Giving Special thanks to:
CORPORATE EMPLOYEES UNITE TO SUPPORT THOSE IN NEED Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry Your guide to community giving in the Giving: Lowcountry | 2017-18
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YOUR GUIDE TO COMMUNITY GIVING IN THE LOWCOUNTRY
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FEATURES
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Leveraging the many forms of philanthropy
‘Human’ engagement becomes new focus for corporate philanthropy
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What to look for as a nonprofit board member
Wealth transfer will have huge impact on philanthropy’s future
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QUICK FACTS
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AWARD WINNERS
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHTS
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Jordan Smith is one of many BoomTown employees who have been volunteering every single week by engaging w/ Heartists in their art, theater, and outdoor activities almost since the HEART program began in 2014. (Photo/Provided)
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Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry 3
QUICK FACTS
GIVING BY THE
NUMBERS
INCREASED BY
2.7%
AMERICANS GAVE IN 2016
$390.05 BILLION
FUN FACTS OF THAT TOTAL
For the years 2012–2016, arts, culture, and humanities was the second-fastest growing subsector out of nine in terms of contributions received..
5% 8%
Giving to environment/animals saw the largest increase, at 7.2 percent. This subsector has posted strong two-year growth rates.
15% 72%
ONLY 22.7% RESIDENTS VOULUNTEER
903,249
VOLUNTEERS Individuals (72%) Foundations (15%)
Bequests (8%) Corporations (5%)
HERE’S WHERE THE MONEY GOES VOLUNTEERING IN SOUTH CAROLINA 22.7% OF RESIDENTS VOLUNTEER, RANKING THEM 42ND AMONG THE 50 STATES AND WASHINGTON, DC
120.7 MILLION HOURS OF SERVICE WORTH
$3.1 BILLION
34.8 HOURS
50.2%
VOLUNTEER HOURS PER CAPITA
RESIDENTS DONATE $25 OR MORE TO CHARITY
Source: Corporation for National and Community Service, www.volunteeringinamerica.gov; numbers are for 2015
4 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry
RELIGION 32% EDUCATION 15% HUMAN SERVICES 12% GIFTS TO FOUNDATIONS 10% HEALTH 8% PUBLIC-SOCIETY BENEFIT 8% ARTS, CULTURE, HUMANITIES 5% INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS 6% ENVIRONMENTAL/ANIMALS 3% TO INDIVIDUALS 2% Source: Giving USA
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AWARD WINNERS
A HISTORY OF SUPPORT
ASSOCIATION OF FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONALS ENTERS THIRD DECADE OF NONPROFIT SERVICE IN THE LOWCOUNTRY By Steve McDaniel
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he Association of Fundraising Professionals Lowcountry Chapter enters its third decade of service to the Charleston philanthropic community this year. It continues to honor groups and individuals who support and invest in charitable organizations. The AFP is a global, professional networking and community organization with a mission to advance the culture of philanthropy. Its efforts have helped generate more than $1 trillion since starting in 1960, according to AFP’s website. Members can network, attend workshops, learn about national giving trends and more. Charitable giving has evolved since AFP’s national beginnings 57 years ago. A 1953 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allowed the A.P. Smith Manufacturing Co. to make a donation to Princeton University fundamentally changed the direction of corporate giving. Prior to that decision, corporations were only allowed to donate to causes that directly benefitted their company. The ruling gave companies wide latitude in choosing where to direct their philanthropic efforts, and the modern era of corporate philanthropy began. That led to an upsurge in donations and volunteer efforts aimed at charitable and community outreach programs across the nation. That grassroots effort is reflected in the work of people and organizations that sustain the support for local charities and nonprofits like those honored by the AFP Lowcountry chapter. Like its counterparts nationally, the AFP Lowcountry chapter hosts an annual National Philanthropy Day event that honors individuals, businesses and foundations that have given their time, support and talent to
worthy nonprofits and make a difference in their communities. THE 2017 LOWCOUNTRY AFP NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARD RECIPIENTS ARE: • Hank and Laurel Greer, Philanthropists of the Year • The Grace Church Tea Room, Organization Philanthropist of the Year • Ingevity, Corporate Philanthropist of the Year Each will be recognized and awarded at the chapter’s 21st annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon on Thursday, Nov. 16, at Trident Technical College in North Charleston. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. “The National Philanthropy Awards are the highlight of the year,” Lowcountry AFP President Elliott DeMerell said. “It is inspiring and tremendously fulfilling to have so many people dedicated to improving the Lowcountry,
6 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry
come together to recognize and celebrate notable individuals and organizations who make our lives better.” About this year’s winners, DeMerrell said: “The Greers are a sincere and generous couple dedicated to improving lives through a broad range of medical and other area causes. A nonprofit in their own right, Grace Cathedral’s Tea Room raises funds to support other organizations, and includes a service component to these efforts. Ingevity, from its beginnings as MeadWestvaco, has a long history of supporting the Lowcountry and incorporates giving and community service as part of their corporate culture.” Winners were determined by an AFP committee that evaluated each individual nomination. Many nominations were collaborative, with several nonprofit organizations working together to nominate an individual or foundation that has made an impact on several organizations. For more information and to see a list of past winners, go online to www.afplowcountry.afpnet.org.
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AWARD WINNERS
FOUNDATION PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR
HANK AND LAUREL GREER W ith nomination letters from Leigh Jones Handal, Director of Institutional Advancement with the American College of the Building Arts; Jennifer Winchester, Director of Philanthropy with the Charleston Animal Society; and Lindsay Taylor, Director of Major Gifts with Roper St. Francis Foundation – it was very evident that Hank and Laurel Greer were true philanthropists and great supporters of the Charleston Community they love so dearly. As Lorraine Lutton, President and CEO of Roper St. Francis, notes in her letter of support, Hank and Laurel stand out even among a crowd of philanthropists: “They are a powerful duo in their mission to support many programs and services across our community … they have enhanced the quality of life for thousands of men and women.” Hank and Laurel have given richly of their time, treasure and talent to a range of philanthropic causes in our community, including public health care and medical research, animal welfare, and basic human services for the economically disadvantaged. They have given both of their financial resources as well as served in voluntary leadership capacities on the boards of numerous organizations, including as chair of several key groups. All of their giving is done with the intent of encouraging others to join them in making a difference. The Henry H. and Laurel K. Greer Foundation (EIN 45-0524127) was established in 2003 and has contributed to a range of philanthropic causes since its inception. Here is a sampling of some of the organizations they support: • Roper St. Francis Hospital: Totaling more than $400,000, their support helped build a new helipad that has transformed access to emergency care when every minute counts most. With a $250,000 gift in the summer of 2016, the Greers established the Hank and Laurel Greer Colorectal Cancer Program through Roper’s Creating More Tomorrows
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Hank and Laurel Greer
Campaign. Having lost his mother to colorectal cancer, Hank notes that their goal through this gift was to increase public awareness and provide public education about the importance of regular screenings. • MUSC: In support of MUSC’s Heart and Vascular Center, Hollings Cancer Center, Storm Eye Institute, MUSC Children’s Hospital, Women’s Heart Health Initiative, and the Structural Heart Program. • Sea Island Habitat for Humanity: The Greers gave their largest gift in 20 years of support in 2017 and have assisted in building 10 homes for the organizations over their years of giving. • Pet Helpers and the Charleston Animal Society: Having served on the executive committee of Pet Helpers for many years,
Hank recently assumed the president’s role on the CAS board, with Laurel serving as Treasurer. Laurel has also recently assumed the chairmanship of CAS’s Philanthropy Committee. Hank and Laurel’s support made possible the creation of Pet Helpers’ Greer Spay/Neuter Clinic and, earlier this year, the purchase of a mobile low-cost spay/ neuter clinic for Charleston Animal Society. Other groups that have benefited from the Greers’ generosity include the American Heart Association, Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach, College of Charleston Foundation, Kiawah Island Natural History Conservancy, Historic Charleston Foundation, and Dee Norton LowCountry Children’s Center and most recently, the American College of the Building Arts.
Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry 7
AWARD WINNERS
ORGANIZATION PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR
GRACE CHURCH CATHEDRAL TEA ROOM
A
first for the Lowcountry Association of Fundraising Professionals and their National Philanthropy Day – a church organization is the winner of this year’s Organization Philanthropists of the Year. The Grace Church Tea Room Philanthropic Program is an annual volunteer-led-and-run Tea Room that is open during the two weeks of the Spoleto Festival. This philanthropic initiative is an example of service coming to life, of a community of volunteers – and all ages – working together to provide superb hospitality while generating profits, 100% of which are donated to Lowcountry nonprofit organizations. On the surface, this sounds like a nice event, and it is. But looking more deeply, it has become far more, both to those who volunteer to ensure the 300-500 guests each day have a memorable experience, and to the nonprofit organizations that receive Tea Room grants. In May and June 2017, Grace hosted the 27th annual Tea Room and generated $85,000 to give back to organizations. That amount raises the Tea Room’s
Kitchen volunteers lend a hand at the Grace Church Cathedral Tea Room. (Photo/Provided)
total contribution to nearly $900,000 in donations to fund the programs of at least 40 nonprofits. In 2016, Tea Room grants amounting to $80,000 were made to more than two dozen nonprofit organizations, including (but not limited to): Association for the Blind, WINGS for Kids, One80 Place, Veterans on Deck, Yo Art, Communities in Schools, Dee Norton Children’s Center, Charleston Port & Seafarer’s Society, Charleston Area Senior Citizens, Lowcountry Orphan Relief, East Cooper Meals on Wheels, Reading Partners Charleston, Carolina Youth
8 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry
Development Center, HALOS, The ARK of South Carolina, Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy, Lowcountry AIDS Services, Lowcountry Food Bank. The impact the Tea Room delivers comes in many forms, first and foremost through the programs these grants fund. But impact also results from the time, effort and focus given by the volunteers, who learn – first-hand – the value of giving back. The Tea Room teaches the next generation in our church about the value of service and working in untraditional teams (where a 14-year-old bus boy is paired with someone much older, and then that 14-year-old, over time, becomes a leader in his own right). The long-term impact also takes form in the way Tea Room volunteers get involved in other nonprofit roles. The commitment to serve on the Tea Room team (which for some means working 4060 hours a week for those two weeks) expands into a commitment to serve some of the programs being funded. One80 Place, HALOS, and Seafarers are examples of Grace people taking the spirit of Tea Room beyond two weeks in May and June.
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AWARD WINNERS
CORPORATE PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR
INGEVITY
Ingevity employees partnered with the Lowcountry Food Bank during Trident United Way’s Day of Caring in November 2016. (Photo/Provided)
W
hen Ingevity was spun off from MeadWestvaco (now WestRock) in May 2016, it became the largest publicly traded company by revenues headquartered in the Charleston area, and was, in many respects, a new company. But, the truth is, Ingevity is not a new company. It is a wellestablished, successful and growing specialty chemical business that has been a part of the community for more than 70 years. Through its IngeviCares program, Ingevity is continuing to enhance and demonstrate its culture of philanthropy. This program highlights Ingevity’s commitment to meeting employees’ community passions through corporate giving, volunteerism and matching gifts. The culture of the company is deeply rooted in the community and community engagement, and the passion is evident at every level of the organization.
CORPORATE GIVING Through the years, Ingevity has been a generous corporate donor to many local nonprofits. The organizations that have benefited from corporate contributions over the last several years are: • Trident United Way
• Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure • March of Dimes • Charleston Dragon Boat Festival • YES Carolina • Metanoia • Wings for Kids • Habitat for Humanity • East Cooper Meals on Wheels • SC Governors School • Lowcountry Stem Collaborative • Charleston Promise Neighborhood • Be A Mentor • University of SC, Partners for Minorities in Engineering and Computer Sciences • American Cancer Society - Hope Lodge • Jerry Zucker Ride for Hope • Center for Women Ingevity stays engaged in the local community by means of a Community Leadership Board, which consists of community members from the business, nonprofit, government and neighborhood sectors that have an interest in Ingevity. The board serves to enhance the dialogue about the community and Ingevity’s role in making a positive impact.
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VOLUNTEERISM Ingevity supports and encourages employees to volunteer and give back in the community by offering a slate of opportunities to make an impact. If employees find additional passions, they are encouraged to share these with the company to inspire others to get involved. As a company, there are several volunteer efforts Ingevity has participated in through the years, including: Trident United Way Day of Caring, American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, Habitat for Humanity, the Dragon Boat, Reading Partners, East Cooper Meals on Wheels and many more. MATCHING GIFTS Employees are offered the opportunity to have their or their spouse’s volunteer hours or gifts matched through the company, specifically supporting those who volunteer more than 25 hours a year, those who volunteer at the board level and give a donation, and those who choose to invest in education. Ingevity is a great example of exceptional corporate giving and creating a culture of philanthropy from a corporate and employee perspective.
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n a unique collaboration, the Romney Urban Garden (RUG) was designed and constructed in 2014 as a partnership project between Historic Charleston Foundation (HCF) and New Israel Reformed Episcopal Church’s (NIREC) middle and high school youth leaders. By utilizing the core strengths of each entity, the RUG is bridging the divide between effective design, implementation, and maintained community management and presence. HCF provided seed funds for the establishment of the RUG and NIREC provided the vacant property and formed a youth leadership team. Their support has been in the form of labor, time, and commitment. Working with and mentored by Crop-up’s Elizabeth Beak and Katy Quinn, the youth leaders have learned about and have become responsible for garden systems, management, community outreach, garden ‘upkeep,’ among many other responsibilities. As garden beds are rented by community members, the youth leadership team assists
neighbors, via their learned expertise, with the maintenance of their garden beds. The youth leadership team is also responsible for community gathering events, which have become popular because of the on-site pie oven, and fundraising. In the near future, an observation bee hive will be installed with the assistance of the Bee Cause Project. The youth leaders, in collaboration with a dedicated neighbor, will be responsible for managing this bee hive and educating the community on the importance of protecting our pollinators. To accomplish all of this, the youth leadership team has met on-site for Saturday workdays, twice a month during the summers and for regular planning meetings in the evenings during the week or after church on Sundays. The dedication of this group of young people to this important garden deserves recognition. This formerly blighted property has become a beautiful and vibrant gathering place for the
neighbors on Romney Street. The beauty o garden is due to the many Saturdays cle the parcel, moving mulch and compost, pla team, inspired by the youth team’s energy accomplishment. On an individual level, youth leadership team has reached out to involved neighbors, encouraging them to beds in the garden and helping them maintai beds where assistance is required.
