Giving
YOUR GUIDE TO COMMUNITY GIVING IN THE MIDLANDS 2024-25
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Shining a spotlight on the people and groups that improve Midlands lives and communities
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Source: Giving USA
$374.4 BILLION
BILLION
$103.53 BILLION
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NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY AWARD WINNERS MIDLANDS SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITABLE EFFORTS
Outstanding Rising Star: Regan Freeman
(Development Director, Cola Town Bike Collective; Co-founder and Executive Director, The Echo Project)
Nominated by David King of Cola Town Bike Collective
Since joining the Cola Town Bike Collective (CTBC) as Development Director
in April 2022, Regan has made a significant impact by launching a successful capital campaign to save the shop and purchase its building. He has also helped secure additional funding to improve the facility, ensuring a safe environment for staff and clients. Regan has written numerous grants and refined CTBC’s messaging and strategic planning around its reliable transportation initiative, demonstrating his effectiveness as both a fundraiser and a thought partner.
His contributions earned him a spot in the Riley Institute’s Diversity Leaders Initiative as a Riley Fellow, and he was profiled on the cover of USC’s alumni magazine in 2022 highlighting his significant contributions
and impact in the community. Additionally, as Executive Director of the Echo Project, Regan has raised over $1 million through grassroots efforts and gained national media attention. With a relentless “can’t stop, won’t stop” attitude, he has tackled every challenge with determination, promising a bright future for himself and the organizations fortunate enough to work with him.
Outstanding Marketing Professional in Support of Philanthropy: Lance Cooper (Director of Communications for the Office of Donor Relations at University of South Carolina)
Nominated by Beth Well of University of South Carolina
Lance Cooper, the Director of Communications for the Office of Donor Relations
at USC, embodies the essence of philanthropy through impactful storytelling and visual communication. Leading a team of four, he collaborates with development directors
2024 CENTRAL S.C. AFP CHAPTER NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY
Who: Central South Carolina Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals
What: National Philanthropy Day awards luncheon
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 13
Where: University of South Carolina Pastides Alumni Center, 900 Senate St., Columbia
Tickets: https://lnkd.in/ eg4-3R5u
2024 AWARD RECIPIENTS
Outstanding Rising Star: Regan Freeman
Outstanding Marketing Professional: Lance Cooper
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Peyton Bryant
Outstanding Corporation: Walmart
Outstanding Fundraising Executive: LaTanza Duncan
Outstanding Philanthropists: Dr. Suzanne Thorpe and Dr. John Baynes
Nominations were reviewed and scored by the Lowcountry Chapter of AFP
Regan Freeman
Lance Cooper
and partners to meet diverse donor-related communication needs. His efforts have assisted development directors with securing over $60 million dollars including the Joseph F. Rice School of Law and the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing to name a few.
Lance and his team also did extensive work for a gala benefiting the Anne Frank Center, the college of Education and the McNair Foundation. He also created a donor birthday message that ended up on the National news. Known for capturing memorable moments at USC home football games, he often adjusts his plans to seize storytelling opportunities.
Previously, Lance spent six years as the Director of Public Relations and Marketing for the Oliver Gospel Mission, where he honed his skills in media and event marketing, earning national awards for his work. In addition to his work in higher education and nonprofits, Lance has spent over 25 years in ministry communications for various churches.
He is currently pursuing a master’s in mass communications and recently presented at the CASE Donor Relations conference in Seattle. Additionally, he has volunteered his time for AFP, contributing to presentations and photography for the last five years, further showcasing his commitment to the field.
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser: Peyton Bryant
(Managing Partner, Trinity Partners)
Nominated by Maria DeHart of United Way of the Midlands
Peyton Bryant is a dedicated community champion and volunteer fundraiser who has significantly advanced the philanthropic
spirit in the Midlands. A supporter of United Way of the Midlands since 2011, he has played a pivotal role in mobilizing CEOs and HR Directors to drive employee contributions through workplace giving during his tenures at BB&T, NAI Columbia and Trinity Partners.
His leadership in the Young Leaders Society has fostered connections between current and future business leaders, while initiatives like Be a Book Bunny provided books to students during summer breaks. He is active in the Tocqueville Society and also serves on various boards, including the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, South Carolina Chapter of CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member), Heathwood Hall Episcopal School, Midlands Housing Trust Fund, and the Diaconate of Eastminster Presbyterian Church, and the Lions Club.
