Weed may be big business nowadays, but its social justice roots still run deep. From the fight to legalize the plant and repair the wrongs of the War on Drugs to advocating for critically ill patients who need cannabis to thrive, people have fought for decades on behalf of what’s right.
And while cannabis may be legal in a majority of states, there’s still a lot of work to be done. Consider one of these worthy cannabis non-profits if you want to help support plant-based initiatives through donating time or funds.
Americans For Safe Access
Founded in 2022, Americans For Safe Access (ASA) is dedicated to patients and scientists. The group has over 150,000 supporters nationwide and aims to ensure access to cannabis for therapeutic use and research.
The Weldon Project / Mission [Green]
This restorative justice organization helps those who are incarcerated for cannabis crimes through financial aid. The Weldon Project launched its Mission [Green] project to secure the release of these prisoners and create pathways to expungement or pardons.
Realm of Caring
Realm of Caring provides education, support, and community focused on cannabinoid therapies. The non-profit also supports research studies designed to further reveal the benefits of cannabis.
Minorities For Medical Marijuana
Focused on creating an inclusive and diverse cannabis industry, Minorities For Medical Marijuana (M4MM) offers training, advocacy, referrals, and outreach on everything from business to wellness. With a number of programs centered on everything from restorative justice to safe access, M4MM is one of the most visible cannabis non-profits in the country.
Freedom Grow
With a motto “bringing light to a dark cell,” Freedom Grow seeks to secure the release of cannabis prisoners. The non-profit’s “wish program” provides commissary, books, and other materials to people who are currently incarcerated.
Veterans Cannabis Project
Founded by a former Navy SEAL, Veterans Cannabis Project is dedicated to increasing access to medical cannabis for those who served. The non-profit works with policymakers and vets to provide education and support to advance the cause.
Last Prisoner Project
Last Prisoner Project helps cannabis prisoners gain clemency and release. They also provide support for people once they’re released and offer letter-writing programs to bring joy and hope to those on the inside.
NuLeaf Project
NuLeaf Project offers grants to social equity cannabis operators. Seeking to create generational wealth for Black and Brown communities directly affected by prohibition, the group has already deployed over $2 million in tax relief and funding.
MPP Cannabis Justice Fund
The Marijuana Policy Project has been championing cannabis reform for nearly 30 years. The group’s Cannabis Justice Fund supports expungement clinics, policy work, and community building for those affected by the War on Drugs.
Acceptance of cannabis may be at an all-time high with the general public, but the work isn’t done yet. Many of the organizations above have helped achieve reform and given prisoners their freedom. For people enjoying the luxuries of legalization, it’s crucial to hold space for those still seeking their silver lining.
