Behind every thriving community is a changemaker organization making things happen.
From a PTA modernizing school programs to a sports league expanding access for young athletes, to a nonprofit fighting for a local cause, changemakers are the engines of real progress. They see a gap, step up, and build something better.
At Cheddar Up, we believe the best way to strengthen a community is to support the groups serving it. That’s why we created the Cheddar Up Changemakers program, an initiative designed to fund and spotlight organizations leading meaningful change.
Changemaker Definition
So, what’s the official changemaker definition?
A changemaker is a person or organization that identifies a problem in their community and creates a lasting, positive solution.
Taking it a step further, a changemaker organization is a nonprofit, school group, PTA, booster club, or community collective that identifies a systemic gap and develops a creative, scalable way to address it.
Unlike groups stuck in “the way it’s always been done,” changemakers embrace smarter tools and sustainable strategies. They modernize fundraising. They streamline operations. They make participation easier and more inclusive.
In our world, a Cheddar Up Changemaker is an organization that uses digital tools, like customizable collection pages, flexible payment options, and real-time tracking, to remove barriers and focus more energy on their mission.
History and Past Changemakers
Cheddar Up does more than simplify payments. We help groups collect funds, gather information, manage registrations, and track everything in one place. But empowering changemakers goes beyond tools, it means investing in their impact.
Giving Tuesday: The Inaugural Cheddar Up Changemakers
We heard powerful stories from nonprofits, PTAs, and community leaders solving real challenges in creative ways. Choosing winners wasn’t easy, but the heart behind each submission made one thing clear: Changemakers deserve more than one day of recognition.
That’s why we turned a one-time celebration into a permanent quarterly initiative.
Today, we award $1500 impact awards every quarter to standout changemaker organizations. It’s our way of helping fuel the next big idea, the next community event, or the next mission-driven milestone.
Past Changemaker Organizations
Serving 74 campuses, Frisco Threads Student Clothes Closet provides students in need with gently used clothing, new athletic shoes, undergarments, and socks – essentials that foster both comfort and confidence.
Their mission extends beyond training young and adult dancers; they nurture their participants’ abilities and encourage them to use their art to contribute positively to the community.
Dedicated to offering free and equitable access to sports for all elementary students, their work is pivotal in shaping the physical and character development of young athletes.
This dedicated PTA is on a mission to ensure every child at their school starts their day right - with a full belly. They're all about making sure students have access to breakfast and lunch, removing barriers to learning and ensuring no child feels left out due to meal issues.
As a champion of inclusivity in sports, the DABC is partnering with the Wisconsin Adaptive Sports Association to make sports accessible to all kids and ensure no one sits on the sidelines. Their efforts are breaking down barriers in their community where everyone can join in the fun and learn the importance of adaptive sports.
At the Auburn Village school, community engagement and student enrichment is taken to the next level with their summer camp initiative. By working hand-in-hand with the school district, they've created a program that not only supports teachers during the summer months, but also brings educational and creative fun to families.
The Junior Auxiliary of Tangipahoa fundraise through events like Flamingo Bingo to support service projects. One key initiative is “Lynding A Hand,” which collaborates with Lynnhaven Retreat Center to aid women and children recovering from homelessness, addiction, human trafficking, abuse, or mental illness.
Aqua Angels provides free or low-cost swim lessons to adults in Greenville County, South Carolina focusing on underserved and historically marginalized communities. By equipping participants with necessary tools and knowledge, Aqua Angels helps build water competency, reduce drowning incidents, and promote physical fitness and mental well-being.
The Allied Foundation works to end diaper need for struggling families. Diaper need affects 1 in 2 U.S. families, with low-income parents often resorting to unsafe practices which can lead to health issues. Since 2019, the foundation has distributed 3.25 million diapers free of charge, helping families keep their babies clean and healthy.
Elkins Pointe Middle School PTSA has been a driving force in bringing STEM activities to all students, despite the financial challenges many families face. They are working to make a lasting impact by providing hands-on STEM education to their 11-13-year-old students, helping shape the future of their community.
