All online donations have been temporarily suspended as we gear up for an amazing 2024 Connect to a Cause!

 

The donation catalog is below for all donors to preview in anticipation of the big day – Thursday, September 19.  Please come back to this site and donate to your favorite causes this Thursday between 8 am and 8 pm.

 

Cash and check donations are accepted by including this form with your donation. Donations must be postmarked by September 19 or delivered to the Community Foundation office by 8:00 PM on September 19 to be included.

Connect to a Cause

Support ALL the Causes Fund

Make a difference across all 95 participating non-profits by donating to our Causes for ALL fund. With just one contribution, this fund allows you to support all participating non-profit organizations through Connect to a Cause. The money will be divided among all the participating non-profits, ensuring each receives support. By contributing to this fund, you amplify your impact throughout the community.

A Dementia Friendly Life Foundation

LIFE's Mission of faith is to partner with anyone touched by Dementia and offer resources, education, and engaging activities which promote and improve quality of life.

LIFE Memory Cafe's offer engagement and support opportunities for people living with Dementia and their Care Partners in a safe, familiar, location each week. LIFE bring interventions proven to be successful for a person living with dementia to each location.  Thanks to rich community supports, LIFE Memory Cafe's offer Music Engagement, Art Expression, Peer Support, Education, Exercise, Lunch and Social opportunities at no cost to the Participants or Care Partners.

American Red Cross of North Central Ohio

The American Red Cross's mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

Every day, the American Red Cross fulfills our mission of alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies big and small across Lorain County and the U.S. With support from generous donors like you, we stand side-by-side with members of our community as they face some of their darkest hours. Whether it’s a family whose home has been destroyed in a fire, a child in need of lifesaving blood or a member of the military experiencing a family emergency, the Red Cross offers help and hope.

Amherst Historical Society

The Amherst Historical strives to promote and educate the public on the rich history of the sandstone industry and its importance to Northeastern Ohio while working with educators in the teaching of our local, state, and national history.

It is the goal of the Amherst Historical Society to collect, preserve, record, interpret and educate those interested in the rich history of the Amherst area, including its sandstone history in Lorain County, Ohio.  It is the vison of the Amherst Historical Society to be one of the premier "living History" educational providers in the United States. The Amherst Historical Society is committed to creating programing to educate, promote, and preserve history.

Amherst Schools Educational Foundation

Amherst Schools Education Foundation "The Gift that Gives Forever"

Without the generous support of our community, staff, alumni, and friends, we would not be able to achieve our mission of supporting the Amherst Schools.  Every year, ASEF is fortunate enough to award over $65,000 in scholarships to Steele High School seniors.  ASEF also continues to support state of the art projects in our schools. 

Avon Lake City Schools Foundation

The Avon Lake City Schools Foundation provides funding that enriches and enhances education above and beyond the district curriculum.

ALCSF provides funding that enriches and enhances education above and beyond the district curriculum. Funded projects have provided new programming, technology, and additional special education, and STEM opportunities for every student.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lorain County

To create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lorain County is a quality award-winning non-profit that empowers youth and ignites potential.  We build on our children's vast gifts and strengths through one-on-one mentoring and support services including tutoring and other academic enrichment, social and emotional learning, college and career readiness programming, summer camps, group activities, family engagement, a Parent University, and a Family Resource Center.  For more information go to bigloraincounty.org.

Black River Audubon Society

The mission of the Black River Audubon Society is to promote conservation and restoration of ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife, through advocacy and education.

Help us advance bird conservation with MOTUS technology! By contributing to our MOTUS tower fund, you're supporting vital research that tracks bird migration patterns, identifies critical habitats, and informs conservation strategies. MOTUS towers are essential for monitoring the movements of small birds and other animals-- even insects. Your donation will directly impact our ability to protect these creatures and their habitats. Join us in making a difference for bird conservation today!

Blessing House

Blessing House serves as a safety net for families in crisis by providing a safe shelter for children and support for their family.

Blessing House is a 24 hour facility providing residential care for children up to 12 years old when their families are experiencing an emergency.  Help us build our "Here to Help" Emergency Fund that provides emergency basic needs for families when they are not able to access what they need.    We are a faith based non denominational non profit in Lorain County open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.  There is no cost for our services.  We are God's Project of Hope!

Boys and Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio, our mission is to inspire and enable young people who need us most to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, caring citizens.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio provides safe, fun places for kids ages 6-18 to go free of charge after school and summers. The Clubs focus on academic achievement, healthy lifestyles and character development. To achieve our goals, we partner with six different Lorain County school districts, Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority, municipalities, and countless non-profit organizations. Help support Great Futures for kids who need us most!

Brownhelm Historical Association

The mission of the Brownhelm Historical Association is to foster a sense of community, inspire an interest in the past, and preserve the history of the Brownhelm area.

For the past 15 years, the BHA has been restoring the 19th century Brownhelm Schoolhouse. We are in the final stages of that restoration process and intend to open it for community events, historical programming, and other activities to engage the public with the history of Brownhelm Township. The funds raised during the 2024 Connect to a Cause will be applied to the final stages of this restoration process. Our hope is to have the building completed by 2025. 

Camp IDEAS

Providing an academic enrichment summer camp for children with 'special needs' living or attending school in Lorain County.

Lorain Lighthouse United Methodist Church has hosted Camp I.D.E.A.S. for 27 summers.  Camp I.D.E.A.S. offers 100 hours of academic reinforcement for students on IEPs during the summer. Children ages 3-15 enjoy academic, recreational, gross and fine motor skills, and local field trips to enhance academics.  A select group of peers join campers for a fun-filled 4 weeks. Several former campers join our staff to experience THE REAL WORLD OF WORK FOR REAL PAY as part of their continuing education.

Camp !magine

The mission is to enrich the lives of children pre-k to 21 years of age with moderate to intensive special needs through our six (6) week extended school year summer camp experience.

Camp Imagine has a successful and impactful six-week extended school year program for 100 plus children with moderate to serve special needs. Through licensed special education teachers, we provide Extended School Year Services according to the requirements set forth in the child's Individualized Education Plan. What makes Camp Imagine so special is the enhanced summer camp experience, intended to provide a fun and educational full-day for students with special needs.

City Fresh

City Fresh creates and promotes a more healthy, vibrant, and equitable local foods system.

City Fresh helps communities without access to healthy, affordable, fresh foods shop for local, sustainably grown fruits and veggies right in their neighborhood so they can eat healthier and rest easier knowing where their food is coming from.

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center

Our mission: Cleveland Hearing and Speech Center provides speech-language, hearing, language interpreting, and Deaf services. We advocate for equal access to information and communication and value all individuals' language choices equally.

Communication is the foundation of fulfilling relationships, educational achievement, and career success. But for many among us, deafness and communication disorders create barriers to engagement at home, school, and work. CHSC has been dedicated to communication health and access for over 100 years. Community support enables CHSC to provide free and reduced cost care across our main service areas - Audiology, Speech-Language & Learning, and the Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing.

