Like a bee colony, when members of a community work together and support each other, we can achieve sweet results. In this issue of Elegant Island Living, we’re shining a spotlight on the many non-profit organizations that make up the Golden Isles “hive.” We’ll be taking a closer look at the services offered by these groups of busy bees that provide support to people and programs in need and how you too can help. The sheer number of active charitable organizations in around Glynn County is astounding, and it seems that there are always new additions and changes. From environmentalism and education to animal welfare and caregiving to cultural arts, there are a plethora of causes to champion here in south coastal Georgia.
Hand in hand with these many causes are their fundraising events. Whether a glamorous gala, a charity golf tournament or 5K run, family festival, or community celebration, we’re here to spread the buzz. In this month’s feature, you’ll learn about fall fundraisers and other upcoming events and giving campaigns which support these organizations doing impactful work in the Golden Isles. By purchasing tickets, becoming a sponsor, donating talent or time, your contributions keep the community humming.
Similar to the way the Communities of Coastal Georgia Foundation manages funds and gifts that benefit numerous local non-profits and causes, there are other local charitable organizations in the Golden Isles that donate to a variety of non-profits, instead of focusing on a single cause. These groups are often able to provide matching funds from donors which increases the impact in our community.
100 Women Who Care (100womenwhocaressi.com)
The Coastal Georgia Chapter of 100 Women Who Care was originally founded by Cathy Foley, Sandy Metzger, Susan Mundy, Melissa Stroud, and Catherine Wood. These local ladies were motivated by the unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of those in need in our community. They knew that when people work together as a group they can accomplish than they could do by themselves. After four years, the group has grown to more than 400 Women Who Care and they have donated over $400,000 to Glynn County charities, with matching grants that make that amount even greater.
Members of the group meet four times a year for an hour-long meeting. At that meeting, presentations are made by three charities that were nominated by members. Members vote to determine which charity will be awarded the $30,000+ that is paid by $100 tax-deductible checks written to the charity by each member. Past award recipients have included Memory Matters Glynn, CASA, and Hospice of the Golden Isles.
100 Men Who Give (100menwhogive.com)
Inspired by 100 Women Who Care, Kevin Udell led the initiative for 100 Men Who Give and launched the group in January 2023. Thanks to the original leadership team, including Mike Cudd, David O'Quinn, Justin Callaway, Todd Wood and Mike Warren, there are currently more than 200 members. Instead of making their gifts as individual checks to winning charities, these men pay membership dues of $400 annually (or $100 each quarter) to the Communities of Coastal Georgia Foundation, who manages the fund. Four annual meetings, charity nominations, presentations, and voting for the award recipient are handled in the same method as 100 Women Who Care. Past award recipients have included Grace House of Brunswick, Habitat for Humanity, and The Gathering Place.
With over $60,000 given to Glynn County non-profits in 2024, a 2025 goal to give $20,000 each quarter, 100 Men Who Give has donated more than $130,000 directly to our local community in need. They have a five-year goal to increase the group to 1,000 members, are seeking matching donors, and would like help in discovering more charities in need of funding. The more members, the more charities reached, the greater the impact they can have in Glynn County.
Friends of the Davis Love Foundation (rsmclassic.com/charity/friends-of-dlf)
With the 2025 RSM Classic on the horizon in November, there’s also the opportunity to help the Davis Love Foundation build brighter future for children and families in need. Through their Friends of the Foundation program, you can donate directly to participating local charities, helping them to raise critical funds and earn bonus contributions from the Foundation. Every dollar you give goes to your chosen charity, and the more donations they receive, the more bonus funds they’ll unlock from the Davis Love Foundation. The program runs from June 2 to November 14, with final totals awarded following the RSM Classic on December 1. In addition, your purchase of tickets and hospitality packages to attend the RSM Classic also supports the mission of Davis Love Foundation and its charitable gifts to the community.
Care and compassion are the liquid gold that run through the interconnected cells the hive that is our community. We depend on each other and by working together we’re able to meet the myriad needs of individuals and families. These charities provide support in so many ways, to young and old, in all walks of life. Some of may be new and unfamiliar agencies to you, others are well-known community organizations. All of them functioning together keep our hive alive and thriving.
Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia (bgcsega.com)
With nine units and two early literacy academies covering Glynn and McIntosh Counties, the Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Georgia currently serves over 3600 youth annually. They offer after-school, summer camp, educational, sports and recreational programs designed to empower our youth to excel in school, become good citizens, and lead both healthy and productive lives. An exciting way to show your support this fall is to get tickets for the Corey Smith Homecoming Concert at Gnat’s Landing on September 20th or to attend the annual Taste of the Wild dinner at Emma’s Driftwood Farm on November 6. Do it for the kids!
Coastal Coalition for Children (cc4children.org)
First Steps, Healthy Families, and Grandparent Connection are programs offered by Coastal Coalition for Children. They work in partnership with the local community to promote child well-being by providing families with the tools they need to create safe, stable and nurturing homes. Watch our community calendar for the return of their signature Taste of the Vine fundraiser.
Communities in Schools of Glynn County (cisofglynn.org)
An affiliate of the nation’s largest dropout prevention organization, CIS of Glynn places dedicated Site Coordinators in local schools to build strong relationships with students, parents, educators, and community members. The Site Coordinators identify barriers that prevent students from succeeding in school and work with administrators to develop individual plans and build teams of support. This system of support empowers students to stay in school and achieve in life.
Safe Harbor Center (safeharborcenterinc.org)
Established in 1991, Safe Harbor Center is a nationally recognized leader among nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving children, families, and individuals who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected; who are homeless or have run away from home, and who are otherwise at risk or feel threatened. Services they offer range from long-term residential children’s shelter to transitional housing, rape crisis centers, family preservation programs, and street outreach. They also operate Zach’s Place and The Village. Donations and proceeds from sales made at the Safe Harbor Thrift Shop & Donation Center help provide necessary support and clothing needs for all Safe Harbor clients and those of its community partners. Their hugely successful Champion for Children fundraising campaign has wrapped for 2025 but keep an eye out for it to return with all new exciting events and new champions in 2026.
STAR of Coastal Georgia (starofcoastalga.org)
SKILLS, TRAINING, ADVANCEMENT, and READINESS are the mission of STAR of Coastal Georgia. STAR works to help community members learn the skills needed to thrive on their personal and professional journeys. They offer workshops and courses on workplace skills, computer knowledge, financial literacy, career development, and life readiness. These programs enhance the overall stability of students and their families while improving the quality of our workforce and our citizens.
New Roots Glynn (newrootsglynn.com)
More than just a recovery organization, New Roots Glynn is a community of support, strength, and hope for those affected by substance use disorder. As part of the Georgia Council for Recovery, we share a common mission with other Recover Community Organizations: to increase the impact of recovery through education, advocacy, training, and peer recovery support services. Their goal is to eliminate the stigma surrounding addiction and provide resources to individuals and families at every stage of their recovery journey with compassion, community, and access to the right support systems. On November 16, come out to The Chapman Event Center at 6045 Golden Isles Parkway from 3:00-5:30 p.m. for the Cruising for Causes fundraiser supporting New Roots Glynn, FaithWorks, helloGoodbuy, and other agencies in an afternoon of advocacy that includes food, mocktails, live music, an automatic entry to win a 4-night Royal Caribbean cruise, plus other raffle prizes. Follow the New Roots Glynn Facebook page for more information and ticket purchase information. **EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL SPRING - NEW DATE TO BE ANNOUNCED**
Glynn Community Crisis Center/Amity House (amityhouse.org)
For more than 40 years, Glynn Community Crisis Center has been a place of refuge, strength, and healing for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence. Their services include a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency shelter, outreach client services, housing assistance programs, support groups and counseling, and community outreach and education. To read more about them and the annual Taste of Glynn fundraiser scheduled for January 18, click HERE.
FaithWorks (faithworksministry.org)
Encouraging people to live out their faith with action is the impetus behind FaithWorks. Their ministries include Cancer Network of Hope (cancer care), Helping Hands (Camden food bank), Samaria (community visitation), Sparrrow’s Nest (Brunswick food pantry and emergency assistance), Open Doors (housing for previously homeless who have found work), and The Well (resource and hospitality center serving people experiencing homelessness). Join FaithWorks at Sea Palms Resort on September 14 at 5:00 p.m. to celebrate their 30 years of service at Blooming in Faith, an evening of good food, great company and a chance to look back at their accomplishments and ahead to their vision for the future. Tickets available on eventbrite.com.
