Why Give This Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday is a chance to lift up the small, local organizations that make Highlands–Cashiers and surrounding communities better — protecting the land, supporting wildlife, enriching lives through arts and education, and helping neighbors in need. Even a small gift goes a long way.
Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy
Maintains and preserves the historic Bartram Trail so hikers and nature lovers can enjoy miles of scenic, well-kept trails across the region.
Why donate: Your support funds trail maintenance, signage, and conservation — ensuring the Bartram Trail stays safe, accessible, and beautiful for future generations.
Donate here »
Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society
The only no-kill animal shelter on the plateau, rescuing pets in need, providing veterinary care, and offering adoption, spay/neuter services, and pet pantry support.
Why donate: You help give abandoned and neglected animals a second chance at a loving home, and fund essential services that support pet welfare in our community.
Donate here »
Gordon Center for Children (Highlands United Methodist Church)
Provides early childhood education and after-school care for local children (ages 1–5 preschool; plus a K–5 after-school program).
Why donate: Supporting the Gordon Center helps ensure children in our community have access to safe, nurturing care and enrichment — vital for working families and early childhood development.
Donate here »
Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust (HCLT)
Works to permanently protect forests, watersheds, wetlands, and scenic vistas — safeguarding drinking water, wildlife habitat, and open space for future generations.
Why donate: Your gift helps conserve irreplaceable natural resources, protect biodiversity, and keep our mountains wild and beautiful.
Donate here »
Highlands Plateau Greenway
Builds and maintains a network of walking and hiking trails around Highlands, promoting recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and non-motorized transport.
Why donate: Your support helps sustain and expand the trail system that connects our community to nature, recreation, and each other.
Support the Greenway »
Highlands Biological Foundation
Supports year-round environmental education, free public Nature Center access, botanical gardens, and scientific research at the Highlands Biological Station.
Why donate: Your gift keeps nature programs free and accessible, supports biodiversity research, and fosters environmental stewardship across generations.
Give to the Foundation »
Highlands Community Childcare Development Center (HCCDC)
Provides affordable, high-quality childcare for local families, offering a safe, nurturing environment for young children.
Why donate: Your support helps maintain essential childcare services, giving children a strong start and parents peace of mind.
Donate via website »
Highlands Historical Society
Preserves and interprets the history of Highlands through museum exhibits, maintenance of historic buildings, and educational programs.
Why donate: Your gift helps keep our local heritage alive — supporting historic preservation and educational outreach for future generations.
Donate or learn how to help »
Highlands Performing Arts Center
Brings live theater, music, dance, and performance arts to our community — fostering creativity, culture, and community connection.
Why donate: Your support keeps the arts vibrant, funds performances and youth programs, and strengthens community through shared cultural experiences.
Support the Arts »
The Literacy & Learning Center
Provides educational programs — including tutoring, ESL, GED prep, and reading programs — to children and adults in our community.
Why donate: Your gift helps ensure that families have access to learning, literacy, and opportunity no matter their background.
Donate here »
The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center
Provides spiritual retreats, educational programs, summer camps, and community-building on over 1,100 acres in the mountains.
Why donate: Contributions help sustain retreats, youth camps, and educational programs that foster connection, growth, and healing.
Donate to The Mountain »
Mountain Theatre Company
Offers local live theater performances and supports regional talent, giving the community a space to experience dramatic and musical arts.
Why donate: Contributions help keep live theater alive and accessible to locals and visitors, supporting culture and creative expression.
Donate via website »
Pisgah Legal Services
An innovative nonprofit law firm providing free civil legal aid, anti-poverty advocacy, and access to health care so low-income people in Western North Carolina can meet basic needs like housing, safety from abuse, income, and medical care.
Why donate: Your gift helps thousands of neighbors in crisis avoid homelessness, escape domestic violence, secure vital health care and income supports, and access justice regardless of their ability to pay.
Donate here »
REACH of Macon County
Provides housing, food, and support services to families and individuals facing hardship in Macon County.
Why donate: Your support helps neighbors in crisis — offering stability, hope, and essential services to those in need.
Donate or learn more »
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts
Offers art exhibitions, classes, and community arts programs for all ages — enriching our region culturally and creatively.
Why donate: Your gift helps support local artists, arts education, and a thriving creative community that benefits everyone.
Donate »