OPINION
LEVERAGING THE MANY FORMS OF PHILANTHROPY By Darrin Goss Sr.
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t’s an honor to pen another column for the Giving Guide. Last year, I talked about the Coastal Community Foundation’s practice of passing-gear philanthropy – the idea that because philanthropy is unburdened by the short-term pressures of business and government, it can accelerate societal change, much like a car’s passing gear. It can, but will it? In order to turn this passing-gear philosophy from thought into action, we have been focusing on how to best leverage Darrin Goss Sr. the many forms of President and CEO, philanthropy to address Coastal Community the most pressing needs Foundation in our community. The passing-gear idea is rooted in four traditions of philanthropic purpose. Philanthropy as relief, philanthropy as improvement, philanthropy as civic engagement and philanthropy as reform. We’re taking tremendous steps to strengthen our capacity and sharpen our strategic vision while practicing all four traditions. We continue to provide nearly $1.1 million per year in human service grants for organizations such as the Lowcountry Food Bank and American Red Cross. We were instrumental in directing dollars to support relief and recovery efforts for the 2015 floods and Hurricane Matthew. Philanthropy as relief will always be needed, but relief alone cannot establish the passing gear. We are working exceptionally hard on
initiatives with St. John’s High School on Johns Island (applying a holistic approach to the entire school feeder pattern) and the Transformation: Liberty Hill project in North Charleston (focusing on STEM education.) Both programs are designed to ensure students in low-performing schools have access to excellent opportunities. CCF is in the middle of conducting nearly 50 Community Conversations – “kitchen table” talks to hear what everyday people up and down the coast envision for their communities. The data from those conversations will be used to drive our strategic planning efforts. We’re developing a working document we call the Civic Engagement Agenda to define a clarity of purpose and action, and put it on paper. We are leveraging our social impact by convening new groups. Our Bridge Philanthropists initiative was launched in September, and gives the next generation – those in their 20s through 40s – the opportunity to expand their social networks while making grants toward the causes important to them. Learning about the region’s services, needs gaps and grant opportunities will help younger philanthropists gain a deep understanding of the passing gear. We’re also leveraging our social capital by bringing together major funders and sharing with them the nuts and bolts of the passing-gear philanthropy framework. We recently hosted a series of workshops for funders to hear from experts in this arena. We convened these strategic conversations because we know it will take concentrated effort and many partners for us to achieve the passing gear. When CCF adopted our equity and inclusion
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policy two years ago, we realized that we needed to engage in addressing and changing the social construct. We continue to invest time and resources to train all staff and board members via the Racial Equity Institute (REI). Part of YWCA Greater Charleston’s work to create more racially equitable organizations and systems in the Lowcountry, the REI workshop provides a framework for understanding the complicated history of race in America, and helps us develop a common language and awareness. We’re continuing to expand the work of the Lowcountry Unity Fund and other social justicefocused initiatives, and our involvement as key participants in the Sophia Institute’s Social Justice, Racial Equity Collaborative (SJREC) keeps us at the forefront of thought leadership while challenging us to address reform. Believe it or not, these are just some of the things we’re busy accomplishing at CCF. We’ve also been flexing our intellectual capital by holding a series of talks for donors and professional advisers on everything from impact investing to family legacy philanthropy and legislative updates. And finally, we’re developing a deep capacity to create change with our social impact investing fund. It’s an exciting time to be a part of shaping the future of philanthropy in the Lowcountry, and CCF is getting into pole position to act as our region’s passing gear. Darrin Goss Sr. is president and CEO of the Coastal Community Foundation, a Charleston-based nonprofit organization that provides funding and support to charitable, educational and community service organizations throughout the Lowcountry.
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FEATURE STORY
HUMAN TOUCH ‘HUMAN’ ENGAGEMENT BECOMES NEW FOCUS FOR CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY By Holly Fisher and Steve McDaniel
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n 2016 Rachel Hutchisson, vice president of corporate citizenship and philanthropy at Blackbaud, created a presentation titled “The Era of Corporate Social Responsibility is Ending” for TEDxWilmington. In typical TEDx Talks fashion, it was meant to be thought-provoking. Hutchisson – who’s built a 26-year career espousing the value of corporate philanthropy – doesn’t necessarily believe corporate social responsibility is actually dead. But, she very much believes it’s undergoing a much-needed change to remove some of the limitations of “corporate” philanthropy. A lot of attention and resources are directed at the philanthropic efforts of Fortune 500 companies – the Starbucks or the Apples of the world. But, Hutchisson argues, good is for everyone and for every business –
regardless of its size. The shift is moving away from “corporate” and to the human element – the people who actually make up these businesses – big and small. “There’s really this broader understanding of what we call social good,” she said. “It’s how we understand that social good and good is for everyone. Companies that get too focused on ‘corporate’ and their needs are missing the boat by not thinking about the people who make up their company.” When Hutchisson started her career more than two decades ago, people left most of themselves in their car when they arrived at work, she said. There wasn’t this intertwining of home, work, community and personal passions. “The world has shifted,” she said. “What we
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believe interweaves with what we do every day.” Lots of people – especially millennials – are seeking out companies that care about more than just the bottom line. “People want to have a career with meaning,” Hutchisson said. “That idea of seeking purpose has become so fundamentally important to many people in the business world.” This concept of human social responsibility is rooted in employee engagement. Businesses can’t simply set the philanthropic agenda in the C-suite and expect all their employees to follow their lead, Hutchisson explained. That model is aging, she added. CONDUCT A PHILANTHROPY AUDIT To make that shift from “corporate” to “human” social responsibility, Hutchisson said
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FEATURE STORY
businesses of all sizes should take the time to understand what their people care about. She suggests conducting an audit of your current philanthropic efforts, including monetary donations and volunteerism. Think about why your business supports certain organizations and causes, then survey employees to determine their passions and their opinions about your current charitable efforts. This doesn’t mean a company must abandon a cause, especially one that aligns well with the company brand, Hutchisson said. But it could mean adding some more charitable giving options and letting the employees make some of the decisions about how the business makes donations or engages in sponsorships. Blackbaud has a portfolio of programs, including a matching gift program that gives employees the flexibility to donate to whatever cause they choose, knowing their donation will be matched. The “reward your passion” program allows employees to secure a $500 donation for the nonprofit they support through volunteer work. And employees are part of Blackbaud’s grants program committee, deciding which organizations receive grants from the company. SHARING THE LOVE AROUND THE LOWCOUNTRY Another Charleston-based company that involves its employees heavily in its charitable efforts is BoomTown, creator of a real estate software platform. Nina Magnesson’s title as “catalyst” for Citizenship and Social Innovation Initiatives reflects BoomTown’s desire to be a strong community partner. And the efforts of the philanthropy team – called BoomTown Love – are largely employee driven, Magnesson said. Employees participate in such local initiatives as the South Carolina Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Be a Mentor, Meals on Wheels, Reading Partners and The Green Heart Project. BoomTown provides birthday cakes for children living at the Carolina Youth Development Center. The company also is part of the CodeON program, teaching free coding classes in Charleston’s underserved neighborhoods. And the list goes on and on. “The lines between company, employee, family and neighborhood have blurred,” Magnesson said. “In order to engage employees,
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BoomTown’s Quality Assurance Team software developer Tyler Fraking and CodeON student Shawn learning the basics of coding together at the Rosemont Community Center. (Photo/Provided)
