October 2026 Impact Report
Making the world a better place, one volunteer at a time
82 new nonprofits this month — 406 and counting.
VolunteerBadge launched on June 15, 2026 and is expanding rapidly across the United States.
The story so far
This is the October 2026 VolunteerBadge Impact Report. Since our last edition, 82 new nonprofits joined the movement — bringing the total to 406 organizations across 46 states, all screening their volunteers with VolunteerBadge for just $5 a check.
Below are the newest changemakers making the world a better place, along with a look at how the whole community is growing — cause by cause, town by town.
We publish a new Impact Report every month. If you're dreaming of starting a nonprofit of your own, don't miss our free founder's roadmap at the end of this report.
By the numbers
The causes our nonprofits serve
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New this edition
The newest changemakers
✝️ Faith & Worship 24

New York, NY
A welcoming community rooted in faith and service
Trinity Lower East Side Lutheran Parish has been a vibrant spiritual home on Manhattan's Lower East Side since 1843, grounded in Jesus's teaching and committed to serving the poor, hungry, and all who seek belonging.
Read their story →
Aurora, CO
A place where every child truly belongs
Ministry of Hope Worldwide creates sensory-friendly spaces where children with special needs, disabilities, and neurodivergent conditions can worship, connect, and experience spiritual care in an Aurora-based community rooted in Christ's love.
Read their story →
Shakopee, MN
A faith community growing disciples in Shakopee
SkyWater Church gathers believers in Shakopee to worship together and live out their faith by making disciples and sharing Christ with their neighbors and throughout the Twin Cities.
Read their story →
Oroville, CA
A church opening its doors to the whole community
Trinity Bible Church in Oroville serves as a spiritual and practical anchor for neighbors seeking belonging, faith, and support during life's challenging moments.
Read their story →
Newport , TN
Hope and healing find their way home in Newport
Empower Cocke County brings together churches across Newport to help neighbors in crisis—whether they're struggling with destructive patterns, facing homelessness, or rebuilding after disaster—offering practical support rooted in compassion and faith.
Read their story →
A community gathering to know God together
Redeemer Church Murfreesboro welcomes people of all backgrounds to encounter faith and community through worship and learning, rooted in the Presbyterian tradition.
Read their story →
Eastsound, WA
A century of faith woven into island life
Orcas Island Community Church has anchored its island community for 142 years, offering worship, fellowship, and practical support to neighbors of all ages seeking connection and spiritual growth.
Read their story →
Mesquite, NV
Faith and Fellowship in the High Desert
River Valley Bible Church gathers the Mesquite community in faith and service, offering spiritual foundation and practical support to neighbors navigating life's challenges.
Read their story →
Oviedo, FL
A church rooted in community care
CrossLife Church in Oviedo serves as a spiritual and practical anchor for its neighbors, offering worship, fellowship, and support to those navigating life's challenges.
Read their story →
Fort Worth, TX
Building Champions On and Off the Field
Centurions NTX uses baseball as a vehicle to develop young people in Fort Worth, grounding their work in faith and character alongside athletic growth.
Read their story →
Houston
Young women discover their strength in Houston
Prettiest Pearls empowers young women in Houston through faith-based mentorship, teaching them practical planning skills and self-worth to navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.
Read their story →
Rhome, TX
Faith, learning, and community grow together weekly
Pointing Arrows Christian Community in the DFW area brings homeschooling families together for enriching academics, hands-on electives, and the kind of intentional community that shapes children into thoughtful leaders.
Read their story →
Coralville, IA
A welcoming church community rooted in faith and service
Coralville United Methodist Church opens its doors to all who seek spiritual growth, meaningful connection, and opportunities to serve their neighbors. Through worship, learning, and active outreach, the church creates a place where faith comes alive in everyday life.
Read their story →
Edinburg, TX
A church home where families grow together
World Harvest Family Church and Harvest Christian Academy in Edinburg bring faith, community, and care to families seeking spiritual growth and connection.
Read their story →
Redwood Falls, MN
God's Word, Designed for Every Heart
Jesus Cares Camps welcomes people with developmental disabilities and sensory sensitivities to experience Bible lessons, fellowship, and outdoor activities in an environment crafted specifically for their needs.
Read their story →
New Castle, IN
A welcoming home where faith takes root
Grace Baptist Church in New Castle creates a space where people of all ages—from children to teens to adults—can discover and deepen their relationship with Jesus through worship, community, and service.
Read their story →
Marco Island, FL
Faith and Fellowship Transform Lives in Marco Island
Marco Lutheran Church serves its island community through spiritual guidance, compassionate outreach, and practical support—reminding neighbors that they are never alone in their struggles or celebrations.
