The Marine Corps Coordinating Council of Greater Charlotte, a 501(c )(3) nonprofit, is comprised of individuals with an interest in supporting Marines and their families, and promoting the Marine Corps ethos, in general. To that end, they sponsor the Semper Fi Challenge Series consisting of the winter Marine Buddy Challenge, the spring Marine Ultimate Team Challenge and the summer Marine Mud Challenge. In more cerebral endeavors, the Council also periodically sponsors "Lunch with the General" events, featuring both active and retired Marine Corps general officers speaking on topics ranging from current Marine Corps issues to everyday leadership recommendations. During 2008, these luncheons were be held at Maggiano's Little Italy, South Park Mall, Charlotte NC; they are open to the public. Not only do the luncheons help get the Marine Corps' story out, but they provide invaluable opportunities for Marines and former Marines to gather, network, and swap "war stories," in an acknowledgement of the axiom, "Once a Marine, Always a Marine."

Membership in the Marine Corps Coordinating Council of Greater Charlotte is open to all Marines, former Marines, retired Marines, and any card-carrying member of their immediate families. Associate membership is available for any member of the public wishing to help support Council endeavors. More information is available at www.carolinamarines.org