El Paso is a vibrant city with a rich cultural tapestry, a deep historical legacy, and an unwavering sense of community pride. Nestled on the U.S.-Mexico border, this dynamic city thrives on its diversity, resilience, and the collective efforts of its residents to build a stronger, more inclusive future.
At the heart of this thriving community lies a network of dedicated nonprofits that work tirelessly to uplift individuals and families, addressing challenges and creating opportunities for growth and empowerment.
These El Paso nonprofits embody the spirit of service and collaboration, tackling a wide array of critical needs such as hunger relief, education, healthcare access, environmental preservation, and cultural enrichment. Whether providing meals to those facing food insecurity, empowering youth through the arts, or advocating for marginalized populations, these nonprofits are the backbone of El Paso’s efforts to ensure a better quality of life for all its residents.
Through their innovative programs, compassionate outreach, and unwavering commitment, these nonprofits not only meet immediate needs but also foster long-term progress and sustainability.
Together, they weave a safety net of support that strengthens the fabric of the community, ensuring that no one is left behind. Below is a closer look at some of these remarkable organizations, each playing a pivotal role in shaping El Paso’s bright and promising future.
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El Paso Nonprofits
Success Through Technology Education (STTE)
Success Through Technology Education (STTE) is a forward-thinking Texas-based nonprofit organization established in 2018 with an ambitious twenty-year vision to revolutionize education and empower youth through entrepreneurship, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), and technology literacy.
Recognizing the rapid pace of technological advancement and the growing demand for innovation in education and workforce development, STTE is dedicated to equipping young minds with the skills and resources needed to thrive in the 21st century.
STTE’s mission is centered on creating a robust ecosystem that nurtures youth entrepreneurship and fosters creativity, critical thinking, and technological aptitude.
By collaborating with schools, educators, industry leaders, and community partners, the organization develops cutting-edge educational programs that bridge the gap between traditional learning and real-world applications.
These initiatives are designed not only to spark interest in STEAM disciplines but also to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among students, preparing them to become the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
Mission: To empower youth by advancing educational programs that foster entrepreneurship, STEAM proficiency, and technology literacy, preparing them for a competitive global future.
Vision: A future where every young individual is equipped with the skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial mindset to lead innovation and drive progress in their communities.
Impact: Since its inception, Success Through Technology Education (STTE) has inspired and educated thousands of students through hands-on programs, mentorship, and access to cutting-edge resources. By bridging gaps in technology education and promoting inclusivity, STTE is cultivating a generation of leaders prepared to tackle the challenges of the modern world.
El Paso Community Foundation
Since 1977, the El Paso Community Foundation has been a cornerstone of charitable giving in the region. By managing endowments and distributing grants, it supports diverse initiatives that address the community’s evolving needs.
The foundation was created to establish a permanent endowment that could address a wide range of local needs, from education and healthcare to arts, environment, and social services.
By pooling contributions from donors and investing them wisely, the foundation generates sustainable funding that supports impactful initiatives across the El Paso, Southern New Mexico, and Ciudad Juárez areas.
The organization manages numerous donor-advised funds, scholarships, and charitable trusts, enabling individuals, families, and organizations to give back to the community in meaningful ways. Its strategic grant-making process ensures that funds are allocated to projects and programs with the greatest potential for long-term positive impact, addressing both current challenges and emerging opportunities.
Beyond financial contributions, the foundation plays a key role in fostering collaboration among nonprofits, civic leaders, and community stakeholders, creating synergies that amplify its impact.
Mission: To establish permanent charitable resources for the betterment of the El Paso region.
Vision: A thriving community enriched by philanthropy and shared resources.
Impact: Over $249 million has been granted to local programs, fueling growth in education, health, the arts, and more.
United Way of El Paso County
With nearly a century of dedicated service, United Way of El Paso County has solidified its role as a cornerstone organization for community support and development. Established in 1923, the organization has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of El Paso’s diverse population, addressing critical issues in health, education, and financial stability.
As a trusted ally to residents and local nonprofits alike, United Way of El Paso County plays a vital role in creating and sustaining programs that empower individuals and families to lead healthier, more secure, and fulfilling lives.
United Way operates with a vision of fostering a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Through partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and government entities, the organization mobilizes resources, expertise, and volunteers to tackle pressing challenges head-on.
By serving as a bridge between donors and programs that directly impact lives, United Way ensures that every dollar contributed makes a meaningful difference.
Mission: To connect the El Paso community through programs and resources that improve lives.
Vision: A united community where every individual can thrive.
Impact: Funding and coordinating numerous programs, United Way strengthens families and fosters self-sufficiency across the region.
Creative Kids
For over 25 years, Creative Kids has been a transformative force in the El Paso community, using the power of arts-based education to inspire and uplift local youth. Established with a vision to create a nurturing environment where creativity can flourish, the organization has empowered countless children and young adults to express themselves, discover their potential, and overcome personal and social challenges.
