5 Ways To Help Local Nonprofits Thrive
Nonprofit organizations often aim to help people, animals and the communities in which we live, and it’s important that we support them. You may think that means making a monetary donation, which is absolutely helpful, but did you know there are others ways you can lend a hand without a cash requirement? Consider the following…
1. FUNDRAISE ON SOCIAL MEDIA. You can start a Facebook fundraiser to help collect donations for a cause you love at any time, but birthdays are an especially popular occasion.
2. PLAN AN IN-PERSON EVENT. It could be as simple as selling things you no longer need at a yard sale and donating what you make, or you could collect donations from local businesses and put together a basket fundraiser to benefit a good cause.
3. VOLUNTEER. Have a special skill? You may be able to volunteer your expertise! If you’re a good photographer, offer to take photos of animals up for adoption at your local shelter or rescue.
4. SPREAD THE WORD. Is a nonprofit you love holding a fundraising event? If so, share the news about it on social media. If they have an event page to share, even better! And if you’re going, invite friends
5. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE. Do you have personal experience with a nonprofit that would allow you to sing its praises publicly? Do it! You could leave a review on social media or with Google.
Reading Pride Celebration
RPC is a 501(c)3 organization that aims to celebrate diversity in the LGBTQ+ community of Greater Reading. We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion by building a community that embraces and supports differences and seeks to eliminate racial oppression, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism and other oppressions. To learn about our programs and services, visit readingpride.org.
New Journey Community Outreach
138 S. 6th St., Reading | 610.375.2662 | njcoinc.org
New Journey Community Outreach addresses food and clothing insecurities in our community by providing daily soup kitchen lunches, daily food pantry appointments and weekly clothing center hours. Thank you to our frontline staff, our volunteers, our donors and the United Way of Berks County for their unyielding support. To learn how you can help us Fight Poverty and Feed Hope, contact Christie Botterbusch, Executive Director, at cbotterbusch@njcoinc.org.
Family Guidance Center
NEW LOCATION: 1105 Berkshire Blvd., Wyomissing
610.374.4963 | familyguidancecenter.com
Family Guidance Center is committed to making a positive impact on the community. Our goal is to help people improve the quality of their lives by providing affordable, accessible, quality counseling services. We are excited to offer the same quality counseling services at our new location. Come visit us at our new location for our 6th Annual Mind Your Health community mental health and wellness event on April 27.
The Salvation Army
301 S. 5th St., Reading | 610.373.5208 | salvationarmyusa.org
The Salvation Army is a renowned charitable organization dedicated to serving communities in need across the United States. Its comprehensive network of shelters, food distribution programs, adult rehabilitation services, children’s learning centers and disaster relief efforts offers practical assistance and emotional support to individuals and families facing hardships. With a mission rooted in Christian principles, it aims to bring hope, dignity and transformation to those it serves.
Yocum Institute for Arts Education
3000 Penn Avenue, West Lawn | 610.376.1576 | yocuminstitute.org
Established in 1934 to create access to quality arts instruction, the Yocum Institute for Arts Education offers extensive classes in visual arts, theater, dance, martial arts and music. In addition, the Yocum Institute provides outreach programming and residencies, multi-arts and performance summer camps, an arts-based kindergarten and pre-school, family-friendly productions and a gallery space featuring emerging and local artists.
LightHouse
Women & Children’s Center
715 N. 6th St., Reading | 610.484.4495 | hopeforreading.org/lighthouse | LightHouse@HopeForReading.org
LightHouse Women and Children’s Center at Hope Rescue Mission is a place to empower single women and women with children to get back on their feet after experiencing the trauma of homelessness. We offer food, shelter, clothing, counseling and spiritual guidance while staying at a beautiful 43-room Center that provides privacy and dignity. Please consider volunteering, donating or just visiting us for a tour.
Reading Public Library
100 S. 5th St., Reading | 610.478.8977 | readingpubliclibrary.org
Reading Public Library (RPL) is committed to closing the literary, cultural and digital divides within our diverse and dynamic community by empowering people through literacy and access to information, creating a space where Family everyone feels inspired to learn and connect.
