New Racers, New Missions: Meet the Nonprofits That Match Mario Kart’s Newest Characters
- MissionEB
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
Mario Kart just got an upgrade—and we’re not talking about the blue shell. With a wild new wave of racers making their debut, it got us thinking…
What if these brand-new Mario Kart characters were actually mission-driven organizations?
Sure, they’re adorable (or chaotic) on the track, but some of them remind us of real-world nonprofits driving change in equally fun and unexpected ways. From desert warriors and snowmen to aquatic heroes and ghostly charmers these characters are more than just racers; they’re vibes.
So for this Fun Friday, we’re giving 13 new characters their nonprofit alter egos. Let’s-a go!
Literacy Mid-South → Goomba
Goombas are everywhere — just like literacy gaps. Literacy Mid-South tackles reading challenges head-on in Memphis and beyond, ensuring access to books, tutoring, and lifelong learning.
Ghostlight Theatre → Peepa
Cute, floaty, and haunting in the best way — Peepa has serious stage presence. So does Ghostlight Theatre in Michigan, shining a light on accessible performing arts and creative storytelling.
🔗 About Us
Arizona Sustainability Alliance → Pokey
Pokey’s tall, spiky, and built for the desert — just like AZSA, an organization focused on water conservation, urban forestry, and sustainability in Arizona communities.
Eco-Schools → Biddybud
Small but mighty, Biddybud has some serious environmental energy. So does the Eco-Schools program, giving students the tools to make their campuses more sustainable.
🔗 Eco Schools
Up2Us Sports → Chargin' Chuck
Built like a linebacker and full of pep, Chargin’ Chuck is basically the mascot for Up2Us Sports — a nonprofit that trains coaches to help youth overcome challenges through athletics.
Surfrider Foundation → Sidestepper
This crabby kart crasher makes waves — just like the Surfrider Foundation. They’re keeping oceans clean, coastlines safe, and marine life thriving.
🔗 Get Involved
The Bee Conservancy → Stingby
Don’t mess with Stingby. This winged warrior would buzz with pride at The Bee Conservancy, an org dedicated to protecting pollinators and building bee habitats in cities.
The Wetlands Institute → Cataquack
A bouncing waterfowl with boundless energy, Cataquack would feel right at home with The Wetlands Institute, working to protect aquatic ecosystems and coastal birds.
Polar Bears International → Penguin
Chilly friends unite! Penguin’s icy charm fits perfectly with Polar Bears International, an org dedicated to conserving the Arctic ecosystem and the species that call it home.
The Marine Mammal Center → Dolphin
This aquatic speedster is basically the spirit animal of The Marine Mammal Center, rescuing and rehabilitating dolphins, seals, and sea lions along the West Coast.
Big Dog Ranch Rescue → Chomp Chomp
Sure, Chomp Chomp has a bite — but deep down, they just want to be loved. Big Dog Ranch Rescue has rescued over 50,000 dogs (and counting) across the U.S.
WinterKids → Snowman
Snowman is built for blizzards. So is WinterKids, a Maine-based org helping kids stay active, healthy, and outside during the winter months.
Heifer International → Moo Moo
Moo Moo may be a farm icon, but Heifer International gives real livestock to families in need to end hunger and poverty. Cows included.
Mario Kart World... of Nonprofits
Whether they’re racing through snow, sea, or the streets of your favorite track, these brand-new Mario Kart characters remind us of something bigger — the real-life organizations out there changing lives, lifting communities, and going the extra mile every single day. So, as you power-slide into the weekend, consider this your green shell of encouragement
Because the best way to win in real life? Team up with people who care.Â