By integrating the arts into educational and therapeutic settings, Creative Kids has become a beacon of hope for youth, particularly those from underserved communities or facing adversity.
Mission: To nurture creativity and self-expression in children through arts education.
Vision: A community where all children have access to transformative artistic experiences.
Impact: Through its projects, Creative Kids has uplifted countless young people, fostering creativity and personal growth.
El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank
El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank is a lifeline for thousands of families across El Paso, Culberson, and Hudspeth counties, working tirelessly to combat food insecurity and hunger in the region. As the only food bank serving this vast area, the organization plays a critical role in ensuring that no one in the community goes without access to nutritious meals.
By partnering with a network of over 130 agencies, including schools, shelters, and food pantries, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger distributes millions of pounds of food each year to individuals and families facing economic hardship.
Founded to address the growing hunger crisis in the region, the food bank has developed a robust infrastructure for food procurement, storage, and distribution. It sources food from grocery stores, manufacturers, farmers, and community donations, working to minimize waste and maximize the availability of fresh, healthy options for those in need.
With innovative programs like mobile food pantries and senior nutrition initiatives, the organization ensures that food reaches even the most remote and underserved areas.
Mission: To combat hunger by providing nutritious food and hope to those in need.
Vision: A hunger-free El Paso where no one goes without food.
Impact: Serving over 200,000 individuals annually, the food bank is a lifeline for vulnerable populations.
Junior League of El Paso
The Junior League of El Paso is a dynamic force for community improvement, empowering women to take on leadership roles in designing and executing impactful projects. With a legacy spanning decades, the organization has built a reputation for fostering voluntarism and cultivating a network of highly skilled and passionate women dedicated to creating meaningful change in El Paso.
By focusing on leadership development, the Junior League equips its members with the tools, training, and confidence to address pressing community needs and drive innovative solutions.
This powerhouse of volunteerism engages in a wide array of initiatives, from supporting children’s education and health programs to addressing food insecurity and advocating for arts and cultural preservation.
The Junior League’s efforts extend beyond short-term assistance, aiming to leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and positive transformation in the community. Members are encouraged to collaborate with local organizations, bring fresh perspectives to long-standing challenges, and advocate for policies that enhance the well-being of El Paso residents.
Mission: To promote voluntarism and improve communities through trained leadership.
Vision: A community transformed by the dedication and potential of women.
Impact: Decades of community improvement projects have enriched education, health, and cultural sectors.
Border AIDS Partnership
The Border AIDS Partnership is a unique and essential binational nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by HIV/AIDS along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Founded in 1994 through a collaboration between the El Paso Community Foundation and the US/Mexico Border Health Association, the organization focuses on education, prevention, and support services for individuals and communities affected by HIV/AIDS. By working across borders, it builds bridges between nations, cultures, and healthcare systems to ensure equitable access to vital resources and services.
One of the Border AIDS Partnership’s primary goals is to reduce the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and provide the knowledge needed to prevent its spread. Through community outreach, workshops, and awareness campaigns, the organization empowers individuals with accurate information about HIV transmission, prevention methods, and the importance of testing and early detection.
These educational efforts are tailored to the unique social and cultural dynamics of the border region, ensuring they resonate with diverse populations.
Mission: To fund programs that educate, prevent, and support those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Vision: A border region free from HIV/AIDS stigma and health disparities.
Impact: By funding critical services, the partnership has improved public health outcomes and supported thousands.
El Paso County Historical Society
The El Paso County Historical Society is a vital nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding and celebrating the rich and diverse history of El Paso and the surrounding region. Since its establishment in 1954, the society has played a pivotal role in preserving the stories, artifacts, and cultural heritage that define the area’s unique identity.
By maintaining extensive archives, curating exhibitions, and engaging in community outreach, the organization ensures that El Paso’s past is not only remembered but also actively shared with future generations.
The society’s archives are a treasure trove of historical documents, photographs, maps, and artifacts that capture the essence of El Paso’s evolution—from its early days as a frontier settlement to its growth as a dynamic, multicultural border city.
These meticulously preserved collections provide valuable resources for researchers, historians, students, and anyone interested in exploring the city’s heritage. The organization also houses oral histories and personal narratives, offering intimate insights into the lives and experiences of those who have shaped El Paso’s story.
Mission: To protect and promote the history of El Paso County for future generations.
Vision: A community connected by its shared history and cultural heritage.
Impact: Their work ensures that El Paso’s stories are told, fostering community pride and identity.
Woman’s Club of El Paso
The Woman’s Club of El Paso is a historic and influential organization that has been a pillar of civic and cultural advancement in the community since its founding in 1894. Established during a time when opportunities for women were limited, the organization was created to provide a space where women could collaborate, learn, and lead efforts to improve their community.
With a strong emphasis on empowerment and education, the Woman’s Club has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives that have shaped El Paso’s social, cultural, and civic landscape.
