CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If you haven't donated to any favorite nonprofits during the holiday season, local charities are encouraging you to start the new year with charitable giving.
"Be searching for those ways to support nonprofits all year long," Melissa Hovey, managing director of Share Charlotte, said. "Think about a January start. It's never too late and there's always a need."
Share Charlotte offers a technology platform that allows people to search its database of 650 local nonprofits.
Hovey calls it "the Google of nonprofits."
"The demand for services is way up on our nonprofit partners," Hovey said.
According to the North Carolina Secretary of State's office, charitable giving increased 18% over the last year, totaling $58 million.
"North Carolinians are very generous," NC Secretary of State Elaine Marshall said.
Marshall urges people to donate to local, reputable organizations so you have a better idea of how that money will be used.
You can look up charities registered with the state on www.sosnc.gov.
The Salvation Army, WCNC Charlotte's partner for The Magical Toy Drive, also encourages people to revisit donating in 2024.
"Need knows no season," Salvation Army Area Commander Jason Burns said. "You know, it's not just a Christmas season. It's an all-year thing. When people come to us in crisis, it doesn't matter what time of the year."
Contact Ben Thompson at bthompson@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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