Grace House (gracehousebrunswick.org)
An 11 bed women's sober living home in Brunswick, Grace House offers a one-year program that is designed to nurture and support women, regardless of their socioeconomic situation, as they walk the road of recovery through the 12 steps. They believe that working the 12 steps and developing a network of sober women are the keys to sustaining recovery and achieving success.
House of Hope (houseofhopega.org)
House of Hope is a faith-based therapeutic Maximum Watchful Oversight safe house with a 12-month program that provides refuge and recovery for girls traumatized by sex trafficking or are at risk for becoming sex trafficking victims.
The Remedy Project (theremedyproject.com)
Offering hope and healing to addicts and their families, The Remedy Project provides free counseling and support to anyone struggling with substance abuse like drugs and alcohol. They utilize faith-based counseling and education in a safe environment, and work in partnership with strategic resources in Coastal Georgia such as Glynn County Drug Court and area churches.
Hope 1312 Collective (hope1312co.org)
Tangible hope for children who have encountered the child welfare system is what Hope 1312 Collective strives to provide. They do this by engaging the Church and the community to offer programs that meet the physical, therapeutic, and relational needs of our community's most vulnerable children and families. Their annual Festival of Trees fundraiser will light up the holiday season on December 4th.
CASA Glynn (casaglynn.org)
With trained volunteers who stand up for the best interest of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. and support through donations, CASA works to help and bring positive change to the lives of foster children in Glynn and Camden counties.
Morningstar Children & Family Services (morningstarcfs.org)
For more than 80 years, Morningstar has been a place where Georgia’s most vulnerable foster youth, particularly those with developmental disabilities and complex care needs find not just care, but home. The residential care program of Morningstar specializes in caring for Georgia’s foster children, ages 12-21, who have come into care due to abandonment, abuse or neglect. For more information about them and about the Oktoberfest Dinner Under the Stars fundraiser on Saturday, October 18, click HERE.
Habitat for Humanity of Glynn County (hfhglynn.org)
For 35 years, Habitat for Humanity of Glynn County has empowered over 100 families by building 93 homes, fostering strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable housing. From October 2025 through March 2026, ladies are encouraged to join the Women Build initiative and help build two new homes through sponsorship or volunteering with a crew. Make an impact! You can also provide support by donating to or shopping at the Habitat ReStore in Lanier Plaza, Brunswick.
Operation Bed Spread (operationbed.org)
The mission of Operation Bed Spread is simple: to make sure no child, in any community, is deprived a bed in which to sleep. Since 2012, they have delivered 2050 beds to children and families in need. Your donations are their lifeblood.
Hand in Hand of Glynn (handinhandofglynn.org)
Helping to end homelessness in Glynn County, Hand in Hand of Glynn has built a community of 60 tiny homes in The Grove at Correll Commons in Brunswick to provide permanent affordable homes in a supportive community to adults experiencing chronic homelessness. The support framework includes medical and psychological assistance on site, classes in life skills, and activities to involve residents in community life.
Golden Isles Veterans Village (goldenislesveteransvillage.org)
A neighborhood of transitional housing for homeless veterans that consists of 29 tiny homes, laundry and community. center. In this secure environment, resident veterans can live and interact as a community and receive a wide range of on-site support services and training that prepares them to re-integrate into society as productive independent citizens.
Manna House of Brunswick (mannahousebrunswickga.org)
First opened in 1983, Manna House strives to eliminate hunger and food insecurity through perishable and nonperishable food distribution, soup kitchen, and promoting nutrition. With no paid staff, teams of volunteers provide a meal daily from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., typically serving 289 meals a day – and that need has been increasing, as has the cost to provide it.
Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia (helpendhunger.org)
Leading the charge against food insecurity in the Coastal Georgia region, Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia works with partners in the local community to stock food pantries, provide mobile food pantry services, and more. Support their mission by bidding on hand-crafted bowls created by Glynn Visual Arts pottery studio members in the 11th Annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser. An online auction will be held September 4-20, and special gift sets will be on display at area businesses. There will be a final pottery sale with additional bowls at Glynn Visual Arts from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on September 20. For more information and online auction link, visit glynnvisualarts.org/empty-bowl-2025. Grab some empty bowls so you can help fill the bowls of others in need.
Firebox Initiative (ssbbqfirebox.com)
Out of the ashes of the fire that claimed Southern Soul Barbeque’s building in 2010, came the Firebox Initiative. Firebox is dedicated to assisting members of the food service industry experiencing financial crisis due to illness, accident, or natural disaster. The also provide academic scholarships for service industry workers/children. We heard from a little bird that the Firebox BBQ on the Block fundraiser is returning this year on October 4, so keep an eye out for details and watch for Feeding Firebox pop-ups at SSBBQ!