Game. Set. Hope. is dedicated to raising mental health awareness and supporting those affected by mental illness. They aim to raise funds for the NAMI Foundation, which provides educational programs, resources for individuals and families, and supports research on mental health treatment and prevention. This initiative brings the community together for a powerful cause, helping to reduce the stigma around depression and suicide while reminding everyone that help is always available.
LJM PTO is raising funds for a new inclusive playground through their Red Lion spirit blanket sales. The playground will feature a wheelchair-accessible ramp, sensory boards, an American Sign Language board, an inclusive spinner, and poured-in-place rubber surfacing. With students who use wheelchairs and those in Autism, life skills, and deaf/hard of hearing classes, this playground will ensure every child can play and learn together.
The Ann Richards School Archery Booster Club is breaking barriers by introducing archery to young women at the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders. With 92 participants in their first year—20% of all NASP archers in the Austin area—they’re fostering focus, self-confidence, and resilience through this unique sport.
Oakland Mills High School Fine Arts Boosters champion performing arts in an under-resourced Howard County school. Despite challenges, they tirelessly fund transportation, copyright payments, and more, ensuring the arts thrive. They also host an annual December production supporting the WBAL Radio Kids’ Campaign, which aids disadvantaged youth in Baltimore.
Pease Communication and Technology Academy PTA is transforming lives through their unwavering commitment to advocacy and support for their diverse community in Midland, TX. Representing a Title 1 elementary school where 75% of students face economic hardship, they’ve launched the Tiger Care Closet—a game-changing initiative providing essential items like school supplies, hygiene products, clothing, and food.
TRead Northwest is making a lasting impact on early childhood literacy in Clark County, WA. They train and connect volunteers with K-3 students who are struggling to read at grade level. With over 250 dedicated mentors, nearly 300 young learners receive one-on-one reading support, giving them the skills and confidence needed to succeed.
This Title 1 campus is rallying support to enhance its PE program. With no new equipment purchased in the past five years due to budget, the school’s PE resources have worn down. This fundraiser has been their most successful yet, helping to provide much-needed updates for students and ensuring a better, more active experience for all.
The MomCo at FCC supports and empowers mothers through every stage of motherhood, fostering a strong community in Fayetteville, NC. Their annual golf tournament is a key fundraiser, directly funding initiatives that make a lasting impact.
BBH Pride is creating a more inclusive and welcoming community in Brecksville and Broadview Heights, Ohio, through education, support groups, and initiatives like their new Welcoming Merchant Program. They’re on a mission to make LGBTQ+ individuals and allies feel safe, seen, and supported.
C.T. Koontz Intermediate School PTO is a dedicated group in Asheville, NC, that stepped up for their school during a tough year. After Hurricane Helene caused extended closures and widespread loss, they paused their annual fundraiser and instead focused on thoughtful gestures that brought comfort and connection to students and staff.
Flying B Animal Rescue & Sanctuary helps fight animal overpopulation in Ellis County, Texas, by offering subsidized spay/neuter services through its “Snip It in the Bud” program. In addition to supporting pet owners in need, they rescue abandoned animals and provide a loving sanctuary for senior dogs.
The Buckley Downtown Association launched the Hometown Market to boost business and bring the community together on quiet Tuesdays. With live music, line dancing, kids’ activities, and nonprofit spotlights, it’s become a summer favorite while boosting sales, growing foot traffic, and building community.
The Eisenhower PTA is hosting its first self-run Cougar Glow Run using Cheddar Up and will keep 100% of the proceeds for the first time. Students are rallying to meet fundraising goals, with all donations supporting school programs, resources, field trips, and more.
Black Queens of IL Western Suburbs empowers Black women through mental health check-ins, fitness, book clubs, and community events. Their gatherings offer space to connect and recharge, with plans to expand impact through a scholarship fund and ongoing service projects.
Despite funding and economic challenges, this inner-city music program continues to shine. Their annual pie fundraiser raised over $5,000, more than double the goal, and will help cover band fees, rentals, and meals. Each fundraiser helps bring their motto to life: making music accessible to all.
