Durham nonprofit CEF earns national recognition for empowering communities amid cost-of-living crisis

DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — A Durham nonprofit is getting some national recognition.

The Community Empowerment Fund recently received a national award from The Courage Project for its impactful work during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

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Helping over 1,000 members annually, CEF connects those facing homelessness or poverty with volunteer advocates to secure housing and gain employment.

According to executive Director Donna Carrington, the award advances the mission to close the racial wealth gap and support affordable housing.

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“This is our everyday existence,” she said. “We really want to be there to support people. We care about people. It is nice to be recognized, but also we would do it even if we weren’t.”

The Courage Project recognizes those making meaningful contributions to their communities and has awarded more than $5 million to promote acts of courage and compassion nationwide.

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More information can be found on the CEF website.