Fresno, California, is home to numerous charitable organizations dedicated to making a difference in the community. These nonprofits address diverse challenges, from empowering women and promoting mental well-being to providing shelter and supporting the unhoused. Groups like Helping One Woman (HOW), The Say Yes Foundation, Wings Advocacy Fresno, Central Valley Community Foundation, and Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno Area exemplify the power of collective action and compassion. Together, they work to transform lives, foster hope, and create a brighter future for those in need.
Helping One Woman (HOW) is a nonprofit organization based in Fresno, California, dedicated to empowering and supporting women facing unexpected hardships. Through monthly gatherings, HOW fosters a community of compassion where friends, family, and community members come together to honor one deserving woman. Each event celebrates her strength and resilience, providing her with emotional and financial assistance to help navigate challenging times.
The organization emphasizes the power of collective support, as attendees donate a minimum of $10 to attend, with all proceeds directly benefiting the chosen recipient. HOW’s mission is rooted in the belief that one act of kindness can create a ripple effect, transforming lives and inspiring hope. By uniting people in their shared commitment to helping others, HOW builds a strong network of encouragement and solidarity, making a lasting impact on women in need and their families.
The Say Yes Foundation, based in Fresno, California, is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting positive mental attitudes to address life’s challenges. Founded by Michael Jordan in 1994, the organization emerged from his personal journey of overcoming adversity and his commitment to combating drug abuse and violence in communities.
The foundation offers various programs, including drug education, anti-bullying initiatives, and positivity promotion. Their drug education program provides comprehensive information on identifying substances, understanding their origins, effects, and prevention strategies. The anti-bullying initiative offers practical tips, educational materials, and supportive spaces to address and combat bullying, aiming to create environments where kindness and respect prevail. Additionally, the foundation encourages volunteerism, offering opportunities for individuals to contribute to society and earn volunteering credits.
Wings Advocacy Fresno is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting formerly unhoused individuals and families in Fresno, California. Founded in 2013 and incorporated in 2016, their mission is to affirm every human being’s right to shelter by engaging volunteers to serve homeless neighbors.
The organization collects gently used home furnishings from community donors, which volunteers then sort, clean, and deliver—along with new mattresses and pillows—to recently housed clients, including families, veterans, students, and individuals escaping domestic violence. Their delivery crew serves up to 15 clients per week, helping them set up their new homes.
The Central Valley Community Foundation (CVCF) is a non-profit organization based in Fresno, California. It focuses on fostering philanthropy to address key issues in the Central Valley region, including education, health, housing, and economic development. By partnering with donors, businesses, and community organizations, CVCF provides grants and strategic support to initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents.
With a commitment to driving positive change, the foundation supports projects aimed at creating equitable opportunities and strengthening local communities. Its approach emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. Through programs and funding, CVCF empowers individuals and groups to make lasting impacts while addressing regional challenges.
Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno Area, established in 1985, is a nonprofit Christian housing organization dedicated to providing safe, decent, and affordable shelter in Fresno and Madera counties. Affiliated with Habitat for Humanity International, founded in 1976, the organization shares a vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
The organization engages future homeowners who invest “sweat equity” by working alongside volunteers to build their homes. Once completed, these homeowners repay an affordable loan, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
This list of charities in Fresno isn’t the only one, and AAM Nation Care is yet another amazing organization that cares about people and their future.