Johnston Now Magazine is proud to shine a light on some of the many nonprofit organizations that serve our community and make a difference every day. We’ve devoted this special edition of the magazine to celebrating the good work being done across Johnston County.
From providing essential services and supporting families to enriching our schools and neighborhoods, these nonprofits represent the heart of what makes our community strong.
Take a moment to learn more about their missions and the people behind them — and perhaps you’ll be inspired to lend your time, talents or resources to help them continue their important work. And if you or someone you know could benefit from their services, we hope this guide helps you find the support you need.
Benson Foundation for the Arts
Email: info@bensonlittletheatre.com
Phone: 919-894-3825
Website: bensonlittletheater.com
Address: 303 E. Church St., Benson
The Benson Foundation for the Arts has been enriching the cultural life of Benson and surrounding communities since 1988. Founded with the goal of restoring the former Benson High School Auditorium — now known as the W.J. Barefoot Auditorium — the nonprofit continues to promote the performing, visual and literary arts throughout the area.
Since the early 1990s, the foundation has hosted arts contests, theatre workshops for all ages, performing arts classes and literary projects. Its centerpiece, the Benson Little Theater, has produced 26 years of community theatre, reaching an average of 2,200 audience members annually and featuring about 130 volunteers and artists each season. The 2025 production of Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” will mark the final show of the current season, followed by an exciting 2026 lineup that includes “Barefoot in the Park,” “Rumors,” “Puffs” and “The Wizard of Oz.”
Guided by a 19-member board of directors, the foundation remains committed to fostering creativity and artistic awareness for all age groups. Its work is made possible through generous community support and grants from organizations such as the Johnston County Arts Council. To learn more or get involved, visit bensonlittletheater.com
Isaiah 117 House, Johnston County
Email: randa.gay@isaiah117house.com
Phone: 919-623-6343
Website: isaiah117house.com/north-carolina
Isaiah 117 House is a nonprofit dedicated to providing comfort and support to children entering the foster care system. When children are removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect or unsafe conditions, they often face long waits in child welfare offices — sometimes hours or even days — before being placed with a foster family. These waiting periods can be frightening and overwhelming and Isaiah 117 House works to create a safe, welcoming environment during that critical time.
The organization relies on community involvement to carry out its mission. Volunteers can help care for children, assist with daily operations or support the house in other meaningful ways. Monthly donors, called “Sock Buddies,” contribute to funding guest stays, ensuring children have a stable and comforting place to stay during transitions. The nonprofit also encourages the community to organize collections of brand-new items such as clothing, hygiene products and backpacks to help children entering foster care.
Through these efforts, Isaiah 117 House not only provides immediate care but also works to ease the emotional stress that accompanies entering the foster system. By supporting the organization, local residents play a vital role in creating a safer, more nurturing experience for vulnerable children in Johnston County.
Community & Senior Services of Johnston County
Email: info@cssjohnston.org
Phone: 919-934-6066
Website: cssjohnston.org
Address: 1363 W. Market St., Smithfield
Community & Senior Services of Johnston County provides housing, transportation and programs that help older adults stay active, connected and independent. A key initiative is Meals on Wheels, delivering nutritious meals to homebound seniors with the help of volunteer drivers.
The organization also partners with Johnston County Area Transit System to operate QuickRide, an on-demand ride-hailing service in the Smithfield and Selma areas, with plans to expand to other towns such as Clayton. Residents can book rides instantly or schedule travel through a mobile app, making transportation more accessible for seniors and the broader community.
Community & Senior Services encourages local residents to get involved by volunteering, supporting programs or assisting with services that benefit older adults. Through these efforts, the organization helps seniors maintain independence while staying engaged and connected within the community.
Partnership for Children of Johnston County
Email: cscott@pfcjc.org
Phone: 919-975-2525
Website: partnershipforchildrenjoco.org
Address: 1406 A S. Pollock St., Selma
The Partnership for Children of Johnston County is a nonprofit dedicated to giving young children a strong start by supporting their families, caregivers and early educators. Recognizing that 90% of a child’s brain develops by age five, the organization works to ensure children enter kindergarten ready to succeed.
The Partnership supports families through free services such as car seat safety checks, parenting education and developmental screenings to help children reach key milestones. Families are also connected with additional community resources to address a range of needs. At the same time, the organization empowers early educators by providing training, classroom support and guidance on observations and assessments, helping child care providers maintain high-quality learning environments.
Serving children from birth through age five, along with their parents, caregivers and educators, the Partnership encourages the community to get involved. Residents can volunteer their time, serve on committees or assist in the office. Donations of money, new car seats, diapers or gently used children’s books are also welcomed. By supporting the Partnership for Children, members of the community help build brighter futures for Johnston County’s youngest residents, ensuring they have the foundation they need for lifelong learning.
American Red Cross
Email: jennifer.prosser@redcross.org
Phone: 984-960-7562
Website: redcross.org
Address: 801 S. 3rd St., Smithfield
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief and education across the country. In Johnston County, the Red Cross relies on trained volunteers to help provide shelter and support during crises. Volunteers are essential in ensuring that individuals and families have a safe place to stay when emergencies occur.
The organization is actively seeking volunteers to train and be ready for sheltering duties. Those interested can visit the website to learn more about opportunities. By volunteering with the Red Cross, community members play a vital role in responding to disasters and providing critical support to neighbors in need.
