I’ve been thinking a lot about how powerful hope can be — especially when life feels uncertain. That’s why I’m so grateful for kind friends like you. Your support doesn’t just meet needs … it gives hope in times of uncertainty.  

When Melissa Smith joined Getting Ahead, she was in a tough spot — struggling with health issues, unemployed, and feeling totally alone. But thanks to kind friends LIKE YOU, she didn’t have to face it all by herself. 

Support from friends like you gave her something powerful: hope. In the middle of all that uncertainty, she found community, encouragement, and a path forward.

Will you give that same hope to someone else today? Your gift can be the turning point in someone’s story — just like it was for Melissa.
Show your support today!

“When I started GA my life was so sad. I was down mentally, physically, and looking for work. I felt like I had so many problems,” Melissa said. “Now I’ve made strong friendships and I’m actually looking forward to things. It’s so comforting to know you’re not alone or the only one facing problems.” 

That’s what Getting Ahead is all about—building community, creating hope, and giving people the tools they need to not just survive — but thrive! Through our Economic Empowerment programs, like GA, neighbors like Melissa have found friendship and a community that listens, supports, and believes in her. 

That’s the power of community! That’s what your donation makes possible. When you give, you’re not just helping someone get through a hard time — you’re reminding them they belong. You’re letting them know: you are not alone.

If you haven’t already made a special summer gift, would you consider donating today? In times of uncertainty, it’s kind friends like you who bring steady hope — fueling this “small revolution of kindness” and reminding our neighbors they’re not alone. Your support helps create a place of belonging, even when life feels unsure.
 
Serving together with one common heart,

Keith Adams, Executive Director

P.S. — We have open slots on Sept. 4 & Sept. 9 to prepare (or purchase!) a meal for our current Getting Ahead participants. Email Grace at EmpowermentOutreach@CommonHeart.org or call 704-684-9007 for details.

P.P.S. — Have you donated to Common Heart before? We’d love to hear your ‘WHY’! Please take our quick “Why I Give” donor survey!