Read their story →
Canton, NC
A Church That Opens Its Doors to All
Beulah Baptist Church in Canton, NC serves as a spiritual and community anchor, offering welcome and support to neighbors in need.
Read their story →
Federal Way, WA
A faith family growing together in Federal Way
Federal Way Church of the Nazarene is a vibrant community of faith dedicated to knowing Christ and making Him known through worship, small groups, and service in their neighborhood.
Read their story →
Oskaloosa, IA
A welcoming faith home for all in Oskaloosa
Oskaloosa Central United Methodist Church opens its doors to people at any point in their spiritual journey, creating a space where tradition, contemporary worship, and service to neighbors blend together.
Read their story →
Corpus Christi, TX
Literacy opens doors in Coastal Bend
GLS Coastal Bend helps adults and families in Corpus Christi develop reading and writing skills, unlocking pathways to better jobs, stronger families, and fuller participation in their community.
Read their story →
Leavenworth, KS
A community rooted in faith and spiritual growth
Truth Tabernacle Church in Leavenworth welcomes seekers and believers to experience worship grounded in apostolic faith, new birth, and holy living—creating a gathering place where people of all ages encounter God's presence together.
Read their story →
Bealeton, VA
A church welcoming every person through open doors
The Gathering Place in Bealeton brings people together across differences, creating a space where community members find belonging and support in their faith and daily lives.
Read their story →
Espanola, NM
Faith, Learning, and Family in Espanola
Anima Christi Learning Center serves families in northern New Mexico through Catholic education rooted in the wisdom of Saint Thomas Aquinas and the charism of Saint Joseph Manyanet, helping parents nurture the whole person—mind, heart, and soul.
Read their story →🎓 Youth & Education 34

Wolcott, CT
Inspiring young engineers to lead through robotics
The Tolland County Robotics Foundation opens doors for K-12 students across Connecticut to discover teamwork, confidence, and innovation through hands-on robotics programs and competitions.
Read their story →
Culver City, CA
Where every kid becomes the hero of their story
The Hero Workshop creates a safe, welcoming space in Culver City where young people discover confidence and community through tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons.
Read their story →
Helping young people reach their full potential
Mission Achieve empowers young people to set and accomplish meaningful goals, transforming lives through mentorship and support in their community.
Read their story →
Geneva, FL
Where rare diseases find recognition and support
Verdade Inc. empowers people living with rare, invisible, and chronic illnesses by providing education, community connection, and advocacy—helping them move from surviving toward truly living.
Read their story →
Mesa, AZ
Where every Arizona child finds their game
Arizona Recreational Sports offers affordable, inclusive youth leagues across seven sports, helping children build confidence, skills, and friendships in a supportive community environment.
Read their story →
Building Financial Confidence in Black and Brown Girls
Fearless Brown Girls Incorporated empowers young Black and Brown girls in Charlotte, NC with financial literacy education and mentorship, helping them develop the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions that shape their futures.
Read their story →
Austin, TX
Breaking cycles of poverty, one community at a time
One With Earth has delivered food and water to the children of Damabiah Orphanage in Port-au-Prince every two weeks since 2019. What began as one emergency delivery now includes clean water, solar power, a rebuilt school, medical care and college tuition.
Read their story →
Stamford, CT
Young leaders stepping up for Stamford
IROSA Cares empowers Black and Brown teens in Stamford through volunteer service and education, helping them discover their power to shape stronger communities.
Read their story →
Franklin, WI
From First Dribble to Championship Dreams in Franklin
The Franklin Youth Girls Basketball Association builds a unified pathway for young female athletes in Wisconsin, nurturing their skills and confidence from their earliest days on the court through high school competition.
Read their story →
Plano, TX
High schoolers discover their power to lead Plano forward
Plano Youth Leadership empowers sophomore students to become confident community leaders by connecting them with local officials, teaching leadership skills, and inspiring lifelong civic engagement.
Read their story →
Jersey City, NJ
Young minds take flight with hands-on learning
Flight & Aerospace Academy introduces Jersey City's youth to the world of drones and robotics, sparking curiosity about technology and engineering through engaging, practical classes.
Read their story →
Women lifting up Nashville's next generation
Top Ladies of Distinction empowers women and girls in Nashville through mentorship, education, and community service, creating pathways to leadership and success.
Read their story →
Bloomingdale, IL
Young dancers find their voice through performance and purpose
M3 Dance Company empowers serious young dancers in Bloomingdale to grow as artists and human beings through competitive performance, real-world training, and community service opportunities.