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Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child
Email: jocoocc@gmail.com
Phone: 919-631-0447
Website: samaritanspurse.org
Operation Christmas Child is a nonprofit that demonstrates God’s love to children in need around the world by distributing gift-filled shoeboxes through local churches. The project reaches children in more than 100 countries, providing not only gifts but also an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
In Johnston County, 83 local churches participate in preparing and distributing the shoeboxes. Community members can get involved by packing a shoebox with age-appropriate gifts, following a suggested list available on the organization’s website and dropping it off at Smithfield First Baptist Church during National Collection Week, November 17-24. Through these simple acts, participants bring joy and hope to children while supporting a global mission of love and faith.
Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation
Email: info@downtownsmithfield.com
Phone: 919-934-0887
Website: downtownsmithfield.com
Address: 200 S. Front St., Smithfield
The Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating an economically vibrant, socially active and visually appealing downtown for Smithfield residents and visitors. The organization serves property and business owners in the downtown district, as well as the broader community, helping maintain a lively and welcoming area for work, shopping, dining and leisure. Staffed by a full-time executive director, a part-time assistant and guided by a 15-member board of directors, the DSDC manages programs and events that support both downtown businesses and local nonprofits.
Funded through contributions from the Main Street District and the Town of Smithfield, grants, sponsorships and private donations, the organization hosts community events like the Harvest Sip & Stroll wine walk and other fundraisers to support local initiatives. Residents and business owners can get involved by attending events, volunteering at downtown cleanups or special projects, participating in programs that promote arts and recreation or becoming a member or partner through sponsorships or donations.
Through its work, the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation strengthens the community, supports local businesses and enhances the downtown experience.
Black Dog Club
Email: admin@blackdogclub.net
Phone: 984-249-4999
Website: blackdogclub.net
Address: 1000 Freedom Rd., Smithfield
Black Dog Club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and training animals from high-kill, rural shelters throughout the South. The organization focuses especially on black dogs, aiming to save them from “Black Dog Syndrome,” a phenomenon that makes darker-coated dogs less likely to be adopted. While the majority of animals served are dogs, Black Dog Club also helps cats, companion birds and farm animals in need.
Community support is central to the organization’s mission. Residents can adopt or foster animals, volunteer their time, donate supplies or help spread the word about available pets. Black Dog Club accepts new and gently used items such as dog toys, beds, towels, sheets and cleaning supplies to assist with daily care and rehabilitation. Volunteers and donors play a critical role in ensuring rescued animals receive the attention, training and love they need to thrive in new homes.
Hopes-N-Dreams Inc.
Email: dbender2@nc.rr.com
Phone: 919-618-3537
Hopes-N-Dreams Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides programs and support for children and adults with special needs, as well as their families. The organization also extends assistance to wounded warriors and their families, partnering with other nonprofits that serve similar populations. Hopes-N-Dreams operates entirely through volunteers, with no paid staff, relying on community involvement to carry out its mission.
Through its programs and partnerships, the organization offers resources, activities and support designed to improve quality of life and foster inclusion for individuals with special needs. Volunteers play a central role in delivering services, coordinating events and supporting families, helping to create opportunities for growth, learning and connection. By working together with the community and other nonprofits, Hopes-N-Dreams Inc. strives to ensure that both children and adults with special needs, as well as wounded warriors, have access to programs that empower them and enhance their well-being.
Recovery Alive Inc.
Email: info@recoveryalive.com
Phone: 919-300-1021
Website: recoveryalive.com
Address: 210 Peedin Road, Smithfield
Recovery Alive, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome a wide range of challenges, including addiction, codependency, grief, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, anger, trauma and other “hurts, habits and hang-ups.” The organization meets people where they are, providing local and online process groups for men and women, as well as Christ-centered sober living homes for those in early recovery or transition who need accountability, community and spiritual support.
In addition, Recovery Alive equips churches and communities to become “recovery ready,” offering training and resources to help leaders and congregations host recovery ministries. Through counseling, consultation, sober living and a national network of recovery-equipped churches, the organization provides guidance and support for anyone struggling, empowering them to apply recovery principles, build stable lives and strengthen connections with their communities.
Locally, Dawn Shortell is currently working to establish a Recovery Alive sober living home in Clayton, expanding the organization’s capacity to provide structured, supportive environments for individuals coming out of treatment or outpatient programs. She’s in need of sponsorships and partnerships to bring that vision to life, so reach out to find out how you can help.
Bailey’s Human Rescue
Email: baileyshumanrescue@gmail.com
Phone: 919-351-2383
Website: baileyshumanrescue.org
Bailey’s Human Rescue is a volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to addressing cat overpopulation in Johnston, Harnett and Wake counties through TNVR — Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Return. The organization focuses on unowned, outdoor cats, providing spay and neuter surgeries, basic veterinary care and returning them to their outdoor homes. In addition to direct TNVR work, Bailey’s Human Rescue supports caretakers with education, resources and guidance while raising awareness about responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering.
The nonprofit serves both cats and the people who care for them, helping reduce kitten overpopulation, improve quality of life and create more compassionate, sustainable communities. Volunteers play a critical role, assisting with trapping, transport, recovery care and fundraising. Community members can also help by spaying and neutering local cats, donating supplies, volunteering or simply spreading awareness to encourage others to take action.
Founded in memory of a dog named Bailey, the organization emphasizes that cat overpopulation is a human-made problem that requires human action. Through volunteering, education and community involvement, Bailey’s Human Rescue works to prevent suffering, save lives and foster a more compassionate future for both animals and people.
You Can Vote
Email: vote@youcanvote.org
Phone: 919-213-9936
Website: youcanvote.org
Address: 3710 University Dr., Durham
You Can Vote is a nonpartisan, pro-democracy nonprofit that promotes civic engagement by registering, educating and empowering North Carolina voters. The organization conducts in-person and online voter registration and education campaigns, recruits and trains volunteers and partner organizations to provide fact-based resources and creates multi-lingual, NC-specific voter-education materials. You Can Vote helps eligible North Carolina citizens understand and exercise their right to vote while overcoming barriers to the ballot box.
