Built in Canton, for Canton.
A 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, fully volunteer-led, fiercely community-rooted.
How we began
Uplift Incorporated was formed in June 2005 by a group of community-minded leaders who wanted to do something tangible and lasting for the young people of Canton, Mississippi. What started as a handful of scholarship checks and a few mentorship pairings has grown into an institution that now touches hundreds of lives every year.
What drives us
We believe that every child — regardless of ZIP code, family income, or circumstance — deserves access to a mentor, the resources to pursue their education, and a community that believes in their future. We're not interested in charity for charity's sake. We're interested in outcomes: graduations, careers, healthy families, and stronger neighborhoods.
How we work
Uplift operates entirely on the generosity of donors, the discipline of volunteer leaders, and partnerships with schools, social service agencies, and local businesses. Our 501(c)(3) status means every donation is tax-deductible and every dollar is accounted for. We publish our financials annually and welcome inquiries from supporters at any time.
Volunteer-Led
100% volunteer leadership — every dollar goes to programs, not overhead.
Locally Rooted
Every program we fund benefits Canton, Madison County, and central Mississippi directly.
Transparent
Annual financials published; IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter available on request.
Outcomes-Focused
We measure success in graduations, careers, and changed lives — not activity for its own sake.
