It’s National Non-Profit Day: Are You Supporting These Grand Rapids Charities?

I've always believed that one of the best things you can do is to give back to others (if you're able). A lot of us are lucky enough to have enough to go around, and even the smallest ways of helping can really make a difference if we put our powers together.

In honor of National Non-Profit Day, I've found a few Grand Rapids and West Michigan based non-profits who are worthy of your time, love and attention for all of the great things they do to give back to our community every single day of the year.

Feeding America West Michigan

In the last few years, food insecurity is one of the most common problems family have suddenly started to face. And it's a scary thing to face an empty cabinet, especially when you have little stomachs to feed.

Feeding America West Michigan helps families battle food insecurity with dignity and gives them the skills to get back on their feet. They're doing some amazing things, and you can learn more about their mission on their website.

Paws With A Cause

I'll be honest, I'm a sucker for animal based charities. Our furry friends can rarely be their own heroes, so anyone who is making sure those tails stay wagging, is great in my book. And this organization helps foster pets find a new purPAWS.

Paws with a Cause enhances the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities nationally through custom-trained Assistance Dogs. So not only are they helping these dogs find a new home, they're helping people who need it the most in the process. If this warms your heart like mine, visit their website and learn how you can help.

Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital

Arguably one of the oldest charities in Grand Rapids, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital is a 167-bed acute care inpatient rehabilitation hospital for children and adults who have experienced a brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, amputation, or other injury or illness requiring physical rehabilitation.

Not only do they offer low cost services to help people throughout Michigan, they also have several programs such as the Overdrive Soccer Team which offers these kids in West Michigan to be on a team just for them. (They rule, and you should check out one of their matches.) Visit their website to learn more.

Kids Food Basket

This charity focuses on food insecurity, specifically with children in the Grand Rapids area. When I asked several of my friends which charity they love the most in the area, this was their first answer every time.

They aim to pursue a hunger-free West Michigan in a way that promotes the experiences and passion of our local community. And we all agree kids deserve to live a happy life, without worry of where their next meal is coming from. Visit their website to learn more about their mission and how you can help.