“I feel like I should go home and cry,” I thought to myself after leaving the Urban Ministry Center. My heart was full and I had a big smile on my face after attending the UMC’s Artworks945 Art Auction and Sale on September 10th.

First Copy Printed
This magazine has the potential to give hope and employment to many homeless and low-income individuals in Charlotte, NC, and surrounding. To print the remaining 9,999 copies, we need your help.

Unemployment Hurts
It is not easy to write this post. It's hard not to be ashamed and embarrassed because of what I’ve been through. But those feelings are exactly why I'm writing; because fear, shame and silence stop people from asking for help–when help is the only way back up.

"Get a Job!"
I’ve been working since I was thirteen. I attended the University of Richmond for my undergrad degree and then completed a program at George Mason University, where I received an MBA. In August 2008, I was laid off from a job I really enjoyed.
Volunteer Opportunities
In the words of Dr. King, anyone can be great because anyone can serve. Volunteers are the bedrock of nonprofit organizations, and Speak Up is no exception. WE NEED YOU! There are opportunities ranging from sweeping floors to heading up entire teams.
Sponsor An Issue!
Businesses and organizations: Sponsor the first issue of Speak Up with a $300 donation. Benefits of sponsorship are many…
Camping is Fun — When You Have a Choice
As those close to me know, I love overnight wilderness adventure. Loading a big backpack (or a minimalist rucksack) and heading out for a weekend in the mountains of North Carolina is one of my greatest passions.
Fun-Raising
People are asked for money all the time. Depending on your sphere of influence (and how rigorously you filter your inbox), charitable "asks" can be a daily expectation. So we're trying to have fun with it.
Super Simple Survey
In the months leading up to Speak Up's launch, we're trying to communication our vision as clearly as possible. It can be a bit tough to do, especially when the actual magazine is just a "concept" floating in the air. This 30-second survey helps us.
Social Network for Good
On Saturday my wife Lana was out for coffee with a friend. She saw an older lady holding a "please help" sign. After talking with her for a few minutes and finding out some of her needs, Lana called me. This sweet lady, who not long ago lost her job and then her apartment, wanted [...]


