McKinney Nonprofits and Charities

I've been on staff with Embrace for just over 10 years, and have had a front row seat for the many lives changed. And as a grandparent of children adopted from foster care, I have seen the benefits afforded to my daughter and her family as they parent. With support groups, respite nights, and accessible family outings, Embrace is here to lovingly link arms with all of those who have welcomed vulnerable children into their home. I could not be more blessed to work, and to serve for such an impactful organization!

Our grandson Will was diagnosed with Leigh's Disease when he was just a little over two years old (Now 14 years old!) At the time of Will's diagnoses there were no resources for my daughter & son-in-law to access. They were basically told by the doctors to take our grandson home and enjoy the time you have left with him. Well, they obviously didn't know my daughter & son-in-law and what fighters they are! Soon after Will's devastating diagnoses, my daughter & son-in-law met another family in Texas going through the same struggle as to no resources or information with their young daughter. Realizing there was nothing available, the two families formed the Cure Mito Foundation. This foundation over the years has helped many families navigate this life shattering diagnosis. This phenomenal foundation has given families much needed hope, guidance, resources & wonderful support and love. We are beyond proud of what my daughter & son-in-law have accomplished with the Cure Mito Foundation!

Leia's Kids is wonderful organization. They hosted a Royal party at the Texas Legends game for my son who is fighting childhood cancer. The celebration was full of fun, bonding and memories that'll last a lifetime. Leia's Kids has compassion for our families, they are also very thoughtful, kind and loving company. I would highly recommend Leia's Kids to all families that are going through childhood cancer. This experience is a once in a lifetime chance to have your child pampered and feel special.

CASA of Collin County is an exceptional organization that does great work acting on behalf of children whose voice is more times than not dismissed. They provide crucial advocacy and support for children who are navigating the complex and often overwhelming legal system. By giving these children a voice and fighting for their best interests, CASA of Collin County plays a vital role in ensuring they receive the care and attention they deserve. Through their dedication and tireless efforts, they make a lasting impact on the lives of the children they serve.

Our family adopted our cat Ruby in December of year 2021. We underwent the process of being approved, starting with the paperwork and even someone coming out to our home to see if we were a good fit for the kitty. The kitty is a special needs cat that was born with an eye condition and she is blind. We were approved to be a good fit. We signed the contract and paid the $150 adoption fee and took her home. Ruby has been with our family since then, 2 years ago.<br>Our worst nightmare happened on 1/27/24. Ruby had escaped our property. We couldn't find her and spent all day and night looking for her and calling her. We looked everywhere. We went to the neighbors and called and called her. We drove around and walked the neighborhood. We searched and searched. We also immediately contacted NTCR for help to locate her since they work with shelters and other rescues and have several volunteers. They had recommendations to post Ruby's picture online and register her in paw boost and other sites to help get the word out and find her. We did everything they suggested and more. We even hired a pet detective to help locate her. It had been a terrible long 3 weeks of looking for her. <br>Just when we were very down on our luck, on 2/20/24 @ 9:45PM, we received a text from Kelsey Foligno, a representative of NTCR, who wrote: This is to let you know that Ruby was found by animal control. We have her in our custody and will have her checked out by our vet. Given that this is not the first time she's either been allowed outside or gotten out of your house, we feel that it is in Ruby's best interest to stay with our group for now. We know you care about her, and wanted you to know she is safe.<br>We were shocked! How could they take our beloved pet! Thats all the information they were willing to give at that time. They wouldn't tell us anything else. We then proceeded to contact the Mckinney animal control. Animal control confirmed that NTCR picked up Ruby, but she had been picked up on 2/18/24. They had her for 2 days before they contacted us. We proceeded to try and retrieve more information and her whereabouts from NTCR. They were reluctant to tell us if she was okay and where she was. <br>They finally contacted us and claimed that they took her to the vet on 2/21/24 and said she was healthy and in good condition. This was 3 days later! We would've taken her to our vet right away. NTCR did not provide any documentation from their vet that she is indeed healthy. Still, NTCR proceeded to explain they were going to have a meeting and decide whether they were keeping our cat from us or not and would get back to us in a few days.<br>On 2/22/24 Kelsey with NTCR proceeded to call our family to say they decided they were going to keep Ruby from us. How is this even legal? This is our cat and she is a part of our family. Thats like kidnapping! She proceeded to ask us if we will surrender her to them. Our statement in return: I will not surrender Ruby and will reply to you via email regarding the conversation this morning implying that I stated we let Ruby outside. All cats in our family for 40 years are indoor cats and are never allowed outside. I am appalled that you bait and switch to put me into a defensive mode knowing that we trusted you to help us find our cat. All texts and conversations will be updated online. All of you have been to our home Rhonda specifically inside my own home that stated our animals are so sweet and match. Rhonda herself told us that while she was being fostered was let outside and enjoyed it. We never allowed Ruby or any cat to go outside. <br>The only resolution we will accept is the return of our family member, Ruby, to be brought back to us. We have all documents showing she is our cat and the contract signed by both parties. We have documentation of the posters and posts made looking for the cat since she was missing. We have proof from the animal control and other texts stating they picked up the cat without our knowledge 2 days prior to reaching out to us and not taking the cat to the vet right away. We have documents showing they have violated our rights and violated the contract made.