Read their story →
Music brings neighbors together in Northwest Arkansas
NWA Community Orchestra opens the joy of live classical music to everyone in the region, regardless of background or experience, strengthening the cultural fabric of Northwest Arkansas.
Read their story →
Music brings neighbors together in Northwest Arkansas
NWA Community Orchestra opens the joy of live classical music to people across the region, creating moments of connection and wonder for audiences of all backgrounds.
Read their story →
Oakland Twp. , MI
Where every child's creativity finds a stage
Kaleo Arts invites children of all ages and backgrounds to discover their voice through singing, dancing, acting, and songwriting—building confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Read their story →
Stone Ridge, NY
Where young athletes find their strength
Rondout Valley Youth Football League brings the game of football to children in rural New York, building confidence, teamwork, and community bonds that extend far beyond the field.
Read their story →
Blue Ridge Stink Minks Make a Difference Daily
Blue Ridge Stink Minks serves the mountain community by championing wildlife conservation and education in the heart of Appalachia.
Read their story →
Music brings neighbors together across Northwest Arkansas
NWA Community Orchestra opens the door to classical music for people of all backgrounds and skill levels, building connection and belonging through shared performance.
Read their story →
Baton Rouge, LA
Building Safe Futures in Gardere, One Child at a Time
Gardere Initiative provides children and families in Baton Rouge's Gardere neighborhood with tutoring, mentorship, meals, and safe spaces—helping young people thrive despite the trauma of community violence.
Read their story →
Martinez, GA
Unlocking potential, one student at a time in Martinez
Guiding Path Enrichment Center provides affordable tutoring to students across the CSRA region who need academic support to succeed. In a community where many students struggle with reading and math, this nonprofit opens doors to learning and growth.
Read their story →
Victoria, TX
Where Victoria discovers the magic of dance
Victoria Ballet Theatre has inspired audiences across South Texas for over 40 years by bringing world-class dance performances and educational programs to the community, making the art form accessible to everyone.
Read their story →
Murrieta, CA
Empowering martial arts schools to grow without the admin burden
Roll Payments provides martial arts academies with all-in-one gym management software and managed billing support, so owners can focus on coaching rather than chasing payments and managing disconnected tools.
Read their story →
Ypsilanti, MI
Where every child gets to stay wild and belong
Camp SkyWild creates overnight camps in Ypsilanti where neurodivergent youth and their siblings experience true belonging—a place designed around how kids actually are, not how the world expects them to be.
Read their story →
Eagle Creek, OR
Where every kid belongs on the court
Estacada Ranger Youth Basketball opens the game to every young player in Eagle Creek, Oregon, regardless of skill level or family budget—because community comes first.
Read their story →
Marietta, GA
One diagnosis protects an entire family's future
Lynch Syndrome Awareness and Education helps families understand their hereditary cancer risk and take action before cancer develops, knowing that one person's diagnosis can uncover protection throughout their entire family.
Read their story →
Kuna, ID
Learning that sparks joy and ignites curiosity
Lighthouse Homeschool Group in Kuna, Idaho helps families discover the excitement of education through a curriculum designed to make learning feel like an adventure—not a chore.
Read their story →
Spokane Valley, WA
Every child deserves to feel truly seen
Community of Candles creates meaningful birthday celebrations for children in Spokane Valley who might otherwise go uncelebrated, grounding each experience in dignity, connection, and joy.
Read their story →
Philomath, OR
A Community Where Learning Comes Alive
Philomath Learning Center serves the Philomath community by fostering curiosity and intellectual growth in learners of all ages, helping residents build skills and confidence for meaningful lives.
Read their story →
Yukon, OK
Empowering FAP patients through knowledge and hope
Life's a Polyp Foundation helps individuals and families navigate Familial Adenomatous Polyposis by providing education, community connection, and advocacy for better treatment options.
Read their story →
Fort Worth, TX
Where Fort Worth youth find their team and their voice
White Settlement Youth Association brings young people together through accessible youth sports—soccer, baseball, softball, basketball, and volleyball—building confidence, community, and lasting friendships in Fort Worth.
Read their story →
Chesapeake, VA
Learning together in a welcoming homeschool community
Homeschool Out of the Box brings homeschooling families in Chesapeake together through diverse classes and collaborative learning, fostering connection and academic growth across all ages.
Read their story →
Chester, VA
Young minds discover strength within themselves
Unbreakable Minds LLC in Chester, VA empowers youth and young adults to shift their mindset, build resilience, and navigate life's challenges with confidence and purpose.
Read their story →
Flower Mound, TX
Growing roots, growing futures in Flower Mound
Wildly Rooted connects young people in North Texas with nature and hands-on learning that transforms how they see themselves and their community.