As co-chair of the Tocqueville Society since 2022, he revitalized the group, raising over $1.5 million for the 2023 campaign and adding 31 new donors while incorporating educational programming for families. His enthusiastic participation in the Driving Down Main virtual charity golf tournament has raised over $110,000 for the Midlands Reading Consortium. Additionally, he helped mobilize the Park to Give initiative, which has garnered over $126,000.
Currently, as a member of the Executive Committee for UWM’s Campaign for Good, Peyton has helped raise over $8.5 million in local funds to match a $10 million gift from the MacKenzie Scott Foundation. Recognized with the AFP Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year award, Peyton’s vision and hard work continue to inspire and make a lasting impact on the community.
Outstanding Fundraising
Executive: LaTanza Duncan
(Senior Director of Development, Principal Gifts, University of South Carolina)
Nominated by Marcus Fogle and Beth Well of the University of South Carolina
LaTanza Duncan is a dedicated fundraising professional with over 20 years of experience in frontline fundraising, mentoring, and
training. LaTanza has been with USC for the last 5 years as a Senior Director of Development focusing on Principal level gifts. Donors love and trust her so much that she secured a $1 million dollar gift in her first month at USC. In the last 5 years she has honored the wishes of many donors who have trusted her with over $11 million dollars.
Known for her donor-centric approach, LaTanza builds strong relationships, often going above and beyond to support donors. Prior to her time at USC, LaTanza was the Chief Advancement Officer for Girl Scouts of SCMountain to Midlands. There she recruited, trained and supervised a six-person staff responsible for raising over $6 million annually.
She developed strategies to achieve revenue and revitalized major giving initiatives from the CEO, Board and community leaders. She also revamped their annual giving, planned giving, and capital campaign initiatives. At the American Heart Association, she held the role of Senior Director of Corporate Relations and managed a staff of 12, raising over $35 million. She also volunteers with organizations like Delta Sigma Theta and Links Inc., and actively trains the next generation of fundraisers, exemplifying the qualities of an outstanding fundraising executive.
Outstanding
Corporation: Walmart
Nominated by Kassy Alia Ray of Serve and Connect
Walmart is recognized for this year’s Outstanding Corporation award due to its transformative impact on Serve & Connect. Serve and Connect’s mission is to foster positive change through sustainable police-community partnerships. The organization is ex-
Peyton Bryant
LaTanza Duncan
emplified by the Greg’s Groceries program, which packages nonperishable food boxes with police and community partners for distribution to those in need.
Outstanding Philanthropists: Dr. Suzanne Thorpe and Dr. John Baynes
Nominated by Columbia Museum of Art and South Carolina ETV
Dr. Suzanne Thorpe and Dr. John Baynes make Columbia and South Carolina a vibrant community for all who call it home by sharing their time, talents and treasure with numerous nonprofit organizations.
They give their time and talent to the museum through board service, including the board of directors and the Friends of African American Arts and Culture affinity group. Their support has been transformational in helping the museum to carry out its mission in the community.
The program launched in 2017, with two agencies and 50 boxes. In 2021, it grew to partner with 28 agencies across SC and packed a total of 2,945 boxes that year. However, it struggled to meet the needs of partners and had challenges related to receiving items due to supply chain issues associated with the pandemic.
That is where Walmart came in. They joined as a partner in 2022, providing financial contributions, resource donations (e.g., donation of food items), and volunteer support. With their partnership, the program expanded to more than 70 agencies across South Carolina and nearly 5,000 boxes packed that next year.
Walmart also sponsored a statewide packing event that distributed 3,000 boxes and facilitated Serve & Connect’s first out-of-state event in North Carolina, where 300 boxes were packed with assistance from over 25 Walmart staff volunteers. Beyond Greg’s Groceries, Walmart sponsors numerous community events, enhancing relationships between police and marginalized communities. For example, it has supported the Compassionate Acts Program, which provides 24/7 assistance to those in need.