I had the privilege of visiting Naomi's Village in 2023. I have seen many non-profits working in Africa and the word that comes to mind when I think of my experience, is authentic. Their commitment to serving Kenyans with dignity, and extreme love is a beautiful example of the servant leadership of Jesus Christ! They are truly raising up the next generations of leaders.

As someone who works directly with first responders, military professionals, and nonprofits nationwide, I can confidently say Troops Direct is one of the most effective and impactful organizations I’ve ever partnered with.<br><br>What sets them apart? Speed, integrity, and a relentless commitment to serving those who serve us.<br><br>While other organizations get caught up in red tape, Troops Direct responds to real-time requests from deployed units, medics, and search and rescue teams—delivering mission-critical gear fast and at no cost to our troops. I’ve personally witnessed the life-saving difference their shipments make, especially in disaster zones and high-threat environments where delays can mean lives lost.<br><br>They’ve provided everything from trauma kits and communication gear to hydration systems and specialized tools—based solely on what’s actually needed on the ground.<br><br>This is not performative patriotism. This is true support, in action.<br><br>If you’re looking to donate to a nonprofit where your dollars directly translate into impact, Troops Direct is it.<br><br>Proud to support them, proud to partner with them—and incredibly grateful they exist.<br>

This is a Faith-based non-profit with a mission to make a difference for fatherless children and their mothers in their distress and trouble (James1:27). We provide children growing up with no father presence in their lives a chance to attend Christian camp at locations nationwide wherein the camps have a special heart to serve our kids and moms. Over 650 kids and moms served in 2022 and we are on an upward trajectory.

A STEAM pioneer in the United States with programs that inspire kids and young adults alike. <br> <br>We collaborated on the first "Switch" workshop for young adults in Dallas, Texas in 2021, inspiring them to switch their mindset into a growth mindset, and the lessons we learned were recently applied on a revised "Switch" workshop for young adults at the National Museum of Art in Mexico City. <br> <br>Education Unbound is a team of great minds with huge hearts!

