Opinions

DATE: December 14, 2008

Letters to the Observer
Fayetteville Observer online
[email protected]

Nonprofits enrich the quality of life for many

North Carolina has a long and proud history of serving those in need. More than 26,000 nonprofit organizations serve communities in all 100 counties. Nonprofits educate, inspire and touch our lives in a myriad of ways. They provide vital human services, advocate for important public policies and strengthen the fabric of our communities. In recognition of the significant contributions of these organizations, Gov. Mike Easley last month declared November as nonprofit awareness month.

As we struggle in a difficult economy, it is likely nonprofits will be called upon to meet a growing demand for services. At the North Carolina Healthy Start Foundation, we are giving back to our fellow nonprofits. In honor of our upcoming 20th year serving North Carolinians, we are awarding one-time, small community grants to those agencies working with women of reproductive age. These grants will help in addressing high rates of infant mortality, teen pregnancy, HIV/AIDS, drug use, smoking, obesity and other risky behaviors.

Having just celebrated the season when we pause to give thanks, we are thankful for our ability to advocate for healthy moms and healthy babies. We hope all North Carolinians will celebrate the many volunteers, philanthropists and nonprofit organizations that enrich and improve the quality of our lives.

Janice A. Freedman,
Executive Director, N.C. Healthy Start Foundation
Raleigh

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