Since 2013, Big Day of Giving (BDOG) has raised more than $52 million for hundreds of nonprofits in El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, and Yolo Counties. Coordinated by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, BDOG is an effort to ensure donors can give without hesitation and support the many needs our communities face. The 24-hour online giving challenge on May 6 is a fun, interactive way to support local causes and inspire others to do the same.

Wondering which causes to support? From animal rehabilitation and child advocacy to safe housing and the arts, there’s an organization for all. Check out the full list at bigdayofgiving.org/nonprofits and keep reading to learn about a few of our favorites.

 

Since 1966, PRIDE Industries has created employment for people with disabilities, veterans, former foster youth, and trafficking survivors. They’re experts in employment coaching, training, and job placement, and most of all, helping individuals realize their true value to our community. PRIDE is dedicated to normalizing workforce inclusion by empowering those who may face obstacles in getting and keeping a job with the necessary skills and support. prideindustries.com

 

The Gathering Inn is a 100-bed facility in Auburn that offers housing to Placer County residents 18 and over who are sober and have no history of sexual-related crimes. The facility provides more than just a bed; guests have access to clean clothing, shower facilities, meals, drug and alcohol recovery meetings, life skills courses, and more. Case mangers work alongside guests to identify and help break the barriers to affordable housing. thegatheringinn.com

Since 2001, the Adopt an Elder Foundation has provided support for low-income seniors who require minimal care by offering financial advocacy to properly house them. They believe that safe housing, proper nutrition, and access to health care is a right—regardless of income. Once the nonprofit “adopts” an elder, they strategize ways and resources to keep adoptees in their home or in assisted living facilities, as opposed to skilled nursing facilities. This allows the adoptees to have a dignified lifestyle while saving taxpayer money. adoptanelderfoundation.org

 

Part of a national organization, Child Advocates of El Dorado County (CASA El Dorado) advocates for at-risk youth in our community by providing court-appointed volunteers who are specially trained to speak up for the needs of neglected children. With support and understanding from CASA volunteers, children in foster care are heard and represented, therefore offering them a chance to create a positive life. casaeldorado.org

Fat Kitty City is a 20-acre sanctuary operated by the Agee Memorial Wildlife Fund. They’re dedicated to providing shelter and medical treatment to abandoned or abused animals and then locating loving homes or providing a lifelong home at their sanctuary. They also help re-home animals coming from newly homeless families. Fat Kitty City is a natural environment allowing for cats to run, play, and climb trees. fatkittycity.org

 

Established in 1979, Snowline Hospice is a sought-after resource for those nearing the end of life. They have an interdisciplinary team of professionals and do not turn away those who are uninsured. Through their thrift stores and donations, they’re able to give care to patients and provide support and kindness to struggling families. snowlinehospice.org

The Folsom Lake Symphony is proud to be the premier orchestra for the Folsom area and resident orchestra at the Harris Center for the Arts. Their 70+ musicians and volunteers pride themselves on inspiring the community through music by performing for everyone—from children to senior communities. Live music goes a long way in supporting music education and community connection. folsomlakesymphony.com

 

Twin Lakes Food Bank has been serving our community for over three decades but those facing food insecurity continues to grow. With volunteers and donations, Twin Lakes Food Bank is able to offer not only healthy groceries but holiday meals to families, school supplies to children, and meal deliveries to seniors. Alongside smiles, encouragement, and additional resources, individuals facing hunger in our community are given a sense of hope. twinlakesfoodbank.org

In 1960, residents successfully averted the demolition of the century old Wells Fargo Assay Office on Sutter Street, which eventually became home to the Folsom History Museum. Along with the Folsom History Museum, the Folsom Historical Society (FHS) runs Pioneer Village and the Chinese Heritage Museum (currently under construction). FHS proudly provides engaging experiences about the people, places, and events that shaped our historical region through museum exhibits, archives and preservation, and online content. folsomhistoricalsociety.org