Every community needs organizations – nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, or other groups – that strengthen the social fabric and improve our lives. This year, readers chose Royal Credit Union (200 Riverfront Terrace, Eau Claire) as the No. 1 Community Advocacy Organization. In addition to providing financial services to hundreds of thousands of members across the region, Royal also has a nonprofit foundation that has given millions to local projects. Eau Claire-based C.C. We Adapt offers peer support and mentorship for people in the state’s Comprehensive Community Services program who are coping with substance abuse and/or mental health challenges. The Eau Claire County Aging & Disability Resource Center (721 Oxford Ave., Eau Claire), helps seniors and adults with disabilities access the benefits they deserve and live with independence and dignity. –Tom Giffey