew J. Gottesdiener in memory of their son, Jed, who died by suicide at the age of 19. The foundation is committed to preventing suicide and promoting emotional health among teens and young adults.

The Jed Foundation works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:

• The Jed Campus: A comprehensive approach to mental health and suicide prevention for colleges and universities.
• The Jed Talks: A series of public conversations about mental health and suicide prevention.
• The Jed Foundation Student Advisory Council: A group of high school and college students who advise the foundation on its programs and initiatives.
• The Jed Foundation Media and Entertainment Initiative: A partnership with the entertainment industry to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.
• The Jed Foundation Research Program: A research program that supports research 

Mental Health Collaborative

The Mental Health Collaborative is a non-profit organization that provides mental health education and awareness to the public. They are dedicated to building resilient communities through mental health education and awareness. They provide an integrated, proactive approach to building mental health literacy; a much-needed education to help promote mental health.

The Mental Health Collaborative was founded in 2019 by Dr. Amy Barnhart, a clinical psychologist, and mental health advocate. Dr. Barnhart saw a need for more mental health education and awareness in the community, and she founded the Mental Health Collaborative to fill that need.

The Mental Health Collaborative works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:

• Mental Health First Aid: A training program that teaches people how to identify, assess, and respond to mental health crises.
• Mental Health Literacy: A series of educational resources that teach people about mental health and mental illness.
• Mental Health Awareness Events: A variety of events that raise awareness about mental health and mental illness.
• Mental Health Advocacy: The Mental Health Collaborative advocates for policies that support mental health care and promote mental health.

BEAM

BEAM, or the Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective, is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to providing social justice-informed mental health education and resources to Black communities. The organization was founded in 2016 by a group of Black mental health advocates who were passionate about addressing the mental health disparities that exist in Black communities.

BEAM works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:

• Mental health education and awareness: BEAM provides a variety of educational resources about mental health and mental illness, tailored to Black communities.
• Peer support: BEAM offers peer support groups and other opportunities for Black people to connect with others who understand their experiences.
• Advocacy: BEAM advocates for policies that support mental health care and promote mental health equity in Black communities.
• Research: BEAM supports research on mental health in Black communities.

NAMI

NAMI, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mental illness. The organization was founded in 1979 by a group of families who were concerned about the lack of resources and support available to people with mental illness.

NAMI works to achieve its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives, including:

• Support and advocacy: NAMI provides support groups, educational programs, and advocacy services to people with mental illness and their families.
• Public education: NAMI raises awareness about mental illness and mental health through its website, publications, and public awareness campaigns.
• Research: NAMI supports research on mental illness and mental health.
• Policy advocacy: NAMI advocates for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.

The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. They provide 24/7 crisis counseling and suicide prevention services through their TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat platforms. They also operate TrevorSpace, the world's largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth.

The Trevor Project was founded in 1998 by Peggy Rajski, Randy Stone, and James Lecesne. The organization was inspired by the 1994 Academy Award-winning short film Trevor, which tells the story of a 13-year-old gay boy who contemplates suicide after being bullied at school.

The Trevor Project has been praised by mental health professionals and LGBTQ advocates alike for its innovative approach to suicide prevention. The organization's services are confidential, free, and available 24/7, making them accessible to LGBTQ youth who may not have other options for help.

The Trevor Project has made a significant impact on the lives of LGBTQ youth. In 2020, the organization provided crisis counseling and suicide prevention services to over 200,000 LGBTQ youth. The Trevor Project has also been instrumental in raising awareness about suicide prevention and LGBTQ youth mental health.

About Groundswell

Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.

Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.

Child Abuse Prevention Month is observed every year in the United States during the month of April. The purpose of this observance is to raise awareness about the issue of child abuse and neglect, and to encourage individuals and communities to take action to prevent it.

Child abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect. It can have serious and long-lasting effects on children, including physical injuries, psychological trauma, and impaired social and cognitive development.