A notable example of Walmart’s commitment is when Chad Thomas, a Walmart store manager in Forest Acres, SC, personally funded cartloads of food and supplies for three families facing extreme poverty. Walmart’s generous support extends to police departments statewide, providing essential resources for community outreach initiatives, making it an invaluable partner in these efforts.
Their generosity spans an array of causes, including the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Philharmonic, the Nickelodeon Theatre, Columbia Green, Golden K Kiwanis, ETV Endowment, South Carolina ETV, South Carolina Public Radio, SC Arts Foundation, the Nature Conservancy of
In addition to supporting the arts, Dr. Thorpe and Dr. Baynes believe strongly in the importance of public broadcast to inform and educate all South Carolinians and are supporters of the ETV Endowment, South Carolina ETV and South Carolina Public Radio. Retired from the University of South Carolina as a Professors in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, it is no surprise that education is important to them.
They approach their philanthropy in-
South Carolina and the University of South Carolina. Nominated by both the Columbia Museum of Art and South Carolina ETV, Dr. Thorpe and Dr. Baynes are worthy recipients of this year’s Outstanding Philanthropists Award.
The pair has donated generously to the Columbia Museum of Art in support of a variety of programs, exhibitions, and campaigns. Their humble leadership, and committed peer networking, have brought in hundreds of other gifts from those who have been inspired by their love of the museum.
tentionally and seek to create meaningful impact. For example, Dr. Thorpe sought to support a public broadcasting production. After numerous conversations with the Endowment’s development team, she ultimately landed on Reconstruction 360, a web and mobile application that brings contemporary scholarship about the Reconstruction period to a project designed for mobile devices and intended for the public, students and educators. Because of their generous contribution, this enlightening and educational content is available at no charge.
Dr. John Baynes and Dr. Suzanne Thorpe, Outstanding Philanthropists.
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HISTORIC GIFT BOOSTS UNITED WAY’S IMPACT
As I reflect on the journey of United Way of the Midlands, one thing stands out: we are a community of people that cares deeply about the place we call home. For nearly a century, United Way has been working side by side with this community, addressing immediate needs and laying the foundation for long-term change. Today, I’m thrilled to share a bold new step in that mission — our Campaign for Good. And I’m inviting you to join us in making history.
This campaign holds a special place in my heart. It all began with a moment that took my breath away: an unsolicited, unrestricted $10 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. It was the largest individual donation in United Way of the Midlands’ history, and it signified something powerful. MacKenzie Scott saw something in us—something in the Midlands—that inspired her to invest in our future.
That donation was a profound validation of the work we’ve been doing, but it also sparked a conversation with our board. We asked ourselves, “If someone who doesn’t live here can see the potential in what we’re doing, what can we achieve with our own community behind us?” And so, we committed to matching her incredible generosity, aiming to raise an additional $10 million to bring our total impact to $20 million.
Raising $20 million is no small feat, but neither are the challenges we face in the Midlands. Every day, we balance the immediate needs of our community — like access to health care, housing, and financial stability — with the bigger picture of creating generational change. Thanks to MacKenzie Scott’s gift, we’re now able to shift more energy toward that long-term vision than ever before.
One way we’re doing that is through our WellPartners program, where we’ve made a $4 million investment to provide free vision and dental care to people in need. Health is foundational to everything — education, employment, quality of life — and this program is transforming lives by ensuring access to these essential services.
We’re also focusing on affordable housing. Recently, we invested $600,000 into the “Village at Winnsboro” in Fairfield County. This project provides affordable, high-quality housing for local teachers, helping to ensure that those shaping our children’s futures have a stable home close to where they work. We’ve invested $4 million housing initiatives like this one, and we’ve been able to leverage more than $66 million in total project costs. It’s these types of investments that not only address immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for stronger, more vibrant communities.
But we can’t stop there. Our Campaign for Good is about doing more. It’s about creating
a Midlands where every family is economically stable, where students, especially young men of color, are graduating from college at higher rates, and where meaningful workforce development opportunities are available to everyone. Through our Whole Family Strategy and programs like Young Men United, we’re committed to making that vision a reality, but we need your help.
This campaign is an opportunity for all of us to be a part of something groundbreaking. It’s a chance to amplify the work we’re doing and to leave a legacy that will echo in this community for another hundred years. MacKenzie Scott’s gift gave us momentum, but it’s the people of the Midlands who will turn that momentum into lasting change.