In Johnston County, municipal elections are scheduled this fall, with early voting and same-day registration available at the Elections Office, 205 S. Second St. in Smithfield. Residents can vote during early voting until Saturday, Nov. 1, at 3 p.m. and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
Community members can get involved by volunteering, helping register voters or sharing educational resources. Those interested can visit youcanvote.orgvolunteer to learn more.
BuildHER Collaboration Corp.
Email: director@buildhercollaboration.org
Phone: 919-307-9230
Website: buildhercollaboration.org
BuildHER Collaboration Corp is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic abuse and sexual trauma. The organization creates spaces where survivors can heal, connect and rebuild their lives with dignity while providing community education, awareness training and collaborative partnerships to strengthen local support systems. BuildHER serves women and families who often fall through the cracks of traditional services and extends its reach to community allies, including faith leaders, educators, nonprofits and local organizations, helping them better support survivors.
Community members can get involved in many ways, including volunteering, attending or hosting training, partnering as a business or church or making donations that directly fund survivor support. By serving both survivors and the people who influence their environments, BuildHER Collaboration works to break cycles of silence, build a culture of healing and accountability and ensure that survivors know their voices and stories matter. Through these efforts, the organization fosters a community where survivors are not only supported but celebrated for their resilience, empowering them to move forward with hope and strength.
Able to Serve
Email: info@abletoserve.org
Phone: 919-779-5545
Website: abletoserve.org
Address: 2100 Buffaloe Rd., Garner
Able to Serve is a faith-based, community-funded nonprofit that provides adults with disabilities a supportive day program where they can grow independence, develop life skills and use their abilities to serve others in the community. The organization serves adults in Wake and Johnston Counties, helping participants discover their gifts, build confidence and experience the community as a classroom where practical lessons are applied in real-life settings.
Community members can get involved in multiple ways, including volunteering weekly or for one-time projects, participating in group Serve Days, donating to keep programs affordable, joining events, partnering in prayer or sharing the organization’s mission with others. Every act of support helps Able to Serve provide meaningful opportunities for participants to learn, lead and contribute to the life of their communities. By fostering independence, inclusion and service, Able to Serve empowers adults with disabilities to live full lives as recognized, valued and contributing members of their neighborhoods.
Alice Aycock Poe Center for Health Education
Email: info@poehealth.org
Phone: 919-231-4006
Website: poehealth.org
Address: 224 Sunnybrook Rd., Raleigh
The Poe Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of North Carolina youth through education. Since opening in Raleigh in 1991, the center has reached more than 1.7 million participants from 95 counties. Expert health educators partner with schools and organizations to provide programs on nutrition and physical activity, adolescent development, general health, substance use prevention, dental health, bullying prevention, mental wellness and cooking and gardening education.
Students can visit Poe’s Raleigh campus for an immersive experience with unique teaching spaces or educators can bring programs directly to schools and organizations, with supplemental resources available online. More than 87 percent of participants report making positive behavior changes after a program.
Community members can get involved as volunteers, helping to enrich programs while gaining fun, friendship and professional development. Those interested can complete a volunteer interest form on the Poe Center website. Programs can also be scheduled online through the Plan Your Visit page. By volunteering or participating in programs, residents help support the future health of children, youth and families across North Carolina.
Harbor, Inc.
Email: kjohnson@harborshelter.org
Phone: 919-631-7318
Website: harborshelter.org
Address: Smithfield
Harbor is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Since 1984, Harbor has empowered individuals to move from lives marked by abuse to paths of safety, independence and self-sufficiency. The organization serves clients across many racial and ethnic groups, gender identities and ages, showing that abuse can affect anyone. In 2024, Harbor served 3,002 victims, an 18 percent increase from the previous year.
Harbor provides 24/7 sexual assault and crisis support through trained advocates who assist survivors and their caregivers. Services include hospital accompaniment during forensic exams, individual advocacy, case management, support groups, educational programs for schools and domestic violence intervention.
The organization also offers a 24-hour emergency shelter for women, children and men, as well as court advocacy to help clients file protective orders and navigate the legal system. Families in Transition provides counseling, support groups, employment guidance, budgeting workshops and education on domestic violence.
The need for Harbor’s services is urgent. Domestic violence deaths in North Carolina now occur nearly every three days and 75% of homicides happen when victims try to leave an abusive relationship. Harbor’s Crisis Line ensures victims are not alone during these critical moments.
Volunteers are essential to Harbor, assisting with client services, administrative support, programs, special projects and internships. Community members can also donate or support Harbor’s resale boutique, Pizazz and annual fundraisers like the Black & White Gala, helping victims find safety, hope and a path to healing.
Period Kits North Carolina
Email: eclevenger@periodkitsnc.org
Phone: 619-701-0060
Website: periodkitsnc.org
Address: 674 N. Spence Ave., Goldsboro
Period Kits North Carolina (PKNC) is a nonprofit organization that provides no-cost menstruation hygiene supplies to nonprofit partners, schools and community agencies across the state. The organization serves a wide range of local programs, including Johnston County Public Schools, Goldsboro Public Library, Wayne Uplift Center, Partnership for Children of Wayne County, Goldsboro Housing Authority, Recovery Courts ENC, Partners Ending Homelessness, Fuquay-Varina Emergency Food Shelter and Triangle Area Parenting Support among others.