Common Ground-The Cindy Nord Center for Renewal

Common Ground provides experience-based programming to foster life-long exploration, learning and growth of youth and adults

Your donation, no matter the size, has a profound impact. It's a step towards creating a world where exploration, learning and growth is not just an aspiration but a way of life.  Supporting our endowment fund with the Community Foundation will help position us for growth and sustainability for years to come. To show our appreciation, donations of $10 or more will be put in a raffle to win either a canopy tour for two, or one week of tuition for our summer day camp! 

Community Congregational UCC

At The CCUCC, our mission is to, with the grace of God, cultivate a compassionate community that loves like Jesus, grows in faith and serves those in need.

Please consider supporting the Christian Education Department of Community Congregational UCC. Our programs nurture spiritual growth for children and teens by equipping individuals with the knowledge, values, and faith to navigate life's challenges with grace. We aim to teach our kids to love and serve others like Jesus. Funds raised will fund scholarships for Vacation Bible School and Summer Camp, and pay for Volunteer events, group activities, Sunday School, worship programs, and nursery care.

Cornerstone Pregnancy Services

Caring for women by providing life-affirming services

Cornerstone Pregnancy Services to support mothers and babies in need. This fundraising campaign is designed to help fund our mission of caring for women by providing life-affirming services.  
Cornerstone Pregnancy Services offers a wide range of services to support individuals facing unplanned pregnancies inclusive of medical services, education, parenting support, and helps families with children under 2 years of age in need of material support. 

Echoing Hills

We are committed to revolutionizing lives where people live, learn, connect, play and worship.

Join Echoing Hills as we inspire hope and celebrate life for individuals with disabilities. We provide residential, recreational, educational, and adult services to enrich each person's life. Our programs align with our values: the right to choose, the dignity of each person, personal fulfillment in God's plan, and a relationship with Jesus. God has given each of us the opportunity to impact lives. Will you join us? Whether it's through giving, serving, or sharing, we welcome you!   

Educational Service Center of Lorain County

Providing a permanent source of supplemental funding to support and enhance the education of students served through the ESC of Lorain County.

The ESC Endowment provides teacher grants to support innovative and creative academic initiatives that positively impact many Lorain County students. A $1000 scholarship is also awarded to a graduating senior pursuing a degree in education.

El Centro de Servicios Sociales

El Centro de Servicios Sociales known as “El Centro” is one of the oldest social services in Lorain Ohio founded on November 25, 1974.

El Centro de Servicios Sociales para la Comunidad Hispana, Inc. was founded on November 25, 1974, by local clergy, political figures, and community leaders to provide bilingual social services to the Latino community in Lorain County. Initially funded by the Lorain County Mental Health and Mental Retardation Board, it became the first in the county to offer such services. In 1992, El Centro received State of Ohio Mental Health Agency Certification and is now a member of the Mental Health, Addiction, and Recovery Services Board of Lorain County.

El Centro’s Community Health & Support Services Department helps monolingual Latino families navigate social services, offering programs like a food pantry, mental health support, and first-time homebuyer seminars, which are available to all community members. The department also provides ESOL classes and runs the El Dorado Senior Program, supporting Hispanic/Latino seniors with culturally sensitive services.

The organization also leads the 231GO! Collaborative, focusing on youth development for middle schoolers in South Lorain, and offers a Money Management program that assists adults with severe mental illnesses or disabilities in managing their finances to prevent homelessness. In 2011, El Centro opened a new facility in Lorain, Ohio, to better serve the growing Latino community and the broader Lorain County population.

El Centro is an affiliate of UnidosUS, the largest Latino civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S., and has been a United Way member agency for over 30 years. The organization’s Community Development Department, launched in 2018, focuses on financial literacy and homeownership education to support the economic well-being of Lorain County residents.

Elyria Arts Council

Where Art thrives, communities thrive! The Elyria Arts Council was established to create a safe, inclusive, and joyful place for the discovery and growth in the Arts.

The Elyria Arts Council is all about Art! In addition to our beautiful Art gallery we are a community Art center that offers of creative programming for all ages. We offer classes, pre-school, after school programs, and summer programs. We partner with many non-profit organizations on special projects, and participate in lots of community events! We strive to offer low or no cost programming to include everyone.

Elyria City Schools Endowment Fund

Ensuring that each child reaches his/her full potential

The Elyria City Schools Endowment Funds are comprised of two funds:  General and Fine Arts.  These funds are used exclusively to enrich and enhance academics, fine and performing arts and other extracurricular activities for every school in the Elyria City School District.  Since inception in 1982, funds10,000 distributions of nearly $500,000 in total have been made.  The Board of Trustees includes district educators, administrators, student parents, local business owners and Elyria citizens. 

Elyria Community Partnership

Our mission is to revitalize the Elyria community including downtown and its neighborhoods, respecting the history of the city and improving the quality of life for residents.

Be a part of a transformational project in Downtown Elyria! Connect Ely is a space designed to bring vibrancy through landscaping and murals. This project will make the walk from our beautiful historic square to pioneer plaza and the newly renovated library even more fascinating. The donations that are contributed during the Sept 19th Connect to Cause will go toward meeting the financial needs of our project. Two beautiful murals, one created by youth from the Lorain County Urban League Project Ready Program and artist group Snack Break Studios and another by a local artist Stina Alea will face each other with landscaping that will bloom in the spring. The landscaping will be implemented by volunteers from Leadership Lorain County and helped maintained by students with Save Our Children. We are super excited to be leading the charge in the beautification of downtown Elyria and appreciate your support.

Elyria Public Library Foundation

The Elyria Public Library Foundation seeks funds to support current library services and to build an endowment to ensure the future financial stability of Elyria's public library system.

For 13 years, the Elyria Public Library Foundation has supplemented the library's operating funds and built an endowment for the library's benefit. Donation have been used for: building repairs, a $25,000 gift toward the 2021 building projects, a solar system lighting display and stained-glass windows in the Children's Story Room, signage and display, and two new mobility carts, with plans underway for a new touch screen table to be installed in 2024. Visit us at www.eplsfoundation.org

Elyria YWCA

The Elyria YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice and dignity for all.

The Elyria YWCA practices what we preach, and we preach the wisdom of Margaret Mead, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." and James Baldwin, "Not everything that is faced can be changed. But nothing can be changed until it is faced." Get Committed, get Connected to our cause!!

Family Planning Services of Lorain County

Family Planning Services of Lorain County strengthens our community by providing accessible reproductive healthcare and educational services.

Family Planning Services has been providing high quality, low cost and confidential reproductive healthcare to all people, regardless of their ability to pay.  Since 1969, we have been here to support the needs of our community. Birth control is only one of the many reproductive services we provide.  Pelvic and breast exams, pap tests, STI or UTI screening and treatment, HIV testing, PrEP and PEP services as well as telehealth options and a variety of counseling services.  We are here to serve the needs of the people in our community.

FireFish Arts Inc.

