Giving Back In Kalamazoo-Portage: 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 Kalamazoo-Portage 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.

Hospital Hospitality House of Southwest Michigan

The Hospital Hospitality House of Southwest Michigan provides a welcoming, home-like place for families to stay while their loved ones receive medical care. With two locations open 24/7, both right in Kalamazoo, the organization serves over 1,300 guests annually from Michigan and beyond.
Learn more: hhhkz.org

Prevention Works

Prevention Works in Kalamazoo empowers youth and families with the tools to make healthy decisions through innovative programs focused on substance abuse prevention, violence prevention, social-emotional development and family life skills. Led by a diverse team of trained facilitators, these programs engage participants and promote positive behavior change.
Learn more: prevention-works.org

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes

Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes (KLF) tackles hunger by providing groceries and food assistance to more than 30,000 individuals annually across the county. Operating as both a food bank and direct-service pantry, KLF focuses on nutrition, equity and dignity through six hunger-relief programs.
Learn more: kzoolf.org

SCORE Kalamazoo/Southwest Michigan

SCORE empowers entrepreneurs nationwide by providing free mentoring, resources and education to help them start, grow or exit their businesses successfully. The Kalamazoo/Southwest Michigan division serves business owners across Kalamazoo, Van Buren, Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph, Calhoun and Branch Counties.
Learn more: score.org/swm

Kalamazoo Literacy Council

The Kalamazoo Literacy Council (KLC) provides free literacy programs to adults to help them build essential reading, employment and life skills. KLC has 155 active tutors in the area; those interested in volunteering can apply for one-on-one or group opportunities.
Learn more: kalamazooliteracy.org

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