Read their story →⚽ Sports & Recreation 5

Shogun Basketball Builds Champions On and Off Court
Shogun Basketball empowers young athletes through the sport, teaching discipline, teamwork, and life skills that extend far beyond the gymnasium.
Read their story →
Columbus, OH
Vespa Brings Community Together on Two Wheels
Vespa empowers Columbus residents through accessible cycling programs that build confidence, connection, and mobility across the city.
Read their story →
Making volunteering easier, one badge at a time
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits recognize and celebrate their volunteers through a streamlined digital system that makes it simple to track contributions and build community engagement.
Read their story →
Volunteers Counted, Supported, Celebrated
VolunteerBadge QA empowers nonprofit leaders to recognize and track volunteer contributions with confidence, ensuring that the people who strengthen communities are properly seen and supported.
Read their story →
Fairmont, WV
Building strength, community, and champions across America
The United States Powerlifting Coalition brings together lifters, coaches, and meet directors across the country to foster competition, professional standards, and the growth of powerlifting as a sport.
Read their story →🐾 Animals & Environment 4

Macomb, IL
Safe shelter, stable homes, renewed hope
Genesis Garden provides emergency shelter and pursues permanent housing solutions for people experiencing homelessness across western Illinois, believing everyone deserves a safe place to call home.
Read their story →
Medford, OR
Hope never stops for forgotten cats
Sammy's Way Home rescues abandoned and lost cats in Medford, Oregon, offering them veterinary care, foster support, and loving permanent homes—driven by an unwavering belief that every cat deserves a brighter tomorrow.
Read their story →
Tampa, FL
Vegan Care for Tampa's Little Dogs
Sara Scott's mission brings compassionate, plant-based nutrition and care to small dogs across Tampa, ensuring every pup can thrive on a cruelty-free path.
Read their story →
German Shepherds find their way home again
Southern Cross German Shepherd Rescue transforms abandoned and misunderstood German Shepherds across Georgia and the Southeast through foster-based care, helping deeply loyal dogs move from uncertainty to forever families.
Read their story →🩺 Health & Wellness 4

Theater that brings everyone's story to the stage
Hands In! creates inclusive theatrical productions where deaf and hearing performers collaborate to tell stories that celebrate community, connection, and shared humanity.
Read their story →
Palmdale, CA
Strength found in community for family caregivers
Celestine Foundation in Palmdale supports family caregivers and those living with chronic illnesses, recognizing that caregiving can be isolating and often invisible.
Read their story →
Las Vegas, NV
Where Las Vegas Comes to Heal and Rebuild
Rise Heal Thrive Wellness Group opens doors to peer support, housing help, and wellness for anyone in Las Vegas facing instability—no referral, no judgment, no barriers.
Read their story →
Richmond, VA
A place where hope takes root in Richmond
Sanguine Ranch Outreach serves the Richmond community by offering outdoor healing, skill-building, and connection through ranch-based programs that transform lives one person at a time.
Read their story →🤝 Human Services 14

Making volunteer work safer and smarter
VolunteerBadge QA ensures that volunteer management systems work reliably, so nonprofits can focus on their mission instead of technology troubles.
Read their story →
Waco, TX
Building Black voices, strengthening Waco's cultural roots
BLACCENT creates spaces where Black community members in Waco can gather, speak, and be heard—fostering connection and cultural pride across the city.
Read their story →
Fountain Hills, AZ
Friendship that Quietly Changes Everything
MyFriend brings caring volunteers into assisted living communities across Fountain Hills to offer seniors the steady companionship and human presence that can transform an otherwise isolating chapter of life.
Read their story →
Technology skills open doors to meaningful work
VolunteerBadge QA helps people build confidence in their technical abilities so they can contribute to causes they care about.
Read their story →
Tumwater, WA
Nourishing our neighbors, one box at a time
Thurston County Food Bank helps families across the region access nutritious food when they need it most, because in Washington's capital region, no one should face hunger alone.
Read their story →
Tumwater, WA
Nourishing neighbors, one box at a time
Thurston County Food Bank serves families and individuals across Tumwater and surrounding communities who face food insecurity, ensuring that no one in the region goes hungry.
Read their story →
Glastonbury, CT
Connecting Tamil community across Connecticut and beyond
The American Charitable Tamil Society serves the Tamil community in Glastonbury, Connecticut, preserving cultural heritage while building meaningful connections for families far from home.
Read their story →
Testing builds stronger, more reliable nonprofits
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits ensure their volunteer management systems work flawlessly, so organizations can focus on their mission instead of troubleshooting technology.
