After a tough 2020, it’s never been more apparent that nonprofits throughout the Miami Valley work tirelessly to do good in the region. In our inaugural Greater Dayton Nonprofit of the Year Awards, we wanted to honor the many nonprofit organizations that make an impact in the region. From support groups and housing assistance to art galleries and community support organizations, the Miami Valley is full of quality nonprofits. Thousands of people voted in this online competition for their favorites in 120 categories. We are excited to celebrate these winners with these brand-new awards.
Arts & Culture
Arts Appreciation
Culture Works
937-222-2787
Arts Associations
Dayton Performing Arts Alliance
937-224-3521
Arts Centers
Dayton Live
937-228-3630
Dayton Live aims to elevate downtown by being the primary host and presenter for performing arts in the region. “Our mission is to strengthen community engagement in the arts through inspiring performances, educational opportunities and world-class venues,” says Sue Stevens, vice president of Marketing and Communications. “We present more than 300 performances for all ages and interests each year, including touring Broadway, comedians, concerts, family shows and other attractions. We own, operate and maintain the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, Victoria Theatre, the PNC Arts Annex and Metropolitan Arts Center (home of The Loft Theatre) for the benefit of the community and the arts organizations that use them.”
Arts Galleries/Exhibits
Front Street
937-331-9061
Performing Arts
Dayton Contemporary Dance Company
937-228-3232
Basic Needs
Adult Residential Care Homes
10 Wilmington Place
937-253-1010
Assisted Living Facilities
Graceworks Lutheran Serices
937-433-2110
Graceworks works to provide dignity to all who are experiencing challenging and changing circumstances related to aging and living with disabilities. Its retirement community Bethany Village offers a continuum of care with its two assisted living options, Crescent Crossing and Pavilion Assisted Living Memory Care. It’s also introduced a Respite Care program for older adults needing a short-term stay in assisted living. And with Graceworks Enhanced Living, the organization works to help those with disabilities live independently with dignity, wholeness and respect.
Automobile Donation Programs
Goodwill Auto Auction
937-228-2886
The Goodwill Auto Auction and Vehicle Donation Program supports the mission of Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley. According to the nonprofit, the community can donate an automobile, RV, boat, trailers, motor bikes and even industrial/farm equipment.
Baby Clothes
Hannah’s Treasure Chest
937-438-5039
Hannah’s Treasure Chest provides care packages of essential items to local children in need through a network of more than 60 community partners. Programs include Brighter Smiles dental kits, Beds for Babies, Giving Angels holiday gift program and its newest charity secondhand boutique, Shop Hannah’s.
Clothing Donation Programs
Shoes 4 the Shoeless
Community Meals
One Bistro
937-736-2358
One Bistro’s goal is to provide a place where people can come together as a community and
eat. “We serve healthy, affordable meals to our neighbors. All menu prices are a ‘suggested price’ as we embrace a ‘pay what you can’ concept. If someone is unable to pay, we encourage and ask them to give us an hour of time in service as payment,” says Denise Davis, board president. Those who wish to support the organization’s efforts can volunteer at the café as servers, bussers, hostesses and dishwashers.
Farmers Markets
2nd Street Market
937-228-2088
Food Banks/Food Distribution Warehouse
The Foodbank
937-461-0265
Food Donation Programs
With God’s Grace Food Pantry
937-397-4124
Food Pantries
With God’s Grace Food Pantry
937-397-4124
Home Delivered Meals
Meals on Wheels Dayton
937-228-3663
Home Rehabilitation Programs
Rebuilding Together Dayton
937-223-4893
Rebuilding Together Dayton is a nonprofit that assists seniors in staying in their homes so that they can safely age in place. “We serve low-income senior homeowners throughout Montgomery County,” says Amy Radachi, president and CEO. “[You] can support our efforts by volunteering to make repairs/modifications and/or make financial contributions so our work may continue to reach as many folks as possible.”
Homeless Permanent Supportive Housing
Daybreak
937-395-4600
Homeless Shelters
St. Vincent De Paul Dayton
937-222-5555
Housing Goods Donation Programs
Good Neighbor House
937-224-3442
Independent Living Communities/Complexes
Twin Towers Place Senior Apartments
937-258-6820
Soup Kitchens
House of Bread
937-226-1520
Thrift Shops
Corner Cupboard Charities of Greater Dayton, Inc.
Corner Cupboard works to support agencies that are providing hands-on care to the hungry, the ill, the homeless, the poor and the troubled of the community, accoring to Patti Synder, president, and Beth Cloyd, vice president. They say that their donations have exceed $3.5 million dollars to the Dayton community “We would appreciate your continued donations, and support as our valued customers, which enables us to contribute to our local community,” they add.
