Local Nonprofits Featured in Challenge for Charities Campaign

As part of the 15th Annual Challenge for Charities (C4C) campaign, the Lander Community Foundation is spotlighting 55 local nonprofit organizations working to strengthen and support the community, County 10 reports.

Donations are being accepted through July 10, and donors can direct their contributions to the organizations of their choice.

Among the participating nonprofits are Advocates for Lander Students, Almost Home Wyoming, and the Alpine Science Institute — each addressing distinct needs in education, housing, and food sustainability.

Focused on educational advocacy, Advocates for Lander Students works to bridge the gap between families and Fremont County School District #1. The organization supports parents as they navigate district policies, curriculum, special education, and grading systems.

With a mission to ensure that every student is heard and supported, the group also hosts community events with speakers ranging from district staff to representatives from the Wyoming Education Association. Funds from C4C will support further educational outreach, informational resources, and family engagement programming.

“Students thrive when families and educators have the tools to work together,” the organization states.
Learn more at www.advocatesforlanderstudents.org.

Almost Home Wyoming provides critical housing support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Lander. The nonprofit connects with clients through referrals or direct applications, helping them secure rental housing by covering deposits and initial rent payments.

Volunteers continue to work with clients monthly to support them in becoming financially independent. In some cases, the organization continues providing rent assistance on a graduated basis for up to a year.

This model of personalized, transitional support is designed to reduce homelessness while fostering independence and community stability.

Part of Central Wyoming College, the Alpine Science Institute focuses on sustainable agriculture and community education. ASI operates a Student Farm that teaches regenerative farming techniques and distributes fresh produce throughout the community via local markets and food banks.

In 2024, the farm harvested over 5,000 pounds of produce, with 10–20% donated to local food banks. The site also hosted educational programs for youth and adults, including a season-long gardening series.

This year, C4C funds will help repair and rebuild the farm’s critical hoop house—an essential structure for seed starting and early-season crop development. Restoring the hoop house will expand ASI’s capacity for hands-on education and food production, aligning with its mission to grow resilient people, food, and communities.

Supporters can donate by mailing a check to the Lander Community Foundation (PO Box 1131, Lander, WY 82520) or by donating online at the Foundation’s website by July 10. Donors are encouraged to specify the nonprofits they wish to support.

For more information, visit landercommunityfoundation.org, email [email protected], or call 307-438-9247.