When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Oak City Cares
Why Oak City Cares is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Oak City Cares is a vital community hub in Raleigh, North Carolina, dedicated to connecting individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness to coordinated, comprehensive services. This organization creates a welcoming and compassionate environment where clients have free access to showers, laundry facilities, computers, and charging stations, which are often critical for maintaining dignity and managing daily life. Operating weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM, Oak City Cares offers an array of services including coordinated housing assessments, assistance with medical, mental health, and substance use care, as well as on-site skill-building workshops designed to foster long-term stability. By consolidating access to healthcare, behavioral health, veterans’ services, employment support, and housing resources in one central, six-times-larger facility downtown, Oak City Cares substantially reduces the typical barriers faced by people navigating fragmented services. Its collaborative approach, involving a broad network of service providers and specialists, supports Wake County’s efforts to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring. This hub not only helps meet immediate needs but also facilitates a path to renewed hope and stable housing, making it an exceptional place for individuals to receive critical aid and for community stakeholders to engage in collective impact.
Here's what people think of Oak City Cares
As of recent, Oak City Cares holds a 4.3-star rating based on 196 reviews.
User reviews of Oak City Cares reflect a generally positive perception of the organization's commitment and impact, as evidenced by its 4.3-star rating based on nearly 200 reviews. Many reviewers praise the staff for their compassion, dedication, and the effective coordination of multiple services under one roof, highlighting the welcoming environment and the convenience of accessing medical, mental health, and housing assistance in one location. Positive feedback often points to the organization’s ability to provide tangible help, such as free showers and laundry, and productive skill-building classes that empower clients. Conversely, some negative reviews touch on challenges related to work-life balance, job security, and management experiences from the perspective of employees rather than service users, suggesting room for internal organizational improvements. Despite some mixed employee feedback, most service users find Oak City Cares to be a critical resource during difficult times. Overall, reviews attest to Oak City Cares as a trusted and effective nonprofit that plays a crucial role in supporting Raleigh’s homeless population, while continuously striving to enhance both client experience and internal operations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Basham
Great place if you need help. Free showers, laundry, counsellings
Jef Rawlings
"Radical hospitality" is there trademark. People experiencing homeless are treated with compassion and respect. This Raleigh's crowning jewel of hospitality to those most vulnerable. Supportive services are all together in one convenient place. Showers, laundry, Social services, medical services, weekend meals and so much more all in one place. I salute you and your "radical hospitality" Five +++++ stars
Ann
Volunteered here. It is such a great place. They help so many people in our area
NoConda LeGrand
The fox has its den, the birds their nests, But the Son of Man has no where to lay his head. Well, at Oak City Cares, he can get everything else, and a helping hand to find that somewhere. While traveling the country by foot on my walk of faith promoting the 815 Peace Project, I have had the displeasure of visiting many shelters and community service centers for various needs - food, shower, laundry, etc.; and have always felt like, or got the impression from the workers that they thought I was, a subhuman, a less than, a bothersome individual they'd rather let suffer and die than help as much as they can. Here, regardless of who I interacted with - the security guard, the front desk, the laundry attendant, the shower attendant, the lady teaching the mental health workshop, the woman helping people with their job search - I never got that impression. They all treated me like I was an equal regardless of my situation, even without knowing that I wasn't exactly in the same situation as the other ones (me having chosen this and them having fallen into it). And I watched them and their interactions with the other guests - nothing but respect, compassion and genuine care for their overall well-being. This is definitely a place that wants to help, knows how to help and - what really gets me is - that it isn't affiliated with a church, like some of the others I've visited. Amazing.
Papahartt
They gave me a second chance to be stable enough to get on my feet. Treat them as a human and have patience and you can get places with them
How to reach Oak City Cares
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Why Oak City Cares may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Oak City Cares with your friends?
If you’re searching for a meaningful and impactful place to gather with friends or family, Oak City Cares offers a unique opportunity beyond the usual venues. This nonprofit organization in Raleigh, NC, serves as a dynamic hub dedicated to supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Rallying here means more than just meeting up; it’s a chance to connect with a cause that touches real lives in your community. With a solid rating of 4.3 from nearly 200 reviews, Oak City Cares is recognized not only for its mission but also for the collective energy created by its welcoming environment. Meeting here can inspire collective action, spark conversations about social responsibility, and even encourage volunteerism among your group. Whether you want to lend a helping hand or simply learn more about the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, the space fosters a sense of togetherness that is deepened by the work they do. Enjoy time with the people you care about while making a difference — Oak City Cares transforms a group meetup into something enduring and truly significant.
What activities can you enjoy at Oak City Cares with your group?
