Tynsley Lockhardt-Williams, board member and mother of Niko from Cornelius Early Scholars, with preschool director Margy Nance. Photo by John McHugh – Ocaid Photography.

Dec. 3. The Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s third annual Thanksgiving breakfast raised about $41,000 for local nonprofits providing pre- and after-school programs, as well as vocational and technical training.

Cornelius Early Scholars and Bridge of Hearts will each receive roughly $18,000. The Lake Norman Education Collaborative, which works with local high school students on technical training, will also benefit from the program.

“The ThanksGiving Breakfast is always a reminder of what makes the Lake Norman community so special,” said Bob McIntosh, Managing Partner of The McIntosh Law Firm and vice chair of the Lake Norman Chamber Foundation. “Each year, I am encouraged by the generosity of our local businesses and the spirit of service they bring to our region. Their unwavering support allows the foundation to continue making a meaningful impact, and I remain deeply grateful to be part of a community that consistently shows up for one another.”

Bridge of Hearts supports homeless and impoverished children across the greater Lake Norman region. Each year, the organization provides thousands of children from pre-K through 12th grade with birthday gifts, books, healthy snacks and hygiene kits.

Cornelius Early Scholars is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) Christian preschool that offers scholarships and a head start in early childhood education. Its mission is to ensure that every child who comes through its doors receives the best possible education and care.

Check presentations will be made at the Lake Norman Chamber’s Christmas networking social later this month at The McIntosh Law Firm, Brickhouse Tavern and Bookman Bright Retirement Planning & Capital Management.