A spotlight on area nonprofits and philanthropists helping our communities change for the better.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida

This holiday season, celebrating the spirit of giving means supporting the nonprofits and philanthropists shaping our community. Every act of kindness—whether volunteering your time, making a donation or spreading awareness—can have a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.

In this feature, we highlight organizations that are driving real change. From providing essential services and educational opportunities to uplifting families and underserved populations, these nonprofits are transforming lives every day. We also recognize local philanthropists whose generosity and leadership help these causes thrive, proving that one person’s commitment can create lasting impact.

Whether you choose to volunteer, donate or simply learn more about these organizations, your support strengthens the community, fosters hope and creates opportunity. As you explore the stories and missions featured here, consider how you might join in this season of giving. Every contribution—big or small—helps ensure that compassion continues to flourish in our community.

ANIMAL SERVICES

Two Tails Ranch
AllAboutElephants.com
pzerbini@allaboutelephants.com
Two Tails Ranch is dedicated to caring for needy elephants and providing a safe home, while fostering education, awareness and appreciation for these magnificent animals.

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

History of Diving Museum
DivingMuseum.org | (305) 664-9737
Dive into 5,000 years of the “quest to explore under the sea.” Become a member; enjoy family fun, scavenger hunts, featured exhibits, special events and more. 

Elevation Scholars
TheElevationScholars.org | (407) 215-1350
Elevation Scholars is a local nonprofit empowering high-achieving, high-need students with the knowledge, resources and mentorship to secure college admission and graduate successfully. Through tailored guidance, boot camps and long-term support, Elevation Scholars helps remove barriers to higher education and lifelong success.

FOOD SERVICES 

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
FeedHopeNow.org | (407) 295-1066
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida distributes 300,000 nutritious meals each day across seven counties. In addition to feeding families, the organization provides job training programs that prepare adults for stable employment. Together with community partners, Second Harvest helps reduce food insecurity and addresses the root causes of hunger in Central Florida.

Seniors First
SeniorsFirstInc.org | (407) 292-0177
Seniors First provides programs to keep seniors independent. They include Meals on Wheels, Neighborhood Lunch, Community Food Pantry, In-Home and Personal Care, Respite for Caregivers, Stepping Stone Medical Equipment Bank and Guardianship.

HEALTH SERVICES

Community Health Centers
CHCFl.org | (407) 905-8827
Community Health Centers is a private nonprofit charitable 501(c)(3) organization that provides primary and preventive medical, dental and pharmacy services. Through the generosity of friends like you, the organization is able to serve our area’s underserved babies, children, adults and senior citizens in 16 health centers throughout Central Florida.

Quest Inc.
QuestInc.org⎪(407) 218-4300
For over 60 years, Quest, Inc. has transformed the lives of thousands of adults and children with developmental disabilities through a range of services proven to increase capabilities and quality of life. From the humble beginnings of a single location serving eight individuals, to currently over 20 locations, serving over 500 individuals each day in Orlando and Tampa, it continues to build communities where people with development disabilities experience a full life.

Smile for a Lifetime Foundation
In Partnership with Fravel Brewer Orthodontics
SmileForALifetime.org | (719) 535-2777
Together, they’re creating brighter futures one smile at a time. Through its partnership with the Smile for a Lifetime Foundation, Fravel Brewer Orthodontics helps provide free orthodontic care to children and teens from low-income families or special circumstances, such as foster care. Every smile transformed represents renewed confidence, opportunity and hope within our Central Florida community.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Paving the Way Foundation
PavingTheWayFoundation.org | (321) 355-3868
Paving the Way Foundation educates about human trafficking and grooming tactics, empowers children to act and be safe, and helps prevent them from being lured into the silent crime of human trafficking.

HOMELESS SERVICES

Matthew’s Hope
MatthewsHopeMinistries.org ⏐(407) 905-9500
Matthew’s Hope fosters the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of the homeless men, women and children of our community by meeting basic needs, developing skills, and restoring dignity and independence. Matthew’s Hope is a fully independent, faith-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit homeless outreach, funded and supported by our community. The ministry believes in offering a hand up, not just a hand out. “Help Us, Help Them, Help Themselves!”

HUMAN SERVICES

Christian HELP
ChristianHelp.org ⏐(407) 834-4022
Christian HELP prevents homelessness by helping people find jobs, providing groceries and offering spiritual encouragement. The organization equips individuals and families with resources to achieve lasting independence—empowering them to stand on their own. Through practical support and the love of Christ, Christian HELP brings hope and stability to those in need.

Goodwill Industries of Central Florida
GoodwillCFL.org 
Goodwill Industries of Central Florida empowers individuals to reach their full potential by providing job skills training, placement and support services. Through vocational programs and employment opportunities, they help people—including those with disabilities-gain meaningful work, build lasting careers, and achieve personal and professional success within their community.

The Mustard Seed of Central Florida
MustardSeedFla.org⏐(407) 875-2040
The Mustard Seed of Central Florida helps rebuild the lives of families and individuals who have suffered disaster or personal tragedy by providing household furnishings and clothing. The nonprofit creates more stable futures for those it served, and a more sustainable, environmentally responsible community for us all.