Community members and businesses can support PKNC in supporting health, dignity and equity for women and girls by sponsoring a school, hosting a kit build, providing in-kind donations or volunteering at community events to help distribute supplies and raise awareness.
PKNC is expanding its efforts in Johnston County to meet the rising need for no-cost menstrual products. Through partnerships with local schools, nonprofits and businesses, the organization ensures that essential hygiene supplies are accessible to students and community members who need them most.
Choices Pregnancy Center
Email: kaitlyn.choicespc.nc@gmail.com
Phone: 919-989-9897
Website: choicespcnc.org
Address: 1073 W. Market St., Smithfield
Choices Pregnancy Center is a nonprofit organization in Johnston County that provides free pregnancy tests, limited ultrasounds, educational classes and a boutique where women can shop with points earned through program participation. The center supports women, families and children up to age two, offering information, guidance and compassion during pregnancy and in the months following birth.
Community members can get involved in several ways. Volunteers can assist with programs, events and administrative tasks. Donations, whether one-time or monthly, help sustain services, while in-kind contributions for the boutique provide needed items for mothers and families. By volunteering, donating or spreading awareness, residents help Choices Pregnancy Center provide practical resources, emotional support and guidance to families navigating pregnancy and early parenthood.
CommWell Health Foundation
Email: aamorales@commwellhealth.org
Phone: 910-567-7177
Website: commwellhealth.org/giving
Address: 6114 US Hwy 301 S., Four Oaks
CommWell Health Foundation supports the delivery of quality medical, dental and behavioral health services to communities in Johnston County and beyond. As part of CommWell Health, a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center, the foundation helps ensure all individuals, including those who are low-income, underinsured or uninsured, have access to care. Services are evidence-based, affordable and delivered in an environment focused on service excellence.
Since its founding in 2018, the foundation has expanded programs, engaged communities and fostered partnerships to improve overall well-being. Foundation funds have supported initiatives such as the Discount Pharmacy Home Delivery program, which mailed 23,925 prescriptions in 2022 and covered $180,000 in shipping costs for patients, nearly half of whom live below federal poverty guidelines.
Community members can make an impact by volunteering on the Foundation Advisory Board, assisting with initiatives that guide the organization’s mission or contributing financially to support programs that enhance health and wellness. Donations and volunteer leadership help ensure that all residents, regardless of income or insurance status, receive the care they need.
Reins from Above Therapeutic Riding Center
Email: reinsfromabove@hotmail.com
Phone: 919-631-9294
Website: reinsfromabove.org
Address: 10133 Walter Myatt Rd., Willow Springs
Reins From Above is a volunteer-led nonprofit in Wake County serving surrounding areas that provides equine-assisted activities and therapies for children, adults and veterans facing physical, cognitive or emotional challenges. Programs include horseback riding, farm-based learning and hands-on animal care, creating a supportive environment that builds confidence, independence and emotional well-being. Participants also strengthen motor skills, develop communication and social connections and explore new possibilities for personal growth.
Reins From Above welcomes individuals navigating trauma, anxiety or developmental differences, meeting participants where they are and providing tools, support and confidence to thrive through connection with horses and nature. The organization is fully volunteer-driven and dedicated to making programs accessible regardless of financial means.
Community support is essential to RFA’s mission. Volunteers help with horse care, lessons, farm maintenance and events, while financial contributions, in-kind donations and local business partnerships keep programs affordable. Sponsoring a participant, donating supplies or volunteering directly impacts the lives of those served. By combining healing, learning and community, the farm provides a place of hope and empowerment.
House of Hope of NC
Email: cindyk@houseofhopeofnc.org
Phone: 919-550-8181
Website: houseofhopeofnc.org
Address: Clayton
House of Hope is a nonprofit organization that provides a therapeutic residential environment for teenage girls ages 12-17 who are healing from past trauma. The program incorporates families in the healing process and is based on proven clinical methods and biblical principles. In addition to residential care, House of Hope offers outpatient counseling to support teenage girls, their families and the broader community.
Community members can get involved by volunteering their time to assist with programs or supporting the organization financially. Contributions help sustain services, provide resources for participants and ensure the program continues to offer a safe and nurturing environment. By volunteering, donating or spreading awareness, residents help House of Hope guide teenage girls toward healing, growth and hope for the future.
Cerebral Palsy Positive
Email: info@cerebralpalsypositive.org
Phone: 919-438-3608
Website: cerebralpalsypositive.org
Cerebral Palsy Positive is a nonprofit organization that empowers adults living with cerebral palsy by advocating for consistent, comprehensive healthcare tailored to their unique needs. The organization connects individuals to essential medical resources, promotes healthcare equity and collaborates with healthcare professionals to develop specialized care plans throughout adulthood. While CPP primarily serves individuals along the I-95 corridor, it will support those outside the area whenever funding and resources allow.
Cerebral palsy is the most common developmental physical disability, affecting roughly 1 million people in the U.S., with an estimated 70 percent being adults. Each year, three in every 1,000 babies are born with CP, adding to the growing adult population in need of specialized care.
Community members can support CPP in several ways, including volunteering, grant writing or fundraising expertise, assisting with social media outreach and awareness or making financial contributions to sustain and grow programs. Every action helps ensure adults with cerebral palsy receive the healthcare, resources and advocacy they need to live full and empowered lives.
Johnston County NAACP
Email: secretarynaacpofjoco5405@gmail.com
Phone: 919-701-1125
Website: joconaacp.org
The NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to securing political, social, educational and economic equality for Black people and all persons of color. The organization works to advance policies that promote human and civil rights, eliminate racial discrimination and support economic security and overall wellbeing in communities.