I got exited the program after being a "law abiding citizen". A young non-Caucasian man had come in on a Sunday night. He was treated poorly and I believe targeted for being the skin color he was. I was in the downstairs common space dormitory lounge (where they also have cameras) to begin with-- so the employee made a mistake if they didn't want me encouraging him and lifting him up as a fellow Christian. (Side note: There are multiple reviews on at least two charity sites saying how wonderful Samaritan Inn is and how "Christian" it is.) (I did not find that to be. To be fair, there are some real sweet hearts who work there and I feel badly for them that they have to put up with such heartless people who have no conscience.) This young man was hurting and had been mistreated for coming in late and whatever else he had been through. I am not advocating for flouting the rules one signs up to, however I find there is a specific and hostile spirit at this place which doesn't want people to go to church. I hurt for two months while I was there saving up for a bike. Samaritan has/had a LOT of bikes I didn't see anyone utilize in my time there, but you have to be put on a wait list. Samaritan has a vehicle that is SUPPOSED to take people to things like job interviews and church but the reasoning they gave when I inquired (and this is from another staff member--NOT a resident) is to foster their independence. Independence from God is not a good thing. Independence isn't isolation.<br><br>Back to the exit account: I was talking to this young person as an older Christian I wanted to uplift someone younger. I remember being his age and what I was going through at that time, escaping a very controlling house and unhealthy family for my own history. I encouraged him to not rush into any decisions and let him know I knew how the some of the staff were. Anyhow, the aforementioned particular employee came back to administer I believe it was a second drug test on him. I asked calmly "Can I just finish what I was saying?" This employee snapped at me in an ugly tone, "No. Mind your own business." After they were done doing whatever they were doing, I asked if I could talk with them a second. I asked why they said what they did. They then told me I am --and this is what was said-- that I was NOT ALLOWED TO ENCOURAGE anyone here. That I was here to work on my own self. <br><br>I got employment, I cleaned their bathroom at the facility, went to all the classes they had scheduled for their program, took the assessments, served gladly at the kitchen in the morning which I enjoy serving. As I talked to the this staff member in the break room I told them firmly but kindly. No I cannot abide by that. If someone is hurting I am going to do what the good Samaritan did. I am not trying to be a case worker. I am not infringing on their official counseling. I am being a Christian. I told this person (and it remains true) "I hope you get to know/find Jesus someday" also saying He is a person, not a religion. I bet they got offended and used the excuse of the on camera footage they claim to have of me "blocking" them from getting out of the break room when I was simply finishing what I was saying and then we both went to the hallway-- as an excuse to kick me out. I have read Samaritan's one star reviews. Pay heed to this place's one star reviews. Those probably are not some random people simply disgruntled. After my brief conversation in the break room I went up to my room to think. I couldn't go against my conscience so I called the organization's authority to hear my voice and my concern. There are a lot of counterintuitive rules at Samaritan but this, this is a line. People oughta be able to go to church. The churches don't seek to give rides because some residents are in such soul need in that financially bottom place working upward but in such desire to go. I want to be that voice for those past and present regarding this issue.<br>You shouldn't isolate people from going to church. Samaritan has a chapel on grounds but no pastors were ever invited. No bible studies were ever held on grounds nor encouraged. They have or by the time people read this it might be "had" a box full of bibles. They even stuffed the large finger painting a Christian artist had done live in the dining hall as rare "entertainment" if you will for the residents...they didn't display it in the lobby or anything, they tucked it back and away in the chapel. "Hope for the homeless" is Samaritan Inn's motto. Their name The Samaritan off the biblical parable should be upheld but it is NOT. Which is an interesting legal question for Texas law in regards to name, branding and morality.<br><br>My roommate fell out of her bed at night...30 something inches to a hardwood floor. A 50-60s year old woman. I told my concern about the incident and asked if we could get my roommate a barrier. Lower the bunkbed... something (I looked and the bunk bed and it certainly seems as though the lower bunk is adjustable)... the response was nothing to the affect of a "Oh, is she ok? What happened?" I was simply told flatly and uncompassionately my roommate could put her mattress on the floor. (When you enter Samaritan Inn Facility one signs a waiver while you live there not to sue or hold them liable. What could possibly go wrong at a Christian or faith advertised/propagated place?)<br><br>https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/seniors-and-elderly/how-spot-and-report-elder-abuse-and-neglect<br><br>"Neglect means the failure of a caretaker to provide the goods or services, including medical services, which are necessary to avoid physical or emotional harm or pain."<br><br>If I were to file/report a formal complaint legally about this to the entity which attends this matter non monetarily and it is judicially determined not the case, I can get sued. Clever intimidation.<br><br>This happens to many residents--<br>"Put your mattress on the floor." Many people sleep on the floor and many are older who cannot and should not be assigned a top bunk bed, though even the metallic underframe of the bunkbed also can get a head bonk when sitting up in bed.<br>I don't know what they all show you on the tours or what the showroom looks like, but we got hardwood floors and the bunk beds. Some rooms have lockers. Some have two drawer metal and wood filing cabinet style drawer things.<br><br>Samaritan Inn is supposed to take care of people. I have to wonder where all those donations go. It does not directly, to my knowledge, go to us residents. As a now former resident I can say these are five things we do not get:<br>1. More extensive, rather, an easy-A, very basic, "comprehensive" (wording on their own website) program of 7 hours...one hour each... three of life classes and four financial classes.<br>2. Working washers for the extensive money/donations received. (The singles floor on the third floor had only one working washer for an entire month for 30-40 people, most of whom had jobs.) After one month here (October through November 2021) we had two clothing washers working. The whole month there only one washer for 30-40 some singles people on the third floor, many of whom are working full time on differing schedules and a lot of dirty clothing and blanket stuff stuffed in a run down baby bed whilst the family washer room has lovely chairs and totally different look.<br>3. Regular maintenance. My room had a tub stoppage (with four women to the room) which took 2 hours or so to drain by itself. It took Samaritan Inn 4 days to take care of it because residents aren't allowed to buy anything useful to take care of it themselves like a plastic drain snake or foam cleaner.<br>4. Rides to churches (despite there being a vehicle specifically for such use) and services are/were NOT provided on grounds at the chapel. In my time at Samaritan, many residents have noted the darkness here and crave to come to corporate gathering in God's presence. <br>5. Inn Stock shop only provides hygiene and make up products, say, for interview purposes to look decent. <br><br>I am a Christian who came to Samaritan Inn. I wanted to let family in Christ know how disgusted I am of those in authority at Samaritan misrepresenting Jesus. I saw a lot of neat donations in the main lobby of physical things none of the residents, to my knowledge, received. Even a very cool dollhouse. I am appalled at the digression of the spirit of the name of this place. The Samaritan in the bible gave the innkeeper, I believe it was 2 days wage worth PLUS until his return for the innkeeper to put the needs of the beaten man on his tab-- medicinally, food wise, this guy's needs met, because the guy beaten had raiment, things and clothing the ruffians stole from the beaten guy. Samaritan Inn has a bad habit I would daresay in assuming or attituding that the residents are less than themselves as employees. That we don't have an education, that we can only reach a certain tier of jobs offered on the bulletin board, etc.<br><br>I really firmly believe there DOES need to be more transitional housing, particularly since Dallas area has a plethora of jobs...just never again by these individuals. As a Christian woman, this is entirely dishonorable for Samaritan Inn to CONTINUE turning women as sistren (anyone really) in Christ to sleep on the streets and woods of McKinney is disgusting. I am thankful I wasn't raped. I was exited in winter in very cold temperatures without due process by this monopoly. I was told my side of the story wasn't enough by the caseworker themselves and that if I wasn't out in one hour, security would physically remove me. Somehow it is hard to believe such is legal. Things need to change. Transitionals need better job postings and dignity. I found it keenly interesting once on the outside how this is an issue in McKinney. General unsatisfaction of the city of the homeless "problem" increasing. Interesting that Samaritan Inn homepage boasts meal and program numerics yet zero metrics on exitees.