it’s important for them to know their company is connected.” BoomTown gives employees time to volunteer during the workday whether it’s reading to school children or participating in Trident United Way’s annual Day of Caring. “We know work-life balance includes nurturing your soul,” Magnesson said. Johnson & Johnson, an insurance managing general agency firm in Mount Pleasant, is dedicated to giving back to the local nonprofit and charitable community in a variety of ways. Teresa Vaughn, the company’s human resource director, leads the company’s philanthropic efforts across eight offices in seven states. She has been giving back since she was a little girl, learning about charitable work alongside her mother, a Colombian immigrant who would collect toys for orphans in the Phoenix area. “My parents always helped others,” Vaughn said. “I remember like it was yesterday going with my mother when I was about 8 to take toys to orphans who went to school in a poor, rural area outside Phoenix. We weren’t well off ourselves, but my parents always were involved in collecting, fundraising and helping those less fortunate. “Johnson & Johnson is family-owned, and part of our core value is to give back to the community,” she said. “We participate in the National Day of Giving where all of our offices are closed for the day to participate in a charitable
project in their community. The company also offers a paid day for each employee to take as a volunteer with a charity of their choice.” Vaughn is busy helping organize activities such as coordinating Trident United Way donations from Johnson & Johnson employees, who had a 100% participation rate last year within the company and raised more than $300,000. She is also on the leadership committee for Trident United Way’s Women United, a group made up of women who have made significant contributions to the Lowcountry charitable community. “Everyone can give something, whether it be time, money, mentoring or something else,” Vaughn said. Mercedes Benz Vans is in the midst of increasing its workforce and production capacity in the Lowcountry. Alyssa Bean, a communication specialist at the Sprinter van plant in Ladson who leads the company’s community outreach committee, said the expanded resources will give the company the ability to enhance its existing charitable giving and employee volunteering. “We are expanding our support for the local community,” she said. “It was a corporate decision to increase those efforts at the same time we’re increasing our manufacturing presence in the Lowcountry.” Mercedes-Benz has a long-term commitment with the South Carolina Aquarium and has donated a specially outfitted Sprinter
Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry 15
FEATURE STORY
BoomTown employees’ ‘Running of the Bulls’ team that raced in the i5k to raise money for the Charleston Digital Corridor programs in 2014. (Photo/Provided)
Van to transport sea turtles that the aquarium is rehabilitating for release back to the ocean. They also partner with Charleston Promise Neighborhood in an outreach program for underprivileged students in Title One schools and their families that includes activities related
to science, technology, engineering and math. The idea is to expose the students to career opportunities in STEM-related fields such as automotive manufacturing. Volvo has not yet built a car or SUV at its facility under construction in Berkeley County,
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but the Sweden-based automaker is already busy at work in philanthropic efforts. Stephanie Mangini, corporate communications manager, is organizing grassroots charity and volunteer efforts for the growing employee base, projected to number around 500 by the end of 2017 and reach up to 1,800 for the first production phase. “We wanted to establish a community outreach program from the outset,” Mangini said. “The leadership for Volvo’s U.S. operations here in the Charleston area thought it was important to get this in place even before we started production.” Mangini, who previously served a similar role at MeadWestvaco (now Ingevity), said Volvo has already established a grant program and advisory group to evaluate the best places to invest time and money within the Lowcountry charitable community. The first phase of grants has already been set and a second phase is in the final stages of the application process. “Employee engagement is very important to Volvo,” she said. “The company wants employees to give back. If an employee comes to me with a project they’re passionate about, I’m going to do everything I can to help them get the resources they need to do that.”
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FEATURE STORY
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Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry 17
FEATURE STORY
Former City of Charleston Mayor Joe Riley (left) with SC Community Loan Fund CEO and Together SC board member Michelle Mapp (center) and Tri-County Cradle to Career CEO John Read. (Photo/Provided)
LEAD WITH KINDNESS AND KNOWLEDGE WHAT TO LOOK FOR AS A NONPROFIT BOARD MEMBER By Madeleine McGee, President, Together SC
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he reality of being an empty nester had set in as Hope’s youngest daughter began her first year at college. Hope had spent the past 20 years as a working mom focused on finding a work-life balance, climbing the corporate ladder while simultaneously raising her family. She had done well and felt a sense of accomplishment as she embraced her new reality. With free time now on her hands, Hope decided to explore opportunities to give back to her community. She had discussed with her spouse wanting to volunteer at a local nonprofit. She knew she had options because there are so many incredible nonprofits doing great things, but she wanted to make sure she selected an organization committed to best practices. She knew from her professional experience that true success, whether you’re in a for-profit or nonprofit world, comes when
you stay relevant, focus on constant selfassessment and cultivate healthy working relationships. Hope decided to do some research and discovered that South Carolina actually has a set of guidelines for nonprofits, a publication titled, “Guiding Principles & Best Practices for South Carolina Nonprofits.” The publication is produced every few years by the state’s leading nonprofit association for its members. Everything from governance and leadership to communications and fundraising is covered to help ensure the Palmetto State has the best nonprofit sector possible. No matter the size of the nonprofit – big or small – the publication provides a reference to help navigate board and staff responsibilities. Hope focused on the governance section and quickly learned nonprofits that excel at achieving their mission have a board that provides high-
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level vision, leadership and oversight. She could grasp this principle because it worked the same way in the corporate environment. She became excited that her years of business experience could actually be put to use for the greater good. She also became aware that when a board operates as one, they foster a culture of inquiry that supports strategic thinking, and when a decision is made, the board speaks with a single voice. Hope also realized that being loyal and fully vested into the cause was imperative. This helped her as she investigated several nonprofits that aligned with her personal interests and values. She learned that, in order to be the best board member she could possibly be, she would need to act in the best interests of the organization and represent that nonprofit wherever she went. She would need to be an ambassador for the cause and the organization, and she would need to believe in their mission completely.
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With her background in human resources, she wanted to find a nonprofit that could benefit from her experience and skills. The “Guiding Principles & Best Practices” informed her that a diverse board is a strong board. She also realized that performance as a board member is really no different than performance as an employer. It would be her responsibility to help the organization reach its full potential. She must give 100 percent in her role, as will her fellow board members, to govern effectively and with integrity. As Hope started to grasp the level of commitment nonprofits deserve from their board members, she realized that board leadership is not something to be taken lightly. It requires a promise, to whichever nonprofit she selected, to be the best she can be. The best reality of all came as Hope realized that with her time, talent and treasures, she would be able to help make her community stronger. Through hard work and commitment, she had spent years raising her children to be productive citizens. She was now ready to use her connections, her experience and her passion to bring about positive change. Hope was ready to be a nonprofit leader. Are you a business executive interested in nonprofit leadership? Together SC can help you identify a nonprofit organization to match your
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Nonprofit board leaders meet to discuss governance and leadership during the Midlands Board Summit earlier this year in Columbia. (Photo/Provided)
interests. We have more than 800 members from across the state. We encourage all of our nonprofit members to follow guiding principles and best practices in order to cultivate a culture of excellence and achieve greater impact. Together SC is South Carolina’s only organization focused solely on supporting and strengthening the state’s nonprofit community
through education, advocacy, communications, collaboration and leadership. Comprised of 800-plus members representing nonprofit organizations, business partners, associations, foundations, government agencies and academic institutions, Together SC believes the world will be a better place when all people work together for good. To learn more, visit togethersc.org.