Reading Choral Society
Office: 201 Washington St., Ste. 504, Reading | Susan Coughlin, Executive Director | scoughlin@readingchoral.org | readingchoral.org
Founded in 1875, the Reading Choral Society (RCS) has, from its earliest days, pursued performances characterized by vocal excellence and musical distinction. RCS is comprised of dedicated semi-professional singers from all walks of life. Members rehearse weekly, fulfilling the lives of all involved by immersing them in great music. RCS performances enrich and enliven the greater Reading community.
WCR Center for the Arts
140 N. 5th St., Reading | 484.604.0890 | wcrcenter.org
Nestled in the heart of the Callowhill Historic District in Downtown Reading, PA, the WCR Center for the Arts is celebrating its 20th Anniversary as a nonprofit. It is a unique performance space and event venue with exceptional acoustics. The WCR offers quality programming for people of all ages to come together and celebrate the performing arts.
Connections Work
19 N. 6th St., 4th Fl., Reading | 484.260.3860 | connectionswork.org
Connections Work provides individuals with justice system involvement the tools they need to lead stable, productive lives. The agency offers pretrial services and reentry programs focusing on workforce development, job readiness and financial literacy. Connections Work also operates the Pardon Project of Berks County and works closely with second chance employers to help clients find gainful employment as they re-enter the community.
Grey Muzzle Manor
1164 Blattadahl Rd., Mohrsville | 610.655.5271 | greymuzzlemanor.org
At Grey Muzzle Manor, the goal is to help every individual feel empowered to live their best life. Our platform is one of non-judgement and presence. At Grey Muzzle Manor, animals and people heal together. Our “office” is 45 acres on which we practice counseling services, including traditional equine psychotherapy, hippotherapy, eco-therapy, art therapy and more to aid others on their personal mental health journey. Telehealth options are also available. We also aim to help our animal friends with medical care, adoption services, long-term and hospice care. As founder Marcy Tocker says, she “just wants to change the world.” We’re here for you at the place that love built.
Reading Recreation Commission
Contact: Daphne E. Klahr, Ed.D., CPRE | 610.655.6201 | daphne.klahr@readingpa.gov
The Reading Recreation Commission is an esteemed 501(c)3 organization offering exceptional programs and facilities to youth and adults. Our programs include after-school activities, playground, youth and adult sports, leadership training, food service and special events. In 2017, we were honored to receive the Pennsylvania Agency of the Year award. For more info visit readingrec.org or follow us on Facebook. Let’s make Reading look good together!
Council on Chemical Abuse
50 N. 5th St., 5th Fl., Reading | 610.376.8669 | cocaberks.org
The Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA) provides Berks County with leadership and assistance in preventing substance use and promoting treatment and recovery from addiction. Established as a nonprofit in 1971, COCA is designated as the single county authority for Berks County. See our website for prevention, treatment and recovery resources.
CASA of Berks County
845 Park Rd., Ste. 307, Reading | 610.301.8634 | casaberks.org
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Berks County recruits, trains and supports citizen volunteers to be advocates for children who are victims of abuse and/or neglect. Volunteers LEARN about the child and their family life by ENGAGING during regular visits and SPEAK UP for the child’s best interest in court. There are 400+ children in Berks Dependency Court needing an advocate. For more info on volunteering visit casaberks.org.
CONCERN
1 W. Main St., Fleetwood | 484.578.9600 | concern4kids.org
CONCERN is a human services organization providing services to children, youth and families, bringing hope, offering opportunity, and inspiring change. Services include foster care, adoption, and permanency, community-based programs, behavioral health, and residential treatment. Since 1978, CONCERN has:
• Supported over 200,000 people
• Supported 27,000 children in youth and placement services
• Finalized 5,000 adoptions
• Served 70,000 behavioral health clients
• Served 2,200 residential clients
Habitat for Humanity of Berks County
GoggleWorks Center for the Arts | 201 Washington St. Stes. 329 & 330, Reading | 610.373.3439 | habitatberks.org
Habitat for Humanity of Berks County provides affordable housing and homeownership opportunities for low- to moderate-income families and individuals. Join us at DoubleTree by Hilton Reading on April 23 for the 8th Annual Birdhouse Challenge. Tickets can be purchased at habitatberks.org/2024- birdhouse-challenge. All proceeds support the mission of Habitat Berks: to strengthen communities through homeownership.
