Giving Back In Chelsea: Local Causes To Support This Season

Giving Tuesday is a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, typically through charitable donations, volunteer work or acts of kindness. It takes place annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., right after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. While it's celebrated widely, the real impact happens when we do good right at home by supporting local businesses, causes and organizations working to uplift our own communities.

We've rounded up a list of some great organizations, causes and initiatives in the Chelsea area. Please keep in mind, this is by no means an exhaustive list — just a starting point for discovering amazing local opportunities to give back, not only on Giving Tuesday but year-round! Be sure to contact each organization directly to find out about their hours or the best ways you can contribute.

Chelsea Community Foundation

The Chelsea Community Foundation is a permanent community endowment with assets exceeding $2.5 million, built through strong local support and sound financial stewardship. Guided by local civic leaders, the foundation has awarded over $1.6 million to nonprofits, addressing the evolving needs of the Chelsea community. Contributions to the endowed "Now and Forever Fund" support the foundation's operations, while gifts to the "Southeast Michigan Forever Fund" enable ongoing grantmaking efforts.
Learn more: cfsem.org/special-opportunities/chelsea-community-foundation

Chelsea Education Foundation

The Chelsea Education Foundation enhances the educational experiences within the Chelsea School District by funding projects beyond the district's resources and providing scholarships to graduates. Since 2001, the foundation has used generous community donations to positively impact over 54,000 students, funding 741 programs that include arts, robotics, health initiatives and more. Additionally, the foundation has awarded over 1,055 scholarships to students for their outstanding achievements, supporting the district's goal of fostering academic excellence.
Learn more: chelseaeducationfoundation.org

srsly

srsly's mission is to connect the community in support of youth mental health and to prevent youth substance use through action, education and advocacy. By partnering with local organizations, clubs and businesses, the coalition works to raise awareness of youth substance abuse and available resources. This organization encourages youth-led ideas and offers opportunities to volunteer, donate, sponsor or join a coalition team to drive positive change in the community.
Learn more: srsly.org

Chelsea Senior Center

The Chelsea Senior Center enhances the quality of life and well-being of area seniors and their families through a variety of programs and services. Volunteers can contribute to meal preparation, senior services, gardening, office assistance and caregiver respite support. Members and donors are also essential to fulfilling the Center's mission of creating a vibrant, supportive community for seniors.
Learn more: chelseaseniors.org

Faith In Action

Faith In Action (FIA) is a community-funded assistance and resource center with locations in Chelsea and Dexter. It is the largest emergency service provider in western Washtenaw County, thanks to the support of volunteers, businesses and local organizations. Volunteers are always needed to greet visitors, organize donations and assist in the food pantry. FIA also offers off-site volunteer opportunities, such as coordinating food drives, sponsoring families during the holidays and helping with special projects or fundraising efforts.
Learn more: faithinaction1.org

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