Your donation supports FREE community arts programs and events, youth and community art enrichment, and paid work for local artists, musicians, and performers.​

FireFish Arts, founded in 2015 by Joan Perch and designed by Artistic Director James Levin, launched the FireFish Festival to reimagine Lorain as a hub of art, culture, and community engagement. The festival transformed downtown Lorain with art installations, performances, and the iconic burning of the FireFish, drawing thousands of visitors and introducing the concept of “creative placemaking” as a tool for urban revitalization.

Over the years, FireFish Arts has expanded its mission, offering year-round, free arts programming that includes youth engagement in arts and STEAM activities, support for local artists, and community-driven art projects. The festival and ongoing initiatives have helped revitalize downtown Lorain, making it a vibrant area filled with small businesses, creative enterprises, and public art.

In 2021, FireFish Arts adapted to community needs with a reimagined festival and year-round programming led by the FireFish Artist Community Board. This group of local artists drives the organization's mission to use art as a catalyst for positive change. The organization continues to lead community arts initiatives, including the "Fire It Up!" summer programming, the "Alley Project: Broadway’s Back Door," and the annual FireFish Finale Parade and celebration, fostering a creative and inclusive environment in Lorain.

Firelands Association for the Visual Arts

FAVA's mission is to foster creativity and community by exhibiting contemporary visual art, educating people of all ages, and strengthening cultural awareness throughout the community.

FAVA is a nonprofit art gallery and art education center working to change lives through the visual arts. We do this by providing high-quality arts education, contemporary exhibitions, and community connections for artists.

Firelands Schools Endowment Fund

The Firelands Endowment Fund shall be used for the support and enhancement of Education within The Firelands Local School District.

The Firelands Endowment Fund shall be used for the support and enhancement of Education within The Firelands Local School District. Funds will be used for scholarships and for staff grants to enhance educational experiences at all grade levels. Last year, the Trustees were able to award over $55,000 in scholarships and grants; all because of the tremendous support of our donors. Thank you to all alumni, community members and staff for their continued commitment to the Firelands Endowment.

Foundation of the Lorain Public Library System

The Foundation of the Lorain Public Library is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in each community it serves by supporting and strengthening the activities of the Lorain Public Library System.

The Foundation partners with the Lorain Public Library System to help finance, promote, and strengthen the Library System's goals, objectives, and priorities on behalf of, and for the benefit of, the communities we serve. We believe that thriving communities have flourishing libraries. Funds raised during C2C 2024 will be used to continue the Launching Phenomenal Learners tutoring and homework assistance program for Lorain city students in grades K -12.  Visit foundationlpls.org and lpls.org.


Friendship Animal Protective League

FAPL is dedicated to ensuring that no companion animal suffers without basic necessities to live a healthy life, providing education to promote & nurture the human/animal bond and treating all who seek our help with dignity, kindness and respect.

Friendship APL is a private, independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) humane society founded in Elyria, Ohio in 1957. We own and operate the largest animal shelter in Lorain County. Friendship APL receives no government funding. We depend on the generosity and financial support of friends and neighbors, and on various fundraisers, to serve the people and animals of Lorain County. Last year we assisted over 7,500 animals through our adoption program, humane investigations, and our spay & neuter clinic.

Friends of the Elyria Public Library

We focus public attention on library services, facilities, and needs; to influence gifts and bequests; and to bring greater awareness of the library's importance in our community.

We raise money through membership, book sales and public donations to support the library. This past year we supported the Summer Reading Program, the West River Seed bank, the West River Garden, a bench for South Branch Library and paid for the murals on it. We can do so much more! You can not only donate money but also become a Friend and volunteer at book sales and public library events.

Gathering Hope House

Gathering Hope House encourages individuals managing mental illness to join together as members, inspiring and supporting one another's personal growth and recovery.

GHH is a member-run non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Lorain County adults who manage mental illnesses. Our enriched adult day and evening programs support person-led rehabilitation. We believe people managing mental illnesses deserve to lead rich, meaningful lives and feel that they are valued members of society. We offer employment and volunteer opportunities, education, social activities, wellness programming, & more for individuals 18 years or older who manage a mental illness.

Girl Scouts of North East Ohio

Our mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place.

Help us launch our Lorain County DreamLab this fall offering curriculum-based learning opportunities to Girl Scout members and co-ed field trips for area school children. The DreamLab will be the first of its kind in Ohio, developing important skills for tomorrow’s workforce.

Workshops will emphasize teamwork, leadership, and communication, as well as hands-on STEM activities and programming in Life Skills, the Outdoors, and Entrepreneurship. STEM equipment like robots, 3D printers, a podcast room and more will help teachers offer their students learning opportunities not available at school.

Good Knights of Lorain County, Inc.

Providing Every Child a Good Night's Sleep

Good Knights is dedicated to providing complete beds to children in need in Lorain County Ohio. Our goal is to do everything we can to ensure that every child in Lorain County has a safe and comfortable bed to sleep in. We engage the community through build days, where through our sponsors, who provide the raw materials, beds are built, and then, through community engagement the beds are delivered to families in need.

Goodwill Industries of Lorain County

Goodwill helps people create a path to maximize their potential through training, support, and employment.

Goodwill Industries of Lorain County is committed to helping individuals, families, and communities by breaking through barriers that intercept with being a productive and independent citizen. Our commitments include hosting job fairs and job club meetings to provide equal access to opportunities, digital skills and professionalism training sessions for re-entering the work force, a full-service food pantry located at our corporate office, community service opportunities, and more.

Grafton-Midview Public Library

Opening Your Window to the World

Delivering services that surpass the community's needs with a friendly, professional approach in a judgment-free environment where discovery, innovative technology, and effective communication foster enduring relationships.

Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity

Since assuming the former Lorain County Habitat affiliate’s service area in late 2022, we’re excited to share that we recently sold our first home in Elyria to a Habitat partner family and have completed another in Lorain that should be sold this summer.

To maximize our impact, we have been working in partnership with Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority, the city of Lorain and numerous other Southside stakeholders to develop a housing strategy that would best serve that neighborhood. We will also continue to identify vacant properties to rehab and lots on which to build new homes in Lorain County. By leveraging funds raised through Connect to a Cause, we can help make a significant impact on Lorain County families and communities.

Harrison Cultural Community Centre Inc.

Harrison Cultural Community Centre is a neighborhood center committed to strengthening self, family and the community by providing a secure environment which offers educational, recreational and social services for children and their family needs.

Harrison Cultural Community Centre is a neighborhood center committed to strengthening self, family and the community by providing a secure environment which offers educational, recreational and social services for children and their family needs. The funding received will allow for Harrison to continue its efforts in the community by providing outreach services to families and children.

Hearts of Patriots

Advocating for combat veteran spouses, their veteran, and their families.

We provide education and resources that help them navigate challenges that are the consequences of war and support programs that meet their critical quality-of-life needs. We know when Veterans return home, they may leave the conflict behind, but their war is never over.