I came to TWC at a time when I needed to admit I needed some help and was reluctant to go the VA. TWC, their staff, and the program itself were transformational for me and my family. <br><br>Both TWC and me have remain connected, and now I help other veterans like me. I am forever grateful to TWC and they way they support military families. <br><br>-Marine Corps Veteran

Karen and Linda are such a pleasure to work with. They are very organized, responsive and appreciative of any assistance we can provide. <br><br>Both my sons have done volunteer work for this organization and it has been a great experience. Our favorite was building raised garden beds at the Heard-Craig so the McKinney Garden Club can grow vegetables for the Hugs Cafe and local families in need. This was a Boy Scout Eagle project that the organization supported. <br><br>This shows that this organization is focused on benefiting the local community.

Pajamas for Seniors is a great organization! Raising awareness to the needs of seniors one pajama at a time! <br>

I have attended multiple training seminars and workshops for counselors and coaching. Abigail encouraged me to expand into coaching couples. So, recently my husband and I went through a Prepare Enrich facilitator training offered by the Dousts that proved to be exceptional. The presentation was clear and relevant. The atmosphere was comfortable and engaging even through the online experience. We were able to ask questions and share on a personal level. At the conclusion we felt well equipped to help couples develop strong, positive relationships. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from the Dousts!

LifePath Systems has extremely negative and punitive leadership. Unfortunately, they are only focused on meeting certain numbers instead of the actual important work being provided by the dedicated employees that are improving and saving lives. New leadership is desperately needed to get this place back on track.

Hugs Cafe is a beautiful place, with a beautiful mission. <br>When I have eaten there the employees are so happy and friendly. The employees aren’t working in the stressful environment of a franchise’s kitchen. <br>Rather, they are built up by the owner and assigned jobs that fit their unique capabilities. <br>I hope to be a patron of the Hugs Cafe for many years to come. <br>They are improving so many lives day in and day out. <br>The world needs more places like the Hugs Cafe!

