History

Ascend Nonprofit Solutions, originally known as the Children & Family Services Center, was created in the early 2000’s to address the facility needs of nonprofits as a result of rapid growth and development in Charlotte. At that time, office space was becoming more expensive as developers were buying much of the office space in center city, resulting in unaffordable rent and frequent, unplanned moves for nonprofits. Nine organizations serving the city’s most vulnerable residents came together to find a solution, and collectively, they developed the concept of a shared space with shared costs and a common purpose.

Stakeholders in the community quickly rallied behind the project recognizing the value in co-location and collaboration. The City of Charlotte provided a discounted land lease, which still continues today. A capital campaign was chaired by retired Bank of America CEO Hugh McColl, Jr. and retired First Union CEO Ed Crutchfield. The campaign was very successful in raising more than $9 million dollars needed for construction and technology infrastructure. In honor of a lead gift made by Irwin Belk, the building was dedicated to his wife, Carol Grotnes Belk.