As we close out 2025, I want to extend my deepest appreciation for your continued commitment to the World Affairs Council of Charlotte. This year has shown us, once again, how vital your partnership is in sustaining a trusted source of global understanding for our region, especially amid economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension, and rapidly shifting global dynamics.

Make a tax deductible donation to the WACC’s Year End Giving Campaign today

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Every headline this year has reminded us that Charlotte is not isolated from world events. The role of artificial intelligence, elections, migration, emerging technologies, and international conflict all shape the stability and prosperity of our local community. In a time when the world feels both closer and more complicated than ever, global awareness is not a luxury; it is a necessity.

Yet the environment for raising funds to support this work has become increasingly challenging. Families, companies, and nonprofits alike face tighter budgets and difficult choices. And still, because of your generosity, the Council delivered a year of programs, dialogues, and education that strengthened Charlotte’s understanding of our interconnected world.

Your support made this impact possible:

• 469 students and 55 educators engaged in global learning experiences that build informed, empathetic, and future-ready leaders for our region.
• Nine Charlotte-area teachers studied abroad this summer, bringing the total number of Council Scholars to 172 educators—a $460,000 investment in global learning since 1994.
• Across 50 programs and events, we convened 1,867 people to hear directly from diplomats, authors, business leaders, and global policy experts. These conversations are helping Charlotte deepen its understanding of the global issues that will define our future.
• We continued expanding partnerships with international organizations, including the Delegation of the European Union, the N.C. Zeitgeist Foundation, the American Council on Germany, the World Affairs Councils of America, the Alliance for Securing Democracy, and others.

As one long-time member recently shared, “WACC is a gem in Charlotte’s crown. I learn something new at every event.” And after a recent program, another participant reflected, “The thoughtful questions from students reminded us of the importance of staying true to your values and always seeking dialogue.”

These moments reflect what your support makes possible: a space where global issues are explored with nuance and respect; where students learn to think critically and lead confidently; where educators return to their classrooms inspired and enriched; and where our business and civic leaders gain informed perspectives essential for navigating a changing world.

As we look toward 2026, the need for high-quality global education and informed dialogue has never been greater. But sustaining (and growing) this work requires resources that are increasingly difficult to secure.

Your tax-deductible donation will help us:

• Inspire future leaders through the Global Student Leadership Program and Speaker in the Classroom.
• Support educators with professional development opportunities, including the $3,500 Council Scholar Award.
• Host speaker programs that bring timely, credible global insights to Charlotte.
• Equip business and civic leaders with the skills needed to navigate an interconnected world.

Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure that global learning remains accessible to students, educators, and community members across our region, especially those in under-resourced schools and communities who benefit most from this exposure.

As we reflect on the past year, we also recognize the realities ahead: continued economic challenges, persistent global volatility, and the rising cost of delivering high-quality programming. Yet our mission remains clear, and your support ensures that the Council can continue meeting it with integrity, purpose, and impact.

Thank you for standing with us. Your generosity deepens Charlotte’s understanding of the world, and in doing so, strengthens Charlotte as a global city.