Today, I’m asking you to join us. Whether it’s through a donation, volunteering your time, or simply spreading the word, your involvement matters. Together, we can meet this $20 million goal and create the kind of generational change that will make the Midlands a place where everyone can thrive.
Visit uway.org/cfg to learn more about how you can be part of this transformative moment. Let’s continue pushing the Midlands forward — together.
Sara Fawcett is President and CEO of the United Way of the Midlands
Sara Fawcett, President and CEO, United Way of Midlands
CCCF: YOUR COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR CHARITABLE GIVING
Apediatrician screens a child for delays, teaches a parent about the importance of reading, and gives a new mom her child’s first book. A young man rebuilds his life post-incarceration, finding employment and new ways of dealing with hardship. Professional musicians bring their melodies to the people, performing in parks and nursing homes. Our beloved community becomes more vibrant, and its residents thrive because of the tapestry of nonprofits serving the Midlands.
Central Carolina Community Foundation offers a platform for impact, for giving, for investing, to thousands of donors whose generosity meets immediate needs and creates lasting change. We are your foundation.
Central Carolina Community Foundation is a collection of funds – over 500 in all – established to honor a legacy, to engage multiple generations in giving, to channel the resources from the sale of a business or a particularly good year into the charitable efforts of nonprofits, institutions of higher education, and the faith community. Taken together, the grants from these hundreds of funds make a transformative impact on the Midlands.
Georgia Mjartan, President and CEO, Central Carolina Community Foundation
The Reach Out and Read program is a partnership with area medical professionals to teach families the importance of shared reading between parents and children. (Photo/Central Carolina Community Foundation)
Through donor advised funds, both endowed and non-endowed, gifts to funds supporting particular categories of impact like women and children, animal welfare, or the arts, and through gifts to the foundation itself, donors choose how Central Carolina Community Foundation can help them realize their vision and charitable calling.
As we celebrate Central Carolina Community Foundation’s 40th anniversary, we are celebrating you – the nonprofits whose work our grants support and the donors who call us their partner in philanthropy. Thank you for allowing us to be your foundation.
Visit us at www.YourFoundation.org to read stories of impact and to see how
we can support you in building a legacy of giving that will last for generations.
Georgia Mjartan is President and CEO of the Central Carolina Community Foundation .
In the top photo, Conduct the Phil, a South Carolina Philharmonic Orchestra program supported by the Central Carolina Community Foundation, brings symphony music to a larger audience with interactive concerts in informal settings. At bottom, the Turn90 print shop program offers criminal offenders a chance to learn marketable skills and receive long-term support when they re-enter the workplace. (Photos/Central Carolina Community Foundation)
NURTURING YOUNG MINDS: UNITED WAY’S MRC PROGRAM SPARKS A LOVE OF LEARNING
United Way’s Midlands Reading Consortium is igniting a passion for literacy and STEM in the hearts of young learners.
First launched in 2006, United Way of the Midlands’ MRC has evolved into a comprehensive education program that not only fosters a love for reading but also ignites passion for learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The heart of the MRC program lies in its dedicated volunteers. From one-on-one reading sessions to leading STEM activities, volunteers play a crucial role in shaping young minds.
“MRC volunteers are vital to the program’s success,” said Jabari Bodrick, United Way’s Senior Director of Education and Resiliency. “They provide students with a safe space to learn and develop their skills and interests with individualized attention. It truly makes a life-long difference and doesn’t require much of your time.”
The beauty of MRC lies in its accessibility –no prior teaching experience is required, just a positive attitude and a commitment to helping students grow. MRC offers five unique volunteer opportunities, each designed to foster curiosity and learning in engaging ways:
• One-on-One (1:1) Reading Volunteers support students in building reading skills and confidence. Volunteers commit to 30
minutes weekly for at least 12 sessions from October to May.
• Classroom Readers bring books to life in a fun and theatrical way! Volunteers commit to one 15 to 30-minute reading session with an entire class during the school day.
• Family Game Night Volunteers help us create a fun and interactive evening for students and their families at school engagement events. Whether it’s setting up, leading activities, or helping with clean-up, your involvement will make a big difference.