Communities In Schools of Eastern PA
2 Woodland Rd., Wyomissing | 739 N. 12th St., Allentown | 484.834.8830 | ciseasternpa.org
Communities In Schools of Eastern PA (CIS) is an organization committed to fostering 1:1 relationships between skilled site coordinators and students inside 13 school districts across Eastern Pennsylvania. By removing barriers and offering personalized guidance to some of the most at-risk students, the CIS team empowers young individuals to reach their educational goals. The team’s impact on students’ lives is undeniable, making a significant difference in overcoming chronic absenteeism as well as social-emotional and behavioral challenges to reach graduation successfully. CIS currently serves Antietam, Fleetwood, Kutztown, Governor Mifflin, Reading and Wilson school districts in Berks County. For more information visit ciseasternpa.org.
Literacy Council of Reading-Berks Inc.
35 S. Dwight St., West Lawn | 610.670.9960 | lcrb.org
Training for adults in English as a Second Language, or ESL, is an effective aid to workers and employers. The Literacy Council helps Berks County adults and employers by providing ESL services that can help employees better communicate in their jobs. For more information on the Literacy Council’s ESL and workforce development programs, visit online at lcrb.org.
LGBT Center of Greater Reading
640 Centre Avenue, Reading | 484.513.3170 | lgbtcenterofreading.com
The LGBT Center of Greater Reading provides services, advocacy and support to the LGBTQ+ communities in Berks and surrounding counties. From education, social groups, networking events, counseling and support services to various cultural events and new LGBT Center Wellness Clinic services, we provide programs for our LGBTQIA+ communities, their friends and families and our regional allies.
Berks Counseling Center
645 Penn St., 2nd Fl., Reading | 610.373.4281 | berkscounselingcenter.org
BCC is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic and an Integrated Community Wellness Center providing high quality, comprehensive and coordinated outpatient care for people of all ages, including children and adolescents. We provide behavioral health services and supports for mental health, physical health and wellness and behavioral and drug and alcohol addiction issues. Check out our website for program specifics.
Berks History Center
940 Centre Avenue, Reading | berkshistory.org | 610.375.4375
Calling all history buffs! Learn about our community’s unique story by visiting the Berks History Center, a museum and research library dedicated to preserving and sharing Berks County’s rich cultural heritage. We showcase local history through artifacts and documents, educational programs, workshops and community events, including our annual Road Ramble event and our new PA Dutch classes.
Berks Encore
40 N. 9th St., Reading | 610.374.3195 | berksencore.org
For too many seniors, Meals on Wheels is the only nutritious food they get in a day. The volunteer who delivers it may be the only person they talk to that day. Berks Encore is dedicated to easing loneliness and hunger among older, homebound adults. With the support of our caring volunteers and generous donors, more isolated seniors will receive nutritious meals and can live with dignity and independence in their own homes.
Reading Science Center
645 Penn St., Reading | 484.878.2112 | readingsciencecenter.org
The Reading Science Center is on a mission to foster the love of science through exciting STEM experiences for the Greater Reading community. Our hands-on museum is open to the public on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. Don’t miss out on our upcoming event, Celebrate Science Day, on April 28!
The Rudden Family Services
Office: 16 Pacific Avenue, Reading, PA 19608 | Warehouse: (next to) 320 S. 13th St., Reading, PA 19602 | trffoundation.org
Established in 2012, The Rudden Family Foundation, Inc. (TRFFI) collects donations of clothing, furniture, appliances, rugs, housewares, kitchenware, tools, patio and yard items, etc. and cars/trucks in good, useable condition. We collaborate with over 20 Berks Community Partners to distribute these items to families and individuals struggling with poverty. Details to donate or provide financial support are on our website at trffoundation.org.