Henry Johnson Center

To provide completely free certificates in medical billing & coding and phlebotomy to low-income heads of households. For every $60 provided, we can purchase certification prep materials for a student.
The Henry Johnson Center, founded in 2004 by Dr. Angela Isom, began as a group home and community center in Cleveland's Hough area, offering tutoring, counseling, and support for families. Despite facing vandalism and financial losses, the center relocated to Cleveland Heights in 2007, significantly expanding its impact. In 2010, Dr. Isom established the Henry Johnson Academy, helping over 1,000 low-income students return to high school and pursue college. The center further expanded in 2016, adding a State of Ohio-approved Phlebotomy and Medical Billing & Coding training center to provide affordable certifications. Dr. Isom, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a background in education, has made a profound impact on the community, empowering families and students to achieve their goals.

Jones Chapel A.M.E. Church

Founded in 1924, Jones Chapel A.M.E. Church has grown from humble beginnings in Elyria to become a cornerstone of faith and community. With a legacy of dedication and service, we continue to honor our history while fostering spiritual growth.
Jones Chapel, founded in 1924 by Elyria residents including J.R. Roller, Sr., Clarisa Ann Roller, and others, began in a storefront on Broad Street before moving to Pine Street and then Middle Avenue under Rev. I.S. Webster. Named after early member Mrs. Ella Jones, the church laid its foundation with a basement on 17th Street in 1927. The church grew significantly under Rev. A.H. Baxter, who led the construction of a new building completed in 1952 by Black contractor David Hardy. This project involved many church members in the construction process. Over the years, several pastors have contributed to the church's development, and today, under Rev. Anthony L. Carter, Jones Chapel continues to thrive. The congregation welcomes everyone to join their worship services each Sunday.

Keystone Educational Endowment (KEEP)

KEEP supports students in the Keystone school district by providing scholarships to universities or trade institutes to graduates and also enhances learning opportunities for current students via activity and student grants.

Keystone's commitment to excellence is exemplified in its mission, vision, and core values, all developed through collaborative teamwork. The district aims to empower students and the community to become trusted, passionate, and innovative global citizens.

The mission of Keystone is to provide students with the tools necessary to be global thinkers and successful lifelong learners through quality instruction. The district remains committed to integrity, hard work, positivity, compassion, unity, accountability, and passion.

As the district works together to achieve these goals, Keystone’s success is expected to continue to flourish, strengthening the foundation on which it is built.

Vision:

Keystone is dedicated to cultivating innovative leaders for tomorrow’s world.

Beliefs:

  • All students are capable of learning.
  • The district is strong and will rise to expectations.
  • It will provide a safe, healthy, and accepting environment.
  • Everyone will be treated with dignity and respect.
  • There is a belief in a positive partnership between school and home.
  • Students will understand their options and be prepared for their futures.
  • The curriculum is rigorous and proactive.

Core Values:

  • Integrity: Keystone will be honest, ethical, and do what is right.
  • Hard Work: The district will exude grit, perseverance, and dedication in all actions.
  • Positivity: Keystone will be positive and solution-oriented.
  • Compassion: The district will be caring, empathetic, and genuine.
  • Unity: Keystone will selflessly work together as a team.
  • Accountability: It will take responsibility for actions and their outcomes.
  • Passion: Keystone will be enthusiastic and dedicated to its profession.

Leadership Lorain County

LLC's mission is to develop & advance leaders who support the growth & diversity of our county by directing initiatives within the dynamic of our community, all while helping their own organizations become a valued partner in the resurgence of LC.

Celebrating our 40th anniversary, LLC has decided to do something truly impactful, launch our 1st program aimed exclusively at high school students, "Setting Up Youth For Success - Teaching Lorain County."  Our mission has always been to uplift & empower the leaders of LC, & what better way to honor our history of service than by investing in the future of our community? Your support will help us launch our new initiative & enhance existing programs for youth to retirement, strengthening LC.

Legal Aid Society of Cleveland

Legal Aid's mission is to secure justice, equity, and access to opportunity for and with people who have low incomes through passionate legal representation and advocacy for systemic change. All of our clients are helped free of charge.

Your support will provide free legal services to families who face eviction, students who need supportive services in school, older adults who were denied public benefits, families who are experiencing domestic violence, and hard-working individuals who face barriers to stable employment. Thanks to you, Legal Aid will secure justice for 1,700 Lorain County residents this year. 

Together we can protect the rights and basic needs of our Lorain County neighbors! For more info, visit: lasclev.org.

Let's Get Real, Inc.

Let's Get Real's mission is to provide information, education, and resource assistance to families and loved ones in their journey from addiction to recovery

Let's Get Real, Inc. (LGR) mission is to provide peer support services to individuals with a substance use disorder (SUD) to attain long-term recovery. LGR is certified with OHMAS as a Recovery Community Organization (RCO). LGR runs several projects in Lorain County that allow our certified peer recovery supporters (CPRSs) to engage with people battling SUD. LGR partners with many of the Lorain County Hospitals, Jails, & Courts. In office LGR takes community calls for referral and information.

LGBTQ+ Lorain County

To make Lorain County a safer place for LGBTQ+ individuals to live, work and play.

LGBTQ+ Lorain County works to improve the lives of queer individuals living and working in Lorain County. Our organization focuses on:
  1. Education and training - SafeZone training around creating inclusive environments and allyship 
  2. Social connection - Events to provide opportunities for social connection among LGBTQ+ individuals, including Lorain County Pride
  3. Resources - Connection to LGBTQ+ resources for healthcare, mental health, addiction recovery resources, housing, legal needs, and more

Lorain Civic Center Committee

A historical gem preserving and restoring the iconic theater, catering to the artistic, social, and cultural needs of Lorain and neighboring communities.

The Palace Theatre, established in 1924 after a devastating tornado, became a cornerstone for rebuilding Lorain with its Gothic and Italian Renaissance design. Opening on April 19, 1928, it featured ornate lobbies, a grand chandelier, and advanced projection equipment. The theater offered a mix of talking movies and live entertainment during the 1930s and 40s, operating continuously until 11 PM.

In the 1970s, the Civic Center Committee saved the Palace from demolition, purchasing and restoring it by 1977 with community support. Today, the Lorain Palace Theatre promotes the arts and community through a wide variety of events, including concerts, plays, recitals, and private events, preserving its rich cultural legacy.

Lorain Community Music Theater, Inc.

To provide the Lorain County area with quality musical theater and offer both performance and educational opportunities to local actors and musicians.

Lorain Community Music Theater is led by an all-volunteer group of theater enthusiasts that work tirelessly to bring a bit of 'Broadway' to our community every summer. Thousands of people of all backgrounds have enjoyed a musical theater experience by either performing on stage, in the orchestra, assisting off-stage, volunteering as Board Members, or providing general assistance in bringing our productions to life.

Lorain County Community Action Agency

Our Mission is to Serve and Empower Lorain County Residents in Need

Since 1966, LCCAA has provided a wide range of resources and programs that help individuals and families throughout Lorain County become and remain self-sufficient. Our programs provide help in emergencies and empower residents to reach longer-term goals. We are grateful for your support!

