I volunteered with the Urban Ministry Center to help organize and serve breakfast to some of Charlotte's homeless neighbors. My experience there was wonderful and the folks at the Urban Ministry Center are angels for the work they do.
I felt extremely safe, comfortable helping out and felt like I was doing a real service to my community while I was there.
The UMC's mission is one unlike any other nonprofit I've ever been a part of. They aren't just a resource for homeless folks in Charlotte, they are committed to permanently ending homelessness for those that are most at risk. It's a bold mission that they are succeeding at.
The organization is extremely organized, focused and run by people who are as talented as they are compassionate. I can't wait to become even more involved in the future.
Review from Guidestar
This place is a scam! The woman who runs their kitchen steals food so that she and her sister can profit from their catering business. The staff only hepls those whom they can exploit. Anyone trying to get on their feet can expect no help whatsoever from here.
I volunteer weekly at UMC as a counselor. The homeless are able to get help with obtaining ID, food referrals, health care referrals, legal problems, social work referrals, transportation resources,and an endless variety of personal and related issues. They are not able to get such help so easily from other agencies. UMC has a variety of connections with other agencies which facilitate referrals. There are also a variety of programs to help homeless people feel needed and valued, such as the choir, gardening, art, and sports. Some of the more basic needs such as laundry, showers, bathrooms, meals, and a safe place to sleep at night during cold weather are offered by UMC. It is a very effective, efficient agency.
Review from Guidestar