During Child Abuse Prevention Month, various organizations, including child welfare agencies, non-profits, and government agencies, organize events and activities to promote awareness and prevention. These can include public rallies, marches, community workshops, and social media campaigns.

One of the main goals of Child Abuse Prevention Month is to encourage reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect. Many cases of child abuse go unreported each year, and this can perpetuate the cycle of abuse and put children at continued risk.

Overall, the observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as an important reminder of the responsibility that each of us has to protect children and promote their safety and well-being.

National CASA

National CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a nonprofit organization that works to ensure that children who have experienced abuse or neglect have a safe, permanent, and nurturing home. 

The organization was founded in 1977 and has since grown to become a nationwide network of nearly 1,000 local programs and more than 94,000 trained volunteers.

The mission of National CASA is to support and promote court-appointed volunteer advocacy for abused or neglected children in order to provide them with a voice in court and to help them find a safe and permanent home as quickly as possible. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of these children in court proceedings, and they work to ensure that the children's needs are met and that they receive appropriate services and support.

National CASA provides a variety of resources and support to local CASA programs, including: 

• training and technical assistance
• advocacy tools and resources
• funding opportunities. 

The organization also works to raise awareness about the issue of child abuse and neglect and to advocate for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of children.

Through its work, the organization helps to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and loving home.

Prevent Child Abuse

Prevent Child Abuse (PCA) is a national nonprofit organization that works to promote the prevention of child abuse and neglect in the United States. The organization was founded in 1972 and has since grown to become a leading voice in the field of child abuse prevention.

PCA works to raise public awareness about the issue of child abuse and neglect and to promote evidence-based prevention strategies. 

The organization provides a variety of resources and support to individuals, families, and communities, including:

• parenting education and support programs
• advocacy and policy initiatives 
• public education campaigns

One of PCA's signature programs is the Healthy Families America program, which provides home visiting services to families with young children who are at risk for child abuse or neglect. This program is based on a research-based model that has been shown to be effective in improving parenting skills, reducing the incidence of child abuse and neglect, and promoting positive child development outcomes.

PCA also works to promote public policies that support child abuse prevention, such as increasing funding for child abuse prevention programs, strengthening child welfare systems, and promoting family-friendly workplace policies.

Darkness to Light

Darkness to Light is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to the prevention of child sexual abuse. The organization was founded in 2000 and is based in Charleston, South Carolina.

The mission of Darkness to Light is to empower adults to prevent child sexual abuse by providing training and resources to individuals, organizations, and communities. The organization's flagship program is the Stewards of Children program, which is an evidence-based training program that teaches adults how to recognize, prevent, and respond to child sexual abuse.

In addition to providing training and resources, Darkness to Light works to raise public awareness about the issue of child sexual abuse and to advocate for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of children. The organization also works to support survivors of child sexual abuse by providing resources and support services.

Darkness to Light has trained over 2 million individuals in the Stewards of Children program and has partnerships with over 12,000 organizations. The organization's work has been recognized by a variety of national and international organizations, including the World Health Organization and the United Nations.

National Indian Child Welfare Association

The National Indian Child Welfare Association (NICWA) is a nonprofit organization that works to support the well-being of Native American children and families. The organization was founded in 1983 and is based in Portland, Oregon.

NICWA's mission is to promote the safety, health, and well-being of Native American children and families through advocacy, research, and education. The organization works to ensure that Native American children are able to grow up in safe, stable, and nurturing homes and communities.

NICWA provides a variety of resources and support to Native American tribes and organizations, including 

• training and technical assistance
• research and data analysis
• policy advocacy.

The organization also works to raise public awareness about the unique issues facing Native American children and families and to promote culturally appropriate approaches to child welfare.

One of NICWA's signature programs is the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Program, which provides training and technical assistance to help tribes and organizations implement the Indian Child Welfare Act, a federal law that was enacted in 1978 to protect Native American children and families. The ICWA Program provides support for a range of activities, including legal advocacy, policy development, and community engagement.

