The Annual Giving Drive is in full swing so we want to share reasons five, six, and seven on why you should participate. October includes a variety of important national and global causes dedicated to raising awareness and support. Among many of them are World Mental Health Day, Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month, and Disability Employment Awareness Month.

#5. World Mental Health Day takes place on Tuesday, October 10 and helps to increase awareness of mental health and the role it plays in people’s lives across the world. Here are a few organizations that are leading in mental health and wellbeing:

• NAMI South King County, Agency Number 10120: “We are an organization of families, friends and individuals whose lives have been affected by mental illness. Together, we advocate for better lives for all.”
• Hero House NW, Agency Number 9455: “We offer people living with mental illness opportunities for friendship, employment, housing, education and access to needed services in a single caring and safe environment.”
• Eastside Academy, Agency Number 10162: “A non-profit, alternative high school that provides mental health counseling, addiction recovery, mentorship, a housing program for houseless students, and more.”

#6. Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month takes place from September 15 through October 15 and is a time to celebrate and honor Latinx culture, history, and contributions. There are a variety of Latinx- or Hispanic-led organizations that are part of the Employee Giving Program. A few organizations include:

• Bailadores de Bronce, Agency Number 10887: “Promoting the beauty and richness of Mexican traditions through music and dance in the PNW. Creating a bridge of understanding, sharing our culture, and preserving our traditions.”
• Movimiento Afrolatino Seattle, Agency Number 10026: “Activates and strengthens AfroIndigenous communities through art, raising awareness about the history and cultural contributions of Latinos of African descent.”
• Casa Latina, Agency Number 9307: “Advancing the power and well-being of Latino immigrants through employment, education, and community organizing.”

#7. Disability Employment Awareness Month is observed each October and celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities past and present. This time also showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees. A few organizations in the EGP that specialize in this area include:

• Holly Ridge Center, Agency Number 10908: “Serves children and adults with disabilities in two primary program areas, the Infant Toddler Program-Birth to Three Early Intervention Services; and Adult Employment Services.”
• Camelot Society, Agency Number 9852: “We positively impact the lives of adults with disabilities by empowering them to live extraordinary lives, by inspiring hope, and by fostering growth.”
• Lighthouse for the Blind, Agency Number 2704: “We empower people who are blind, DeafBlind, and blind with other disabilities by creating diverse, sustainable, and meaningful employment opportunities.”

You can find more EGP participating nonprofit organizations online or in the 2023 King County EGP Nonprofit Giving Guide.

You can make your campaign pledge here. Pledge today!

We look forward to sharing more about the amazing non-profits throughout the drive and encourage your participation!

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