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FEATURE STORY
INHERITING
GIVING WEALTH TRANSFER WILL HAVE HUGE IMPACT ON PHILANTHROPY’S FUTURE By Steve McDaniel
A
massive shift of wealth is underway in the United States. And it has a lot of people’s attention. Intergenerational wealth transfer, or the passing down of money and other assets to one’s heirs, involves numbers with lots of zeroes. As of now, $12 trillion in financial and nonfinancial
assets are in the process of being transferred from those known as the Greatest Generation (born in the 1920s and 30s) to baby boomers (born 1946-1964). That number will only grow as boomers accumulate and begin to distribute their wealth to their successors. According to a report from
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Accenture Consulting, a multilevel global business consultation firm, baby boomers will transfer an additional $30 trillion in assets to their heirs. Peak years are forecast to be between 2031 and 2045, when 10 percent of the total wealth in the U.S. will change hands every five years. The volume and rapid increase in this trend
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FEATURE STORY
are top priorities of the philanthropic community. Betsy Kinsley, vice president of Development and Stewardship for the Coastal Community Foundation in Charleston, says her organization and others like it are working hard to address this. Part of that equation is making people aware that they are going to be the beneficiaries of some piece of that multitrillion-dollar pie, and to understand the power they will wield with that wealth. While it might seem improbable that someone is unaware that they stand to inherit a sizeable sum of money in the future, Kinsley said it is a rather common occurrence. “We want to make sure people know there are funds going from one generation to the next,” she said. “It does seem unlikely that people might not know about their parents’ finances, but it’s true. Parents are often reluctant to discuss their finances with their children, because they see them as just that, not actual adults who need to be included in that conversation.” Charitable organizations and other philanthropic efforts stand to benefit greatly from this massive flow of assets. If the current rate of donations among wealthy contributors remains near its current 3%, as it has for decades, that would translate into more than $1.2 trillion in
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potential donations. So there is the potential for a massive financial windfall, but there is an equal danger that this huge swap of assets could be mismanaged, misaligned and otherwise misinformed. Philanthropic groups aren’t the only ones with a major stake in this transfer of wealth. Financial advisers have spent years and substantial resources building relationships with their aging clients, but that relationship often doesn’t mean anything to those clients’ heirs. An Investment News survey showed 66% of children fire their parents’ financial advisers after inheriting their parents’ wealth. As wealth transfer consultant Vic Preisser put it in a recent Investment News article on the subject, “The largest wealth transfer ever is coming, and financial advisers are looking down the barrel of not being used by the heirs of the vast majority of their current clients.” And that can have an associated effect on charitable organizations. Many depend on the guidance of those same financial advisers to steer their clients toward directing some of their estate to a designated nonprofit. Minus that guidance, the money will go to heirs with little or no connection to a particular charity.
So what will happen to this $40-plus trillion windfall that figures to land in the laps of Gen Xers and millennials across the U.S.? That question weighs heavily on the minds of those who are responsible for attracting vital donations to their charitable organizations. Kinsley pointed to efforts at CCF that aim toward getting young people involved with the cultural and societal aspects of philanthropy through its Bridge Builders program. It is a three-pronged initiative that includes education on how to manage inherited assets, a direct grantmaking component to train them in how and where to direct donations, and a social connection component that illustrates how social and reputational capital can help influence giving. CCF is also hosting its first in what will be a series of educational seminars on donor education later this month. Kinsley said it was designed especially with intergenerational wealth transfers in mind. “We have to make sure younger generations know the power of what they’re being given,” Kinsley said. “They can make a significant local impact if they understand the wealth that they’ll be entrusted with.”
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: To support, connect and prepare women of all ages for careers in technology.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Charleston Women in Tech YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2014 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Carolyn Finch CONTACT INFORMATION: 171 Church St. Suite 340 Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 603-290-9111 Website: www.chswomenintech.com CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Carolyn Finch, Executive Director 171 Church St. Suite 340 Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 603-290-9111 E-mail: carolyn@chswomenintech.com AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 35 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): $10,000 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 90% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Charleston Women in Tech (CWIT) serves almost 2,000 women and male members throughout the tricounty area. Specifically, our members tend to come from the technology sector, but also includes women considering the business industry or entrepreneurship. Additionally, CWIT’s youth program CodeON, Coding in Our Neighborhoods, serves youth (417) throughout the Charleston-area and
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provides software development education and mentorship.
GREATEST NEED: Fundraising to support our growing membership and program initiatives.
A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: In 2017, the CWIT membership grew by over 40% and continues to attract a diverse and interactive membership base. CWIT hosted four events, which provided a variety of networking and educational opportunities to the attendees. CWIT expanded our mentorship program to include one-on-one mentorship as well as career coaching on an as-needed basis. CWIT’s CodeON program taught over 200 students over 10,000 lines of code, and provided access to computer science resources and mentorship to four sites. 2018 GOALS: Continue to grow and expand our reach with CodeON, and teach to a minimum of 400 kids. CWIT also seeks to expand our online presence via our website, which will include a membersonly forum section to further connect the tech community. As CWIT currently operates solely with volunteers, we hope to fundraise enough to hire at least two full-time personnel. This will be essential to allow CWIT to be sustainable and continue to provide services and programs to our members and CodeON students. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • December Meetup: To be held at Benefitfocus from 5-7:30 p.m. Dec. 7. Details will be announced on our
website and meetup page in the coming weeks to RSVP. Corporate sponsorships are still available for this event. Email Carolyn Finch for sponsorship details. •
2018 – Sponsorships are available for any one of our four quarterly events to be held in February, May, September and December. Dates and locations TBD. Email Carolyn for information.
