Stories

Going back to school looks different this year in Mecklenburg County, but the GOOD news is that there are many ways the community can help support our students and educators as we all navigate this new normal, together. Here are our local nonprofit partners who have Back-to-School needs who you can support in a variety of way, right now. 

Urgent Community Needs:

• 16K CMS students are in need of  hotspots in order to engage in  virtual learning. The CMS Foundation is fundraising to secure more devices for students The cost for the device as well as 12 months of service is $260. Donations can be made to the CMS Foundation, here.. 

• The Steve Smith Family Foundation is working to provide 5,000 homeless children in Mecklenburg county with shelter and technology for their remote learning needs. They are  partnering with the Urban League of Central Carolinas and hygge co-working to provide a learning space for students that have nowhere else to go.  Donations can be made to the Virtual Learning Support Center.

Virtual Volunteer Opportunities:
While donations are deeply appreciated, you can also make an impact and support an organization with your time. If you are looking for after-school projects for your kids or an activity for the whole family- consider virtual volunteering! Below are volunteer opportunities you can do from home.

Virtual Volunteer Opportunities for kids under 12:

• Create a short video about something in nature for Anne Springs Close Greenway.

• Create bookmarks for Classroom Central

• Virtual Storytime reader for Lakewood Preschool Cooperative

• Writing notes of love and hope for Good Soles

• Donate used children's books to Kipp Charlotte Public Schools

Click here to see more options.

Virtual Volunteer Opportunities for Teens and/or College Students:

• Social Media Ambassador for Levine Museum of the New South

• Snack bag maker for Foundation for Girls

• Write notes of encouragement for teachers and students for Classroom Central

• Help clean up litter in your neighborhood for Anne Springs Close Greenway

• Make sandwiches to help feed the homeless for Roof Above

Click here to see more options.

Wish Lists to Shop Now:
Back to school shopping may look a little different this year, but there is still a major need for supplies. Here is a list of nonprofit organizations that are supporting our community’s youth and educators during this Back to School season- support their work by shopping for the items they need most off of their Amazon wish list. 

NOTE: This is an on-going resource, check back frequently for more updates.