Transitional Housing/Shelters
YWCA Dayton
937-461-5550
Veteran Benefits Assistance
Dayton VA Medical Center
937-268-6511
Consumer Services
Childbirth Education
Elizabeth’s New Life Center
937-226-7414
Swimming Safety Education
Downtown YMCA
937-228-9622
Criminal Justice & Legal Services
Family Counseling
Family Services
937-222-9481
Foster Home Placement
CHOICES, Inc.
937-264-0084
Education
Alcohol Use Disorder Education/Prevention
Montgomery County ADAMHS
937-443-0416
Arts and Crafts Instruction
We Care Arts
937-252-3937
Colleges/Universities
University of Dayton
937-229-1000
Community Based Preschools
Preschool Promise
937-329-2700
Computer and Related Technology Classes
Sinclair Community College
800-315-3000
Sinclair Community College’s Computer and Information Technology program prepares students for a variety of careers using state-of-the-art technology and software. Over the last year, the school applied its expertise on itself, expanding its Virtual Tutoring Services to include Saturday sessions and offering 74 associate degrees and certificates that can be completed entirely online.
Drug Use Disorder Education/Prevention
Montgomery County Drug-Free Coalition
937-985-3829
Early Literacy Development Programs
Project Read
937-949-8159
Educational Grants
The Dayton Foundation
937-222-0410
The Dayton Foundation may have won for its outstanding educational grants—more than $15.7 million in grants and scholarships were awarded from the foundation’s funds between July 2019 and June 2020 to support education—but the foundation does so much more. “Established in 1921, The Dayton Foundation is the Greater Dayton region’s oldest and largest community foundation. People from all walks of life have established charitable funds through the foundation with a commitment to help others today or after their passing through their estates,” says Christine Smith, vice president of Marketing and Public Relations. “Since its founding, more than $1 billion in grants have been awarded from nearly 4,000 charitable funds.”
English As A Second Language
Summer Education Exchange at University of Dayton
937-229-1510
Family Literacy Programs
Brunner Literacy Center
937-567-9600
Gifted Education
The Miami Valley School
937-434-4444
Head Start
Miami Valley Child Development Centers
937-226-5664 x649
Kindergartens
Saint Peter School
937-233-8710
Legal Information Services
University of Dayton Law School
937-229-3555
Libraries
Wright Memorial Public Library
937-294-7171
The Wright Memorial Public Library may not be the region’s largest library, but it is mighty. Ranked among the top libraries of its size—it earned a 5-Star Rating from Library Journal, the leading industry publication, and ranked 10th in the nation for usage per capita compared to libraries of its size—it is dedicated to lifelong learning with a collection and calendar of programs designed to engage the youngest to oldest in the community.
“The ranking is a testament to the community’s commitment to education and lifelong learning,” says Director Kristi Hale.
The library’s collection includes print and digital books, audiobooks and media, as well as items in the makerbox collection, which includes ukuleles, a telescope, a sewing machine, pottery wheel, unicycle, hands-on STEM kits for kids and more.
Lifelong Learning Programs
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Dayton
937-229-2605
Middle Schools
Dayton Christian School
937-291-7201
Nutrition Education
Learning Tree Farm
937-866-8650
Preschools
Dayton Christian School
937-291-7201
Primary Schools
Our Lady of the Rosary School
937-222-7231
Professional Continuing Education
University of Dayton
937-229-1000
Schools of the Arts
Stivers School for the Arts
937-542-7380
Secondary/High Schools
Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School
937-461-3740
Special Education
Montgomery County Educational Service Center
937-225-4598
Student Skills Assistance
Sinclair Community College
800-315-3000
Student Support Services at Sinclair helps students stay in college, graduate and/or transfer to a four-year college or university. According to the school, in 2021, a record number of students earned degrees and certificates: 6,300-plus, which is 24% over last year and a 75% increase over the last 10 years. Part of that success occurred thanks to the school remaining connected with its students. Over 25,000 phone calls were made to students to identify challenges and needs during the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Technical/Trade Schools
Sinclair Community College
800-315-3000
Sinclair College currently has 10 programs approved by ApprenticeOhio with 62 active apprentices. This “learn while you earn” model prepares workers for jobs while meeting the needs of business for a highly-skilled workforce.