Oak City Cares is designed as a comprehensive resource center offering a variety of activities and services for its guests and community supporters alike. When you bring your friends or family here, the experience revolves around volunteering alongside the caring staff and numerous service providers who form partnerships in fields like medical assistance, behavioral health, veterans’ services, and employment help. Participating in volunteer activities such as assembling care packages, assisting in service coordination, or helping with outreach efforts provides your group with hands-on opportunities to engage directly in the organization's mission. Oak City Cares also hosts educational sessions and community events that promote awareness and understanding of homelessness, allowing attendees to learn in an interactive setting. For those interested in advocacy, group discussions or planning sessions can sometimes be arranged to brainstorm ways to support local initiatives. This variety makes it an excellent place for groups who want to bond through shared service and learning experiences, making every visit both impactful and memorable.
Why is Oak City Cares perfect for a group meetup?
Oak City Cares stands out as an ideal spot for group meetups primarily due to its welcoming and mission-driven atmosphere. The facility, which is six times larger than its predecessor outreach center, provides ample space to accommodate groups of various sizes comfortably. The network of provider partners under one roof creates a dynamic setting where groups can witness a collaborative approach to combating homelessness, which can be both educational and inspiring. Additionally, the center's emphasis on coordinated care means that visitors can see how different services work together, broadening understanding and empathy within your group. For groups looking to strengthen their social bonds while contributing to a meaningful cause, Oak City Cares offers an environment where you can share positive experiences rooted in helping others. Its location in Raleigh, paired with a supportive team and volunteer-friendly culture, ensures meeting here is not just about gathering but about creating lasting community impact together.
How does Oak City Cares support its guests and the community?
Oak City Cares is much more than a meeting place — it’s a vital connection point for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness in Wake County. The organization coordinates a wide array of services from human service professionals, medical providers, and specialists, all convened in one accessible location. By reducing the complexity of navigating multiple agencies, Oak City Cares helps guests find stable housing and critical supports efficiently. This approach combats isolation and hopelessness among the homeless community, promoting dignity and renewed hope. The center is also actively engaged with numerous local and regional partners, strengthening its ability to address complex issues like affordable housing shortages and service barriers. For groups rallying here, witnessing this support system in action highlights the power of collective community efforts and can cultivate a greater appreciation of the challenges and solutions surrounding homelessness.
What makes the mission of Oak City Cares especially relevant today?
Homelessness in Wake County has seen a troubling rise, with more than 6,000 people affected last year and increases in homeless students recorded in local schools. Oak City Cares has positioned itself as a critical response to this growing issue. Its mission to make homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring directly addresses the barriers causing prolonged displacement, such as a rapidly growing population and lack of affordable housing. This sense of urgency and community responsibility adds a layer of meaning to gatherings held at the center. Groups meeting here can connect to a broader social narrative and engage in meaningful dialogue on addressing homelessness practically and compassionately. The organization’s work reflects not only immediate aid but also long-term community resilience, which resonates powerfully in today’s environment where social support networks are more important than ever.
How can visiting Oak City Cares enhance your group’s experience beyond traditional meetups?
Choosing Oak City Cares as a meetup spot transforms a casual gathering into a purposeful event that leaves a tangible impact. Instead of merely socializing, groups have the chance to contribute collectively to service activities that benefit vulnerable populations in real time. This shared experience fosters deeper social connections through mutual empathy and teamwork. Learning about the complexities of homelessness and witnessing frontline service efforts firsthand equips group members with knowledge and inspiration that extend well beyond the visit itself. Many who volunteer or attend events find themselves motivated to advocate or participate regularly, enriching their sense of community and personal fulfillment. Additionally, the environment is welcoming and adaptable for groups, with friendly staff supporting volunteer coordination to ensure even newcomers can participate meaningfully. This combination of social engagement, learning, and altruism creates a uniquely rewarding group meetup experience at Oak City Cares.
What should groups expect regarding logistics and atmosphere at Oak City Cares?
Oak City Cares offers a spacious and accessible facility that makes hosting groups convenient and comfortable. The staff and volunteers are known for their kindness and dedication, which contributes to a warm and supportive atmosphere. Visitors can expect a well-organized environment focused on service coordination but also open to educational activities and community involvement. While the primary focus is on supporting guests experiencing homelessness, the center welcomes volunteers eager to get involved and learn. Groups should plan ahead by contacting Oak City Cares to coordinate volunteer activities or tours, ensuring their visit aligns with ongoing programs and maximizes engagement. The organization’s public-private model means it operates with a high degree of professionalism and commitment. Overall, your group will find a balanced combination of purposeful work and inviting space designed to foster partnership, reflection, and positive social impact.
What are the community and social benefits of supporting Oak City Cares as a group?
By rallying at Oak City Cares, groups contribute directly to the social fabric of Raleigh and Wake County. The organization’s work reduces homelessness, which has far-reaching effects on public health, safety, and overall community wellbeing. Engaging with Oak City Cares also raises awareness about systemic challenges faced by many, promoting a culture of empathy that can ripple outward in social relationships and neighborhood connections. Groups often leave feeling more connected both to each other and to their wider community through shared purpose. Furthermore, supporting Oak City Cares can inspire other local action, fostering a network of advocates and volunteers prepared to make sustained difference. In this way, meeting at Oak City Cares generates value far beyond a single event, contributing to ongoing positive social change that benefits everyone.