Lorain County Free Clinic, Inc.

To provide and facilitate access to quality health care to the under served in Lorain and eastern Erie Counties.

Our professional volunteer medical team provides and facilitates access to quality health care with compassion and dignity.  Funds will be used to 
help provide vital medications and supplies, eye glasses and specialty care coordination. Your support will directly help the Lorain County Free Clinic 
to Connect its Under Served Patients with vital Medical Care and a Peace of Mind...A Lorain County Cause for 38 years!  

Lorain County Historical Society

Lorain County Historical Society collects, preserves, and shares the history of Lorain County to educate and inspire present and future generations.

Help us preserve the Smith House! This property in Elyria’s West by the River Historic District needs repainted. Built in the 1840s, the house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, America’s official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. LCHS’s goal is to raise $7,500 toward the total cost of a new, high-quality paint job in spring 2025. We want not only to properly maintain this architectural gem but also to honor our community’s past. Every dollar helps!

Lorain County Imagination Library

Lorain County Imagination Library mails a free book every month to children from birth until their fifth birthday, enabling them to build a library of their very own.

With reading aloud being widely recognized as the single most important activity for enhancing a child’s language and development, the Imagination Library plays an important role in our community. Our program puts books into the hands of our community’s littlest learners, empowering families to read together and create those ever-important emotional bonds.

Lorain County Joint Vocational School

The Lorain County JVS Educational Foundation is designed to develop and provide a permanent source of supplemental funding which shall be used for the support and enhancement of the education of all LCJVS students.

Founded in 1971, the Lorain County Joint Vocational School (LCJVS) is a premier institution committed to creating opportunities for students to achieve success in their careers. Located on a 100-acre campus in Oberlin, Ohio, LCJVS is one of the largest career-technical schools in the state, offering accredited career-technical education for high school students in grades 9-12 and adult learners.

LCJVS serves a diverse student body from 13 local school districts, including Amherst, Avon, Avon Lake, Clearview, Columbia, Elyria, Firelands, Keystone, Midview, North Ridgeville, Oberlin, Sheffield-Sheffield Lake, and Wellington. Additionally, it provides educational opportunities for adult learners from surrounding communities.

Mission: The mission of LCJVS is to create opportunities for students to achieve success in their careers through comprehensive and practical education.

Vision: By 2023, LCJVS aims to be the model Career and Technical Education Center in Ohio, setting the standard for excellence in career-technical training.

Core Beliefs:

  • LCJVS believes in the engagement of all stakeholders.
  • LCJVS believes in providing pathways of success for all students.
  • LCJVS believes in a rigorous and relevant curriculum that increases achievement.
  • LCJVS believes in recruiting, developing, and retaining highly qualified employees.
  • LCJVS believes that everyone is responsible for the success of students.
  • LCJVS believes in developing and sustaining partnerships.

Through its programs, LCJVS equips students with the skills, knowledge, and training essential for career success, preparing them to excel in their chosen fields and contribute effectively to the workforce.

Lorain County Metro Parks

Lorain County Metro Parks was established for the responsible use, enjoyment, and accessibility of every citizen of Lorain County. The Park District acquires land to promote and demonstrate the wise use of our natural resources.

Lorain County Metro Parks is raising funds for the Butterfly House at Miller Nature Preserve. Miller Nature Preserve Conservatory and Outdoor Gardens sit on 145 acres in Avon. The Butterfly House is stocked with a diversity of butterflies from June through Labor Day. Visitors are invited to witness the lifecycle from caterpillar to butterfly, learn which plants attract them, and have ideas for creating their backyard butterfly garden.  

Lorain County Office on Aging

Did you know we are not a county agency? As a non-profit, we rely on donor contributions to continue our work in the community.

90% of seniors want to remain in their homes as they age. Your donation can help us make that a reality. Our services are focused on keeping older adults (those 60+) safe in the place they choose to live. We provide a wide variety of services including:

  • Benefits Assistance - provides seniors with increased financial stability to remain healthy and independent for as long as possible by identifying public benefits, providing education, application assistance, and follow-up services.
  • Specialized Information & Referral - provides information, answers, advocacy, and follow-up support regarding access to care services and supports in the local community; service may be utilized by a senior, a family member, or other community professional seeking information on behalf of a senior.
  • Options Counseling - works with seniors and their support network to collaboratively explore and develop a plan to address long-term care needs with special consideration for the senior’s value system and personal choice.
  • Assisted Transportation - provides seniors with free transportation to their medical appointments.
  • Homemaker - provides in-home services such as grocery shopping, meal preparation, laundry, and light housekeeping.
  • Safe at Home - provides home modifications such as ramps, ADA toilets, grab bars, handrails, shower/tub modifications to improve safety in the home.
  • Nutrition Services - support nutritionally at-risk seniors through an emergency food pantry, home delivered senior food boxes, commodities, farmers market coupons, and the restaurant voucher program.
  • Kinship Support - provides education, resources, support, and legal assistance to grandparents or other relatives age 55+ who are the primary caregivers of a minor child.
  • Supportive Services - assist seniors with navigating concerns such as housing assistance, financial management, mail interpretation, and communication in order to provide a safety net that supports aging in place.
  • Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) - places individuals 55 and older in volunteer positions throughout Lorain County at local non-profits, faith-based organizations, and health facilities to facilitate community engagement.

Lorain County Safe Harbor Genesis House

Empowering and Inspiring survivors of domestic violence.

To provide a comprehensive range of services for victims of domestic violence. We provide tools to both survivors & loved ones to maximize victim’s opportunity to survive & families to heal, to obtain physical & mental well-being, while gaining independence & minimize the trauma involved in coping with family violence.  We serve a dual purpose to be a part of a collaborative community effort to provide a responsive system of care for victims while also raising awareness about domestic violence.

Lorain County Urban League

The Urban League empowers African Americans and underserved individuals to thrive, through a trifecta of direct service, collaborative efforts, and unyielding advocacy. Envisioning an equitable community where opportunities are limitless for all.

Join us at the Lorain County Urban League, the driving force behind positive change, empowering individuals through economic opportunities, education, and social justice. Your donation fuels youth programs, supports families, and unlocks potential in the community. During C2C, every dollar contributes to our endowment fund, securing a legacy of impact for our future. Be apart of a transformative journey towards inclusivity and lasting change. Together, we shape a stronger future!

Lorain Historical Society

Engaging members of the community and our visitors in our shared and diverse history through preservation, education, collaborations, and exciting programming for all ages, so that we learn from the past, develop civic pride, and transform the future.

To further our outreach in the community and support programs that educate about the history and relevance of the International City, like Teaching Lorain, the Children's History Center, and our Oral History initiatives.

Lorain Lighthouse Foundation Inc.

The Lorain Lighthouse Foundation, Inc. was founded in 1989 by civic minded people wanting to preserve The Lorain Historic Lighthouse. The foundation is an all-volunteer group working to preserve the unique local history, our Lorain Lighthouse.

