The foundation was chartered in 1995 as a 501 (c ) (3) corporation, originally as the Charlotte Veterans Association.  As the scope of the programs grew, the name was changed to the Carolinas Freedom Foundation to better reflect the nine initiatives in which the Foundation is involved.  These range from Honoring our Veterans to Character Development programs within the schools.

Today, the work of the foundation has expanded into nine initiatives, including those to educate young people and the community on the importance of citizenship while continuing to honor both those who serve in the military and those who serve in other fields of community service.

 
 
Each year, the CaroEach year, the Carolinas Freedom Foundation sponsors eight programs and awards, most in partnership with some of Charlotte's most outstanding and community minded businesses.  These include, the US Airways Freedom Breakfast, the Freedom Award, the Wreath Laying Ceremony, the Patriotic Art Competition, US Airways Salute to Veterans Parade, the General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products Flags in Classroom project, the Shelton Youth Leadership Challenge, and the AT&T Cadet Achievement Awards (JROTC).