HIP Donelson is a volunteer-led nonprofit with a big heart for community. We focus on meaningful, grassroots efforts that bring neighbors together and support those who call Donelson home. Here’s a look at how we’re showing up—through consistent programs and special projects that meet the moment.

Fresh Food Access at the Farmers Market

We believe everyone deserves access to healthy, local food—no matter their age or income.

Every Friday (May-Oct) at the HIP Donelson Farmers Market, we offer a SNAP Match program that allows families using EBT benefits to double their spending power toward fresh fruits, vegetables, and more. This initiative supports both food security and our incredible local vendors.

In 2025, we also launched the POP Club (Power of Produce)—a fun, educational program for kids ages 4–12 that encourages them to explore fresh produce and healthy choices at the market. With hands-on activities and real purchasing opportunities, kids learn where food comes from and get excited about eating well.

School Pantry Support

Meeting needs beyond the classroom.

HIP Donelson helps keep the shelves stocked at several local elementary school pantries as needed—providing snacks, hygiene products, and weekend food bags for students who need extra support at home.

Neighborhood Thanksgiving at FiftyForward

A meal made with love—and a little help from HIP.

Each year, HIP Donelson donates the turkeys for the community Thanksgiving meal hosted by Donelson Café at the FiftyForward Donelson Station. It’s a heartwarming way to support fellowship and ensure every neighbor has a place at the table.

Metro police christmas charities

Over $30,000 donated to date.

Each year, we raise funds to support MNPD’s Christmas Charities Basket program, which delivers meals and gifts to hundreds of families across Nashville. This has been one of our proudest long-standing partnerships.

donelson-hermitage chamber christmas parade

A beloved tradition, and we’re part of it.

HIP Donelson proudly joins the annual parade to help spread joy and celebrate the season. Our team shows up with festive energy, walking/riding the route with neighbors and representing the spirit of Donelson.

HIP D After Dark

Our neighborhood Halloween decorating contest.

Every October, neighbors go all out with spooky, silly, and spectacular yard displays for HIP D After Dark. We invite the community to vote for their favorites—and encourage a little friendly competition while making Donelson magical for trick-or-treaters.

HIP D Lights Up

Spreading cheer, one strand of lights at a time.

In December, we invite Donelson neighbors to participate in HIP D Lights Up, our annual holiday lights contest. From classic sparkle to over-the-top displays, it’s all about celebrating the season and shining a little brighter together.

Donations to Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee

Because no one should face cancer alone.

Over the past few years, HIP Donelson has donated to Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee, a nonprofit offering free support to those facing cancer and their loved ones. Our contributions help sustain vital, no-cost programs for people in our community.

Special Projects

We take on new initiatives when our community needs us.

One recent example: the opening of the brand-new Donelson Library. HIP Donelson contributed a parent/child computer kiosk to help ensure families can access resources together in this beautiful new civic space.

Want to Get Involved?

Whether you’re looking to give your time, talent, or treasure—there’s a place for you at HIP Donelson.

Donate anytime via Venmo: @HIPDonelson

Interested in volunteering? Send us a message—we’d love to have you on the team.

Together, we’re keeping Donelson connected, supported, and strong.