The Lorain Lighthouse Foundation helps to improve the vitality of our community by promoting tourism.  By attracting tourists from throughout the state of Ohio and from other states, the Lighthouse dinners and tours encourage economic development and activities. The number of people visiting the Lorain Lighthouse is approximately 1,500 annually.  Our projects and programs primarily serve the City of Lorain and Lorain County, but we also have visitors from Northern Ohio and all over the U.S. 

Lorain Schools Endowment Fund

All Lorain City Schools' students will be on track for college and careers upon graduation - ready to either enroll in a post-secondary institution, secure employment, enroll in an apprenticeship, or enlist in the military.

The LCS Endowment Fund is for enhancing education, the fine arts, and for staff recognition and retention. The funding will provide a mechanism for allocating community resources to worthwhile school initiatives. Awards are made through a grant application process for projects benefiting the constituents of Lorain City Schools, including our students, staff, teachers, families, and the community.

Main Street Amherst

To promote and maintain an economically vital historic downtown and business district that is attractive and accessible to people of all ages.

We are a group of working, playing, learning, downtown passionate people doing all we can to preserve the heartbeat of this amazing little hometown. Be a friend of M.S.A. and join us in creating a vibrant town experience for all.

Main Street Lorain

To promote collaboration and celebration as a means of making downtown Lorain vibrant and accessible to residents and visitors of all ages.

Main Street Lorain is dedicated to creating a vibrant and thriving waterfront neighborhood in Downtown Lorain! With your help, we can achieve our goals of connecting people to this amazing place!

Main Street Oberlin (Oberlin Business Partnership)

To strengthen, support, and promote the economic vitality of Oberlin businesses and the Oberlin community.

Ignite Prosperity in Oberlin:  Driven by its vibrant members, Oberlin Business Partnership (OBP) consistently evolves to uplift the Oberlin community. Your donation ensures OBP's resilience, fostering economic vitality and embracing growth opportunities. Join us in shaping a brighter future for Oberlin, where businesses can flourish and the diverse and sustainable community thrives. Your positive impact starts now - contribute to OBP's journey of success and prosperity!

Main Street Vermilion

We add the extras to our waterfront community.

Since 2001, Main Street Vermilion has worked to promote downtown economic and business development, historic preservation, community revitalization, beautification and tourism. We believe that our community is only as strong as our core: our historic downtown. Our mission is supported by our partner programs: Vermilion in Bloom, Historic Preservation, Vermilion Arts Guild and Public Art Vermilion. 

Main Street Wellington, Inc.

Strengthening the Spirit of Wellington

Your support will invest in the future of our community to support downtown beautification, historic preservation, economic development and, promoting tourism. We follow the 4-point approach that the National Main Street of America and Heritage Ohio have shown to revitalize a town.  We are a small but big-hearted non-profit tasked with the huge responsibility of "Strengthening the Spirit of Wellington" and keeping the southern portion of Lorain County thriving.  #support44090

Mary Lee Tucker Clothe-A-Child

Mary Lee Tucker Clothe-A-Child has supported local children in need of winter clothing since 1924.

The Mary Lee Tucker Fund was established in 1924 by the Lorain Journal. During the 100 years of service, thousands of families have benefited from the generosity of others. Every year families with children between the ages of 4 to 12 years old who meet eligibility requirements are invited to shop at a local store for warm winter clothes that will make them comfortable and also feel good about themselves.

Mercy Health Foundation of Lorain County

Improving and empowering our communities access to healthcare!

The Mercy Health Foundation of Lorain County is the philanthropic arm of the Mercy Health Lorain Market and supports a number of programs throughout Lorain County. In the 2023 fiscal year, the Mercy Health Foundation of Lorain County awarded over $3.5 million in grants to the Mercy Health Lorain Market, thanks to the generosity of individual and corporate donors, the health system’s auxiliaries, and other local foundations. Key fundraisers like the Taste of Friendship and the Mercy Health Golf Classic, along with memorial gifts and contributions from Mercy Health employees and community organizations, played a crucial role in these grants.

Scott Pember, president of the foundation, expressed gratitude for the increased donations, which enabled the foundation to support significant projects and improve local healthcare. Highlights of funded initiatives include:

Community Outreach ($803,870): Programs like the Resource Mothers Program, Community Health and Family Support which provide essential healthcare access to underserved individuals and families.

Mercy Health Mammogram Van ($1,500,000): Providing access to mammograms throughout Lorain County.

Mercy Health Cancer Center ($195,000): Holistic services including creative healing workshops, support groups, and individual support for cancer patients at no cost.

These grants support various categories such as new medical equipment, educational opportunities for staff, and community healthcare access.

Midview Schools Endowment

The Midview Endowment represents a community organization designed to provide permanent supplemental funding for improving the quality of education. The Midview Endowment supports the enhancement of education with the Midview Local Schools.

Our funds support STEM programs, athletic equipment, musical instruments, digital arts, college scholarships and many more programs to improve the educational experince of students in the Midview Schools.

National Council of Negro Women

The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) mission is to lead, empower and advocate for women of African descent, their families and communities.

NCNW Priorities: Our organization promotes education; encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educates women about health and promotes healthcare access, and promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice.
The Lorain County Sect has been committed to serving in our community for 37 years.
Lead, Empower and Advocate!
Give today!!

Neighborhood Alliance

For nearly 100 years, Neighborhood Alliance has worked to transform and improve lives in Lorain County by offering comprehensive services to meet critical needs of individuals and families and empower them.Our mission is to help communities grow stronger.

Join us as we restore the historic Elyria YMCA as a dynamic service hub, allowing us to expand vital senior and family support programs. A generous donor has pledged to match every gift received 1:3 until we reach $1million or until December 31, 2024 to aid in our fundraising goals. Together we're crafting a stronger, more connected community with your help!

Nord Mental Health Center (Riveon Mental Health and Recovery)

Engaging people in our community to achieve mental and emotional health through prevention, treatment, and advocacy.

In 2024, The Nord Center and The LCADA Way united to bring a full continuum of behavioral healthcare services to Lorain County and beyond. Funds from Connect to a Cause will help to ensure that every person in need of our services has timely access to the care they need. With ever-increasing need for community behavioral healthcare, the unified agency, which provides both mental health and substance use disorder services, delivers critical services and champions key projects.

Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra

The Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra provides exceptional musical education through a variety of performance opportunities for young musicians of all backgrounds in an inclusive community of learning and growth.

Active since 1969, the Oberlin-based Northern Ohio Youth Orchestra brings together young artists in grades three through twelve from Lorain County and beyond in our three orchestras, two wind ensembles, jazz combo, and popular summer camps. Your gift to NOYO will allow us to continue to offer financial aid so that as many musicians as possible can learn, grow, and make music together with the guidance of the extraordinary music educators on our conducting staff.

North Ridgeville City Schools Endowment Funds

The North Ridgeville City Schools Endowment Funds represent a school and community-based organization designed to develop and provide a permanent source of funding for improving the quality of education in our school district.

