The Echo Foundation
1125 E. Morehead Street
Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28204
United States
The Echo Foundation was born from a challenge—one issued by Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel to the Charlotte community. On March 12, 1997, Wiesel spoke to over 23,000 students and adults in Charlotte, encouraging them to be advocates against indifference. So inspired by the dedication of our community, he said to Echo Founder and President Emerita, Stephanie Ansaldo, "You can't stop now; you must do more." Calling on Charlotte to educate on and act within critical areas of human dignity, justice and moral courage. Since 1997, Echo has answered that call, empowering young people with the moral and intellectual tools to become forces for change.
Through cutting-edge educational programs, experiential learning, and the power of storytelling, Echo connects students with the world’s most courageous voices—Nobel Laureates, global humanitarians, and thought leaders—who inspire action on human rights and social justice. From immersive travel experiences to free educational curricula, Echo’s initiatives equip students to think critically, engage deeply, and advocate for a more just world.
To date, Echo has reached over 741,000 students, bringing 35 world leaders and humanitarians to Charlotte, including Dr. Paul Farmer, Denis Mukwege, and Ben Bernanke. With every program, every student, and every conversation, The Echo Foundation reaffirms its mission: to turn inspiration into action through education.
- Global Connections: Echo has brought 19 Nobel Laureates and 53 global humanitarians to Charlotte to inspire students and the community.
- Hands-On Humanitarian Learning: Through Footsteps Global Initiative, Echo students have traveled to places like Rwanda, Bosnia, Ukraine, and Cuba to witness his
- Student Transformation: Over 500,000 students have engaged with Echo’s programs, gaining firsthand insights into global issues.