Overall, the National Indian Child Welfare Association plays an important role in promoting the well-being of Native American children and families. Through its programs and advocacy efforts, the organization is working to ensure that Native American children have the opportunity to grow up in safe, healthy, and culturally rich environments.

Children’s Defense Fund

The Children's Defense Fund (CDF) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to promoting the well-being of children in the United States. The organization was founded in 1973 by Marian Wright Edelman and is based in Washington, D.C.

The mission of the Children's Defense Fund is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential. The organization works to achieve this mission through a variety of programs and initiatives that focus on promoting child health and well-being, education, and economic security.

One of the signature programs of the Children's Defense Fund is the Beat the Odds program, which provides academic and leadership support to high school students who have overcome significant obstacles in their lives. The program provides mentoring, tutoring, and other resources to help these students succeed in school and pursue higher education.

The Children's Defense Fund also works to promote policies and practices that support children and families, including advocating for affordable health care, high-quality early childhood education, and economic security for families. The organization also conducts research and analysis to inform its policy advocacy efforts.

Futures Without Violence

Futures Without Violence is a nonprofit organization that works to end violence against women, children, and families. The organization was founded in 1980 and is based in San Francisco, California.

The mission of Futures Without Violence is to promote the health, safety, and well-being of individuals, families, and communities affected by violence. The organization works to achieve this mission through a variety of programs and initiatives that focus on prevention, intervention, and policy advocacy.

One of the signature programs of Futures Without Violence is the Coaching Boys Into Men program, which is an evidence-based program that promotes healthy relationships and prevents dating violence among adolescent boys. The program provides coaches with training and resources to help them teach their athletes about healthy relationships, respect, and nonviolence.

Futures Without Violence also works to address the intersection of domestic violence and other issues, such as health care, housing, and economic security. The organization provides training and resources to healthcare providers, educators, and other professionals to help them recognize and respond to domestic violence and other forms of abuse.

In addition to its programs and initiatives, Futures Without Violence works to advocate for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities affected by violence. The organization works at the local, state, and federal levels to promote policies that support survivors of violence and prevent future instances of violence.

National Children’s Alliance

The National Children's Alliance (NCA) is a nonprofit organization that works to support and promote the development of Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) across the United States. The organization was founded in 1998 and is based in Washington, D.C.

The mission of the National Children's Alliance is to promote healing and justice for children who have been abused or neglected. The organization works to achieve this mission by providing training, technical assistance, and accreditation to Child Advocacy Centers, which are facilities that provide a comprehensive, child-friendly response to allegations of child abuse.

Child Advocacy Centers bring together multidisciplinary teams of professionals to coordinate and conduct investigations of child abuse allegations, including: 

• law enforcement
• child protective services
• medical and mental health providers
• victim advocates

By bringing these professionals together in a child-friendly environment, CACs can reduce the trauma that children experience during the investigation process and ensure that they receive the support and services they need to heal.

The National Children's Alliance provides training and technical assistance to CACs to help them improve the quality of their services and achieve accreditation, which is a mark of quality that demonstrates that a CAC meets national standards for effective and comprehensive response to allegations of child abuse.

In addition to its work with CACs, the National Children's Alliance advocates for policies and practices that promote the safety and well-being of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. The organization works with federal and state policymakers to promote funding and policies that support Child Advocacy Centers and other programs that serve children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Explore other spotlights in April:

• Earth Day
• Hunger Awareness
• National Volunteering Month
• Autism Awareness Month

National Foster Care Awareness Month is observed in the United States every May. The purpose of this observance is to raise awareness about the approximately 400,000 children and youth who are in the foster care system and to highlight the needs of these vulnerable young people.

During this month, organizations and individuals across the country work to increase awareness about the foster care system and its impact on children and families. There are often events and campaigns that focus on recruiting new foster parents, supporting existing foster families, and advocating for policy changes that can improve the lives of children in care.