The NRCS Endowment Funds provide a permanent mechanism through which community donations can be allocated for worthwhile educational programs. The interest income generated by investments through the Community Foundation of Lorain County, provides a resource for students and staff.  Comprised of local community and educational leaders, the NRCS Endowment Funds trustees are responsible for fundraising and for the disbursement funds for grants and scholarships.

North Ridgeville Community Care

At North Ridgeville Community Care, we strive to help our neighbors when they are in need. From our food pantry to our Christmas Program, we provide many services to North Ridgeville.

Community Care relies on support from churches, schools, individuals, corporations, grants, and dedicated volunteers. 100% of donations to the Client Fund go directly to assisting clients in North Ridgeville. Client programs include:

FOOD PANTRY: The primary focus is providing groceries to meet the needs of all household members. Immediate food assistance is available to those in urgent need, with an invitation to apply for ongoing support.

CLOTHING & HOUSEHOLD ITEMS: Gently used clothing and household items are provided based on community donations. Special requests, such as for beds or furniture, are addressed when possible. (Currently, clothing and household item donations are paused and will resume later in 2022.)

UTILITY & HOUSING ASSISTANCE: To help clients maintain stable living conditions, assistance with utility and rent payments is offered. Funds are sent directly to utility companies or landlords. New clients are eligible after one month.

LAYETTES: New parents receive a layette of essential items for their newborns.

SUMMER LUNCHES: School-aged children who qualify through North Ridgeville City Schools receive five lunches per week during the summer. Food is purchased in bulk and distributed by volunteers.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES: Required school supplies are provided to ensure children start the school year prepared and on equal footing with their peers.

EASTER BASKETS: Children receive Easter baskets with candy and toys, along with a box of food for Easter dinner, including ham and spring vegetables.

THANKSGIVING DINNER DISTRIBUTION: Food boxes with a complete Thanksgiving meal, including a turkey, are distributed a week before the holiday.

CHRISTMAS STORE & ADOPT-A-CHILD PROGRAM: Donations of new toys, clothes, and games are collected for a Christmas “gift shop” where clients can select gifts for their families. Wish Lists from clients are also fulfilled through the Adopt-A-Child program.

ESSENTIALS: Daily necessities not covered by Food Stamps, such as hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and paper products, are offered to clients.

COMMUNITY GARDEN: Volunteers plant, tend, and harvest vegetables in the community garden, providing fresh, seasonal produce to clients.

Oberlin Choristers

Oberlin Choristers' mission is to provide the highest quality choral music education and performance opportunities to the culturally and economically diverse children and youth of northeast Ohio.

Ready, set, SING with Oberlin Choristers where children and adult members of Northeast Ohio's premiere choral education organization get the opportunity to spread the joy of music at home and all over the planet! Top-notch music educators provide in-depth vocal instruction, performance/travel opportunities, and experiences that enrich their lives. "My adult son still talks about the amazing experience he had with Choristers when he sang at Carnegie Hall." - parent of Chorister alumnus

Oberlin Community Services Council

OCS empowers area residents through emergency assistance, food programs, and other services while promoting systemic change. We envision a sustainable and thriving community where everyone flourishes.

Everyone deserves to eat! OCS runs the largest food pantry in Lorain County, helping about 350 families each week. Nearly 2,000 children rely on OCS for food, along with more than 3,000 working-age adults and 1,000 seniors. Inflation is making groceries more expensive, and is especially hurting seniors (ages 60+) on fixed incomes. OCS also provides about $200,000 in emergency financial relief to southern Lorain County residents struggling to keep up with rising rent and utilities costs.

Oberlin Schools Endowment

To provide enrichment opportunities for Oberlin City Schools students.

The Oberlin Schools Endowment Fund provides funding for creative programs to enrich every student's experience in our schools. Established in 1986, the Endowment Fund enables exciting, special learning opportunities which engage students in the classroom, extra-curricular clubs, field trips, in art, music, athletics and more.

P.A.C.E. Foundation

The mission of PACE Foundation is to empower residents of northeastern Ohio through the provision of services that address their physical, social and spiritual needs thus transforming this area into a vibrant and self-sufficient region.

The mission of PACE Foundation is to empower residents of northeastern Ohio through the provision of services that address their physical, social and spiritual needs thus transforming this area into a vibrant and self-sufficient region.

Partners with Paws of Lorain County, Inc.

We are a 'Pay It Forward Rescue,' raising funds for shelter pets in need. We cover pull fees for dogs, assist 25+ rescue groups annually, and help individuals unable to afford their pet's healthcare.

"Partners With Paws" began as a weekly pet adoption show in March 2003, hosted by Lorie Wilber on Radio Station "Kool Kat Oldies" WDLW 1380AM. Six months later, it debuted on "Gold Country" WOBL 1320AM. Over its 20-year run on the radio, "Partners With Paws" helped thousands of pets find new homes.

In February 2011, "Partners With Paws" received its license to operate as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization under the name "Partners With Paws of Lorain County, Inc." Although the organization does not directly take in animals, it considers itself a "Pay It Forward Rescue" by raising funds to support rescue groups that do. Over the years, they have raised thousands of dollars for shelter pets in need and covered pull fees for hundreds of dogs from local kennels. Partners With Paws financially assists over 25 animal rescue groups annually and now also helps individuals who are unable to afford their pets' healthcare.

Primary Purpose Center, Inc.

Provide quality sober living to the chemically dependent person & assist people w/ recovery from addiction. Substance abuse is progressive, chronic, potentially fatal diseases, & everyone deserves access to care, regardless of their ability to pay.

Primary Purpose provides recovery housing to 300+ unduplicated men & women in Lorain County & surrounding areas a year. Residents in our level 3 60-day program are provided all of their basic needs including 120+ meals a day we serve to the residents in our program at no cost. The level 3 program includes 7+ hours of programming a day engaging the residents suffering from addiction in IOP, 12 step groups, peer support, and religious services. Less than 1% of our residents relapse in our program.

Road To Hope House Inc.

The Road to Hope is a drug and alcohol-free residential facility to provide the addicted person with the support, guidance, and faith necessary to become a productive member of our society and return to the community and their families.

The Road to Hope (RTH) is a 501 (c) (3) organization that operates certified recovery housing for men, women, and women with children in Northeast Ohio. RTH provides a safe, substance-free living environment, and creates the peer-to-peer relationships necessary for recovery from the hopeless state of mind and body that defines addiction. Our vision for a life changing program began in 2007 with one rented home and has since grown to 31 homes serving over 425 men, women, and children.

Ruby N Jones Community Scholarship Fund

To provide need-based financial support for higher education to capable college-aged students with strong character and personal vision residing within the Oberlin school district.

Help us raise $50,000 in order to award 5 students $10,000 scholarships and support their future endeavors.  Over the last 25 years, we have awarded over $450,000 in scholarship funds and supported a total of 73 high school graduates in their post-secondary efforts.  Our fund focuses on awarding monies to those students that may be overlooked in the scholarship application process, yet who have the drive and passion to obtain a college education.