Memory Matters Glynn (memorymattersglynn.com)
Now in their 30th year of service, Memory Matters Glynn helps those living with dementia, whether Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Lewy Body, traumatic brain injury, or other memory disorders, and supports their families, caregivers, and loved ones. They offer a range of free services including social activities, support groups, and therapy sessions designed to provide comfort, enrichment, and respite during challenging times. With it estimated that one in every three adults over 65 will die with some type of dementia, memory disorders affect a significant portion of our community and create a critical demand. The need for accessible services is especially urgent in low-income populations and Memory Matters Glynn is proud to offer completely free support thanks to generous donations from the community.
Memory Matters is now the organizer of the Golden Isles Alzheimer’s Walk, which will be held on November 8. This community event brings together businesses and residents from Glynn County and surrounding areas to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's and dementia research through the Goizueta Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Emory University and local support services offered by Memory Matters Glynn. This family-friendly event takes place beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the St. Simons Pier and provides something for everyone. Attendees will honor and remember their loved ones in Neptune Park before participating in either a 1-mile or 2-mile walk through the Village. Gather or join a team as a reminder that no one walks this journey alone. You’ll find registration information under the Alzheimer’s Walk tab on the Memory Matters website or HERE.
Hospice of the Golden Isles (hospice.me)
For 45 years, Hospice of the Golden Isles has been serving individuals who have a life-limiting illness, providing care to all eligible patients who need or want their services, regardless of ability to pay. They service Glynn, Camden, McIntosh, Brantley, and Charlton counties, offering expert, individualized medical care, emotional support, and compassionate guidance. As a non-profit hospice, your donations are always needed, and currently you can double your gift thanks to a match challenge of $150,000 from the St. Marys Methodist Church Foundation. Donations made will support uncompensated residential patient care, give today at hospice.me/double-your-gift. If you’d like to attend a fun fundraiser, there’s still time to get tickets for the inaugural Bourbon, Bites & Blues at Village Creek Landing on September 13. Get yours at bourbonbitesandblues.com.
American Cancer Society Victory Board (acsgala.org)
The American Cancer Society Victory Board will be unmasking a new mission to build a firm foundation of hope for the local cancer community and unveiling the Victory Board Foundation at their Moonlight Masquerade on November 14 at Frederica Golf Club. Watch their website for details.
It’s no secret that we love our animals here in the Golden Isles. From raising awareness for dogs and cats needing adoption to providing safe care and respite for abused or retired animals, our community steps up for those who can’t speak for themselves. These local non-profits are dedicated to the welfare of our furry and four-legged friends.
Grateful Cats/Canines Allies & Supporters (gcasallies.com)
This passionate non-profit supports Glynn County Animal Services and works to improve the lives of animals in shelter care through fundraising, education, community outreach, and advocacy. From medical care to enrichment projects, foster and adoption support, GCAS makes real change happen for local cats and dogs in need. Join them for a Downtown Brunswick Pup Crawl & Cat Walk on Saturday, September 13 or the 2nd Annual Fur-K Wag, Walk & Run on November 15. For details about these events, visit their Facebook page.
Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia (hsscg.com)
Dedicated to promoting the compassionate treatment of animals in our community through adoption, public spay/neuter services, sheltering and education, the Humane Society of South Coastal Georgia is the area’s only 100% donor-funded no-kill animal shelter. They provide animals with food and general medical care that includes spaying and neutering, micro-chipping, core vaccines, and hope for a happy and healthy future through the Adopt a Pet program. Their annual signature fundraiser Blue Jean Ball will be held at Sinclair Plantation, the home of Robin and Davis Love, on November 7 from 6:00-10:00 p.m. For details and tickets, visit hsscg.org/blue-jean-ball.
No Kill Glynn County (nokillglynncounty.org)
Organized in 2013, this all-volunteer foster-based non-profit rescue is part of a national movement working towards eliminating euthanasia by working to find homes for unwanted or homeless cats and dogs. The continue to support the philosophy that every life matters and strive to meet this goal because they believe it is possible to achieve a No-Kill Glynn County.