Blackman Volunteer Firefighter Association supports local firefighters with essential gear, training, and wellness resources. Their holiday smoked ham sale not only funds these efforts but also donates meals to families facing a difficult season. Year-round, they focus on strengthening public safety and providing support where it’s needed most.
Mandeville Robotics Team hosts camps, school demos, and STEMFest, while also making space for mental health support. Their newest effort includes wellness bags for teens at competitions to help reduce stress and overstimulation. Every collection supports its mission to make STEM more inclusive and accessible in its area.
What does a $1500 Impact Award look like in action?
Consider the ARS Archery Booster Club. Like many school groups, they were managing fees, fundraising, and communication all at once. By simplifying how they collected payments and organized information, they built a system that supports their team season after season.
Changemakers remove friction, strengthen programs, and create lasting impact.
Latest Winners
Live Like Jake Foundation
Live Like Jake Foundation is making a life-saving impact by helping children gain critical water survival skills through ISR swim lessons, especially for families who could not otherwise afford them. Their work also supports families after tragic drowning or critical care events, all while working toward a future where fewer families face this kind of loss.
Clague PTSO
Clague PTSO is meeting a real, everyday need by making sure students have access to clean clothes at school. By keeping their laundry room stocked, they help students feel comfortable, confident, and ready to participate in the classroom, on the field, and in creative activities.
Chagrin Harbor Beach Association
Chagrin Harbor Beach Association shows what is possible when a community steps up. Faced with serious shoreline erosion, they rallied neighbors to raise funds to protect their homes and coastline while also supporting clubhouse improvements and community initiatives. Their work combines smart engineering with natural solutions to preserve the shoreline for the future.
Join the Movement: The Next Cheddar Up Changemaker
Inspired? Your organization could be next.
The Cheddar Up Changemakers program celebrates the leaders building stronger schools, neighborhoods, and causes. Whether you’re organizing arts programs, running a booster club, or leading a nonprofit initiative, your story matters.
How to Apply
To be considered for the quarterly Changemakers program, your organization needs to:
- Be tax-exempt: A registered 501(c)(3) or equivalent nonprofit
- Be active on Cheddar Up: Use the platform for digital collections
- Show progress: Process at least $500 on Cheddar Up
- Be current: Have an active collection running during the quarter
Don’t miss the next round! Since this is a quarterly program, there’s always a new opportunity on the horizon. Follow us on Instagram to stay in the know about when the next contest opens and to see how other organizations are using their awards.
When operations run smoothly, changemakers can spend less time chasing payments and more time serving their communities. Simple systems create space for bigger ideas, stronger programs, and deeper impact.
Every improvement, whether it’s increasing transparency, expanding access, or making it easier for people to participate, helps build a stronger, more connected community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of a changemaker organization?
A changemaker organization is a nonprofit or community group that identifies a social or systemic gap and creates an innovative, sustainable solution to address it. These organizations use modern tools and creative thinking to increase efficiency, transparency, and long-term community impact.
How can my nonprofit receive a $1500 Impact Award from Cheddar Up?
When did the Cheddar Up Changemakers program start?
The program began as a Giving Tuesday 2023 initiative. After receiving an overwhelming number of inspiring entries, Cheddar Up expanded it into a permanent quarterly initiative to recognize changemakers year-round.
What can a $1500 Changemaker Impact Award be used for?
The $1500 Changemakers impact award can be used to support any mission-driven initiative within your organization. This may include funding a community event, purchasing supplies, expanding a program, covering operational costs, or launching a new outreach effort. The goal is to help changemaker organizations take their next meaningful step forward.
What types of organizations are considered changemakers?
Changemaker organizations can include nonprofits, PTAs, Scout troops, booster clubs, school groups, youth sports leagues, and other community-led initiatives. If your group actively works to solve problems, increase access, or improve outcomes in your community, you may qualify as a changemaker.
Ready to become a changemaker?
Start building smarter systems, raise funds with confidence, and create lasting impact in your community.
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