10 Great Nonprofits in Raleigh, NC to Help Out

Volunteers at a food pantry in Raleigh, NC

Looking for ways to give back or volunteer in Raleigh, North Carolina? From food security and housing to education, healthcare, and the arts, nonprofit organizations in Raleigh, NC, do it all. Whether you’re planning a move to the city or you’re a longtime resident, countless volunteer opportunities will align with your interests and skills. By supporting a Raleigh charity or getting involved with a North Carolina nonprofit, you’ll help strengthen the community and vital programs that support it.

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Raleigh, NC, Nonprofits and Charities

Volunteer opportunities in Raleigh are plentiful, thanks to nearly 10,000 organizations working across the region. From education and housing to food security and healthcare, nonprofit organizations in Raleigh, NC, are vital in supporting the community. A Raleigh nonprofit may provide after-school programs, help families access nutritious meals, protect natural resources, or offer cultural enrichment. By getting involved, you can make a difference in the lives of others, develop new skills, and leave a lasting impact.

Tips on Volunteering for Raleigh Nonprofits

Nonprofits play a vital role in local communities, and there are many ways to get involved. Whether you’re interested in nonprofit jobs in Raleigh or simply want to support causes you care about, your time and efforts make a difference.

Common nonprofit jobs in North Carolina include senior management, communications professionals, development and funding staff, and program coordinators. If you want to give back but don’t have time for a full-time job, here are simple ways to help:

  • Call your local nonprofit to ask how you can help.
  • Volunteer at events or programs.
  • Share their posts and help create flyers to spread the word.
  • Organize fundraisers or donation drives in your community.
  • Get friends and family involved in supporting the cause.
  • Research nonprofits that pick up donations in your area.

1. Educate Tomorrow’s Parents

Students in a classroom

Educate Tomorrow’s Parents (ETP) is a Raleigh nonprofit dedicated to preparing young adults to be strong, capable parents for the next generation. ETP offers a curriculum aligned with health education and family science standards, equipping teens with essential life skills. These skills include making thoughtful decisions, forming healthy relationships, and avoiding circumstances that often lead to child abuse or neglect. Through this proactive approach, ETP breaks cycles of poverty and instability while empowering future parents to build nurturing, supportive families.

How to Help

There are many ways to support ETP and its mission. Volunteers can contribute their skills in areas like event planning, grant writing, website development, or even as assistant instructors. These opportunities strengthen the organization’s reach and offer valuable experience for those looking to volunteer in Raleigh. Donations are another impactful way to help, with options to give online, by mail, or by becoming a corporate sponsor. You can also spread awareness by encouraging local schools to adopt their Healthy Foundations for Future Families program.

2. Kimberly’s Touch

Hands holding a pink cancer ribbon in front of a pink background.

Kimberly’s Touch is a Raleigh charity dedicated to supporting cancer patients with both emotional and financial resources. By working to alleviate the stress that comes with treatment, the organization helps patients focus on healing while bridging critical gaps in care and resources. Their goal is to create a future where every cancer patient has access to adequate support. Kimberly’s Touch provides hope, dignity, and compassion to individuals and families facing one of life’s toughest battles.

How to Help

There are many ways to get involved with Kimberly’s Touch. The organization hosts community fundraisers and charity rides that raise awareness and essential funding. Past events have included vendor fairs, galas, and paint-and-sip gatherings, giving the community plenty of opportunities to show support. To learn more about upcoming events or ways to volunteer in Raleigh, reaching out directly to Kimberly’s Touch is the best first step. You can also make a direct impact by donating through their website.

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3. Family Promise of the Triangle

A mother lifting up her child over her head

Family Promise of the Triangle, formerly known as Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network, has been serving Wake County families since 1994. What began as a church-based emergency shelter has grown into a Raleigh nonprofit offering homelessness prevention services and emergency shelter. They have also implemented rapid rehousing, transitional housing, and long-term stabilization programs. Unlike most shelters, Family Promise allows families to stay together regardless of age or gender. This ensures parents never have to choose between their children and safe housing. By providing immediate relief and long-term support, this North Carolina charity helps families move from crisis to stability into permanent, affordable housing.

How to Help

There are several ways to get involved with Family Promise of the Triangle. You can volunteer in Raleigh by assisting with Resource Center maintenance, or lend your expertise by serving on the board. Supporters can also participate in the annual Night Without a Bed campaign, which raises awareness and funding by encouraging participants to spend one night without the comfort of a bed and share their experience online. Financial donations also go a long way in sustaining programs that transform the lives of families experiencing homelessness.

4. Camp Corral

Kids playing tug of war at camp

Camp Corral is a Raleigh nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of children of wounded, ill, and fallen military heroes. Since its founding, the organization has provided camp, advocacy, and enrichment programs that help military children build resilience, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. These kids face unique challenges, and many serve as caregivers or cope with the long-term effects of a parent’s service-related injury. Camp Corral gives them the chance to simply be kids while learning the tools to thrive. Families often say the program not only empowers their children but also strengthens the entire family unit.