Tutoring Services
Brunner Literacy Center
937-567-9600
Environmental Quality
Animal Adoption
Humane Society Of Greater Dayton
937-268-7387
Animal Control
Gem City Catfe
937-949-9170
Animal Shelters
SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center
937-294-6505
Community Involvement Programs
Five Rivers MetroParks
937-275-7275
Community/Nature Area Cleanup/Enhancement Projects
Five Rivers MetroParks
937-275-7275
Fire Services
Dayton Fire Department
937-225-4357
Outdoor Environmental Education
Five Rivers MetroParks
937-275-7275
Recycling
Habitat For Humanity of Greater Dayton ReStore
937-222-2296
Regional Economic Development/Chambers of Commerce
Dayton Development Coalition
937-222-4422
Sexually Transmitted Disease Treatment
Equitas Health Dayton Medical Center
937-853-3650
Tourism Development
Downtown Dayton Partnership
937-224-1518
The Downtown Dayton Partnership—which provides a variety of services to downtown Dayton, including business development, advocacy and marketing—is working to make downtown Dayton better for everyone. “We are dedicated to making downtown Dayton a better place to live, work and visit,” says President Sandra K. Gudorf. One way DDP does this is through free community events, like Art in the City and the Dayton Holiday Festival. “We invite everyone to come and visit downtown Dayton and support our small business community!” says Gudorf. “During your trip downtown, think about supporting our small businesses by grabbing a drink, a bite to eat or by shopping the unique variety of boutiques and services offered in downtown Dayton.”
Workshops/Symposiums
Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop
The Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop, named after Erma Bombeck, one of the country’s most celebrated storytellers and humorists, draws writers from near and far for the opportunity to laugh and learn together. “The atmosphere is very supportive to both new and established writers looking for the kind of inspiration and encouragement Erma received from a University of Dayton English professor whose three words changed her life: ‘You can write!’” says founder Teri Rizvi.
Health Care
Disease/Disability Information
United Rehabilitation Services
937-233-1230
For 65 years, United Rehabilitation Services has been an important source of information for those looking to become more informed on those with disabilities. “URS annually serves nearly 1,100 individuals and families offering five-star rated childcare for children with and without special needs, with onsite nursing and therapy services. URS also provides therapy 400 outpatients and offers adult day services, vocational training and job placement for high school students and adults with disabilities,” says Dennis G. Grant, executive director.
Emergency Room Care
Miami Valley Hospital, Premier Health
937-208-8000
Miami Valley Hospital is a full-service, acute care hospital in Dayton. “As the largest health care provider in the region with 970 licensed beds, Miami Valley operates the area’s most experienced Level I Trauma Center with air medical services, high-risk obstetrics, perinatal center and Level III NICU, all in the same facility. Miami Valley Hospital is also designated as a Blue Distinction Center+ for Maternity Care by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. The hospital holds Magnet Status for nursing excellence and has been recognized by National Research Corporation as a Consumer Choice Award winner in the Dayton market for more than 20 consecutive years,” says a spokesperson with Premier Health.
Eye Screening
Community Health Centers of Greater Dayton
937-461-6869
Family Counseling
Samaritan Behavioral Health
937-734-4310
General Dentistry
Samaritan Homeless Clinic
937-208-4623
General Health Education Programs
Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley
937-223-7217
General Medical Care
Premier Physician Network
According to Premier Health, Premier Physician Network is one of the largest groups of primary and specialty care practices in Southwest Ohio with more than 725 physicians and advanced practice providers located throughout greater Dayton and northern Cincinnati. The network serves primary care needs of patients, and offers care in a variety of specialties such as bariatrics, breast care, burn and wound care, cardiology, cardiovascular-thoracic surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, gynecologic oncology, hand and reconstructive surgery, infectious diseases, maternal-fetal medicine, neurosciences, neurosurgery, obstetrics and gynecology, oncology, orthopedic joint surgery, otolaryngology, physiatry, plastic surgery, psychology, pulmonology, rheumatology, spine surgery, sports medicine and urology.
General Mental Health Information/Education
South Community
937-293-8300
South Community is a nonprofit that has been committed to improving the quality of life and mental health status of children, adults and families in the Dayton region for almost 50 years. “We not only offer individual mental health and primary care, but we also partner with organizations to help provide for all those in our community,” says Jeni Sand, marketing manager. “[We] always welcome support from individual and business donors.”
Hospital Based Outpatient Services & Immunizations
Premier Health
Premier Health says it has a mission to improve the health of the communities it serves. The health system offers a wide range of care choices, including virtual care, e-visits, a telestroke network and other telehealth options, an urgent care network, free-standing emergency departments, a large primary and specialty care network, and home health services.
Hospitals
Dayton Children’s Hospital
937-641-3000
Pediatrics
Five Rivers Health Centers
937-208-8585
Urgent Care Centers
Premier Health Urgent Care
With locations in Beavercreek, Centerville, Englewood, Huber Heights, Piqua, Springboro and Troy, Premier Health Urgent Cares provide care and convenience that fit a busy life. Board-certified advanced practice providers stand ready to treat minor illness or injury when a person’s own primary care provider’s office is closed and emergency care is not needed. All ages are welcome.
Income Support & Employment
Career Counseling
Sinclair Community College
800-315-3000
Sinclair Community College, which offers nearly 300 degree and certificate programs, including specialized and technical areas of study that are in high demand in the Dayton region, does more than help students earn degrees—it also offers career guidance when they need it. The school’s counseling staff can assist you in picking classes, selecting a field of study or even in transferring to a four-year college.
