Empowering Winter Garden Families
A 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to mentoring local youth and connecting families with essential life-changing resources.
Our Community Results
Direct support delivered to our neighbors in Winter Garden.
500+
Youth Mentored
1,200+
Families Served
50+
Events Hosted
$75k+
Resources Shared
A Bridge to Opportunity
Founded in 2023 by Wendell Coates, Jr., a proud West Orange High School alumnus, Global Not Local Cares was born from a simple observation: too many Winter Garden youth lacked access to consistent mentorship, and their families often struggled to navigate the complex landscape of essential resources.
Wendell grew up in West Orange County and witnessed firsthand how the right mentor and timely resources could change a young person’s trajectory. After seeing families in his own neighborhood face preventable crises simply due to a lack of information, he founded Global Not Local Cares to be that bridge—connecting neighbors with opportunities, support, and hope.
The Challenge
- Youth without academic support
- Food assistance barriers
- Housing resource gaps
- Isolation during crises
Our Solution
- One-on-one youth tutoring
- Vetted housing referrals
- Free basketball clinics
- Emergency navigation
The Impact
- Improved academic grades
- Stabilized family units
- Connected community
- 100% Local resource use
A Message From Our Founder
“Growing up in West Orange County, I saw how one caring mentor could change everything for a struggling student. I also watched families go hungry because they didn’t know where to get help. Global Not Local Cares exists to ensure no Winter Garden family faces these challenges alone. Every hour and every resource stays right here in our community—because local action creates global change.”
— Wendell Coates, Jr., Founder & PresidentOur Future Vision
We envision a Winter Garden where every youth graduates high school with at least one mentor who believed in them, every family knows exactly where to turn during emergencies, and neighbors unite to lift each other up—creating lasting, generational change.
Apply for Our Free Programs
We provide these services at zero cost to Winter Garden residents.
Youth Mentorship
Free tutoring and academic support for students grades 6-12. Get paired with a caring mentor who will help you succeed in school and life.
Apply NowFamily Resources
Access food assistance, housing help, and emergency navigation. We connect you directly with the right local resources to stabilize your home.
Get HelpCommunity Events
Join our free basketball clinics, educational workshops, and neighborhood gatherings. All ages are welcome to join the movement.
RegisterGet Involved in Winter Garden
You can make a direct impact on your neighbors’ lives without spending a dollar.
Volunteer 📚
Become a Youth Mentor or Event Volunteer. Just 2 hours a week can change a student’s trajectory forever.
Apply to VolunteerSpread the Word 📱
Follow us @gnlcares and share our mission. Helping a family find us is a powerful way to serve your community.
Partner With Us 🤝
Are you a local business? Partner with us to host events or provide specialized resources for local families.
Contact for PartnershipVolunteer Application
Tell us how you’d like to help Winter Garden thrive.