• STEM Activity Coordinators lead interactive, hands-on STEM activities (e.g., making slime or building catapults) after school. Volunteers commit to 1-2 hours after school, with all materials and instructions provided
• STEM Girls Support Volunteers will help 3rd-grade girls explore STEM through activities like coding. Volunteers provide support for an hour after school, assisting with materials and troubleshooting under the instructor’s guidance.
MRC doesn’t stop at standalone STEM programming. Reading volunteers have access to a rich collection of STEM-themed books with discussion guides, making these topics accessible and engaging for all students.
Last year alone, MRC reached over 2,300
students in the Midlands with its literacy and STEM programs. This month, United Way of the Midlands is launching a pilot program called STEM Girls. This four-week initiative is designed to build confidence and career readiness in 3rd grade girls through hands-on exploration of topics like biomedical engineering and data science.
Want to be a part of the solution? Whether you have a half hour a week to read with a student or an afternoon to lead a STEM activity, MRC offers a variety of ways to get involved and make a lasting impact on a child’s future. Visit uway.org/mrc to learn more and ignite a spark in a young mind today!
About United Way of the Midlands United Way of the Midlands is the most collaborative, efficient and accountable model for investing in the improvement of the Midlands community. United Way works to identify and respond to the critical human service needs of Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties. Funds are raised through workplace campaigns, grant writing and individual donations and are directed to fight for causes including childhood literacy, economic mobility and dental and eye care for those without resources. For more information, please visit www.uway.org.
The United Way’s Midlands Reading Consortium (left) and STEM programs for elementary students are two of the many educational outreach programs United Way of the Midlands supports and promotes. (Photos/United Way of the Midlands)
CCCF’S ONE SC FUND PROVIDES MUCH-NEEDED DISASTER RELIEF
The offers to help started coming within hours of Hurricane Helene ripping through South Carolina, destroying homes, upending lives, leaving hundreds of thousands of residents without power, many without food, and some without a home. In times of crisis, our first responders mobilize, neighbors help neighbors, and the corporate and philanthropic community step up to do what we can.
In response to Hurricane Helene, Central Carolina Community Foundation activated the One SC Fund, providing a way for corporate and philanthropic donors to give to disaster relief and recovery in the state. Dozens of companies, foundations, and individuals have given
By Georgia Mjartan CEO, Central Carolina Community Foundation
already, but more resources are needed to meet the long-term demands of recovery.
Initially, the funds are used to meet the basic needs of our community members most directly impacted by the disaster. The first dollars given to the One SC Fund were distributed to food banks responding to the overwhelming demand from people who had lost their food during power outages.
Then, Central Carolina Community Foundation makes grants to nonprofits working locally to return men, women and children to safe, secure and sanitary housing in the wake of a natural disaster. With a focus on our most vulnerable and hardest hit counties, donors who give to the One SC Fund know their dollars
make an impact locally.
The One SC Fund was established in response to the Thousand Year Flood in 2015. Activations take place in conjunction with the South Carolina Governor’s Office, who calls on Central Carolina Community Foundation to provide the statewide philanthropic response when a disaster is of such magnitude that it will require a true public-private partnership for relief and long-term recovery. Hurricane Helene is the fifth activation of the One SC Fund.
To give to Hurricane Helene relief and recovery in South Carolina or to learn more about our disaster response grants to nonprofits, visit OneSCFund.org.
FORT Y
The Forty Under 40 Awards celebrate exceptional professionals aged 40 and younger who have significantly impacted their organizations and the local community within the past year.
The Women of Influence Awards recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of women from various industries and sectors, including business, entrepreneurship, public service, education, and community engagement. These remarkable women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, resilience, and innovation, paving the way for future generations.
Top Projects honors the best South Carolina construction projects completed the previous year from infrastructure and transportation to renovations, private buildings and major public projects.
Statewide - May 2025
Best Places to Work in South Carolina is a research-driven program from Best Companies Group that examines your company’s practices, programs, and benefits and surveys your employees for their perspectives.
Statewide - August 2025
The Most Influential Leader event spotlights leaders who have played an important role in the business community in South Carolina.
Empowering Women awards recognizes companies and organizations that have shown a strong commitment to supporting and elevating women in South Carolina.