National Foster Care Awareness Month also provides an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of the foster care community, including social workers, advocates, and foster parents, who provide critical support to children in care.

Overall, National Foster Care Awareness Month serves as an important reminder that all children deserve a safe, stable, and loving home, and that we must continue to work towards improving the foster care system and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Donate to these nonprofit organizations helping children in need:

Foster America

Foster America is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that works to improve the foster care system by recruiting, training, and supporting leaders who can drive meaningful change. The organization was founded in 2016 and has since worked with partners across the country to support the development of innovative programs and policies that can improve outcomes for children and families involved in the foster care system.

Foster America's mission is to ensure that every child in foster care has a permanent, loving family, and that the system is designed to help children and families thrive. To achieve this goal, Foster America recruits talented professionals from a variety of fields, including social work, education, law, and public policy, and places them in year-long fellowship positions within government agencies and nonprofit organizations that work with the foster care system.

During their fellowships, Foster America fellows work on a range of projects, from designing and implementing new programs to improving data systems and supporting policy development. Fellows receive training, coaching, and ongoing support from Foster America, as well as opportunities to connect with other leaders in the field.

Overall, Foster America is working to build a pipeline of talented leaders who can bring new perspectives and innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing the foster care system. Through their work, Foster America is helping to create a future where every child in foster care has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Think Of Us

Think Of Us is a nonprofit organization based in the United States that works to improve the lives of young people who are transitioning out of foster care. The organization was founded in 2014 by Sixto Cancel, who experienced the challenges of the foster care system firsthand and wanted to create an organization that could help young people navigate the transition to adulthood.

Think Of Us's mission is to provide young people who have experienced foster care with the tools, resources, and support they need to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, Think Of Us has developed a range of innovative programs and initiatives that focus on building resilience, developing life skills, and promoting self-advocacy.

One of Think Of Us's signature programs is the My Journey app, which is designed to help young people in foster care manage their transition to adulthood. The app provides young people with a personalized dashboard that tracks their progress toward their goals, as well as resources and tools to help them navigate important milestones, such as finding housing, getting a job, and accessing healthcare.

Think Of Us also works with partners across the country to develop and implement new policies and programs that can improve outcomes for young people who are transitioning out of foster care. The organization advocates for policies that promote youth voice and empowerment, such as the extension of foster care benefits beyond the age of 18, and works with partners to develop programs that provide young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed.

Alliance for Children’s Rights

The Alliance for Children's Rights is a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, California, that works to protect the rights and interests of children and youth who are in the foster care system, are experiencing homelessness, or are otherwise at risk. The organization was founded in 1992 by a group of attorneys who recognized the need for specialized legal services for children and youth.

The Alliance's mission is to ensure that all children and youth have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of services to children and youth in need, including legal representation, education advocacy, and healthcare advocacy.

One of the Alliance's signature programs is the Foster Care Legal Services program, which provides free legal representation to children and youth who are in the foster care system. The program works to ensure that children and youth have a voice in court proceedings and that their rights and interests are protected.

The Alliance also provides education advocacy services to help children and youth in foster care succeed in school. The organization works with schools and school districts to ensure that children and youth have access to educational resources and support, and that they are not unfairly penalized due to their involvement in the foster care system.

In addition to its direct service programs, the Alliance also advocates for policy changes that can improve outcomes for children and youth. The organization works with elected officials and community partners to advocate for policies that promote child welfare, education, and healthcare, and to raise awareness about the issues facing children and youth in need.

First Place for Youth

First Place for Youth is a nonprofit organization based in California that works to provide support and resources to young people who are transitioning out of foster care. The organization was founded in 1998 by a group of foster youth advocates who recognized the need for specialized services to help young people who were aging out of the system.

First Place for Youth's mission is to ensure that young people who have experienced foster care have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to build a successful future. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of programs and services that are designed to help young people achieve self-sufficiency and independence.