The NAACP serves communities of color by combining legal action, advocacy and public engagement. Programs include voter education, leadership development, mentorship and public education campaigns. The organization also addresses systemic inequities in areas such as housing, healthcare, criminal justice and education. Its local branches and Youth & College Division empower young people to organize, advocate and become the next generation of civil rights leaders. A youth council is currently being established and the NAACP is seeking youth members to participate in mentorship, community service, leadership development and scholarship opportunities.
Community members can get involved by joining the NAACP online for a membership fee of $20 or youth can join for $10 at naacp.org, selecting Branch 5408-B. Members receive updates on meetings, committee opportunities and programs while helping advance the NAACP’s mission of equity, justice and opportunity.
Serve The Need Johnston County
Email: info@servetheneedjc.org
Phone: 919-333-8399
Website: servetheneedjc.org
Serve the Need is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in Johnston County through service and collaboration with other nonprofits, schools, churches and community organizations. One of its primary focuses is building handicapped ramps for individuals who cannot afford one, with a team of volunteers able to construct a ramp in less than four hours. The organization also coordinates an annual Community Thanksgiving Meal in Clayton, bringing together multiple groups to provide a meal for those in need.
Additional initiatives include supporting the Johnston County Student Emergency Fund, donating gift cards to teachers for classroom supplies and distributing food collected from local grocery stores to food banks and nonprofits. Serve the Need works wherever there is a pressing community need, relying on subcommittees and volunteers to match skills and talents with opportunities.
Community members can get involved by attending the monthly meetings, volunteering for projects or supporting initiatives financially or with in-kind donations. Meetings are generally held on the first Thursday of the month at Horne Memorial UMC in Clayton. Visit the organization’s website to learn more about its history and ongoing programs.
First In Families of North Carolina – Johnston Chapter
Email: Johnston@fifnc.org
Phone: 919-943-5757
Website: fifnc.org
Address: 4601 Lake Boone Trail Suite G, Raleigh
First In Families of North Carolina (FIFNC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and their families across the state. Since 1995, FIFNC has helped people achieve self-defined wellness and life goals by connecting them with resources, fostering community relationships and encouraging opportunities to give back.
FIFNC serves individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, severe and persistent mental illness and substance use disorders. The organization also supports families with young children at risk of developmental delays or disabilities and those enrolled in Healthy Blue Medicaid. Programs help participants meet current goals, plan for the future and access needed goods and services such as assistive technology, summer camp, household furniture or car repairs.
Community members can support FIFNC by volunteering, donating or participating in programs that give back to others.
Hope Abounds Cancer Network
Email: lynnstanley4951@gmail.com
Phone: 919-369-4951
Website: hopeabounds.org
Hope Abounds is a nonprofit organization providing compassionate, no-cost support, resources and education to cancer patients, their families and caregivers across North and South Carolina. The organization empowers individuals through advocacy, collaboration and tailored assistance, ensuring that no one faces their cancer journey alone. Each patient and family’s needs are unique, so services are customized, while Hope Abounds’ vision, values and commitments remain constant.
Hope Abounds relies entirely on volunteers to support daily operations, educational programs, special events and outreach activities. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds contribute, including college students, business professionals, retirees and community members seeking to make a difference. Tasks include assembling comfort bags and totes, assisting with events, providing administrative support and participating in community outreach.
A fundraiser event will be held Nov. 16 at the Barn at Broadslab in Benson to support the organization, featuring The Band of Oz, Jim Quick and DJ Chase Leslie. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for The Fall Breeze East Coast Classic are available.
Boys & Girls Club of Johnston County
Email: lstanley@johnstonbgc.org
Phone: 919-351-1559
Website: johnstonbgc.org
Address: 609 N. Pollock St., Selma
Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnston County helps young people reach their full potential as responsible, caring and productive citizens. The organization provides daily programming for more than 200 students ages 6-16, offering a safe and supportive environment where youth can learn, grow and thrive.
Volunteers play a vital role in the success of the clubs. By sharing their time, energy and expertise, volunteers help prepare members for bright futures and make a lasting difference in their lives. Opportunities are available for individuals who want to mentor, assist with programs or support events that inspire and empower Johnston County’s youth.
Street Reach of Johnston County
Email: regina@streetreachjc.org
Phone: 919-912-9854
Website: streetreachjc.org
Address: 125 S Fourth St., Smithfield
Street Reach of Johnston County serves individuals experiencing homelessness in Selma, Smithfield and surrounding areas through four key pillars: Homeless Resources, Awareness, Community Education and Hope.
Street Reach operates a Resource Center and has previously run a White Flag Shelter. Its mission is to help unsheltered individuals find stability, recovery and renewed purpose by addressing interconnected challenges such as addiction, mental illness, incarceration, trauma and poverty.
Services include helping people obtain IDs and birth certificates, access to hygiene items, clothing, laundry and computer facilities and mailing address services. During cold weather, Street Reach provides transportation, hot meals and safe overnight accommodations. They also connect individuals with detox and treatment centers, recovery programs and peer support, along with offering community activities like Bible study, music and art.
Street Reach is entirely volunteer-driven and sustained by community support. To get involved or make a donation, visit streetreachjc.orgget-involved.
One Blood Movement Of Unity Inc.
Email: fred@obmou.com
Phone: 919-944-1800
Website: obmou.com
Address: 436 E Main St., Clayton
One Blood Movement of Unity Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building stronger, more connected communities through service, mentorship and outreach. Their mission is to unite people across cultural and social divides, creating safe spaces for growth, healing and hope.
