Music is such a central part of Austin. Swan Songs is a local organization that embodies this piece of Austin, and turns it into something even greater by providing private concerts for those facing terminal illness and the end of life.

But Swan Songs offers more than a concert, as patients experience a meaningful and beautiful moment that gives joy.

There is a place right outside of Austin on the north shore of Lake Travis where spirits fly, minds strengthen, and hope blooms. Candlelight Ranch is a nonprofit gifting children of all abilities adventure and healing through nature. 

Sometimes a health issue calls for a blood transfusion, platelets, or both. And with Austin’s growing population comes an increasing need for both these life-giving substances. We Are Blood is the exclusive blood provider for Central Texas, with the help of two additional centers in Round Rock and south Austin. They provide blood to more than 40 hospitals and medical centers across 10 counties.

There is nothing more important than the well-being of a child. When children have to enter the foster care system, CASA of Travis County is there to provide an unbiased recommendation to the court.

CASA accepts all new cases with children aged one and up. Volunteers are always needed to serve as advocates. Continue reading to learn how you can help CASA reach its 2019 goal of serving 2,000 children with 800 volunteers.

Leaving an abusive relationship is far more complicated than you may imagine. Since 1982, Austin-based Texas Advocacy Project has provided free legal services to victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and stalking, helping them move out of harm’s way and stay there.

Sampling of books taught at Inside Literature program (Credit: Inside Literature)

In the words of Frederick Douglass, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” That quote rings true to students of Inside Literature, a local nonprofit dedicated to teaching pre-trial inmates reading skills through great works of literature.

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