and ethical fund management
Supporting Care: Carolina Caring Foundation
Carolina Caring Foundation
Since our founding in 1979, Carolina Caring has been a beacon of hope for patients and families across western North Carolina. Driven by a dedication to helping our community, we provide comprehensive and compassionate care to those navigating serious illnesses.
The Carolina Caring Foundation supports our organization by securing funding, cultivating community partnerships, and connecting donors to the needs of patients and families. This allows us to serve individuals who may otherwise go without care.
Our mission is to provide world-class, compassionate care by engaging individuals and their families to enhance their quality of life. Our vision is to lead the advancement of palliative medicine, hospice, and end-of-life care by becoming the most valued and preferred resource for patients, families, and community partners. We are committed to embracing innovation and continual learning to achieve exceptional organizational and individual performance.
For more information about gift opportunities, contact us or call us at 828.466.0466.
About Us
Our Mission
Support the mission of Carolina Caring by creating awareness, cultivating relationships and securing resources through philanthropy.
Our Vision
To secure the future of Carolina Caring by generating the resources needed for expansion and innovation.
Ways To Give
There are countless ways to support Carolina Caring’s mission. Every contribution, big or small, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families facing serious illness and loss.
Make a Donation Online
Support us in providing compassionate and comprehensive care.
Make a Donation by Mail or Phone
Support us in providing compassionate and comprehensive care.
Purchase a Memorial Brick
Honor the memory of your loved one on our Pathways of Promise.
Leave a Legacy
Create an enduring legacy by establishing a planned gift.
Donate Patient Comfort Items
Enhance the high-quality care we provide by donating essential supplies.
Donate to the Hospice Resale Shop
Support Carolina Caring through our Hospice Resale Shop.
Life Enrichment
Life enrichment services funded by donations help patients find purpose and joy in each day.
Cardinal Kids
Philanthropic support ensures children receive age-appropriate care and experience moments of childhood joy.
Grief and Healing
Donor-funded grief services provide essential emotional support to families during their most difficult times.
Innovation and Technology
Philanthropic investments in technology ensure patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.
Pet Peace of Mind
Donor support helps patients maintain the comfort and companionship of their pets during care.
Charity Care
Charitable contributions guarantee that quality hospice and palliative care is available to everyone, regardless of ability to pay.
Capital Expenses
Capital investments funded by donors create better environments and expand our reach throughout the community.
How We Serve Our Communities
Our Leadership
The Carolina Caring Foundation is led by Tara Bland, a nonprofit professional whose extensive experience and steadfast commitment to healthcare advocacy drive our organization forward.
Tara Bland
Executive Director, Carolina Caring Foundation
Tara has over 20 years of experience in relationship development, event planning, and professional fundraising. Prior to joining Carolina Caring, Tara served as Executive Director of the SALT Block Foundation where she was responsible for fundraising and community engagement efforts in support of the local cultural community.
A Hickory native, Tara received her undergraduate degree in communications from Appalachian State University and went on to earn a masters degree in liberal studies with a focus in community engagement and leadership from Lenoir-Rhyne University. Tara’s commitment to the community has led to her involvement in several non-profit charitable organizations to include her membership in the Rotary Club of Hickory and Service League of Hickory where she has served on the board of directors and as president of both organizations. Tara currently serves on the board for Catawba Valley Young Life and as the board president of Habitat for Humanity of Catawba Valley.
Inspired by her family’s personal experience with Carolina Caring, Tara’s goal is to ensure that all have access to our world-class services through fundraising and the charitable contributions of our community.
Meet Our Team
Our foundation team is deeply committed to improving patient outcomes by connecting generous donors with meaningful opportunities to make a difference.
Ben Dungan
Director of Grants & Database
Administration
Beth Schlosser
Special Events Coordinator
Sydney Farmer
Donor Engagement Coordinator
Charity Hand
Store Manager
The Hospice Resale Shop
What Makes Carolina Caring Foundation Different
For over 45 years, donors have trusted the Carolina Caring Foundation to make their charitable gifts count. As the philanthropic arm of Carolina Caring, we ensure every dollar donated creates meaningful impact for patients and families. Here’s what sets our foundation apart:
Nonprofit Excellence & Transparency
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we operate with the highest standards of financial transparency and ethical fund management. Our commitment to accountability means donors can trust that their contributions are managed responsibly and directed where they're needed most.
GuideStar verified for transparent financial reporting and ethical stewardship
100% Direct Impact Promise
We ensure that charitable donations go directly to patient care and community programs, not administrative overhead. Our efficient operations and dedicated funding streams mean your gift makes the maximum possible impact on the lives of those we serve.
Administrative costs covered through separate operational funding
Deep Community Roots
Unlike national charities, every dollar donated stays right here in western North Carolina. We understand our community's unique needs and direct resources to address local challenges, ensuring your gift benefits your neighbors and local families.
Serving 12 counties across western North Carolina since 1979
Proven Impact & Results
We provide detailed reporting on how donations create tangible improvements in patient care and community wellness. Our foundation success stories demonstrate the real difference charitable giving makes in the lives of individuals and families facing serious illness.
Annual impact reports show exactly how your donation makes a difference
Foundation Success Stories
Music Therapy Program Reaches 200+ Patients
$15,000 in donations funded this entire program
Pediatric Equipment Donation Transforms Care
Single major gift purchase improved care for 50+ children annually
Emergency Fund Ensures No One Goes Without Care
Community donations provide charity care to 150+ families yearly
See Our Impact in Action
Want to know exactly how your donation makes a difference? Our annual impact reports provide detailed insights into how charitable contributions transform lives in our community.
Hospice Resale Shop
The Hospice Resale Shop offers a unique shopping experience where you can find high-quality, gently used items at affordable prices. Every purchase directly supports Carolina Caring’s mission to provide compassionate care to those facing serious illness. The shop features a wide variety of items, including clothing, furniture, home décor, and more, all curated to meet the needs of our community. Whether you’re looking for a special find or simply want to support a great cause, the Resale Shop is the perfect place to shop with a purpose.
Why We Need Your Support
The U.S. population is changing. According to the Population Reference Bureau, the number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to increase by 47% by 2050. As these demographics shift, the demand for our palliative medicine and hospice care services is expected to rise significantly. That means we need your help more than ever before.
Your generous contributions allow us to continue providing compassionate care to individuals facing serious illnesses and end-of-life challenges in our 12-county service area. By working together, we can make a meaningful difference in improving healthcare across our community.