•
Ongoing online fundraiser to support CodeON available at https://www. classy.org/campaign/Help-CodeONBring-Coding-Education-to-Kids-inCharleston/c123134
CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: In addition to the above, we are consistently seeking donations, sponsorships and grants to support our CWIT members, and our CodeON program. Each CodeON site requires $600 a month to be fully operational, and we are in need of sponsors willing to donate a minimum of six months. Sponsors can choose to donate the full amount as a title sponsor, or a percentage as a co-sponsor of a specific site. Please contact Carolyn by email or phone for more information on our programs and sponsorship opportunities.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: To honor God by developing, implementing, and sharing best-in-class safe water solutions that transform as many lives as possible, as quickly as possible.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Water Mission YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2001 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: George C. Greene III, PE, PhD, Co-Founder and CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: P.O. Box 71489, North Charleston, SC 29415 Phone: 843.769.7395 Website: watermission.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Molly F. Greene, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board mgreene@watermission.org Rogers Hook, P.E., Vice President, Volunteer and Investor Partnerships rhook@watermission.org P.O. Box 71489, North Charleston, SC 29415 Phone: 843.769.7395 AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 500 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): $21.6M PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 83% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: With over 300 staff members working around the world in permanent country programs located in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, Water Mission provides safe water and sanitation solutions in more than 53 countries. GREATEST NEED: Financial support to help provide safe water to people in the Caribbean who were impacted by the recent storms and for those affected by the two major earthquakes in Mexico. www.charlestonbusiness.com
A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • In 2017, Water Mission earned Charity Navigator’s top 4-star rating for the 11th consecutive year, a distinction shared by less than one percent of the charities rated by the organization. • Surpassed 3.3 million people served with safe water systems in community development programs and disaster response. • Implemented successful disaster response efforts primarily focused on humanitarian crises in refugee camps. Existing installations in Tanzania’s Nyarugusu camp served over 40,000 people in 2016. Separately, Water Mission Uganda responded to the needs of 25,000 refugees, mainly women and children, fleeing South Sudan. • As a leader in installing solar pumping solutions, the total number of solarpowered installations surpassed 1,000 in 2016, using more than 1 million watts of solar power to ensure the sustainability of safe water projects. 2018 GOALS: • Deliver safe water treatment systems during natural and man-made disasters, including situations of civil unrest that result in refugees fleeing for protection. • Partner with major global organizations, including UNHCR and UNICEF, to implement the largest project in the history of the organization – a $5.1M project to provide access to safe water to 250,000 refugees in Western Tanzania. • Begin the expansion of Water Mission’s global headquarters, including the
physical expansion for development of a Global Water Center, a division of Water Mission dedicated to building capacity, establishing quality standards and enabling organizations to implement sustainable safe water and sanitation projects in developing countries. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Water Mission Fall Open House: Thursday, November 9, 2017 - You’ll have opportunities to learn about the work Water Mission is doing around the world and how you can make a difference in the global water crisis. Learn more at watermission.org/openhouse. • Flow for Water: Thursday, November 16, 2017 - A collaboration between local studio Charleston Power Yoga, Water Mission, and YOU. This all-levels yoga class is a chance for you to give people the gift of safe water. Learn more at watermission.org/flowforwater. • Charleston Walk for Water: Register yourself or form a team for the 12th Annual Charleston Walk for Water on Saturday, March 24, 2018. • Individual Fundraisers - Host a memorable fundraiser for your birthday party, an anniversary, race, or business promotion to support Water Mission. Personalize your fundraiser page at watermission.everydayhero.do. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • Give online at watermission.org/donate. • Interested in sponsoring the 2018 Charleston Walk for Water? Email Lem Walker at lwalker@watermission.org.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and generosity of donors.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: American Red Cross, Lowcountry SC
GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Proudly serving Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, Georgetown, Hampton, Jasper and Williamsburg counties.
GREATEST NEED: Financial contributions are needed to invest in our humanitarian services and programs. We also have a need for new volunteers, blood donations and growing our community partnerships.
YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1917 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Louise Welch Williams, Regional CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: 2424-A City Hall Lane North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: (843) 480-4249 Website: www.redcross.org/sc CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Amanda Baldwin, Regional Philanthropy Officer 2424-A City Hall Lane North Charleston, SC 29406 Phone: 843-360-7151 E-mail: Amanda.baldwin@redcross.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 1,030+ TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): FY17’s budget was $2.82 million. Note – all 5 Red Cross chapters in the Palmetto SC Region of the American Red Cross roll into one state humanitarian budget. PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: An average of 91 cents of every dollar the American Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs.
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A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: In FY17, the American Red Cross of Lowcountry SC assisted more than 2,600 individuals affected by disasters – primarily home fires; collected 70,000+ units of blood; trained 8,400+ people in lifesaving skills, such as CPR/AED, First Aid and Aquatics; and through our global communication network, provided emergency communications and other services, including counseling and financial assistance, to support military families. Additionally, we helped created a more resilient community by installing more than 6,600 smoke alarms and teaching more than 650 children about emergency preparedness through the Pillowcase Project. The Red Cross remains dedicated to military families. More than 2,700 case services were carried out, providing reporting and communication services for military families. After the generosity of our compassionate donors, volunteers and community partners, your Red Cross was able to bring relief and comfort to thousands of South Carolinians after Hurricane Matthew’s high winds and torrential rains uprooted lives and destroyed homes. In South Carolina, more than 1,300 disaster workers provided 19,000 overnight
stays in 95 shelters. Those workers, 90% of whom were volunteers, served nearly 287,000 meals and snacks. 2018 GOALS: Expand our volunteer base, grow the financial support from the Lowcountry business sector, and increase blood donations. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: The Red Cross Gala will be held at the Charleston Marriott in downtown Charleston on April 27, 2018. Corporate sponsorships are available for this event. Please contact Felicia Rowell for details about this event. 843-480-4229. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: The Red Cross accepts financial donations throughout the year. Anyone interested in donating can call 843-764-2323. Your Red Cross conducts workplace giving campaigns in collaboration with additional organizations that your employees would like to support. If you are interested in being a workplace giving partner, please contact Amanda Baldwin. We also provide employee engagement opportunities for your workplace, allowing them time to give back to the community and providing team-building experiences.
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: Helping people achieve their full potential through the dignity and power of work
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Palmetto Goodwill YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1979 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Robert G. Smith, President/CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: 2150 Eagle Drive, North Charleston, SC 29406 843-566-0072 PalmettoGoodwill.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Tina Marshall, Community Relations Officer 2150 Eagle Drive, North Charleston, SC 29406 843-377-2811 tmarshall@palmettogoodwill.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 425 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): $55 Million PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 90% GREATEST NEED: Donations of clothing, household items, electronics, computers, books and vehicles. For every $1 spent in a Goodwill Store, 90 cents goes back into our community, helping people find jobs. In 2016, revenues generated through the sale of donated goods helped serve nearly 44,500 individuals in our community. Serving the community through job training and employment services is Goodwill’s true mission.