Statewide
- August 2025
and
HELPING OUT
HELPING OUT
Charitable programs throughout the greater Columbia area are supported by the United Way of the Midlands. Some of those include outreach programs to help at-risk youths, school supply drives, food drives, affordable housing initiatives and educational outreach. (Photos/United Way of the Midlands)
UNITED WAY OF THE MIDLANDS AND HOMELESS NO MORE PARTNER WITH MUNGO HOMES TO BUILD
MICHAEL’S HOUSE
Mungo Homes, United Way of the Midlands and Homeless No More announced the groundbreaking of Michael’s House, a first of its kind market-rate home to benefit United Way’s and Homeless No More’s continued work in creating longterm stability for Midlands’ families.
Net proceeds from the sale of Michael’s House will provide direct funding to help build the Village at St. Andrews, a transitional community for Lexington County families with children. The community will provide support services, an on-site accredited childcare center, and a small grocery store for residents and the surrounding area.
“Our decades of experience working with homeless and at-risk families with children has shown us those we serve need more than just housing,” said Dr. Lila Anna Sauls, President and CEO of Homeless No More. “Families need support services such as childcare
UNITED WAY OF THE MIDLANDS NAMES CALVIN ELAM 2025 HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
United Way of the Midlands is pleased to announce Calvin Elam as the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year award recipient. Mr. Elam will be honored on Feb. 27, 2025 at the Pastides Alumni Center.
The Humanitarian of the Year Award is given each year to individuals who clearly demonstrate extraordinary leadership in philanthropic and human services in our community. It is the highest single honor of philanthropic achievement in the Midlands.
“The annual Humanitarian of the Year dinner and award celebration is an occasion for us to come together and celebrate the tireless efforts of
and life-skill programming to further their journey towards independence. We appreciate our partnerships with United Way of the Midlands, Mungo Homes, and their partners and team members for understanding this need and providing support for our mission through Michael’s House.”
Located at 811 Bronco Lane in Hendrix Farm in Lexington County, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home has 2,974 square feet with a gourmet gas kitchen, sunroom, loft, and upgraded architectural details. Mungo Homes will donate the net proceeds from the home to United Way of the Midlands, which will match this gift and grant funding to Homeless No More, which will assist in the development of the Village at St. Andrews. Michael’s House will be finished and available for purchase in February 2025. The Village at St. Andrews will be ready for families in fall 2025.
“The development of Michael’s House gives
our community’s most prolific philanthropists, and I’m thrilled that this year’s recipient is Calvin Elam,” said Sara Fawcett, United Way of the Midlands President and CEO. “His outstanding leadership across a multitude of local organizations, including United Way of the Midlands, has been instrumental in providing support to our most vulnerable community members.”
Mr. Elam has been an active board member with United Way of the Midlands for the last six years. In that time, he played a critical role in establishing UWM’s Race, Equity, and Inclusion
us the opportunity to further our commitment to improving self-sufficiency for Midlands families and our Lexington County community in need,” said Sara Fawcett, President and CEO of United Way of the Midlands. “We are grateful to partner with organizations like Homeless No More and Mungo Homes to continue to find innovative ways to empower people to build their own path to success.”
Other funding supporting this partnership came from the generous gift of $10 million to United Way of the Midlands from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. It is the largest gift from an individual donor in the organization’s history. Join us now as we work to match MacKenzie Scott’s donation and raise another $10 million in our community through our Campaign for Good. Your donor dollars will go towards United Way’s strategies for housing and community needs. To learn more please visit uway.org/cfg.
Standing Committee, and served as its Chair. Currently, Mr. Elam serves as Co-Chair of the Campaign for Good, spearheading the effort to raise $10 million to match MacKenzie Scott’s $10 million contribution. Grants from this fund will focus on affordable housing, access to health care, ensuring reading and STEM proficiency by third grade, and preparing young Black men for career and college success.
Mr. Elam has also served on the boards for both Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) and hospitals for more than 25 years. He’s served as a board member at Claflin University for 12 years, as well as a dedicated member of the Central Carolina Community Foundation’s board for seven years, where he recently served as Chair and championed the expansion of the Foundation’s office space and the creation of a Collaboration Zone. This 3,350 square-foot facility will provide a much-needed virtual, hybrid, and in-person meeting and training space for area nonprofits.