The organization mentors youth ages 10-18, coaches adults through challenges like depression, anxiety and stress and supports families facing homelessness, food insecurity and other hardships. Their outreach includes feeding the homeless, providing essential resources and hosting large-scale community events such as their annual Thanksgiving meal that serves more than 5,000 people.
One Blood Movement of Unity believes unity is more than a word — it’s a way of life. Guided by the motto, “If Each Individual Does Their Individual Job, That’s What Makes a Team,” it works tirelessly to create spaces where everyone feels seen, supported and empowered.
Community members can get involved by volunteering at events, mentoring youth or supporting outreach programs through donations, sponsorships or in-kind contributions such as food, clothing or services.
Activate Selma
Email: activateselma@gmail.com
Website: activateselmanc.com
Address: Selma
Activate Selma is a passionate group of residents, volunteers and business owners dedicated to revitalizing and uplifting the town of Selma. Their mission is to bring energy, creativity and collaboration to the community — supporting local entrepreneurs, restoring pride in Selma’s historic downtown and sparking positive change through action.
Known for their motto, “We don’t complain, we take action,” Activate Selma members work together to improve public spaces, promote small businesses and foster community connections that make Selma a thriving, welcoming place to live and work.
The group meets every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at various locations around town, with occasional evening meetings at 5 p.m. All residents, volunteers, business owners and community leaders are welcome to attend and get involved.
To find the next meeting location, subscribe to their email newsletter, follow them on Facebook or visit activateselmanc.comevents.
Friends of Johnston County Parks
Email: friendsofjohnstoncountyparks@gmail.com
Phone: 919-989-PARK
Website: friendsofjohnstoncountyparks.org
Friends of Johnston County Parks (FJCP) is a volunteer-led nonprofit dedicated to supporting and advocating for parks, trails and open spaces throughout Johnston County. Founded in 2020 by community leader Dave Herpy, FJCP began as a small group of volunteers passionate about expanding recreation and green space access. Since then, it has grown into a trusted community partner working alongside local governments, nonprofits and residents to promote outdoor recreation, conservation and trail connectivity.
FJCP organizes annual events such as the Earth Day Countywide Cleanup and Walk and Talk about Trails, which invite residents to explore local trails and parks. The group also maintains segments of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and has partnered with the Johnston County Arts Council to install public art in parks and shared spaces. FJCP serves as a voice for parks and recreation in local planning, participating in park and transportation master plans to ensure community needs are represented.
Residents can get involved by participating in trail workdays, attending cleanup events or hiking challenges or becoming members. Membership fees help cover operational costs and fund local park projects, including the county’s first park in the Cleveland community at Matthews and Polenta Roads.
The 2025 JoCo Fall Hiking Challenge sponsored by the group is currently underway, running through Dec. 31. For more details, follow them on Facebook or visit their website.
Junior Women’s League of Smithfield
Email: jwlsmithfield@gmail.com
Phone: 984-201-2041
Website: jwlsmithfield.com
The Junior Women’s League of Smithfield is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities throughout Johnston County. Founded in October 2015 by seven women with a shared passion for service, the league provides opportunities for women to connect with like-minded peers while making a positive impact in their communities.
The league serves women, children and families across Johnston County through a variety of volunteer programs and community initiatives. Women of all races, religions and backgrounds are welcomed to join, provided they have an interest in and commitment to voluntarism.
The league sponsors an annual children’s Touch a Truck event in downtown Smithfield, held this year on Nov. 1, and supports a number of Blessing Boxes throughout the county, where people are invited to leave or take food items as needed.
Foster Hope of North Carolina
Email: stephan@fosterhopenc.com
Phone: 919-602-9861
Website: FosterHopeNC.com
Foster Hope ministers to the foster and adoptive community by hosting a five-day overnight therapeutic camp for children from foster care, ages 7-11. These camps provide a safe, supportive environment where children can heal, build confidence and develop social and emotional skills.
The organization is planning to expand its programs to include weekend camps for teenagers ages 12-18, with a focus on character development, life skills and the transition to adulthood. It also plans to host camps that include both foster or adoptive children and their caregivers, providing education and support to help parents successfully raise children who have experienced neglect, abuse or abandonment. These programs will teach foster and adoptive parents about the impact of trauma on brain development and offer strategies for adjusting parenting approaches to promote healing and thriving.
To support these efforts, the organization is launching a capital campaign to raise $3 million to purchase its own facility, providing a permanent home for the camps and expanding the services available to children and families in the foster and adoptive community.
NAMI Johnston County NC
Email: namijoconc@gmail.com
Phone: 919-980-5277
Website: namijoconc.org
NAMI provides support through weekly support groups, education through NAMI Signature Educational Programs, advocacy in Raleigh and Washington, D.C., and awareness of mental illness through public presentations and local events.
The organization serves individuals in recovery from various mental illnesses and mental health conditions, as well as their families, loved ones and the broader community. In partnership with Alliance Healthcare and Johnston Community College, the organization also offers Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training for law enforcement and first responders multiple times a year.
As an all-volunteer affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the organization relies on committed volunteers to run programs, facilitate classes and give presentations. All volunteers receive training to become certified teachers or facilitators.
Serving Johnston County for nearly 20 years, the organization maintains consistent programs and educational offerings, independent of corporate sponsorship and welcomes donations from individuals and local small businesses. The organization is currently seeking a permanent brick-and-mortar office to serve as a county-wide resource center.
Education First High School Exchange Year
Email: suzanne.mcternan@efexchangeyear.org
Phone: 405-512-1725
Website: efexchangeyear.org
Education First (EF) hosts international exchange students ages 14-18 from more than 16 countries, connecting them with U.S. host families across all 50 states. The organization recruits International Exchange Coordinators to identify and support families willing to share American culture and provide a welcoming home environment.
