Virginia is home to thousands of nonprofit and charitable organizations that aim to enrich communities, support those in need, and better our world. From large national charities to local groups, these organizations tackle issues like poverty, education, healthcare, homelessness, and much more. When seeking worthy causes to support with your time, talent, or donations, There is no shortage of impactful charities in Virginia doing great work across the state.
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Norfolk
For families with seriously ill or injured children receiving treatment far from home, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Norfolk provides a comfortable place to stay and supportive community. The independent nonprofit opened its first Ronald McDonald Family Room in 2011 inside Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters. Today, their Norfolk House location near CHKD offers 19 private bedrooms for families to remain close to their hospitalized child.
RMHC Norfolk relies on volunteers and donations to provide lodging, meals, transportation, and other services to assist families. Their family-centered care helps relieve financial burdens, logistical challenges, and emotional stress during difficult medical journeys. Over the past decade, RMHC Norfolk has served over 5,000 families from Hampton Roads and beyond.
Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia
Hunger affects people from all walks of life, and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia works tirelessly to nourish communities across Hampton Roads. As the largest hunger-relief organization in the region, they provide millions of meals each year through neighborhood programs and partnerships. Their initiatives focus on children, families, seniors, and active military and veterans.
The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia distributes food through soup kitchens, shelters, schools, and senior centers. Donations and volunteers are always welcomed to support their mission of providing nutritious food with dignity, respect, and equity.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula
For over 75 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula has empowered local youth to reach their full potential. With clubs in Newport News, Hampton, York County, and Williamsburg, they offer a safe place for children and teens to thrive outside of school. Programming promotes academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character and citizenship.
Boys & Girls Club members receive homework help, leadership development, arts education, STEM learning, fitness activities, and more. Affordable membership dues ensure accessibility. By investing in their future now, the Clubs help set young people up for brighter tomorrows.
The Up Center
Meeting basic needs is the first step toward better futures. The Up Center in Norfolk takes a comprehensive approach to crisis intervention and self-sufficiency. Their emergency services provide food, clothing, infant necessities, shelter referrals, and financial assistance. They also offer workforce development, parenting classes, counseling, and community education.
For over 50 years, The Up Center has supported families and individuals facing hardships in Norfolk and the surrounding metro area. Donations of goods and money allow The Up Center to reach more people through their emergency and empowerment programs.
Habitat for Humanity Peninsula & Greater Williamsburg
Building strength, stability, and independence through affordable homeownership—that’s the mission of Habitat for Humanity Peninsula & Greater Williamsburg. Partnering with low-income families, they build and rehabilitate houses sold at no profit with zero-interest mortgages. Homebuyers invest hundreds of hours of sweat equity and volunteer labor alongside Habitat staff and supporters.
Since 1985, Habitat P&GW has served over 200 households through new construction, repairs, and neighborhood revitalization. Their ReStores also fund the cause by selling quality donated furniture, home goods, and building materials to the public at deeply discounted prices.
ARC of Greater Prince William
For over 60 years, ARC of Greater Prince William has supported individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities along with their families. They provide personalized services for every stage of life that foster independence, confidence, and community inclusion. Programs range from early intervention for infants to training and employment programs for adults.
The nonprofit champions the dignity and value of all lives. Donations and volunteers sustain their work to empower individuals, educate families, and strengthen the community. ARC makes sure no one faces their disability journey alone.
Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the many organizations improving lives across Virginia. Whether you volunteer, donate, or spread awareness, there are so many ways to support charitable work in your local community. Do some research to find groups that align with causes close to your heart.
