Breaking barriers takes courage, determination, and collective action. Nonprofits across the globe are working tirelessly to create more inclusive spaces, challenge outdated norms, and open doors for those who’ve been historically underrepresented. From empowering women in STEM to advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, these organizations are at the forefront of creating a fairer, more equitable world.
In this post, we’re spotlighting 10 nonprofits that are making a meaningful impact in 2025 by championing inclusivity and breaking down barriers.
National Federation of the Blind
Website: National Federation of the Blind
Mission: To help individuals who are blind or visually impaired live the lives they want through advocacy, education, and technology access.
Breaking Barriers
Employment Support: Offers job training and internships to empower blind individuals to succeed in competitive fields.
Technology Advocacy: Develops accessible tools and advocates for universal design in workplaces and schools.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Join a team that is reshaping perceptions and opening opportunities for blind individuals. Roles available in advocacy, technology innovation, and education.
National Federation of the Blind
Website: Girls Who Code
Mission: To close the gender gap in technology and prepare young women for careers in STEM fields.
Breaking Barriers
Coding Clubs: Hosts free after-school programs that teach coding to girls from underserved communities.
Career Pathways: Partners with companies to provide internships, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Inspire the next generation of women leaders in tech. Opportunities in program management, education, and outreach.
Out & Equal
Website: Out & Equal
Mission: To achieve workplace equality for LGBTQ+ individuals by fostering inclusive environments and supporting corporate policies.
Breaking Barriers
Workplace Inclusion: Provides training and resources to employers to create equitable workspaces.
Leadership Development: Hosts the annual Workplace Summit to empower LGBTQ+ professionals.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Contribute to a mission of inclusion and equity for all employees. Roles available in training, events, and advocacy.
The Opportunity Network
Website: The Opportunity Network
Mission: To level the playing field for first-generation and underrepresented students in professional fields.
Breaking Barriers
Career Preparation: Offers mentorship, internships, and networking opportunities for students.
Access Programs: Partners with universities and employers to increase representation.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Make a direct impact by supporting young people in achieving their career dreams. Roles available in mentorship, program development, and fundraising.
Society for Women Engineers (SWE)
Website: SWE
Mission: To empower women to achieve their full potential in engineering and as leaders in the field.
Breaking Barriers
Scholarships: Provides financial support to women pursuing engineering degrees.
Networking: Hosts conferences and career fairs connecting women engineers with industry leaders.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Help women break into engineering and thrive in their careers. Opportunities in education, events, and outreach.
Disability Rights Advocates (DRA)
Website: DRA
Mission: To protect the civil rights of people with disabilities through legal advocacy and systemic change.
Breaking Barriers
Legal Advocacy: Files lawsuits to eliminate barriers in education, healthcare, and transportation.
Policy Change: Works with governments to improve accessibility standards.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Join a team creating a more accessible world for all. Roles available in legal advocacy, public policy, and communications.
Black Girls CODE
Website: Black Girls CODE
Mission: To empower girls of color to become innovators in tech through programming and STEM education.
Breaking Barriers
Workshops: Hosts hands-on coding workshops for girls ages 7-17.
Tech Camps: Runs summer camps that teach web development, robotics, and game design.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Be part of the movement to diversify the tech industry. Roles in program facilitation, fundraising, and community outreach.
Latinas in Tech
Website: Latinas in Tech
Mission: To connect and empower Latina women working in technology.
Breaking Barriers
Community Building: Hosts events and meetups to foster professional growth and mentorship.
Corporate Partnerships: Works with companies to create more inclusive workplaces.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Join an organization dedicated to uplifting Latina professionals. Opportunities in community engagement, marketing, and event planning.
National Organization on Disability (NOD)
Website: NOD
Mission: To increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities by working with employers to create inclusive practices.
Breaking Barriers
Employment Advocacy: Partners with businesses to improve hiring and retention of disabled employees.
Corporate Programs: Offers consulting services to foster accessibility and inclusivity.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Help people with disabilities thrive in the workforce. Opportunities in training, consulting, and advocacy.
Code2040
Website: Code2040
Mission: To activate, connect, and mobilize the largest racial equity community in the tech sector, centering Black and Latinx talent.
Breaking Barriers
Fellowship Programs: Offers career acceleration programs for Black and Latinx students in tech.
Industry Partnerships: Works with companies to increase representation and equity in hiring.
Why Work/Volunteer Here: Be part of building a more equitable tech industry. Roles available in education, program management, and corporate relations.
The nonprofits featured here are more than just organizations; they are movements driving real change in the fight for equity and inclusion. By supporting their missions—whether through volunteering, donating, or joining their teams—you can play a role in building a more inclusive future. As we continue into 2025, let’s celebrate and support those working to break barriers and make the world a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Ready to make an impact? Explore these organizations and find your way to get involved today.
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