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Central Ohio’s nonprofit sector is full of dynamic and impactful organizations dedicated to strengthening and improving the region. For more than 10 years, The Columbus Foundation's 5 Nonprofits to Watch program has highlighted an array of nonprofits.

 

Each of the following organizations, like many nonprofits in our community, has a deep dedication to building a vibrant, thriving central Ohio for all.

EPIC Youth

Founded in 2012, EPIC Youth has evolved into a comprehensive mentoring and empowerment organization, equipping young people with leadership, career readiness, and life skills. Through in-school programs, leadership academies, mentorship, and youth-centered events, EPIC Youth helps young people lead with purpose. 

Green Columbus

Green Columbus leads initiatives to enhance environmental sustainability and is dedicated to fostering resilient communities and increasing positive environmental outcomes for central Ohioans. Green Columbus has distributed thousands of free native trees from its community nurseries.

Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio

Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO) is a nonprofit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to low-income individuals and families, veterans, and seniors. The organization works across eight locations, including Columbus, to deliver comprehensive legal services that help reduce poverty and increase opportunity. 

Our Helpers

Our Helpers is dedicated to improving the lives of immigrant, refugee, and underserved communities in central Ohio. The organization provides vital services and resources, including English as a Second Language classes, digital literacy programs, career counseling, youth development, housing assistance, and more.  

Partners Achieving Community Transformation

Partners Achieving Community Transformation (PACT) started as a partnership involving the City of Columbus, The Ohio State University, Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, and Near East Side stakeholders. PACT uses a comprehensive approach to community development to improve access to safe and affordable housing, quality healthcare and education, and employment opportunities. 

Previous Honorees

2024
Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio
Franklinton Farms
Mansion Day School
Native American Indian Center of Central Ohio
We Amplify Voices
2023
Black Girl Rising, Inc.
Elevate Northland
Form5 Prosthetics
Remember Us Urban Legends
Riverview International Center
2022
Halt Violence
Martin de Porres Center
Muslim Family Services of Ohio
Restoring Our Own Through Transformation (ROOTT)
Sanctuary Night
2020

Fugees Family

Columbus Works, Inc.

Directions for Youth & Families

Lower Lights Ministries

Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX)

2019
A Kid Again
Columbus Early Learning Centers
Human Service Chamber
ProMusica
TECH CORPS
2018
City Year Columbus
Columbus Humane
CompDrug
Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Per Scholas
2017
Alvis, Inc.
Catholic Social Services
Homeport
Ethiopian Tewahedo Social Services
Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland
2016
Equitas Health (formerly AIDS Resource Center Ohio Inc.)
Columbus Metropolitan Library
Community Properties Impact Corporation
HandsOn Central Ohio
Maryhaven, Inc.
2015
Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbus
Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio
Columbus Museum of Art
Reeb Avenue Center
St. Vincent Family Services
2014
Community Shelter Board
Lower Lights Christian Health Center
Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC)
LifeCare Alliance
Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC)