We’re gearing up for the release of our brand new episode of The Best of Raleigh on February 28, and we’re so excited to bring you more inspiring stories. But before we dive into the new content, let’s take a moment to reflect on some of our favorite episodes from 2024. Over the last year, we’ve had the pleasure of showcasing some incredible organizations and individuals who are making a huge impact right here in Raleigh.

Here’s a look back at five standout episodes and the amazing work these leaders and nonprofits are doing in our community.

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1. Heather Thompson: The Realtor Giving Network’s Power to Make a Difference

Heather Thompson, the Executive Director of the Realtor Giving Network, shared the inspiring story of how this nonprofit mobilizes over 10,000 local realtors to give back to housing and homelessness causes. Since its inception, the network has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support local organizations that help families and individuals transition out of homelessness. The group’s goal is to give away $1 million annually, and they’re well on their way, having already distributed over $250,000 in 2024 alone.

Heather’s vision is about more than just financial donations—she’s driven by a passion for building community through collective giving. As she put it:
“Philanthropy is the marketplace for love. It’s where no one else is fulfilling those needs, and nonprofits like ours step in to make sure that we’re there for our neighbors in need.”
This kind of collective action truly shows how powerful a community can be when everyone comes together for a shared cause.

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2. Cary Heise: Empowering Women Through Design for Joy

Design for Joy is a nonprofit founded by Cary Heise with the goal of providing job opportunities for women in crisis. Cary’s inspiration came from a deep desire to help women who had experienced sex trafficking, domestic violence, and homelessness find stability and independence through meaningful work. The organization offers training in crafting leather goods, jewelry, and home decor, paying women fair wages while also helping them rebuild their confidence and self-worth. Since its founding, Design for Joy has hired over 140 women, providing them with more than $500,000 in wages.

Cary’s approach goes beyond just employment—it’s about empowering women with dignity and a fresh start. She put it beautifully when she said:
“It’s not about the bags, it’s about learning to trust again. It’s about building self-worth and confidence, and when a woman creates something with her own hands, she becomes a part of something greater.”
Through her work, Cary is not only giving women jobs but helping them rediscover their power and potential.

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3. The Green Chair Project: Giving Families More Than Just Furniture

Founded in 2010, The Green Chair Project helps families transitioning from homelessness by providing them with essential furniture and household items. Many of these families have secured stable housing but are struggling to furnish their homes. The Green Chair Project steps in, collecting gently used furniture and redistributing it to those who need it most. In doing so, they’ve helped over 1,400 families in the last year alone.

The organization’s work is about more than just donating furniture—it’s about giving families a sense of dignity and security. Ray Marie Shuai, CEO, shared the heart of their mission:
“We don’t just give away furniture; we give families the ability to create a home, a space where they feel safe, secure, and valued.”
Through simple yet powerful actions, The Green Chair Project is helping people make their new houses feel like real homes.

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4. Amy Smith: Supporting Women at the Women’s Center of Wake County

The Women’s Center of Wake County has been a pillar of support for single women facing homelessness since 1987. Amy Smith, Executive Director, spoke about the comprehensive services the center provides, including meals, medical care, housing support, and case management. The center serves over 1,600 women annually, offering them the tools they need to regain their independence and secure long-term housing.

The Women’s Center is known for its trauma-informed approach, which helps women rebuild their lives after experiencing abuse or hardship. Amy shared:
“We don’t just help women get housing; we help them build the skills and confidence to stay housed and thrive. It’s not just about giving them a roof; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and community.”
Through partnerships with other local organizations, the Women’s Center gives women the support they need to thrive, not just survive.

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5. Maggie Kane: Serving with Dignity at A Place at the Table

A Place at the Table is Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can nonprofit café, founded by Maggie Kane in 2018. The café’s mission is to serve healthy meals to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Guests can choose to pay the suggested price, pay more to support someone else, or volunteer in exchange for food. Maggie created the café because she wanted to ensure that everyone had access to food with dignity, not just charity.

Maggie shared a powerful moment that inspired her:
“Food insecurity is not just about hunger. It’s about community insecurity. We’re not just serving meals; we’re serving connection, we’re serving dignity, and we’re serving belonging.”
At A Place at the Table, the focus is on community and connection—creating a space where people can sit down together and truly connect over a meal, regardless of their circumstances.

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Raleigh’s Community of Care

These five organizations are a perfect example of the heart and soul of Raleigh. From supporting women in crisis to providing essential resources for those facing housing insecurity, these groups are making a real difference in the lives of many. Whether it’s through food, furniture, housing, or job opportunities, they are all working tirelessly to help those who need it most.

And don’t forget—our new episode of Best of Raleigh drops on February 28! We can’t wait to share more inspiring stories with you, so subscribe and stay tuned!

Ready to Move to Raleigh?

These stories are just a glimpse into the amazing work happening in Raleigh. If you’re looking to learn more about these organizations be sure to subscribe to our youtube channel, or if you want to explore the incredible neighborhoods and community spaces they’re a part of, reach out to us at The Coley Group! Whether you’re new to the area or thinking about making a move, we’d love to help you find your perfect spot in Raleigh.