Citychurch has provided & continue to provide amazing opportunities for the many underprivileged youth of McKinney. I love being a part of this organization! The love they have for children is amazing to experience!

This 501c3 non-profit supports moms fighting cancer while raising children at home. Moms that live in Collin County, Texas. Support comes in fully paid events/trips for moms to make memories with their families. Care package to help with those long days in clinics having chemo treatments or long exams/tests. Joining mom's food train or just taking them to their appointments. Learn more and/or donate at website: mandastrong.com <br> <br>We have two fundraisers each year where volunteers are welcome. A 5k and Fun Run on November 10, 2018 and next year's golf tournament on May 10, 2019. You can contact us at our website "contact" page to volunteer. This year's 5k/Fun Run will be in McKinney, Texas. You can register at "getmeregistered.com".

Volunteer McKinney has helped pave the path to success for so many non-profit organizations in McKinney. Volunteer McKinney provides wonderful networking events and connects volunteers to non-profits. It is a huge win for everyone involved...the volunteers and the non-profit organizations. I have been asked to serve on several boards; however, Volunteer McKinney was the first organization that I truly felt passionate about. This organization takes our community to the next level and I'm very proud to be a part of it.

There are very few individuals doing more virtuous and valuable work than the team at ACE. Catalyzing creativity and enabling opportunity, access, and innovation at the earliest stage. I am in awe of what they have accomplished and continually endeavor to do. This is one of the most inspiring and exciting non-profit efforts that I have encountered. They will get you to where you need to be.

I am a nurse case manager on a busy orthopedic/trauma unit, and I rely on Mission Regan. As a charity DME organization they provide valuable medical equipment to my underprivileged, unfunded population that would in other circumstances be responsible for acquiring expensive medical equipment. I can't measure the value of the medical equipment that is dropped off for patients in the crisis of a lifetime. Even a walker ($45 at Walmart) is more than just equipment. It is hope. These patients have broken bones, they are facing the time that it will take to heal, and the bills that will follow. With Mission Regan we are able to provide equipment in a time for our patients that is most vulnerable. Mission Regan gives hope and with that gives a safe discharge to an exhaustive path to recovery.

I was a resident at thus place for 7 months. I left prison after 18 months and only had the clothes on my back. Ms Margaret picked me up with another volunteer and the first thing they asked me was “what do you want to eat”. Then we shopped for clothes and underwear. Her church gave me more clothes and shoes. They helped me to get my ID, birth certificate and find a job. I was driven to rehab, work, celebrate recovery and church. All volunteers went the extra mile to help. We had devotional time in the morning and night. Very structured but it was what I needed. I never paid anything until I got a job I gave $50 a week. Learned to cook, sew, and paint. They all became family. Ms Margaret and her husband are the real thing when it comes to help and she lives off her husband income. When I left I was given a farewell party and was loaded with lots of things for my new place. I’m grateful to all.

I live in Northern Virginia and cannot thank MOW Collin County enough for delivering meals to my father everyday! Knowing my dad is receiving healthy meals each days makes living this far from him a little better. No words can express how grateful I am for all of the volunteers!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!!!

AEYL is actually changing kids lives in this community. Not that I know of, there's not any improving.. But there's always room to do so.

Opening up My Heart and Learning to Reach Outside of Myself is the reason I am attracted to the Agape House. I live in a world that has so many negative incidents happen daily. In order for me to create a positive space in my world, I feel that helping those that are much less fortunate and don't have a chance is the same as living as Jesus would want me to live, This organization - I Will Stand International is wrapped in Godliness. The tireless energy and daily struggles that pop up at the Agape House seem to be washed clean with Gods love. It is a God thing for me. Helping these children in Rhiwanda strengthens my spirit. I grow closer to God and as more children come into the house, I feel proud and see that there is the will to push myself a little further to help them. Then I get a little stronger and feel I am doing what one in a relationship with Jesus would do. We all deserve a chance in this world and helpingmake it possible through donating is a privilege for me. I also need the tax deduction. This is the first organization I have ever been involved with this closely and feel like a mother with her kids. I truly love it