One of First Place for Youth's signature programs is the My First Place program, which provides young people who have experienced foster care with housing, education, employment, and mental health services. The program works to help young people develop the skills and resources they need to live independently and to provide them with a supportive community of peers and mentors.

First Place for Youth also provides education and employment services to help young people achieve their goals. The organization offers educational support and tutoring services, as well as job training and placement programs, to help young people develop the skills and experience they need to succeed in the workforce.

Further, the organization also works to advocate for policy changes that can improve outcomes for young people who are aging out of the foster care system. The organization works with elected officials and community partners to promote policies that provide young people with greater support and resources, and to raise awareness about the issues facing young people who are transitioning out of foster care

Fill a Heart 4 Kids

Fill a Heart 4 Kids is a nonprofit organization based in Illinois that works to support and empower children and youth who are experiencing homelessness, abuse, neglect, or other forms of trauma. The organization was founded in 2009 by Tamara and Scott Tome, who recognized the need for services and resources to help vulnerable children in their community.

Fill a Heart 4 Kids' mission is to provide children and youth with the basic necessities they need to thrive, as well as opportunities for education, enrichment, and personal growth. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of services and programs that are designed to meet the unique needs of children and youth who are experiencing trauma.

One of Fill a Heart 4 Kids' signature programs is the Fill a Heart 4 Kids Pack program, which provides backpacks filled with essential items to children and youth who are experiencing homelessness or other forms of instability. The backpacks contain items such as clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and other necessities, as well as a personalized note of encouragement from a volunteer.

Fill a Heart 4 Kids also provides educational and enrichment programs to help children and youth develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. The organization offers tutoring, mentoring, and other academic support services, as well as opportunities for sports, art, and other extracurricular activities.

In addition to its direct service programs, Fill a Heart 4 Kids also works to raise awareness about the issues facing vulnerable children and youth, and to advocate for policies and programs that can improve outcomes for these populations. The organization collaborates with community partners, elected officials, and other stakeholders to promote greater awareness and understanding of the needs of vulnerable children and youth.

Partnership for Children

The Partnership for Children is a nonprofit organization based in North Carolina that works to promote the healthy development of young children and families in the region. The organization was founded in 1993 as a public-private partnership and is committed to improving the lives of children and families through a range of programs and services.

The Partnership for Children's mission is to provide young children and families with the resources, education, and support they need to succeed. To achieve this goal, the organization provides a range of services and programs that are designed to promote healthy development, school readiness, and family well-being.

One of the Partnership for Children's signature programs is the Smart Start initiative, which is a statewide program in North Carolina that provides early childhood education and health services to young children and families. The Partnership for Children works in collaboration with other community partners to implement Smart Start programs in the region.

The Partnership for Children also provides a range of other programs and services, including early childhood education programs, childcare subsidies, parenting education, and support services for families of children with special needs. The organization is committed to ensuring that all children and families have access to high-quality services and resources that promote their health and well-being.

Restoration Collective

Restoration Collective is a nonprofit organization based in Nashville, Tennessee, that works to combat poverty and homelessness in the community. The organization was founded in 2014 by a group of volunteers who wanted to make a difference in the lives of those who were struggling with homelessness.

The mission of Restoration Collective is to empower individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness by providing them with access to resources, education, and support. The organization operates a number of programs and services that are designed to address the root causes of poverty and homelessness, including affordable housing, job training, and community outreach.

One of Restoration Collective's signature programs is the Restoration Housing program, which provides affordable, supportive housing to individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness. The program offers a range of services and resources, including case management, job training, and financial counseling, to help residents achieve stability and independence.

Restoration Collective also operates a job training program called Restoration Works, which provides individuals who are experiencing homelessness with the skills and resources they need to find and maintain employment. The program offers job training, career coaching, and support services, and has a strong track record of success in helping participants find meaningful employment.

