Late summer has arrived, and Virginia’s nonprofit community is continuing to keep the momentum high! From local celebrations and adaptive sports to disaster relief abroad, we’ve gathered the latest news, volunteer opportunities and impact-driven events happening across Virginia in August.
Virginia’s Nonprofits Drive Economic Impact
A new report from the University of Virginia School of Data Science and the Center for Nonprofit Excellence illustrates the critical role of Virginia’s nonprofit sector, proving that it serves as both a social safety net and a powerful economic driver. Home to more than 43,000 charitable nonprofits, the commonwealth’s sector employs nearly 388,000 people and generates close to $80 billion in annual revenue. Delivering essential services from childcare to emergency response, these organizations continue to provide the invaluable support that helps people to thrive. Read the full report here.
Mercy Chefs Delivers Aid to Venezuela
After two devastating earthquakes hit Venezuela just seconds apart, Portsmouth-based disaster aid nonprofit Mercy Chefs immediately sprang into action. Having operated five permanent feeding sites in the country for over two years with the help of local ministry partners, the team was able to quickly launch emergency relief efforts to serve thousands of hot, chef-prepared meals to survivors and first responders navigating the aftermath in the hardest-hit communities. Learn more about Mercy Chefs’ work, including how to donate, on its website.
Tech For Troops and Meta Team Up for Veteran Accessibility
Richmond-based veteran nonprofit Tech For Troops is teaming up with Meta to launch Vision Forward, an innovative initiative bringing hands-on training and AI-enabled Ray-Ban Meta glasses to blind and low-vision veterans. The program aims to boost independence, connection and everyday confidence by introducing veterans to cutting-edge assistive technology.
The nonprofit will kick off the partnership with a launch event on Friday, Aug. 28 at Tech For Troops’ headquarters in Richmond. Interested in getting involved? Tech For Troops is looking for over 20 eligible veterans to participate. Caregivers and community partners are encouraged to help spread the word! Learn more or apply at TechForTroops.org/VisionForward.
End-of-Summer Events & Fundraisers
SmileS Adaptive Carnival 2026 (Saturday, Aug. 8 | Locust Grove)
Make your way to Lake of the Woods Clubhouse Point for an inclusive day of adaptive watersports! Designed for individuals with disabilities and their families, this event offers tailored water activities and tons of outdoor fun for people of all ages and abilities. Learn more and register here.
Virginia Wildlife Center’s Annual Gala & Benefit Auction (Saturday, Aug. 15 | Afton)
Head to Hazy Mountain Vineyards & Brewery for an evening in support of the Wildlife Center of Virginia’s important rehabilitation work. Even if you can’t make it in person, you can still show your support — the center’s online benefit auction opens 10 days prior to the event and is free for anyone to participate. Tickets for the gala start at $50. Claim your spot here.
Pickleball for a Purpose (Saturday, Aug. 22 | Fredericksburg)
Hosted by Comfort Homecare Services at the Picklr Fredericksburg, Pickle for Purple 2026 is a community pickleball tournament benefitting the Alzheimer’s Association. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, all are welcome to come out and get moving for a great cause. Your $25 ticket includes entry to play, food and drinks throughout the event and a shot at a prize basket raffle (100% of this entry fee goes directly to the Fredericksburg Alzheimer’s Association). Register via Eventbrite, or donate to Comfort Homecare Services here.
20th Annual CHKD RunWalk for the Kids (Saturday, Aug. 29 | Norfolk)
Lace up your sneakers at the Waterside District in honor of Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, Virginia’s only freestanding children’s hospital. Choose between a 5K, a two-mile walk or a virtual option to support Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters as well as The King’s Daughters, the nonprofit dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the hospital. Every registrant receives an event shirt, medal and goody bag, and this year’s theme encourages participants to wear their best superhero cape or costume to honor a special hero in their life. Volunteers are also needed to help make the morning event a success! Register to participate, become a sponsor or volunteer here.
At the date of publication, Mercy Chefs is a client of The Hodges Partnership.