As one of the oldest and most respected women’s organizations in the region, the Woman’s Club has a proud legacy of advocacy and service. It has consistently worked to advance education, support charitable causes, and foster cultural enrichment, particularly for women and underserved populations.
Early on, the club was instrumental in significant civic advancements, such as advocating for public libraries and supporting educational opportunities for women and girls.
Mission: To enhance the educational and cultural welfare of the community.
Vision: A city enriched by the contributions and leadership of women.
Impact: The club’s advocacy has led to numerous social reforms, including the establishment of El Paso’s first public library.
Court Appointed Special Advocates(CASA) of El Paso
CASA of El Paso (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a nonprofit organization that plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights and well-being of abused and neglected children within the court system.
With a mission to provide these vulnerable children with a powerful voice, CASA recruits, trains, and supports dedicated volunteers who serve as advocates, ensuring that each child’s best interests are represented during legal proceedings.
This personalized and compassionate approach helps guide children through the complexities of the foster care and judicial systems, offering them hope for a brighter future.
CASA volunteers, often referred to as the “eyes and ears” of the court, work tirelessly to gather information about the child’s circumstances, including their home environment, educational needs, and emotional well-being.
Mission: To provide trained advocates for children in foster care.
Vision: Every child in foster care placed in a safe, permanent home.
Impact: CASA has improved the lives of countless children, ensuring their voices are heard in critical decisions.
Animal Rescue League of El Paso
The Animal Rescue League of El Paso is a compassionate no-kill shelter dedicated to providing a safe haven for homeless, abandoned, and neglected animals. Founded in 1995, the organization has become a trusted resource for animal welfare in the region, ensuring that every animal it rescues receives the care, love, and attention they need while awaiting their forever homes.
Through its commitment to promoting adoption, responsible pet ownership, and humane treatment, the Animal Rescue League has made a significant impact on the lives of countless animals and the community at large.
At its core, the shelter’s mission is to save lives by offering refuge to animals in need, regardless of their condition or circumstances. The Animal Rescue League goes beyond merely housing animals; it provides comprehensive medical care, vaccinations, spaying and neutering services, and behavioral support to help each animal thrive.
Mission: To save and improve the lives of animals in need.
Vision: A community where every animal has a loving home.
Impact: Hundreds of animals are rescued and placed in loving homes each year.
Paso del Norte Health Foundation
The Paso del Norte Health Foundation is a leading nonprofit organization committed to improving health and wellness across the Paso del Norte region, encompassing West Texas, Southern New Mexico, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. Established in 1995, the foundation has been a vital force in addressing the region’s unique health challenges by funding and supporting initiatives that promote well-being, prevent disease, and enhance access to quality healthcare services.
With a focus on creating lasting change, the foundation invests in evidence-based programs and collaborates with local organizations, schools, and healthcare providers to tackle pressing public health issues. Its initiatives cover a broad spectrum of health-related concerns, including chronic disease prevention, mental health support, tobacco cessation, healthy eating and active living, and access to care for underserved populations.
Mission: To lead, leverage, and invest in initiatives that promote health.
Vision: A region where all individuals can enjoy optimal health.
Impact: Innovative programs have addressed mental health, substance abuse, and chronic disease.
Project Amistad
Project Amistad is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities by providing essential services that promote independence, dignity, and accessibility. Since its founding in 1976, the organization has been a cornerstone of support in the region, offering transportation, advocacy, and case management services to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
Through its compassionate approach, Project Amistad ensures that vulnerable populations have access to the resources and opportunities they need to lead fulfilling lives.
A key focus of Project Amistad is its transportation services, which provide a critical lifeline for individuals who might otherwise face isolation or difficulty accessing essential care. By coordinating non-emergency medical transportation, the organization helps clients attend doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, and other crucial health services.
Additionally, it offers transportation for daily needs such as grocery shopping and community activities, fostering greater independence and social engagement.
Mission: To advocate for independence and dignity through compassionate services.
Vision: A community where everyone can lead an independent, fulfilling life.
Impact: Project Amistad has improved access to essential services for thousands in need.
El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center
The El Paso Holocaust Museum and Study Center is a vital institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust while fostering education, understanding, and tolerance in the community. Founded in 1994 by Holocaust survivor Henry Kellen, the museum stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of hatred, prejudice, and indifference.
At the heart of the museum’s mission is its commitment to educating the public about the Holocaust, ensuring that the stories of those who suffered and those who resisted are never forgotten. Its permanent exhibits feature authentic artifacts, photographs, and personal testimonies that vividly depict the events of the Holocaust, from the rise of Nazism and the horrors of concentration camps to the stories of survival and liberation.
These exhibits provide visitors with a profound understanding of one of history’s darkest chapters and its enduring lessons for humanity.
Mission: To teach the lessons of the Holocaust and combat prejudice.
Vision: A world free from hate, bigotry, and ignorance.
Impact: Educational programs and exhibits have reached thousands, fostering awareness and empathy.
