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Learn About ZSR

We partner with the extraordinary people of North Carolina to create positive and sustained change.

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Building a Mountain Region Where Everyone Can Thrive
Two rows of people holding certificates that say "Living Wage Certified"

Building a Mountain Region Where Everyone Can Thrive

Social & Economic Justice

Just Economics is a critical partner to communities in Western North Carolina as they work to make sure people can continue to live and work in the region.
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Remembering Barbara B. Gorham, Our Colleague and Friend

  • News

On March 19, 2026, our dear colleague and friend Barbara B. Gorham of Kernersville, NC, passed away. We are devastated by this loss and deeply grateful to have known and worked alongside her.

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Sunset over a calm body of water with dark clouds and orange hues in the sky.

Saving the Newport River

  • Story

Pollution from stormwater runoff threatens the Newport River, a staple for oysters and human recreation in eastern North Carolina. The NC Coastal Federation is stepping in to save it.

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Grants + Programs

ZSR provides grants and programs in service of our mission to improve the quality of life for all North Carolinians.

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View the Grants & Programs State-Level Systemic Change page

State-Level Systemic Change

We fund organizations working to change policies, power structures and other root causes of challenges so all North Carolinians can thrive.

View the Grants & Programs Community Progress Fund page

Community Progress Fund

We provide short-term grants across NC for local groups to meet direct needs, test ideas and expand promising efforts to improve their communities.

View the Grants & Programs Inclusive Public Art Initiative page

Inclusive Public Art Initiative

We invest in public art projects that share under-told stories of North Carolinians, sparking new conversations and highlighting our common humanity.

View the Grants & Programs Sabbatical Program page

Sabbatical Program

We support experienced nonprofit leaders with paid sabbaticals so they can rest, recharge and return to work with fresh momentum and renewed focus.

View featured grant page for: Current Grant Partners

Current Grant Partners

See the nonprofit organizations ZSR is currently funding.

Meet Our People
Group of 17 diverse adults smiling outdoors in front of a brick building with arched windows and doors.

Our team is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all North Carolinians.

We believe that everyone has a role to play in building a just, inclusive and sustainable North Carolina.

Meet Our People