How to Help

There are many ways to volunteer in Raleigh with Camp Corral. Local volunteers can help pack camper gear packs or assist with camp check-ins and check-outs. Across the country, supporters can host activities like ice cream socials at camp or lend their skills to virtual programs. Businesses and organizations can also support Camp Corral through sponsorships, fundraising events, and cause-marketing campaigns. Donations are always welcome and directly impact the ability of this North Carolina nonprofit to provide life-changing experiences for military children and their families.

5. Ten Eighteen Uganda

A little girl holding a baby for the Ten Eighteen Uganda nonprofit in Raleigh. NC
Courtesy of 1018 Uganda.

Ten Eighteen Uganda is a North Carolina-based nonprofit breaking the cycle of poverty, abuse, and early motherhood for teen girls in Uganda. Through its Touch the Slum program, they provide crisis housing for homeless teen moms, along with vocational training, literacy education, and trauma counseling. Ten Eighteen also supports children in impoverished schools in Western Uganda by providing food, clean water, and infrastructure improvements. Their work transforms individual lives and challenges the cultural norms that prevent girls from accessing education and safety.

How to Help

There are many ways to support Ten Eighteen Uganda and its mission. Donations play a vital role, and funds go directly to free services like residential housing for teen moms, healthcare, vocational education, daycare, and trauma counseling. Supporting this Raleigh nonprofit means standing with some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. UniMovers is proud to support Ten Eighteen Uganda, and your involvement ensures these young women and children have the resources they need to thrive.

6. Enlace Latino NC

Man sitting reading newspaper

Enlace Latino NC is the first nonprofit Spanish-language digital news outlet in North Carolina. It is dedicated to producing independent, truthful, and nonpartisan journalism. Their mission is to close the information gap between Latino immigrant communities and the public policies that directly affect them. Through a website, newsletters, podcasts, and a radio show, they deliver essential news and resources on immigration, state government, and community affairs. For nearly two decades, their work has empowered Latino and Hispanic immigrants to engage in civic life, advocate for themselves, and be part of the social and economic changes shaping North Carolina.

How to Help

Supporting Enlace Latino NC means strengthening access to information and advocacy for immigrant communities. One of the best ways to help is by engaging with their work. You can do this by sharing their immigration guides, financial and Medicaid assistance information, and agricultural worker guides to Spanish-speaking neighbors. You can also make a one-time or recurring donation to sustain their nonprofit journalism. As a North Carolina nonprofit, Enlace Latino NC relies on community support to keep its reporting free and accessible. Your involvement helps ensure that Latino immigrants in North Carolina have the information and tools they need to succeed.

7. United Arts Wake County

Pain brushes inside plastic cups holding paints

For over 50 years, United Arts Wake County has worked to build a stronger community by supporting and advocating for the arts. Through grants to artists, arts organizations, and municipalities, along with robust education programs for Wake County students, United Arts ensures that creativity and culture remain accessible to all. In 2022, the nonprofit arts and culture industry in Wake County generated over $543 million in economic activity, supporting nearly 9,000 jobs. As a leading Raleigh nonprofit, their vision is a community where creativity is celebrated as a vital part of life.

How to Help

Volunteers can support annual events like the Artists in Schools Expo or help as Cultural Arts Representatives. These representatives serve as liaisons between schools and artists to coordinate impactful programming. Special event volunteers are also needed to assist with arts-focused community gatherings. If you’re looking for meaningful volunteer opportunities in Raleigh, United Arts is a fantastic option to connect through creativity. You can also donate directly to sustain their work and ensure the arts remain accessible to all Wake County residents. By supporting this North Carolina nonprofit, you’re helping art and culture continue to enrich lives across the region.

8. Rise Against Hunger

Volunteers at a food pantry handing out food

Rise Against Hunger is on a mission to end hunger worldwide by empowering communities, nourishing lives, and responding to emergencies. Operating globally, this North Carolina nonprofit tackles food insecurity head-on with meal packaging programs, school feeding initiatives, and agricultural projects. In 2024 alone, Rise Against Hunger packaged over 54 million meals and impacted more than 9 million lives. By providing immediate relief and sustainable solutions, this Raleigh nonprofit is working to break the cycle of hunger and help families become self-reliant.

How to Help

One of the most popular volunteer opportunities in Raleigh with Rise Against Hunger is their Rise Against Hunger Experience event. During the event, groups come together to assemble nutritious, shelf-stable meals. These meals are sent to communities in need around the world. Beyond volunteering, supporters can contribute in other meaningful ways, like making one-time donations, joining Team Nourish to provide monthly support, or shopping through the organization’s Shop Hope marketplace. Corporate partnerships and product donations also play an important role in sustaining their mission. Whether you choose to volunteer locally or give financially, your support helps this North Carolina charity fight hunger globally.