United Way of Berks County
610.685.4550 | uwberks.org
United Way’s work is all about doing right, right here. Together, we change lives and provide opportunity through quality early care and learning, literacy, food security, senior services, homelessness prevention and more. It starts with U…and it continues by working together to build a strong Berks County for all. Visit uwberks.org to learn more and volunteer. Thank U for partnering with United Way!
The Children’s Home of Reading
1010 Centre Avenue, Reading | 610.478.8266 | buildingkidslives.org
The Children’s Home of Reading has responded to the needs of children and families in crisis in Berks and all of PA for over 140 years. Our comprehensive, educational, community, behavioral and mental health trauma-informed programs focus on partnering with more than 4,000 children and their families in crisis. Services help them enhance capacities, strength and resilience to achieve wellness and balance as they heal from crisis and meet life’s challenges.
Bethany Children’s Home
1863 Bethany Rd., Womelsdorf | 610.589.4501 | bethanyhome.org
At Bethany, we hold the belief that each team member plays a role in fostering a safe atmosphere to accompany youth on their journey to healing. Join our team and gain the knowledge to develop into an exemplary professional equipped with the resources to effectively serve within a trauma-informed setting.
American Cancer Society
1.800.227.2345 | cancer.org
Join us as we honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones and work to end cancer as we know it, for everyone, during this year’s Relay For Life events in Berks County:
Kutztown & Eastern Berks - May 18 • Bark For Life - May 25 • Berks - June 1 Learn more and register at relayforlife.org.
Helping Harvest
117 Morgan Dr., Reading | helpingharvest.org
Helping Harvest has pursued its mission “to feed the hungry” since opening in 1983. Currently, Helping Harvest supplies more than 9.5 million pounds of food annually through a network of 350 local food distribution programs as well as its own direct service programs. More than 144,000 individuals in Berks and Schuylkill counties were nourished by food from Helping Harvest in 2023.
Kutztown University Foundation
15197 Kutztown Rd., Kutztown | 610.683.4110 | kuf.org
Since 1983, the KU Foundation has raised funds to support the students, faculty, programs and capital needs of Kutztown University. With the generous support of alumni, donors and friends, we recently raised more than $46,000,000 to create scholarships, increase emergency funds and enhance student experiences through Together, We’re Golden: The Campaign for KU.
The King’s Academy
admissions@kingsacademy.com | 610.926.9639 | kingsacademy.com
The King’s Academy provides a standard of Christcentered Academic Excellence, training leaders in knowledge, wisdom and Godly character. The King’s Academy is the premier Christian school in Berks County. We provide a top-notch education rooted in biblical principles and a strong academic foundation. As an independent Christian school, we have been serving the community since 1998.
Vision Resource Center of Berks County
2020 Hampden Blvd., Reading | 610.375.8407 | vrcberks.org
For 95 years, we have called Berks home. The Vision Resource Center of Berks County offers support groups, educational and socialization programs, counseling sessions, transportation services, vision screenings and a workshop program. Whatever challenges you or your loved one may face with vision loss or blindness, we are here for you, your family and your caregivers. Visit our new low vision store specializing in devices to allow you to stay independent with your vision loss.
Reading Public Museum
500 Museum Rd., Reading | 610.371.5850 | readingpublicmuseum.org
For more than a century, Reading Public Museum has been enlightening and engaging our community in areas of science, art, history and more! Its extensive art and science collections, distinctive and unique gift shop, state-of-theart planetarium, 25-acre arboretum, ongoing temporary exhibitions — plus being a captivating venue for events — makes it a dynamic center of discovery and joy!
Dayspring Homes
PO Box 158, Shillington | 610.376.5648 | dayspringhomes.org
Dayspring Homes is proud of the opportunities our participants have to realize their God-given potential while giving back to the community. Each one of our participants has their own individual needs and dreams. It is remarkable to watch them make someone’s day by being present and kind. Not only do they brighten our day, but they make a tremendous difference in the lives of others. Always choose kindness. For more information visit dayspringhomes.org.
