CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Relatives, a nonprofit that serves young adults, just got a new space in Uptown Charlotte.

The Relatives moved their On Ramp Resources Center into a new space on Freedom Drive that organization leaders say is three times the size of their old space in Uptown.


What You Need To Know

  • The Relatives On Ramp Resource Center moved into their new building

  • They were located in Uptown Charlotte, but they are now located at 2219 Freedom Drive

  • Their center helps young adults aged 16-24 get access to counseling, GED tutoring and employment readiness 

Their resource center provides programming to serve young adults ages 16 to 24. They get access to counseling, GED tutoring, employment readiness and more.

Their new building has a kitchen, which is something their old building didn’t have.

With this new feature, they’re partnering with the Community Culinary School of Charlotte (CCSC) to provide culinary classes. 

The Relatives have been around for 40 plus years,” said Chef Ron Alhert, the executive director of CCSC. “They know what they are doing. The Community Culinary School of Charlotte has been around for 25 plus years. We know what we are doing. We can help those that seek help in the culinary hospitality industry and we are going to use this wonderful room right here.” 

They also have a shower, which is something their last building didn’t have, either.

The director of programs for The Relatives, Thomas Montaglione, says this will also make a big impact.

“This was one of the main needs for our young adults coming in, is they needed a place where they could not only wash their clothes, but also shower and feel dignified for an interview - or going out into the community or just needed a fresh place to freshen up for the day,” he said. “We have a population that needs support and needs to have these basic needs met. And this space really does provide that.”

Resource Center Coordinator Lauren Perino echoes that.

“Our goal is to meet all of our young adults where they are at from the base necessities hygiene, food, all the way up to driver’s license, social security card, achieving their education and employment, being able to maintain that and long-term goal, independence and stable living,” Perino said.