Sandstone Summer Theatre

To create a welcoming, high-quality, and educational theatre experience for all.

SST is a non-profit community theatre based out of Amherst, OH whose mission is to create a welcoming, high-quality, and educational experience for all. Everyone, no matter the age, has a place in the theatre family!

Save Our Children of Elyria, Inc.

To enhance literacy, foster academic excellence, and nurture leadership skills among the vulnerable youth in our community.

Our K-12 after-school programs are dedicated to providing exceptional programming to our students while ensuring that they receive the best possible care and support. We strive to create a well-rounded foundation for our students and their families through our 5 Pillars of Excellence, which focus on Academic Skill-Building, Social-Emotional Learning, Health and Wellness Awareness, College and Career Readiness, and Community Engagement. Support today and help children reach their full potential!

Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio

Grow hope in our region by creating pathways to nutritious food.

Second Harvest Food Bank works to grow hope in our region by creating pathways to nutritious food. We strive to create a brighter future for all by cultivating a healthy, hunger-free community. This year, we are asking for 100 friends to help us achieve our $15,000 goal, which will go toward purchasing food for our Lorain County Thanksgiving distribution, held in November. With your help, we will provide Thanksgiving meals to hundreds of families in Lorain County.

Sheffield-Sheffield Lake Schools Endowment Fund

The Sheffield-Sheffield Lake City School's Endowment Fund represents a school/community-based effort to develop and provide a permanent source of supplemental funding for improving the quality of education

Funding generated through this campaign will be used to support the fine arts department through the purchase of a new acoustic piano.  As the instrumental, choral, and theatre programs expand at Brookside High School/Brookside Middle School, there is an increasing need for a high quality acoustic piano.  Upon goal achievement a concert showcasing the piano will be held as a token of gratitude to the donors and community. 

South Amherst Historical Society

The SAHS mission is to promote a knowledge of the history of South Amherst by collecting, and preserving that history and its relationship to the adjoining area.

When the SAHS was offered the option to save a historic building in the village of South Amherst, they started a plan of action. What currently is known as South Ridge Hall has served this community since 1887. It has served the community in many different forms. Many remember it as being the "heart" of the community. The SAHS is currently renting it as a venue and offering it to the community as a gathering place. Your donations will help us move forward to preserve this historical landmark.

Spirit of '76 Museum - SLCHS

The mission of the Southern Lorain County Historical Society is to educate, preserve, protect, and maintain the history of southern Lorain County.

The Spirit of '76 Museum welcomes visitors to enjoy our eclectic collections on Saturdays and Sundays - April to October. We feature Archibald Willard, the painter of the famous Spirit of '76, a library, photos, a military collection, and many other unique items. We plan to update our third floor which has jokingly been called our "Attic for Other Stuff". There are treasures to be seen, but like an attic, might be hidden. Help us "find", update our display areas and showcase our treasures!

St. Frances Cabrini Endowment Fund

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish in Lorain, Ohio, serves a diverse community with a history dating to 1900. The parish offers a welcoming space for worship, Sacramental preparation, and religious education for all.

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Parish in Lorain, Ohio, has a rich history that began in 1900 as St. John the Baptist Parish, originally serving Croatian, German, Hungarian, Irish, and Slovenian Catholics in the area. Over time, the parish underwent several changes, including the establishment of SS. Cyril & Methodius and St. Vitus Parishes. In 2010, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini was founded as part of a consolidation of these parishes, creating a new community that continues to serve a diverse population.

As a small church with a big heart in the Cleveland Catholic Diocese, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish warmly embraces everyone—Catholics and non-Catholics alike—into its community. The parish offers a friendly environment where people from various backgrounds can worship God, be inspired by Scripture, and experience the Sacraments.

The Pastor and Parochial Vicar are committed to helping parishioners prepare for and receive the Sacraments, which are seen as special encounters with Jesus Christ. For families with young children, the Parish School of Religion is offered on Mondays from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. at St. Vincent de Paul Church, available both in person and online. This program helps families and youth connect with the Catholic faith and culture. Religious education is considered important for all ages and is encouraged to continue throughout life.

As part of a Diocesan cluster with St. Vincent de Paul in Elyria Township and Sacred Heart in Lorain, St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish is united by faith and dedicated to serving others in Christ’s name.

The LCADA Way (Riveon Mental Health and Recovery)

To transform individual lives, families and communities suffering from alcohol abuse, substance abuse and behavioral health issues.

The LCADA Way, has been the largest addiction treatment and prevention agency in Lorain County since 1981. Our scope of services and offerings has grown rapidly since adding centers in Erie and Cuyahoga counties. We currently serve over 6,800 individuals, youth and families with treatment services and prevention services. Our focus is to transform individual lives, families and communities suffering from alcohol abuse, substance abuse, problem gambling and behavioral health issues.

The Salvation Army Elyria

Doing the Most Good

The Salvation Army remains uniquely poised to provide extensive wrap around services, ensuring households in need have access to basic needs and are equipped to address the root causes of poverty. More than 18,000 individuals sought assistance in 2023, including grocery assistance, hot meals, utilities assistance and temporary housing solutions. The Salvation Army continues to act as a hub of community activity to local youth, supporting academic achievement and character development.

United Way of Greater Lorain County

To lead measurable community transformation, creating a better life for all, by connecting community partners through collective impact in health, education, and financial stability.

For over 100 years, United Way of Greater Lorain County has been fighting for the health, education, and financial stability of hardworking low-income families in Greater Lorain County. By sharing resources and aligning our goals with over 150 corporate, nonprofit and governmental partners, we go looking for the problems most people say can't be solved while addressing the system that leads people to need help in the first place.

Voices for Children

Volunteers serve as court appointed advocates for abused and neglected children.

Voices for Children is a 501(c)3 not for profit corporation in Lorain County that supports the efforts of the Volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem Program by raising funds and supporting the Volunteer CASA-GALs and Staff in the areas of child advocacy, public relations, volunteer recruitment, retention, and training. 

Wellington Schools Endowment

Providing money to K-12 students in the district in 3 ways. Scholarships, teacher grants, and a saving for college match program. Every student in the district experiences educational enrichment opportunities thanks to the Endowment Fund.

The Wellington Schools Endowment provides funding for nonrequired school programs, such as the fine and performing arts and field trips. Endowment provides money to kindergarten through twelfth grade students in 3 ways. Scholarships,  teacher grants and a saving for college match program. Every student in the district experiences educational enrichment opportunities thanks to the Endowment Fund. 

Western Reserve Land Conservancy

Western Reserve Land Conservancy's mission is to provide the people of our region with essential natural assets through land conservation and restoration.

Western Reserve Land Conservancy has permanently conserved more than 73,000 acres across more than 900 unique properties, including 34 properties and 4,255 acres in Lorain County. Our work includes preserving high-quality natural areas, protecting family farms, and creating healthy cities through parks, trees, and green spaces. Our focus on creating public access to nature reflects our commitment to promoting environmental justice, human health, and nature-based educational opportunities.