NICHOLAS WHARTON is the President and CEO of the Charlotte Area Fund, a nonprofit that helps people at 200 percent or below the federal poverty guidelines to find their way out of poverty.

The organization provides job training in high-demand fields that include HVAC, broadband fiber, commercial driving (CDL) and construction. They soon will begin operating a new North Carolina DOT Construction Academy.

The Charlotte Area Fund is also providing assistance with needs related to the pandemic. Through funding provided by the Cares Act, they provide rental assistance and utilities support to those who qualify. They also have collaborated with CW Williams Community Health Center on a public information campaign to encourage lowincome communities to take precautions to prevent coronavirus infection.

The nonprofit was recently awarded an unprecedented grant from IKEA. At the recommendation of the office of Governor Roy Cooper, the Charlotte Area Fund will receive $1.1 million to expand its programs and services in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.