We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of all cookies.

Menu Open menu
Two women hugging each other
Learn About ZSR

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

Learn About ZSR

News + Stories

Learn More
Read More

ZSR Awards $1.7 Million to 34 Community Projects in Rural NC

  • News
  • Community Progress Fund

During our May board meeting, the ZSR Board of Trustees awarded 35 grants totaling $1.7 million to organizations working for local progress in rural communities across North Carolina.

Read More
Read More

Supporting the People Who Support NC: Meet the 2026 Sabbatical Awardees

  • News
  • Sabbatical Program

Introducing the 2026 awardees of the ZSR Sabbatical Program: H’yua (Liana) Adrong, Lisa Familo, Greg Jacobs, Shereen Abdelfattah and Phyllis Caldwell-George.

Read More

Grants + Programs

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

Learn More
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: Database of Active Grants

Database of Active Grants

Explore the database of nonprofit organizations ZSR is currently funding.

Meet Our People

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