Forward Edge International is a Vancouver, Wash., organization that oversees the Village of Hope in Nicaragua.

They also send volunteer teams across the U.S. and around the world. To help, go to: www.forwardedge.org

Here are some other opportunities to help in our area. These charities were recommended by Fox 12 employees:

Southlake Church in West Linn sends teams of volunteers around the world. They’re also involved in our local community. They recently had one thousand volunteers show up during a one-day refurbishment project at Roosevelt High School in North Portland.
www.southlakechurch.com

JOIN is a Portland organization that transitions the homeless into permanent housing.
www.joinpdx.com

Albertina Kerr works with children who have emotional or mental health challenges and helps them create new possibilities for a better life.
www.albertinakerr.org

Portland Rescue Mission feeds and provides shelter to the homeless, and provides drug/alcohol/work rehabilitation programs.
www.portlandrescuemission.org

Cat Adoption Team in Sherwood is a very highly-regarded animal shelter dedicated to saving cats and kittens that would otherwise be euthanized.
www.catadoptionteam.org

Children’s Cancer Association provides information and resources for children and families affected by cancer.
www.childrenscancerassociation.org

Schoolhouse Supplies provides school supplies to less-fortunate children.
www.schoolhousesupplies.org.

Clackamas Women’s Services provides support for women and children so they can escape the cycle of domestic and sexual abuse.
www.cwsor.org

Children’s Nursing Specialties provides in-home nursing care for medically-fragile children and young adults, allowing families to stay together at home.
www.wecelebratekids.com

Pixie Project helps troubled youth by pairing them with adopted dogs.
www.pixieproject.org

Neighborhood House brings neighbors together to feed the hungry and house the homeless.
www.nhweb.org/about-us/