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A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: Palmetto Goodwill actively seeks partnerships, grants and programs that elevate the services and offerings provided to a diverse population of South Carolinians with a specialized focus on the disabled, homeless, veterans, ex-offenders, victims of domestic abuse, underemployed, chronically unemployed, and those with educational barriers. In 2017, Goodwill, • Transformed its Job Link Centers into Career Opportunity Centers and, in doing so, added more robust workshops to help people in our community find and retain successful employment. • Introduced a new senior employment program through the grant-funded Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). SCSEP is the only federal program targeted to help older workers. • Implemented GoodPaths, funded by Walmart Foundation, which assists Goodwill associates and outside retail and hospitality partner associates by developing an actionable career plan. 2018 GOALS: • Increase our capacity to serve more Veterans and People with Special Needs and barriers through education, training and support services that lead to successful employment outcomes. • Work closer with community employers to address their workforce needs. • Provide more training and industry certifications to help employees become more productive and upwardly mobile.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Thursday, April 19, 2018 - Shining Star Awards Banquet at Trident Technical College Center at 6 p.m. Proceeds from corporate and table sponsorships will benefit Goodwill’s mission services. • Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018 - Goodwill’s Palmetto Warrior Connection Undy 500 Motorcycle Charity Ride to benefit services for veterans and their families served through the Palmetto Warrior Connection. • Monday, Oct. 1, 2018 – Palmetto Goodwill Open, second annual charity golf tournament at Kiawah Island’s Oak Point Course. Sponsorship and team registrations will help fund Goodwill’s mission services. • TBD – Red, White & Blue Jean Ball, tentatively scheduled for November 2018. Proceeds from corporate sponsorships and registrations will benefit services for veterans and their families served through the Palmetto Warrior Connection. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: Goodwill accepts monetary donations online, and monies may be designated to a particular program or population that Goodwill serves. Other donation opportunities include Corporate Donation Drives, which can be arranged and coordinated by a seasoned Goodwill Donation Coordinator. We also accept estates where Goodwill will provide staff and truck service to make the donation process easy and quick.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: To advance equitable access to capital by providing loans, technical assistance and advocacy for affordable housing, healthy food, community facilities and community business enterprises.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: South Carolina Community Loan Fund (SCCLF) YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2004
social and economic fabric of the community. GREATEST NEED: Impact Investments! Impact investments made into SCCLF generate a measurable, beneficial social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. Investments with us are socially and fiscally responsible, are invested
wisely, and offer SC-accredited investors a return of 2%. Investments require a minimum investment of $25,000 and have a minimum term of five years. Our investments come from financial institutions, foundations, religious institutions, government entities, businesses and individuals seeking to make a positive social impact in our local community.
TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Michelle Mapp CONTACT INFORMATION: 1064 Gardner Road, Suite 302, Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-973-7285 Fax: 843-973-3598 Website: www.sccommunityloanfund.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Michelle Mapp, CEO 1064 Gardner Road, Suite 302, Charleston, SC 29407 Phone: 843-973-7285 E-mail: michelle@sccommunityloanfund.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 30 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): $1,994,910 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 85% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: SCCLF provides loans to nonprofit, forprofit and government agencies working to revitalize and transform South Carolina by financing projects that: 1) provide affordable housing; 2) create access to food and essential services; 3) increase the quality and availability of neighborhood facilities; 4) create employment opportunities; 5) attract additional investment; and 6) strengthen the www.charlestonbusiness.com
A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • Provided 13 loans that financed seven housing development projects, two healthy food enterprises, one community facility and four community businesses, creating or retaining 205 jobs, and providing a safe, affordable place to call home for 456 individuals and families. • Closed $6.7 million in loans for community development projects and approved an additional $5.7 million in financing before the beginning of the fourth quarter. • Secured $13 million in new equity and debt capital to finance community development projects throughout South Carolina. • Provided Technical Assistance (TA) and capacity-building services to 337 nonprofits, entrepreneurs and local governments. • Conducted a demand survey to help better understand the need for community development financing in our state. Survey results reveal a promising lending market with estimated loan requests for the next three years totaling $41.5 million. 2018 GOALS: • Provide $10 million in loans to nonprofit organizations and for-profit businesses that face insurmountable odds in acquiring capital from traditional funding sources. • Support the expansion of the South Carolina Community Development Tax Credit, a
unique tool that catalyzes private capital to transform and revitalize underserved communities from the inside out. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • SCCLF’s 2018 Summit in Columbia, Nov. 7-8, 2018, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. The two-day summit will take a holistic look at community and economic development in South Carolina, and seek to address the systemic barriers we face to building strong, equitable communities. Attendees will have the opportunity to choose from a mix of interactive and educational sessions focused on meeting the unique development and capital needs of South Carolina’s rural and diverse communities. The event will also highlight and provide an opportunity for attendees to get engaged in advocacy and policy change efforts happening around the state. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: We accept donations, stock transfers,and inkind gifts. Your support and donations help to transform lives and build strong communities. For more information on how to support us, please visit www.sccommunityloanfund.org. All contributions and investments to SCCLF may qualify for a 33% S.C. Community Development Tax Credit. For more information, consult your financial adviser and review S.C. Schedule 14.
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1981 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Paul Jeter, Executive Director, Columbia Crystal Feller, Campaign Director, Charleston CONTACT INFORMATION: 941 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite 203, Mt Pleasant SC 29464 Phone: 843.881.8176 Fax: 843.881.8179 Website: www.lls.org and www.lls.org/south-carolina CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Crystal Feller, Campaign Director 941 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite 203, Mt Pleasant SC 29464 Phone: 843.881.8176 E-mail: crystal.feller@lls.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 400 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): $3,000,000 (South Carolina) PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 73.7% is dedicated to the LLS Mission and Program Services. Geographic area or specific population served: South Carolina GREATEST NEED: Funding for LLS’s mission to find cures and ensure access to treatments to blood cancer patients.
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A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • NATIONAL: Five drugs have achieved FDA approval in 2017 for new treatments for blood cancer patients. LLS has been a significant source of funding for all five of these drugs through research grant funds awarded. • LOCALLY: Raising more than $765,000 during the 10-week Man & Woman of the Year fundraising campaign toward LLS’s mission to cure cancer! This event featured a 1,000-guest, black-tie gala event at the Gaillard Center, making this featured event the largest nonprofit gala in the Lowcountry. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • 2017 Light The Night: 5:30 p.m. Oct. 26, The Grove at Patriots Point. Light The Night is a series of fundraising campaigns benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) funding of research to find blood cancer cures. Join approximately 1 million people at 150 inspirational evening walks across the U.S. and Canada, walking to end cancer. Registration is free, but walkers are encouraged to raise funds to support the mission. • 2018 Students of the Year: Jan. 27–March 15, 2018 • Students of the Year Grand Finale: March 15, 2018 at Founders Hall, Charles Towne Landing. Join us for the South Carolina inaugural Students of the Year campaign. • 2018 Man & Woman of the Year: Feb. 22–May 4, 2018
• Fifth annual Lowcountry Man & Woman of the Year Grand Finale: May 4, 2018, at the Gaillard Center. The Man & Woman of the Year campaign is a spirited fundraising competition in communities across the U.S. in which participants build fundraising teams to compete for the title of Man or Woman of the Year. • 22nd Leukemia Cup Regatta: Sept. 22, 2018, Charleston Harbor. Join the Lowcountry as they raise a sail with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Leukemia Cup Regatta and help raise funds to support life-saving cancer research. Over the last 21 years the Charleston and Lowcountry sailing communities have raised more than $2.49 million for blood cancer research, advocacy and patient support. • Leukemia Cup Regatta Gala: Sept. 22, 2018 on the USS Yorktown – This evening event is for sailors and nonsailors alike to participate in a beautiful night of dinner, cocktails, live entertainment, live and silent auctions to fight back to cure cancer! CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • Opportunities for Corporate Sponsorship for the 2018 Man & Woman of the Year Grand Finale Gala; 2018 Students of the Year Grand Finale Gala, 2018 Light The Night Walk and the 2017 Leukemia Cup Regatta. Contact the local LLS team for customized sponsorship opportunities to join the Lowcountry efforts in curing cancer! 843.881.8176 or crystal.feller@lls.org.