Georgia Police K-9 Foundation (gapolicek9foundation.org)
Assisting law enforcement agencies in providing lifesaving supplies and equipment for their K9 officers is the mission of the Georgia Police K9 Foundation. They are passionate about educating law enforcement agencies and communities about the needs and benefits of K9 officers. They also provide training resources and help during retirement. Come meet K9 teams, see demos, and more during the family-friendly 2025 Day With the K9s community event on October 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Brunswick Exchange Club Fairgrounds.
New Paths Horse Sanctuary (newpathshorsesanctuary.org)
Thanks to the beautiful, peaceful, safe space provided by NPHS, more than 40 senior and at-risk equines who would otherwise face an uncertain future enjoy sanctuary life. They provide exceptional care for senior, lame, unrideable equine friends, while at the same time strengthening the bond between the horse-human relationship. Visitors welcome, volunteers needed.
The Farm at Oatland North (thefarmssi.org)
Located on St. Simons Island, The Farm at Oatland North is a sanctuary and rescue for abused, neglected, and abandoned animals. The Farm provides a safe, and welcoming home for these animals to learn to trust again and to live out the rest of their lives in peace, comfort, dignity, and love. Stop by during Open House hours from 2:00-4:00 p.m. most sunny Sundays to see the horses, goats, pigs, and other animals in their care. Want to sponsor the care of an animal? Check out their website.
Let’s not forgot those who take care of the world around us. From environmental initiatives, conservation, and preservation to the support and celebration of arts and culture that make our community a more vibrant place to live, these too are important causes.
Glynn Environmental Coalition (glynnenvironmental.org)
Formed by citizens concerned by pollution in 1990, Gynn Environmental Coalition works to assure a clean environment and healthy economy for citizens of Coastal Georgia. They do this through a broad range of activities in community organizing, environmental justice, water and air quality, education, public hearings and lobbying, EPA technical assistance, and Superfund site cleanups.
Keep Golden Isles Beautiful (kgib.org)
Keeping our community clean and green since 1979, Keep Golden Isles Beautiful is a volunteer and community based educational organization, in which volunteers contribute 9,000+ hours annually in KGIB efforts, programs and initiatives. This public/private partnership depends on monetary, in-kind and volunteer support from individuals, businesses, local governments, civic/community organizations and schools to provide litter prevention, waste reduction, recycling, community greening, water resource and educational programming and activities to Brunswick and Glynn County citizens. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for community clean up opportunities!
One Hundred Miles (onehundredmiles.org)
The protection of Georgia’s 100-mile coast through advocacy, education, and community engagement is the mission of One Hundred Miles. Their bold mission is to create a future where our coast has thriving communities, protected landscapes, and secure wildlife. Learn more about OHM at their Mile Marker Party at the St. Simons Casino Building in the Village on October 23 between 6:00-9:00 p.m. Tickets available under the Mile Marker Party tab on their website or HERE.
St. Simons Land Trust (sslt.org)
Currently celebrating its 25th Anniversary, the St. Simons Land Trust was established to preserve and protect greenspaces, wilderness areas, trails, waterways, wildlife, important habitat, and tree canopy on St. Simons Island. They are the stewards of properties that include Cannon’s Point and Guale Preserves, Frederica Park, The John C. Gilber Nature Trail, and Old Stables Corner. Elegant Island Living has been proud to be a partner in the Pennies for Preservation fundraising campaign. Join them on October 11 for a free Family Day at Cannon’s Point between 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. And don’t forget to get your tickets for their signature fundraiser, the 25th Annual Oyster Roast at Gascoigne Bluff Park on February 21, 2026. All Land Trust event information can be found HERE.
Glynn Visual Arts (glynnvisualarts.org)
A visual arts center that celebrates and supports creativity and inspiration, Glynn Visual Arts provides engaging programming and meaningful collaboration through gallery exhibits, art classes, workshops, and other educational opportunities. GVA is committed to building a thriving arts community that nourishes our vibrant coastal culture.
Golden Isles Arts & Humanities (goldenislesarts.org)
Designated as the coordinating arts council for Glynn County and the City of Brunswick since 1989, Golden Isles Arts & Humanities began as a volunteer group of citizens with a mission to promote and strengthen the arts and humanities in Glynn County. Their commitment to developing and expanding the arts and humanities in the community now includes an annual calendar of cultural and community events with stage performances, a film series, gallery exhibits, arts education programs, and more. Housed in The Ritz Theatre, they are also home for the Golden Isles Penguin Project.
