In this episode of the SML Buzz Podcast, PJ Belle sits down with community advocate Tabitha Collison to talk about the upcoming SML Gives Day happening March 18, 2026 — a powerful 24-hour giving event that supports nonprofits across Franklin and Bedford County.

This year, 50 nonprofits are participating with a collective goal of raising $300,000 for organizations serving our Smith Mountain Lake community.

One important part of SML Gives Day is Early Giving, which begins March 16 at smlgives.org.

Early giving is a great option for busy people who want to make their donation ahead of time. Even better, those early gifts activate at midnight on March 18, immediately showing up on each nonprofit’s goal meter. That early momentum helps inspire others in the community to give and helps organizations reach their fundraising goals faster.

During this episode, Tabitha shares how SML Gives Day began, how it has grown each year, and how anyone in the community can participate.

You’ll also learn about:

• Early Giving starting March 16

• SML Gives Day on March 18

• The Nonprofit Fair happening March 18 from 2–5 PM at Resurrection Catholic Church in Moneta

• The incredible nonprofits serving Bedford and Franklin County

Learn more or donate here:

👉 https://www.smlgives.org

Learn more about PJ at the Lake: https://www.pjatthelake.com/

Email us with any comments or suggestions for future guests: PJ@PJatTheLake.com

When You Are Ready to Buy or Sell, Call PJ Belle: 540-525-0134