Case/Care Management
Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Community Support Center
937-848-3810
Individual Counseling
Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley
937-461-4800
According to the nonprofit, “Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley makes it possible for all people to live, learn, work and play with full inclusion in the life of the community. We empower people with disabilities and other disadvantages to achieve independence and improve their quality of life. We provide over 40 programs and services to individuals searching for a life changing journey.”
Issue Advocacy
United Rehabilitation Services
937-233-1230
United Rehabilitation Services has gone above and beyond for infants, children, adults, and seniors with developmental or acquired disabilities throughout the Greater Dayton region for 65 years. The organization serves nearly 1,100 individuals and families, providing nursing and therapy services. “The community can support URS through volunteer opportunities or supporting one of our events such as the 18th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta coming in September 2021! Many people choose to support us through our Monthly Giving Program,” says Dennis G. Grant, executive director.
Job Search/Placement
Miami Valley Works
937-528-6496
Life Skills Education
Bellbrook-Sugarcreek Community Support Center
937-848-3810
Outreach Programs
The Greater Dayton LGBT Center
937-274-1776
Individual & Family Life
Adolescent/Youth Counseling
Battle for Your Life Counseling
937-684-9434
Adult Day Health Programs
Charles I. Lathrem Senior Center
937-296-2480
Aquatic Centers
Kettering Adventure Reef Water Park
937-296-2587
Athletic Clubs
Milton Athletic Club
937-252-1411
Athletic Fields/Courts
Thomas A. Cloud Park
937-237-5836
Book Reading
Dayton Metro Library
937-250-7500
Comprehensive Information and Referral
Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley
937-461-4800
Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley’s many services make it a valuable source of information for all those seeking help. Its programs include Miami Valley Works, the Miracle Clubhouse, a car seat safety program, senior services and more.
Day Camps
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
937-275-7431
Exercises Classes/Groups
YMCA at the Heights
937-236-9622
Field Trips/Excursions
Learning Tree Farm
937-866-8650
History Museums
Carillon Historical Park
937-293-2841
Home Based Parenting Education
Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley
937-223-7217
Job Information
Miami Valley Works
937-528-6496
Literacy Societies/Book Clubs
PechaKucha Dayton
According to the organization, “PechaKucha Dayton is a free quarterly idea-sharing party and networking event for adults. Established in 2009, each event features PechaKucha’s 20×20 presentation format: invited speakers tell a story showing 20 images, each for 20 seconds.”
Parenting Skills Classes
Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley
937-223-7217
Physical Fitness
Kettering Recreation Complex
937-296-3375
Team Sports/Leagues
Gem City Social Sports
937-985-4277
Therapeutic Camps
Therapeutic Riding Institute
937-317-4001
Youth Enrichment Programs
Boys & Girls Club of Dayton
937-262-8377
Organizational & Community Services
Community Foundations
Hope4Riverside
“Hope4Riverside was established for the purpose of churches helping lead city transformation,” says Pastor Dan Powell, founder and executive director. By partnering with city leaders and schools, the nonprofit has been able to help the community of Riverside.
“The biggest success has been partnering with Mad River Local Schools through an in-school mentoring program, providing backpacks full of school supplies (1,500) and other materials to the schools,” says Powell.
Those who wish to assist Hope4Riverside can do so by donating school supplies and backpacks, as well as monetary donations.
Holiday Gifts/Toys
For Love of Children
937-223-3562
Neighborhood Improvement Groups
Oregon Historic District Society
Senior Centers
Huber Heights Senior Center
937-233-9999
Street Outreach Programs
Dayton Young Black Professionals
937-985-1456
Tools/Equipment Donation Programs
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Dayton
937-586-0860
Toy/Game Donation Programs
For Love of Children
937-223-3562
Support Groups
Addictions/Substance Use Disorder
FOA Families of Addicts
937-329-2865
FOA Families of Addicts is all about fostering connections. The nonprofit’s goal is to educate, empower and embrace families, friends and individuals struggling with addiction by providing support and promoting recovery.
“Through weekly meetings in various Ohio counties, navigation, one-on-one phone support and outreach opportunities, FOA is a sought after and respected resource in the Ohio Miami Valley, “says Lori Erion, founding president and CEO. “FOA has also made progress in eliminating the stigma of addiction by holding seven successful rallies and encouraging community members to be the face and voice for those still suffering and those having success—family and recovery alike.”
Caregiver/Care Receiver
Agape for Youth, Inc.
937-439-4406
Domestic Violence
Artemis Center
937-461-5091
Drug Use
Miami Valley Recovery
937-401-8672
Mental Health Related
Kettering Health Behavioral and Mental Services
Pregnancy/Childbirth
Women’s Centers of Ohio
937-228-2222
