Greater Steps Scholars Annual Gala

History

Greater Steps Scholars began in 1983 as the dream of John T. Crawford, Youth Services Director for CHA. It remains the oldest program of its kind and a national model, uniquely providing scholarships for students from Charlotte’s public housing communities.

The idea was sparked when a public housing student needed just $300 to complete his senior year of college. Crawford, who understood financial hardship firsthand, stepped in with a friend to cover the cost. The student returned, graduated, and that moment ignited Crawford’s calling—to ensure more students would not be held back by financial barriers.

Recognizing that many talented students faced similar challenges, Crawford established a scholarship fund to provide ongoing support. With the help of advisors and the Charlotte community, $64,990 was raised, and 16 students received scholarships in 1984. A partnership with the Greater Charlotte Foundation (now Foundation For The Carolinas) was established to manage the fund and continues today.

While housed at the Foundation for the Carolinas, Greater Steps Scholars is responsible for raising 100% of its program funding each year. Your support directly fuels career readiness, economic stability, and student success, further developing Charlotte’s workforce.

Our mission is to ensure that young people living in public and subsidized housing not only have the opportunity, but the expectation of pursuing post-secondary education, supported by financial resources, mentorship, and a strong network.

BECOME A 2026 Sponsor

Interested in becoming a Friendsgiving Brunch Sponsor?

Contact Krista Terrell for additional information

Presenting Visionary Sponsor

$50,000

Recognition as presenting sponsor with category exclusivity
Company representative to speak during event
Logo in all event print & digital marketing: website, invitations, emails, program, and on-screen
Minimum five (5) sponsor recognition posts on social media
Opportunity to create a mission aligned webinar opportunity for Greater Steps Scholars families
Reserved VIP seating for 8 guests

Future Sponsor

$25,000

Recognition as a Future Sponsor of event
Logo in all event print & digital marketing: website, invitations, emails, program, and on-screen
Minimum three (3) sponsor recognition posts on social media
Opportunity to create a mission aligned webinar opportunity for Greater Steps Scholars families
Reserved VIP seating for 8 guests

Opportunity Sponsor

$10,000

Recognition as an Opportunity Sponsor of event
Logo in all event print & digital marketing: website, invitations, emails, program, and on-screen
Minimum two (2) sponsor recognition posts on social media
Reserved VIP seating for 8 guests

Access Sponsor

$5,000

Recognition as an Access Sponsor of event
Logo in select event marketing: website, invitations, emails, program, and on-screen
Minimum one (1) sponsor recognition posts on social media
Reserved VIP seating for 8 guests

Impact Sponsor

$2,500

Recognition as an Impact Sponsor of event
Logo in select event marketing: website, invitations, emails, program, and on-screen
Reserved VIP seating for 4 guests

Become a Friendsgiving Sponsor!

Friendsgiving Partners 2026

Greater Steps Scholars