When creating The Serve Pickleball + Kitchen concept, Jack and Robin Salzman wanted to continue the charitable support of the community they built during their time as business owners in Lake Norman, which has evolved into Serve for a Cause. Each quarter, The Serve will host a fundraising tournament for three selected local non-profits. There will also be volunteer opportunities for those interested in giving back. Organizations may apply via TheServePickleball.com under “Community.”
With a heart for children and a vision for change, Marilyn Heyward, founder of STeAM Children’s Studios, has brought hope, joy, and learning to over 600 families across the Carolinas. Through her free community givebacks, children discover the wonder of science, technology, engineering, art, and math—often for the very first time. “Every event is about more than learning,” Marilyn shares. “It’s about giving families a moment of joy, connection, and possibility.” Her goal is to open a dedicated STeAM learning facility where children can explore, create, and grow year-round. For information, contact [email protected].
Dedicated to helping people achieve lasting economic stability in the Lake Norman area, the Ada Jenkins Center prioritizes supporting neighbors in need. As a one-stop resource hub, it provides wrap-around services tailored to each household—offering afterschool education K-5, financial assistance, case management, homeless street outreach, a food pantry, free tax preparation, and healthy cooking classes. AJC’s newest program adds asset building workshops in credit and homeownership. Visit www.adajenkins.org.
Angels & Sparrows empowers local families in north Mecklenburg County with food security, educational support, and resources for meaningful change. Since 2008, they have served hot meals, stocked fresh groceries, and provided summer lunch bags for children. The 2-Generation Pathway Program helps adults pursue ESL, GED, and workforce development while children receive literacy tutoring and mentoring. With dignity at the center of their work, Angels & Sparrows welcomes everyone to the table, offering hope, support, and community. See how you can help at www.AngelsandSparrows.org.
The Affordable Senior Housing Foundation (www.ashf.org) is dedicated to empowering seniors through high-quality, affordable assisted living. Founded with compassion and purpose, ASHF serves older adults in underserved rural and urban communities, especially those caught in the Medicaid gap or living on fixed incomes. By creating vibrant, supportive environments, they ensure seniors can age with dignity and remain in familiar surroundings. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to make compassionate, comprehensive care accessible to every senior, regardless of financial circumstances.
Since 1994, MiraVia has been a Christ-centered haven for pregnant mothers and children; and in 2013, its free College Residence welcomed pregnant students nationwide, providing housing and support so they can pursue higher education while caring for their child. The MiraVia Outreach Center also aids more than 1,100 underserved women and babies in the Charlotte community yearly. A Catholic 501(c)(3) nonprofit, MiraVia welcomes women of all backgrounds with dignity and love. Learn more at www.MiraVia.org