EF’s programs give students the opportunity to experience life in the United States, improve their English language skills and engage with local communities, while host families gain insight into other cultures and build lasting international friendships. Individuals and families can get involved by becoming a host family, volunteering as an exchange coordinator or supporting EF’s mission to promote global understanding and cultural exchange.
National Honors Society at Neuse Charter School
Email: kmclamb@neusecharterschool.org
Phone: 919-626-2300
The National Honor Society (NHS) at Neuse Charter School recognizes and encourages academic excellence, leadership, service and character among 11th and 12th grade students. Members are selected based on strong academics and commitment to NHS’s four pillars: scholarship, leadership, service and character.
NHS promotes personal growth and civic responsibility through individual and group service projects that benefit the school and local community. Members develop leadership skills, support school initiatives and serve as role models for their peers.
Students can get involved by meeting eligibility requirements and applying when invited. Once inducted, members participate in service projects, leadership opportunities and school events, building skills that benefit them in college and beyond while making a positive impact in their community.
Plantmosphere
Email: plantmosphere.nc@gmail.com
Phone: 804-832-4780
Website: plantmosphere.weebly.com
Address: 3919 Raleigh Rd., Clayton
Plantmosphere is a community-focused nonprofit that provides opportunities for people of all ages to learn, explore and engage with nature. Volunteers and community members can enjoy gardens, outdoor projects and interactive learning experiences that promote sustainability, foraging, herbal medicine and more.
The organization offers free monthly Sunday Fundays, where participants of all ages can join hands-on nature programming and connect with others who share a curiosity for the natural world. Plantmosphere’s mission is to create a space for the community to experience, learn and interact with nature while enhancing the grounds of the Artmosphere Community Arts Center.
Volunteers are always welcome to help maintain gardens, assist with ongoing projects and contribute to the creation of outdoor spaces.
Johnston Health Foundation
Email: jhfoundation@unchealth.unc.edu
Phone: 919-209-3594
Website: johnstonhealthfoundation.org
Address: 509 N. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield
Johnston Health Foundation is a nonprofit organization that inspires generosity to improve the health and well-being of people in Johnston County. The Foundation supports the patients, programs and services of UNC Health Johnston and SECU Hospice House through initiatives, equipment and community health programs that enhance patient care and promote wellness.
It also provides broader community programming that brings healthcare and health education to underserved populations.
Community members can get involved by attending or sponsoring annual fundraising events, including UNC Health Johnston’s Derby Day at Portofino in May, the UNC Health Johnston Golf Classic in September and the Festival of Trees at the Johnston Medical Mall in December. Volunteers play a vital role in these events and in supporting the Foundation’s year-round initiatives. Every gift of time, talent or financial support helps strengthen health care close to home.
Habitat for Humanity
Email: communications@habitatwake.org
Phone: 919-833-1999
Website: habitatwake.org
Address: 2420 N. Raleigh Blvd., Raleigh
Habitat Wake is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and preserving safe, affordable, energy-efficient housing in Wake and Johnston counties. Since 1985, Habitat Wake has built more than 1,000 homes and continues to serve the community through new construction, home repair, advocacy and global building initiatives.
Habitat Wake partners with families to achieve homeownership, provides education that empowers the community and advocates for housing solutions that ensure everyone has a safe, affordable place to live.
Community members can support Habitat Wake by volunteering on a build site, making a donation or shopping at one of the organization’s 10 ReStores, which help fund affordable housing initiatives. Every contribution helps families achieve stability and strengthens the community.
Johnston County Education Foundation
Email: info@jced.foundation
Phone: 919-934-7977
Website: jced.foundation
The Johnston County Education Foundation (JCEF) supports innovation, involvement and excellence in Johnston County Public Schools by managing privately funded programs, grants and scholarships. It is the primary partner of public education in the county, helping teachers thrive and fostering continuous academic improvement. JCEF serves students, teachers and staff, recognizing that a strong public school system is vital for a growing county.
Support from the community is essential to providing students and educators with opportunities beyond what public funding can offer. JCEF hosts annual fundraisers, including its largest event, Showcase of the Stars, and relies on tax-deductible donations to enhance educational programs. Community members can also make a lasting impact by establishing an annually funded scholarship for graduating seniors, either at a specific high school or across the county.
Through community support, JCEF strengthens the experience of both teachers and students in Johnston County Public Schools. For updates and ways to get involved, follow JCEF on Facebook.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Email: jenn.beach-batten@shpbeds.org
Phone: 844-432-2337
Website: shpbeds.orgchapter/nc-clayton
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Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that no child has to sleep on the floor. Serving families in Clayton and Garner, the organization provides beds to children ages 3-17 whose families demonstrate need, including those in single-parent households, foster and adoptive families, families recovering from natural disasters and refugees. Families can apply or be referred through shpbeds.org.
During organized build days, volunteers build beds which are then delivered directly to the child’s home with a new mattress, pillow and bedding set. Every bed is provided with care and dignity. Sleep in Heavenly Peace plans to expand services to the Smithfield area as resources allow.
There are many ways to get involved. Individuals or businesses can sponsor a bed for $250, join the Bunkhead Club with a recurring $20 monthly donation, volunteer at build days, host a bedding drive or sponsor a build day. In-kind donations of new twin mattresses, bedding, pillows, tools and lumber are also appreciated.
