Patch Picks: We (Heart) Nonprofits

This week, we’re showing big love for our nonprofits – those organizations that champion causes and fill the gap in community services, often on a shoestring budget buoyed by an altruistic mission of helping others.

Their payoff has nothing do with the almighty dollar, yet they are eager to accept any cash donation or in-kind support via your time and talent.

Here’s our nod to the top 5 nonprofits (boy, was it hard to pare the list to five) making a difference in Lakewood:

1. LakewoodAlive: Economic development, downtown revitalization and community engagement are the top focuses of this volunteer-driven organization that brings us Light Up Lakewood, Chocolate Walk, and the Spooky Pooch Parade.
2. Beck Center for the Arts: This Lakewood treasure offers a myriad of classes for children and adults and a star-studded lineup of entertaining and often edgy, headline-grabbing theater.
3. North Coast Health Ministry: This faith-based nonprofit deserves serious props for its life-sustaining mission, incredible outreach and devoted volunteers – including physicians, nurses and clerical staff. The amazing combination provides free medical care for 2,000 people annually.
4. Lakewood Historical Society: This preservation and advocacy organization is steeped in tradition and its mission of enhancing the quality of life in Lakewood by offering educational programs for all ages, as well as being stewards of the city’s artifacts and buildings. The society operates the Oldest Stone House Museum – a favorite field-trip of elementary students – and the Nicholson House.  
5. Lakewood Christian Service Center: This nearly 20-year-old organization helps residents meet their most basic needs by providing emergency food assistance, job search, housing and public assistance.