Donated yet? I have, and I challenge all of you to meet or beat my $50 donation to Charlotte's Arts and Science Council. For that amount, you can take advantage of buy-one-get-one admission to participating arts, science, history and heritage organizations. With little effort, and in exchange for a lot of fun and knowledge, you'll get your money's worth and then some while lending a hand to a good cause.

Can't do $50? Do $1. Every little bit helps. The goal is $7.3 million and we've got about a million to go. Donate here. Can't donate? Volunteer.

Here's what I know for sure: The ASC is an integral part of our city. Right now, it needs our help to continue offering grants to local artists, musicians, educators and non-profits; so the organization's classes and community outreach can continue; and, so our community's youth can continue to grow within a vibrant cultural center. More, to continue attracting large corporations and new residents, Charlotte can't lose it's cultural edge — something the ASC fosters like nothing else in the Q.C.. I'm sure you agree.

Learn more about what the ASC is all about here.