At Cheddar Up, we’re not just about simplifying payments and collections — we’re about empowering those who make a difference in their communities. That’s where our Cheddar Up Changemakers program steps in. This initiative is our way of recognizing and supporting those who tirelessly work to create positive change.
Every quarter, we call for entries from individuals and organizations who are making a real impact. From supporting local arts to improving educational programs, our Changemakers are the beating heart of their communities.
Latest Winners: June 2024
Junior Auxiliary of Tangipahoa
The Junior Auxiliary of Tangipahoa has been advocating for the Hammond, LA community for over 40 years. They fundraise through events like Flamingo Bingo to support service projects that promote the health, welfare, and education of children. 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. They provide life skills training and practical knowledge through partnerships with local professionals and businesses.
Aqua Angels
Aqua Angels provides free or low-cost swim lessons to adults in Greenville County, South Carolina focusing on underserved and historically marginalized communities. Their program promotes water safety, empowers individuals, and fosters a love for swimming by offering essential techniques and water safety knowledge to non-swimmers and beginners. 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. Their efforts create a ripple effect throughout the community, promoting a culture of safety, health, and inclusivity.
Allied Foundation
The Allied Foundation works to end diaper need for struggling families on Long Island, NY, and parts of Queens and Kings County. 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. Their mission also includes newborn support, community service, education, and early childhood literacy.
History and Past Changemakers
Giving Tuesday: The Inaugural Cheddar Up Changemakers Contest
With Giving Tuesday 2023, we were overwhelmed by the incredible stories of dedication and service from our entrants. Selecting winners was no small task, but we are excited to announce and celebrate three outstanding initiatives that truly embody the spirit of change and community service.
Past Changemakers
The Junior Auxiliary of Tangipahoa has been advocating for the Hammond, LA community for over 40 years. They fundraise through events like Flamingo Bingo to support service projects that promote the health, welfare, and education of children. 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. They provide life skills training and practical knowledge through partnerships with local professionals and businesses.
Aqua Angels provides free or low-cost swim lessons to adults in Greenville County, South Carolina focusing on underserved and historically marginalized communities. Their program promotes water safety, empowers individuals, and fosters a love for swimming by offering essential techniques and water safety knowledge to non-swimmers and beginners. 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. Their efforts create a ripple effect throughout the community, promoting a culture of safety, health, and inclusivity.
The Allied Foundation works to end diaper need for struggling families on Long Island, NY, and parts of Queens and Kings County. 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. Their mission also includes newborn support, community service, education, and early childhood literacy.
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.
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.
Join the Movement: Enter the Next Cheddar Up Changemakers Contest
Inspired by these stories? You too can be a part of this movement! Our Cheddar Up Changemakers contest is a quarterly event, and we’re always on the lookout for individuals and organizations making a difference. Whether you’re nurturing young minds, supporting the arts, or leading a community initiative, we want to hear from you. Our latest contest is now open through September 6th. Submit your entry today.
At Cheddar Up, we believe that every effort to improve the community is a step towards a better world. The Changemakers program is our way of acknowledging and supporting these efforts. Congratulations once again to all of our Changemakers- you are the change agents who inspire us all.
Stay tuned for more stories of change and the next group of winners. Together, let’s make a difference, one community at a time.
Ready to start?
Are you ready to join the Cheddar Up movement and make waves in your community?