Read their story →
Technology volunteers making quality assurance accessible
VolunteerBadge QA connects skilled technology volunteers with nonprofits that need rigorous software testing, ensuring mission-critical digital tools work reliably for the communities they serve.
Read their story →
Syracuse, NY
Housing with Heart in Syracuse
A Tiny Home for Good provides safe, affordable housing and ongoing support to people transitioning out of Syracuse's shelter system, recognizing that a home is only the beginning of stability.
Read their story →
Tech volunteers transform quality assurance
VolunteerBadge QA connects skilled tech volunteers with nonprofits to strengthen software quality and reliability, ensuring mission-critical systems work seamlessly for the communities they serve.
Read their story →
Testing Quality, Building Trust in Nonprofits
VolunteerBadge QA ensures nonprofit software works reliably so organizations can focus on their mission, not technical glitches. When systems fail, communities suffer—but rigorous testing prevents that.
Read their story →
Testing the tools that power community programs
VolunteerBadge QA ensures the software platforms that coordinate volunteers and nonprofits work reliably every single day, so organizations can focus on their mission instead of technical glitches.
Read their story →
Houston, TX
Opening doors to opportunity in Houston
Enrollment Centers helps Houston residents access vital benefits and services they're eligible for but may not know how to navigate. When complex systems stand between families and the support they need, Enrollment Centers bridges that gap.
Read their story →🎨 Arts & Culture 2

Arts bring neighbors together across Arizona
Triad Performing Arts of Arizona opens doors to theater, dance, and music for people of all backgrounds throughout the state, creating spaces where community members can express themselves and connect.
Read their story →
Sioux Falls, SD
Where Sioux Falls finds its voice on stage
The Premiere Playhouse brings community theatre to life in Sioux Falls, offering classes, performances, and artistic development for people of all ages and experience levels.
Read their story →🌟 Community & Giving 14

Volunteers find their perfect fit through better matching
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits connect volunteers with roles that truly match their skills and passions, making service more meaningful and sustainable for everyone.
Read their story →
Quality assurance work that strengthens nonprofits
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits build and maintain reliable software through skilled volunteer testing, ensuring their digital tools work when communities need them most.
Read their story →
Volunteers find confidence through skill recognition
VolunteerBadge QA empowers volunteers by validating their skills and experience through digital recognition, helping them grow as community contributors and advance their personal goals.
Read their story →
Technology skills unlock community potential
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits and community organizations strengthen their operations through accessible quality assurance training and support, building capacity where it matters most.
Read their story →
Volunteers Tested, Trusted, Ready to Serve
VolunteerBadge QA ensures volunteer programs run smoothly by rigorously testing the systems that connect helpers with those who need them most.
Read their story →
Volunteer hours tracked, impact multiplied
VolunteerBadge QA empowers nonprofits to measure and celebrate their volunteer contributions through streamlined tracking, helping organizations understand and amplify the difference their volunteers truly make.
Read their story →
Volunteers Empowered Through Quality Assurance
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofit teams build stronger, more reliable volunteer management systems by providing expert quality assurance support, ensuring technology serves their missions without costly delays.
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Building bridges where trust was broken
House of Negotiation, Exploration, Safety, & Trust helps people navigate conflict and rebuild relationships in their community through patient, skilled mediation and support.
Read their story →
Testing software that changes lives
VolunteerBadge QA ensures the volunteer management platforms that connect people to service opportunities work reliably every single day.
Read their story →
Building foundations that help communities stand strong
Society's Bedrock strengthens communities from the ground up by addressing the foundational needs that allow neighborhoods to thrive together.
Read their story →
Volunteers gain skills, communities strengthen together
VolunteerBadge QA equips volunteers with practical quality assurance training while helping nonprofits build more reliable, trustworthy digital services that reach the people who need them most.
Read their story →
Volunteers Empowered Through Quality Assurance
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits strengthen their volunteer programs by ensuring quality standards and best practices, so organizations can focus resources on the people they serve.
Read their story →
Testing software, building volunteer power
VolunteerBadge QA ensures volunteer management systems work reliably, so nonprofits can focus on connecting people to causes that matter.
Read their story →
Empowering volunteers through quality and trust
VolunteerBadge QA helps nonprofits verify volunteer credentials and ensure program quality, making communities safer and more effective.
Read their story →For the big-hearted
Dreaming of starting your own nonprofit?
Every organization in this report began with one person and a big heart. We built a free, step-by-step roadmap to take you from an idea to a fully-fledged 501(c)(3) — and safely recruit your first volunteers.
Read the free founder’s roadmap →A new Impact Report, every month
On the 1st of every month we publish a fresh edition — new nonprofits, new features, and new proof that good people, safely screened, change the world.