9. North Carolina Conservation Network

Aerial view of river during the fall

The North Carolina Conservation Network is a statewide coalition of more than 60 environmental, community, and justice organizations working together to protect the state’s natural resources. By addressing issues such as clean air, safe drinking water, climate change, and environmental justice, this North Carolina nonprofit plays a vital role in shaping state policies that safeguard public health and the environment. Their vision is a future where all North Carolinians, especially communities historically impacted by inequities, can thrive in safe, just, and sustainable surroundings.

How to Help

There are many ways to get involved with the North Carolina Conservation Network. Supporters can take action directly by contacting legislators about critical issues such as protecting wetlands, opposing harmful energy bills, and advocating for clean offshore wind. Donating is another impactful way to strengthen their mission, whether through a one-time or monthly gift, contributions of stocks or securities, workplace giving programs, or even vehicle donations. Every contribution helps protect North Carolina’s air, water, and quality of life for generations to come. By volunteering your voice, sharing resources, or making a financial gift, you’ll join a growing movement committed to a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable future for all.

10. Friends of Wake Animals

Young woman hugging a dog

Since 2012, Friends of Wake Animals has been working to reduce euthanasia rates and improve the lives of shelter pets in Wake County. What began as a small group of volunteers raising awareness has grown into a powerful Raleigh nonprofit that provides medical care, boarding, adoption support, and public outreach to promote responsible pet ownership. Through programs like low-cost spay/neuter vouchers, the Heal a Heart initiative for heartworm-positive dogs, senior pet sponsorships, and the No Empty Bowl Program, this organization helps pets get the care they need while keeping families and their animals together. Their efforts extend beyond direct animal care, supporting local rescues, shelters, and adopters to reduce the number of homeless animals across the Triangle.

How to Help

There are many ways animal lovers can get involved with Friends of Wake Animals. Volunteering is one of the most rewarding opportunities, whether it’s walking dogs, cuddling cats, assisting with adoptions, fundraising, or helping at outreach events. The Wake County Animal Center Volunteer Program requires a six-month commitment, but it’s an invaluable way to make a lasting difference in the lives of pets waiting for homes. Fostering is another powerful option, providing animals with a quiet, loving environment while they prepare for adoption. Supporters can also donate through Amazon and Chewy wishlists to keep the No Empty Bowl Program stocked with food for hundreds of pets in need each month.

How to Find Other Raleigh, NC Nonprofits

There are plenty of other North Carolina charities doing great work that welcome volunteers both in person and remotely. If you’re looking for nonprofit jobs in North Carolina, there are many opportunities to do that as well!

Websites like Catchafire and VolunteerMatch make it easy to find flexible, accessible volunteer opportunities in Raleigh, NC. This includes everything from virtual mentoring and social media support to event help and more. Whether you prefer hands-on roles or remote projects, these platforms connect you with causes that fit your skills and schedule.

Conclusion

There are countless nonprofit organizations in Raleigh, NC, that support education, health, the environment, and more. These North Carolina nonprofits provide vital services and programs that strengthen our community. Whether you want to volunteer in Raleigh, donate, or attend events, there are many ways to get involved.

By supporting these Raleigh charities, you can help families, children, animals, and the environment. Volunteer opportunities in Raleigh range from hands-on roles to professional positions, including nonprofit jobs in Raleigh that make a lasting impact. Every contribution—whether time, skills, or donations—helps these organizations continue their important work. Get involved today and be part of a community that cares! Together, we can make Raleigh stronger and healthier for everyone.

FAQ’s

How can I find volunteer opportunities in Raleigh, NC?

You can find a variety of volunteer opportunities in Raleigh by exploring local nonprofits, community centers, and online volunteer hubs. Many Raleigh nonprofit organizations offer flexible roles that match your skills and schedule.

What types of Raleigh nonprofit organizations can I support?

Raleigh has a wide range of nonprofit organizations including charities focused on education, health, animals, environmental protection, and social services. You can choose one that aligns with your passions and makes a meaningful impact.

Can I volunteer in North Carolina if I live outside Raleigh?

Yes! Many volunteer in Raleigh programs welcome participants from across North Carolina. Some organizations also offer virtual volunteering or remote opportunities, so you can contribute from anywhere in the state.

Are there paid opportunities in Raleigh nonprofits?

Yes, nonprofit jobs in Raleigh are available across a variety of sectors, including administration, program management, fundraising, and community outreach. These roles allow you to make a career out of giving back.

How can I donate to Raleigh charities?

Most Raleigh nonprofits accept one-time or recurring donations online. Donating helps fund essential programs and support services, ensuring that these North Carolina nonprofits can continue making a positive impact in the community.

Content Editor/Guest Blogger at UniMovers |  + posts

Skylar Sanders is an Atlanta native and earned her BA in Film and Media Studies from Georgia State University in 2022. She is currently a graduate student at GSU studying Communications with a concentration in Digital Media Strategies. In her free time she enjoys being in nature, volunteering, creating digital art, and catching up on her favorite TV shows.