Humane Pennsylvania
1729 N. 11th St., Reading | humanepa.org
Humane Pennsylvania (HPA) helps animals by empowering people to be the best caretakers possible. With pet adoption services, affordable vet care and boarding and community support programs, HPA is building the best communities anywhere to be an animal — or an animal caretaker! Visit humanepa.org to learn how HPA is transforming our community one pet and family at a time.
Breast Cancer Support Services
529 Reading Avenue, Ste. C, West Reading | 610.478.1447 | bcssberks.org
A breast cancer diagnosis can dramatically change one’s life; that is when Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County steps in. We have provided support groups, information and emotional support to diagnosed women, survivors, friends, family and caregivers of those with breast cancer since 1994. Our programs and events remind our community that they are not alone in their journey.
Mary’s Shelter
615 Kenhorst Blvd., Reading | marysshelter.org
Mary’s Shelter provides temporary housing and social services to homeless, unaccompanied youth and young mothers ages 14 to 21. In a homelike setting, young people are encouraged to complete their education while learning the skills needed to live independently in the community. Your support provides the encouragement, advocacy and hope these young people need to thrive.
Berks County Community Foundation
237 Court St., Reading | 610.685.2223 | give@bccf.org
Since 1994, our mission to promote philanthropy and to improve the quality of life for the residents of Berks County has been made possible by the generosity of donors who created funds to achieve their charitable goals. You can support existing funds or create new ones with your tax-deductible donations. Give back to Berks County at bccf.org or contact us today!
Animal Rescue League of Berks County
58 Kennel Rd., Birdsboro | 610.373.8830 | berksarl.org
For more than 4,000 animals in 2023, the Animal Rescue League of Berks County was the glimmer of hope they needed to get a second, or even a third, chance in life. We simply can’t do this lifesaving work without people with big hearts and a commitment to helping animals in need like you. Visit berksarl.org/berksdonates to join our mission.
YMCA of Reading & Berks County
For 165 years, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County has strengthened our community by improving healthand well-being, igniting youth empowerment andfostering connections. The Y creates safe and enrichingexperiences for kids of all ages through summer camps,sports programs, Pre-K Counts, childcare, before- andafter-school care and more. Supporting kids helps families, regardless of their ability to pay. Everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Berks County Area Agency on Aging
633 Court St., 8th Fl. County Services Center, Reading | 610.478.6500 | berksaging.org
Berks County Area Agency on Aging is the gateway to aging programs and supports. We offer information on community resources, health and wellness programs, senior community centers, in-home services and access to legal assistance, care management, caregiver support services, Ombudsman (advocates for consumers in longterm care facilities) and elder abuse protection.
Easy Does It
Supportive Housing Programs: 1300 Hilltop Rd., Leesport | ediinc.org | Recovery Support Services: Community Center at Atonement Lutheran Church | 5 Wyomissing Blvd., Wyomissing | 610.373.2463 | ediinc.org/atonement
Easy Does It, Inc. has been offering services to the community since 1989. Offering supportive housing and recovery support services for individuals recovering from Substance Use Disorder. EDI also provides meeting spaces for recovery groups and hosts events to help raise awareness on services available to help individuals and their families. EDI at Atonement offers free Recovery Support Services to anyone in need in our community.
Prospectus Berco
840 William Lane, Reading | 610.372.4637 | prospectusberco.org
Prospectus Berco is dedicated to serving people with disabilities by providing essential resources and supports for individuals and their families. With a focus on empowerment and inclusion, we strive to create opportunities for individuals to thrive and lead fulfilling lives in our community. Your gifts contribute to advancing our mission of accessibility, equality and independence for adults with disabilities.
Berks Nature
575 St. Bernardine St., Reading | 610.372.4992 | berksnature.org
Berks Nature is the leading agent for conservation and the environment in Berks County. In this role, we have protected more than 11,000 acres of land, manage 27 miles of trails, and operate Reading’s public nature center: The Nature Place. Through community stewardship projects, educational programming and private conservation easements we seek to protect, nurture and celebrate Berks County’s abundant natural resources.
