Plugging In: Connecting to Nonprofits

Each issue, WILMA includes a Plugging In directory to help you connect locally. This time, we’re focusing on connecting with area nonprofit groups – of which there are many. Whether you’re interested in volunteering in the field or volunteering with a committee or board, here are some sources that might help you figure out how to get started. Keep an eye out for future lists to tap into support for entrepreneurs, wellness groups, and more. Let us know about your organization by emailing editor@wilmingtonbiz.com.

Cape Fear Volunteer Center “Our mission is to match volunteers with meaningful service opportunities in the Cape Fear region. We do this by promoting volunteerism, Big Buddy/Life Guide, National Days of Volunteer Service, Kid’s Voting, CareNet and so much more.” The center also offers contacts for volunteering opportunities with other groups.

Info: capefearvolunteercenter.org

Connect Cape Fear “CONNECT Community Involvement Directory of the Cape Fear is an extensive, trusted, and updated list of local organizations, groups, clubs, and more in the Greater Cape Fear region. Our goal is to help you find ways to create connections in our community between individuals and organizations. Whether you’re an individual searching for opportunities, or if you’re an organization seeking to get more exposure to attract more members and volunteers, CONNECT Community Involvement Directory is the most beneficial tool for connecting groups with those who seek to be more active in their communities in New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender counties.”

Info: connectcapefear.com

The Harrelson Center “The Jo Ann Carter Harrelson Center Inc. … supports and partners with other nonprofit organizations in the Wilmington community. The Center works with its partners to meet the needs of the community in areas such as safe and affordable housing, education, employment, health care and family support. The Center recognizes the critical needs of others and encourages, uplifts and assists them in rebuilding their lives through the services provided in the center.”

Info: harrelsoncenter.org

GuideStar This one’s not a local nonprofit group. But GuideStar is a national informational resource on nonprofit organizations that gathers and provides access to info about nonprofit groups. For example, you can find copies of 990 forms that tax-exempt groups are required to file as you research where you want to spend your volunteering time and support.

Info: guidestar.org

QENO Quality Enhancement for Nonprofit Organizations is a “partnership between UNCW and the community created to help strengthen nonprofit organizations in southeastern North Carolina through professional, leadership, and organizational development and providing connections to UNCW faculty, staff, and students.”

Info: uncw.edu/qeno

Share Cape Fear “SHARE Cape Fear is a community engagement conduit offering simple ways for neighbors, nonprofits and businesses to come together and strengthen our local community. We make it easy for people to find local nonprofits and engage with them how they choose, whether it’s donating money, volunteering time, attending an event or buying much needed items from nonprofit wish lists. Our open and inclusive platform amplifies the needs of the entire nonprofit community, giving all organizations a chance to be seen and heard regardless of size, focus area or budget.”

Info: sharecapefear.org

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