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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: To inspire conservation of the natural world by exhibiting and caring for animals, by excelling in education and research, and by providing an exceptional visitor experience.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: South Carolina Aquarium MISSION STATEMENT: To inspire conservation of the natural world by exhibiting and caring for animals, by excelling in education and research, and by providing an exceptional visitor experience. YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2000 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Kevin Mills, President and CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: (843) 577-3474 Fax: N/A Website: ww.scaquarium.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Maggie Roudsari, Assistant Director of Advancement 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: (843) 579-8627 E-mail: mroudsari@scaquarium.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2017: 315 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): $11,000,000 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 73%
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GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Students and families throughout South Carolina GREATEST NEED: As a statewide nonprofit institution, the Aquarium has a need for funding partners to support educational
outreach programs as well as field trips for underserved students throughout South Carolina. The Aquarium’s goal is to reach every student in the state through its slate of award-winning on-site, outreach, and distance education programs.
A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: The opening of Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery™, a state-of-the-art sea turtle rehabilitation facility and educational exhibit that teaches more than 450,000 annual guests about sea turtle conservation. The South Carolina Aquarium also launched two major regional conservation programs: the Resilience Initiative for Coastal Education (RICE) to educate the community about planning for rising sea levels, as well as the production of Breaking Down Plastic, a conference that brought together environmentalists, scientists and students from around the globe to discuss the effects of plastic pollution on marine and human health. 2018 GOALS: The Aquarium plans to upfit Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery™ with distance-learning technology to enable us to broadcast directly from the facility to schoolchildren throughout South Carolina, and beyond. Additionally, we will debut a documentary on resilience in partnership with South Carolina ETV, and continue our efforts through the plastic pollution initiative to raise awareness for the escalating threat
of plastic pollution on sea turtles and other marine animals. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: Sea Life by Starlight – Dec. 9, 2017, at the South Carolina Aquarium. Proceeds benefit the Sea Turtle Care Center™. Annual Conservation Gala – April 28, 2018, (tentative) at the South Carolina Aquarium and Liberty Square. Proceeds benefit the Aquarium’s regional conservation initiatives. Turtle Trek 5k – September 2018 (TBD) at the Isle of Palms County Park. Proceeds benefit the Sea Turtle Care Center™.
CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: The South Carolina Aquarium offers a variety of high-visibility sponsorship options that contain robust benefit packages, including unique employee engagement opportunities. Corporations may consider presenting event sponsorships, exhibit naming, sponsoring educational field trips and outreach programs for schools throughout South Carolina, or underwriting and naming specific education or conservation programs.
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36 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry
www.charlestonbusiness.com
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
MISSION STATEMENT: To help people remain in their homes by increasing safety and accessibility by facilitating critical home repairs in Charleston, Dorchester and Berkeley counties.
QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Operation Home YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1997 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Executive Director, Miriam C. Langley CONTACT INFORMATION: 2120 Noisette Blvd., Suite 124, North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: 843-212-8935 Fax: 843-408-4567 Website: www.operationhome.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Executive Director, Miriam C. Langley 2120 Noisette Blvd., Suite 124, North Charleston, SC 29405 Phone: 843-212-8935 E-mail:miriam@operationhome.org VOLUNTEER HOURS IN 2017: 350/10,000 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2017-2018): 628,788
GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Operation Home serves families with low income (50% or below Median Family Income) in Berkeley, Dorchester and Charleston counties. Operation Home focuses on families that include children, seniors and disabled individuals.
GREATEST NEED: Operation Home advocates on behalf of our mission and recognizes the need of a broader understanding for our community’s vulnerable families to have the ability to remain in their homes.
A CLOSER LOOK: 2017 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: Operation Home has been serving the Tricounty community for 20 years. This year Operation Home will serve a record of more than 300 families through our critical home repair, wheelchair ramp and heat and cold relief programs. 2018 GOALS: Operation Home will bring home, health and hope to an increased number of vulnerable tri-county families with low income through our critical home repair, wheelchair ramp and heat and cold relief programs. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Gimme Shelter – Thursday, April 19, 2018, Hosted by Home Team BBQ, 126
Williman St., Charleston, SC 29403, Ticket and Sponsorships available January 2018. • Drum It Up - October 2018, Hosted by Red Drum Restaurant, 803 Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464, Ticket and Sponsorships available June 2018. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • Sponsor a roof for a family - $6,000 • Sponsor a floor replacement for a family - $3,000 • Sponsor a wheelchair ramp for a family - $1,800 • Sponsor heat relief for 5 families - $500 • Sponsor cold relief for 3 families - $175
PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 86
www.charlestonbusiness.com
Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry 37
BoomTown’s ‘Jurassic Park Team’ after running the i5k to raise money for the Charleston Digital Corridor 2017. (Photo/Provided)
GIVING BACK
CHARLESTON’S FRIENDLY NATURE SHINES
C
harleston has been called the world’s friendliest city. There are many reasons for that: its world-class hospitality industry; its approachable citizenry when tourists ask for directions; and, most importantly, its willingness to help those in need. The photos in this section illustrate just a few of the philanthropic and humanitarian activities and efforts that go on every day around the Lowcountry. Without the generous financial and volunteer support of employees at small and large companies around the tri-county area, many worthwhile community outreach programs would find themselves unable to sustain their efforts. Volunteers have helped build homes in
rural and impoverished areas, stock shelves in food banks, deliver food to the elderly and infirm, raise millions of dollars for charities, teach children how to read, shelter and clothe the homeless and much more. The Lowcountry is fortunate to have a well-developed support system when it comes to charitable giving and volunteerism, thanks to organizations such as Trident United Way, the Coastal Community Foundation, Together SC, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the S.C. Community Loan Fund and others. Their services are invaluable in organizing and sustaining major volunteer and charity efforts such as the annual Day of Caring. Volunteers and Trident United Way staff talk with a visitor to the Finance & Food Trucks event put on by the Berkeley County Prosperity Center in April to celebrate Financial Literacy Month. The event hosted financial literacy classes on a range of topics and rewarded attendees with tickets for food from participating food trucks. Live music, a bounce house and facepainting made it a family affair. (Photo/Provided)
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HELPING OUT
Johnson & Johnson employees partner with Charleston Habitat for Humanity on Trident United Way’s Day of Caring in 2016. This year’s Day of Caring is Nov. 17. (Photo/Provided)
Alex DeLuna and Rostina Mincey at their first day with AmeriCorps working in the Berkeley County Prosperity Center, a collaboration between Trident United Way, Palmetto Goodwill and Origin. (Photo/ Provided)
Cummins employees volunteering at the Lowcountry Food Bank through a corporate work engagement opportunity facilitated by Trident United Way. (Photo/Provided)
Matthew (right), an intern with Cummins, working with Trident United Way Volunteer Engagement Manager Amanda Netsch to prepare food for a hot lunchtime meal during the annual Day of Caring. (Photo/Provided)
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An Eaton Aerospace employee reads to a group of kindergarteners after she and coworkers drop off backpacks full of school supplies at Mary Ford Elementary in North Charleston. (Photo/Provided)
Employees of Mercedes Benz Vans helped build oyster reefs on James Island recently. The plant has organized employee volunteer events as part of scheduled production shutdowns. (Photo/Provided)
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40 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry
www.charlestonbusiness.com