470 local charities compete for donations in Amazing Raise - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

470 local charities compete for donations in Amazing Raise

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RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) -

This week, you could help turn a $50 donation into tens of thousands of dollars for a local charity. The Community Foundation is holding it's second Amazing Raise competition, where 472 local charities compete for grants.

People turn to Freedom House when they need food, shelter, and a fresh start. Explained Christy Ellis with Freedom House, "We operate the city's only 7-day-a-week soup kitchen and we operate two shelters that give folks the opportunity to get off the merry-go-round and make changes in their life."

Freedom house was one of the charities that won a grant, $5000, plus more than $2000 in donations during The Community Foundation's Amazing Raise last year.

Said Ellis, "Sometimes you can only give $50, but if you give during certain periods, their $50 can turn into $10,000 because they can be one of twenty which will help us qualify for special awards."

The Amazing Raise is a 36 hour period when donors are asked to give at least $50 to one of 450 participating charities. The non-profits that get the most $50 donations win grants from The Community Foundation.

"Each donor is considered a unique donor and so it's a one-time gift of $50 or more. The prizes are $10,000, $15,000, and $20,000 is for first place, that's what we strive for," explained Ellis.

Plus the first 15 to get fifty $50 donations win $2500. The Community Foundation has designated more than $100,000 for these grants. You can check out profiles for charities through its website GiveRichmond.org, such as the Richmond Animal League, Crossover Ministry, or Maymont. Freedom House says Amazing Raise made a huge difference for them. And along with 470 other charities, they hope you'll donate.

Said Ellis, "At 6:00 am, it's 36 hours of amazing time for you to give amazing dollars."

The Amazing Raise begins Wednesday at 6:00 a.m. and ends Thursday at 6:00 p.m. You'll find it at GiveRichmond.org.