Neuse River Writers
Email: admin@neuseriverwriters.org
Website: Neuseriverwriters.org
Neuse River Writers is a group of writers, filmmakers and other creative individuals dedicated to educating, inspiring and encouraging writing for publication, performance or personal enjoyment. Serving all of Johnston and surrounding counties, the organization offers classes, workshops and monthly meetings for members and the public. They also provide speakers for groups, participate in panel discussions and judge writing contests.
Neuse River Writers serves published and unpublished writers, as well as anyone interested in learning more about writing or pursuing a creative life. The public is welcome to attend monthly meetings, held on the second Thursday of each month from 5-7 p.m. at the Smithfield Public Library multipurpose room. Membership is available for those who wish to become more involved.
Clayton Chamber Foundation
Email: marketing@claytonchamber.com
Phone: 919-553-6352
Website: claytonchamberfoundation.org
Address: 301 E. Main St., Clayton
Established in 2019, the Clayton Chamber Foundation serves as the charitable arm of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. The Foundation’s mission is to support the Chamber’s initiatives in business, economic and workforce development, helping strengthen the greater Clayton community. It provides sustainable, mission-driven funding for programs such as LaunchJOCO and its Masterclass series, STEP (Student to Entrepreneur Program), INSPIRE Mentoring, Super Star Teacher, First Responder Scholarships and other workforce and economic development initiatives.
The Foundation also celebrates local heroes through events like the First Responders Appreciation Breakfast and Awards. This event honors the sacrifices of firefighters, police officers, paramedics and other first responders while supporting their professional development. In 2025, the Foundation awarded twelve first responders $1,000 scholarships each to pursue continuing education, made possible by generous community donors.
Donations to the Clayton Chamber Foundation directly support these programs and help care for the historic Clayton Chamber of Commerce building, constructed in 1919 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Funds contribute to the preservation of the building’s historic features while enabling the Foundation to continue its outreach, education and recognition programs that strengthen the community.
Through these efforts, the Clayton Chamber Foundation uplifts Clayton residents, supports local leaders and first responders and preserves the town’s historic legacy, all made possible by the generosity of its donors.
Mama Moses Underground Railroad
Email: mamamosesugrr@gmail.com
Phone: 910-514-8808
Website: mamamoses.org
Address: 207 W. Front St., Lillington
The Underground Railroad (UGRR) is a nonprofit ministry serving unhoused individuals and families in Harnett, Johnston and surrounding counties. The organization provides emergency food, shelter, utility assistance, camping gear, eviction prevention and other critical support. UGRR also hosts one of North Carolina’s largest toy giveaways and has provided families with donated vehicles.
All recipients are carefully vetted and the ministry maintains strict confidentiality for both donors and those served. Volunteers help with food distribution, home repairs, ramps and other community needs. Partial rent assistance may be provided for those facing eviction who can show sustainable income. More than 200 evictions have been prevented since January 2024.
UGRR relies entirely on private donations and volunteers to carry out its mission of serving the community with care and compassion.
Johnston County Rotary Clubs
Central Johnston Rotary
Email: centraljohnstoncountyrotary@gmail.com
Phone: 917-855-7073
Website: centraljohnstonrotary.org
Address: 514 N. Brightleaf Blvd., Ste. 1404, Smithfield
The Rotary Club of Cleveland School
Email: admin@clevelandschoolrotary.org
Phone: 984-301-1356
Website: clevelandschoolrotary.org/
Address: 103 McLemore Road, Clayton
Rotary Club of Clayton
Email: rotaryclubclayton@gmail.com
Phone: 315-771-0321
Website: claytonrotaryclub.org
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Rotary is a global network of over 35,000 clubs dedicated to promoting leadership, ethical behavior and peace. Members engage in service projects that address critical issues such as health, education, poverty alleviation and community development. Through the philosophy of “service above self,” Rotary connects people from all walks of life to make a meaningful impact locally and globally.
In Johnston County, three Rotary clubs actively serve the community. The Central Johnston County Rotary Club, established in 1988, brings together diverse business and professional members who meet weekly on Thursdays at UNC Health Johnston Medical Mall in Smithfield. The club participates in initiatives like scholarship programs, volunteering with the Salvation Army, delivering meals to shut-ins, and supporting youth programs.
The Clayton Rotary Club, chartered in 1925, is a group of over 100 business and professional individuals. They meet Thursday mornings in Clayton. Known for their focus on fellowship, professional networking and community service, the club hosts a variety of programs and supports projects ranging from assisting disabled veterans and seniors to working with local schools and food banks. Members are encouraged to bring ideas for service and the club welcomes anyone with a desire to make a difference.
The Cleveland School Rotary Club, founded in 2007, serves the Cleveland School area and surrounding Johnston County. Members from all walks of life come together to lead and participate in service projects that enhance community life. Guided by Rotary’s Four Way Test, the club focuses on creating meaningful local impact while fostering connections among individuals who share a commitment to service and community improvement.
The Johnston County clubs annually host the Flags for Heroes program with public displays of American flags to honor veterans, current military, first responders, frontline healthcare workers and anyone who is considered a hero.
Together, these three clubs represent the spirit of Rotary in Johnston County, combining international ideals with hands-on local service to support neighbors, schools, veterans and families in need.
Hope Center Ministries
Email: m.hall@hopecm.com
Phone: 919-210-4421
Website: www.hopecm.com
Address: 91 Swift Creek Rd., Wilsons Mills
Hope Center Ministries offers a 12-month residential recovery program for men and women struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. The organization focuses on restoring individuals, families, and communities affected by addiction.
Hope Center serves men and women from all backgrounds. Local businesses can support by providing vocational training that may lead to employment, while churches and community members can volunteer or host an Evening of Hope to learn more about the ministry’s work.
