LANSING, MI – Connecting with local nonprofits is easier than ever for Lansing area families following the official launch of the Child and Family Charities (CFC) Nonprofit Hub Wednesday. CFC held a grand opening celebration for the facility at 405 W. Greenlawn Ave. in Lansing — a significant milestone of in the 114-year-old nonprofit’s campaign to Be the Light for residents in need.
CFC, which completed relocation of its offices to Greenlawn Avenue this spring, announced plans for the Nonprofit Hub at the beginning of the year. Creation of the Hub emerged as a priority following conversations between CFC leadership and fellow mission-aligned nonprofits about the hurdles they face in serving the region’s most vulnerable residents. One of the biggest barriers referenced in these talks was overhead costs, which significantly reduce the resources available for direct services.
The Nonprofit Hub helps alleviate this issue by enabling nonprofits to share resources and work collectively as they address urgent issues such as poverty, homelessness and mental health. Families also benefit, as they now have access to comprehensive services in one convenient location.
Organizations who call the Hub home include Big Brothers Big Sisters, CASA for Kids, Helping Women Period, NAMI Lansing, Origami, MYCAEA, DAP, United Way VITA Program, Community Mental Health programs, Dawn’s Early Light and Positive Somebody. There are plans to welcome additional partners. Shared amenities, such as office space, conference rooms, and collaboration areas, are designed to foster synergy and amplify impact.
Early projections indicate a 30% average increase in the number of people served annually, with some organizations anticipating growth of up to 77%.
“This Nonprofit Hub is more than a building — it’s a catalyst for change,” said Julie Thomasma, CFC CEO. “By working together, we’re lighting the way toward a stronger, more resilient community built on collaboration, compassion and shared purpose.”
The project’s success was made possible through the generosity of sponsors including WKAR, Jackson National Life, Carl’s Foundation, the Community Foundation and the Dart Foundation.
Wednesday’s grand opening event served both awareness and community-building purposes. In addition to tours of the Hub, attendees had opportunities to connect with resource providers. There were also family-friendly recreation activities, giveaways and free refreshments.
For more information about the Nonprofit Hub visit https://childandfamily.org/.
