Our History – The Organization


In 1968 a group of people led by Margaret Keller began the mission of CCA, based on Matthew 25:31-45, to show the love of Jesus Christ by serving people in need in our local area. This group consisted of people from Cary churches of different denominations who were inspired to carry out a common mission.

The first projects were an Enrichment Kindergarten for lower-income children and an adult literacy program. In 1972 another need came to the attention of the leaders; lower-income people needed a place where they could shop with dignity for clothing and household items. The Dorcas Thrift Shop was organized. With many donations of items from the community, the Dorcas Thrift Shop increased its sales until it has become the major fund raising arm of CCA for the work of the Crisis Ministry office and other ministries.

CCA gave birth to the Carying Place and is working with Western Wake Crisis Center and Fuquay-Varina people of faith so a crisis ministry can begin in that area of the county. The Carying Place was begun to assist homeless people with housing and with the necessary skills for self-reliance. Other current projects and ministries which have expanded within CCA's ministries include childcare scholarships, adult education assistance, prison ministry, and excess donations are shared with other agencies that have the same vision.

As of 2008, CCA has developed and approved a business plan to guide its future for the next three years. The plan provides strategic direction for its future and a foundation for short-term goals and objectives. The plan is updated annually. Copies are available upon request.

New Name, Same Place


Dorcas Ministries, named after the seamstress from Joppa who was known from her generosity to the disadvantaged, is the name in which CCA ministries has chose to better present the tradition of service to those who have support or benefited from our ministries.

For years those that have shopped or received assistance have simply and affectionately call it “Dorcas”. Now a new and meaningful name Dorcas Ministries will be used as the umbrella for which all of our services operate. Our goal is for people to see the connection between the Dorcas Shop and our investment in the community while providing help to families when they need it most. We hope people see the difference we’re making right here at home

Our Mission


Christian Community In Action, begun in 1968, is committed "To provide any resident of the service area who meets the necessary criteria with emergency assistance for their essential human needs, including, but not limited to, shelter, fuel, utilities, clothing and food."

Christian Community In Action exists to help our local neighbors who face immediate crisis. Founded on Matthew 25:31-45, volunteers carry out Christs command to love our neighbors.

Our geographic focus is Cary, Morrisville, Apex, Holly Springs, Friendship and New Hill. Our counterpart in Apex is "Western Wake Crisis Ministry." We work with groups in Fuquay-Varina to strengthen services available there and people in that area of Wake County were served by a local crisis ministry.

Memberships & Affiliations


Christian Community in Action is proud to be able to serve the community through its various outreach ministries. With the membership in various organizations, CCA is able to receive the support it needs to continue its mission of helping those in need.

National Associations of Retail & Thrift Stores.
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Cary Chamber of Commerce
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North Carolina Center for Non Profits
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You can also find more information about us at Triangle Gives Back.
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Christian Community in Action is a 501(c)(3) organization