Our Programs

Supporting Communities in Crisis

The Community Fund provides rapid, needs-based support to individuals and families impacted by unexpected hardships, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, or financial crises. Rooted in honor, resilience, and service, the fund bridges the gap between crisis and recovery.

Who We Serve: Members of underserved or disaster-struck communities in North Carolina and beyond, with priority given to veterans, military families, and vulnerable populations.

How to Get Involved

• Apply for Assistance: Complete a short application detailing the nature of the hardship
• Donate: 100% of donations to this fund go directly to aid efforts
• Volunteer: Join our disaster response and community outreach teams
• Spread Awareness: Help us reach those who need support most

Our Signature Annual Event

Held annually each fall in Holly Springs, North Carolina (typically October or November), under the majestic live oaks at The Mattis House. This elegant evening brings our community together to raise critical funds for the Community Fund and the KJ Smith Memorial Scholarship.

What to Expect: Live music, exceptional local cuisine, silent auctions, and powerful stories from those impacted by our programs. It's more than a fundraiser—it's a celebration of service, resilience, and community spirit.

Ways to Participate

• Buy Tickets: Tickets go on sale each February - follow us for announcements
• Sponsor the Event: Corporate and individual sponsorships available at multiple levels
• Donate Auction Items: Showcase your business while supporting our cause
• Volunteer: Help make the evening magical for our guests

A Legacy of Service and Leadership

Named in honor of CPT Kevin "KJ" Smith — a beloved son, soldier, athlete, and scholar — whose life embodied the values of service, leadership, and resilience. KJ was killed in action while saving the life of his teammate, Adam Mattis, during a combat operation in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2005.

This scholarship carries forward his legacy by investing in the next generation of community-minded leaders who demonstrate courage, character, and a commitment to service.

Scholarship Details

• Award Amount: $5,000 per year, renewable for up to 4 years ($20,000 total)
• Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors or current college students (ages 17-24)
• Minimum GPA: 3.5 or higher
• Priority Given To: Veterans, children of veterans, and service-oriented careers
• Application Deadline: March 31 annually
• Winners Notified: By May 15