Casa for Children of DC

CASA for Children of DC is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the best interests of children who have been abused or neglected and are involved in the District of Columbia's child welfare system. The organization is part of a national network of Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs that operate in communities across the United States.

The mission of CASA for Children of DC is to ensure that every child in the District of Columbia who has experienced abuse or neglect has a safe and permanent home and that their needs and rights are represented in court. The organization recruits and trains volunteer advocates who are appointed by the court to represent the best interests of children who are involved in the child welfare system.

CASA volunteers are trained to be impartial advocates who focus solely on the child's well-being, and they work tirelessly to ensure that the child's voice is heard and their rights are protected.

In addition to its core program of providing volunteer advocates for children, CASA for Children of DC also provides a range of other services and resources to support children and families involved in the child welfare system. These services include mentoring, educational support, and access to mental health services.

CASA for Children of DC is committed to making a real difference in the lives of children who have experienced abuse or neglect, and to advocating for policies and programs that can improve outcomes for this vulnerable population. Through its volunteer advocacy program, supportive services, and community partnerships, the organization is working to create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Youth in View

Youth in View is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of children and youth in foster care. The organization is based in California and was founded in 2007 by a group of foster youth alumni who wanted to create a platform for youth in care to have a voice in the policies and programs that affect their lives.

The mission of Youth in View is to empower youth in foster care by providing them with advocacy, leadership development, and supportive services. The organization operates a number of programs and initiatives that are designed to improve outcomes for youth in care, including advocacy campaigns, training programs, and peer support networks.

One of Youth in View's signature programs is the Youth Advocacy Program, which trains youth in care to become advocates for themselves and others in the foster care system. The program provides youth with training in public speaking, advocacy, and policy analysis, and helps them to develop the skills and confidence they need to make their voices heard on issues that affect their lives.

Youth in View also operates a Peer Mentorship Program, which connects youth in care with supportive mentors who have experience in the foster care system. The program provides youth with emotional support, guidance, and practical advice on a range of issues, including education, employment, and housing.

In addition to its direct service programs, Youth in View also works to raise awareness about the needs and experiences of youth in foster care, and to advocate for policies and programs that can improve outcomes for this population. The organization collaborates with community partners, elected officials, and other stakeholders to promote greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by youth in care, and to advocate for policies that can help these young people succeed.

Foster Angels of Central Texas

Foster Angels of Central Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to children in the foster care system and the families who care for them. The organization is based in Austin, Texas and was founded in 2005.

The mission of Foster Angels of Central Texas is to improve the lives of children in foster care by meeting their most urgent needs and providing them with opportunities to succeed. 

The organization operates a number of programs and initiatives that are designed to support children and families in the foster care system, including:

1. Wish Program: This program grants wishes to children in foster care who are facing challenging circumstances, such as abuse, neglect, or illness. Foster Angels of Central Texas works with child welfare agencies to identify children who have a specific need or want, and then works to fulfill their wish, whether it be for a new pair of shoes, a laptop for school, or tickets to a special event.
2. Life Skills Program: This program provides young people in foster care with training and support to help them develop the skills they need to succeed as independent adults. The program offers workshops on financial literacy, career readiness, and other important life skills, as well as mentorship and coaching to help young people navigate the challenges of transitioning out of foster care.
3. Emergency Assistance Program: This program provides emergency financial assistance to foster families who are facing unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or car repairs. Foster Angels of Central Texas works with child welfare agencies to identify families in need and provide them with the resources they need to overcome the financial barriers that can threaten their ability to provide safe and stable homes for children in care.

In addition to its core programs, Foster Angels of Central Texas also provides a range of other services and resources to support children and families in the foster care system, including holiday gift drives, educational support, and advocacy efforts to promote greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by children in care.

About Groundswell

Groundswell is an affordable workplace giving program built for modern businesses. We give organizations the infrastructure and tools to make it easy to empower employees to support the causes they care about during moments that matter most.

Reach out to our team to learn more about Groundswell.io. Donate to these causes and more on the Groundswell app.