United Way, Homeless No More and Mungo Homes have partnered on a program to create more long-term housing stability for Midlands families. (Photo/United Way of the Midlands)
Calvin Elam is the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year.
Changing Lives for Fathers and Families
How we can help:
• We provide community-based programs and support groups for fathers, free of charge.
• We help fathers connect to other services they need so they can meet their responsibilities and secure their parental rights.
• We offer job coaching and employment connections that benefit fathers, their families and employers in our communities.
• We’re a resource for local organizations that want to provide family support and father-friendly services.
MISSION
STATEMENT:
To engage fathers in the positive support of their children and to enhance support for fatherhood in the Midlands.
QUICK FACTS:
NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Midlands Fatherhood Coalition
YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2002
TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Angela McDuffie
CONTACT INFORMATION:
1420 Colonial Life Blvd. Ste 80 803-933-0052
www.midlandsfathers.com
CORPORATE GIVING CONTACT:
Eleanor Boyd, Development Consultant 1420 Colonial Life Blvd, Suite 80, Columbia SC 29210
919-599-4101
eboyd@midlandsfathers.com
AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2024: 50
TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2023-2024): $1,640,549
PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 83.33% (4 Star Charity Navigator Rating)
GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Midlands counties with sites in Richland, Lexington and Sumter. Orangeburg site in Family Solutions. Aiken site coming in 2025.
GREATEST NEED: Financial support for outreach, program implementation, individual needs for fathers, expanding services and establishing sites in other areas in the Midlands.
2024 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS:
A CLOSER LOOK:
CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES:
• Focused on outreach to renew or build relationships with community partners, including state agencies, law enforcement, nonprofit organizations and community groups.
• Orangeburg County Site launched Family Solutions and Community KickOff event.
• Aiken County Community Building.
2024-25 GOALS:
• 385 Fathers graduate from the MFC Program.
• Permanent office sites established in Orangeburg and Aiken with office space and staff.
• Fundraise to Sustain and Grow
• Develop print marketing materials and training for external communications
• Execute key community partnerships
FUNDRAISING EVENTS:
• Online - Giving Tuesday December 3, 2024
• Board Peer to Peer Fundraiser February 15-March 31, 2025
• Midlands Gives May 6, 2025
• Give Day August 28. 2025
• Holiday and Father’s Day Annual Giving Campaigns
• Fatherhood Graduation Banquet October 24, 2024 at Segra Park
• Sponsorships for the Annual Graduation Celebration (October)
• An Evening with the Fireflies, FatherChild Event- MFC Organization of the Game (July)
• Father-Child Activities
• Christmas Adopt-A–Family, Giving Tuesday, December 3, 2024
• Board Peer to Peer Fundraiser, February 15-March 31, 2025
• Midlands Gives May 6, 2025
• Give Day August 28, 2025
• Holiday and Father’s Day Annual Giving Campaigns
• Fatherhood Graduation Banquet October 24, 2024 at Segra Park
2025 HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR
Calvin Elam, EFinancial Advisors
The Humanitarian of the Year Award is given each year to an individual who clearly demonstrates extraordinary leadership in philanthropic and human services. It is the highest single honor of philanthropic achievement in the Midlands.
“Calvin’s unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community service have made an indelible mark on our community,” said Sara Fawcett, President & CEO of United Way of the Midlands. “His outstanding leadership across a multitude of local organizations, including United Way of the Midlands, has been instrumental in providing support to our most vulnerable community members.”
United Way of the Midlands will honor Calvin Elam as the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year award recipient on February 27, 2025, at the University of South Carolina’s Pastides Alumni Center.
2024 ALYCE KEMP DEWITT AWARD RECIPIENT | Kevin Lindler
United Way of the Midlands is proud to honor Kevin Lindler as this year’s Alyce Kemp DeWitt recipient. The Alyce Kemp Dewitt Award is United Way’s most prestigious award for long-term service to the organization and the community.
“Kevin has a long history of volunteerism with United Way of the Midlands,” said Fawcett. “He started as a founding member of our Young Leaders Society almost 20 years ago, and now serves in several capacities on our Board of Directors. No matter what Kevin does, professionally or personally, he leads with his heart.”
2024 LIVE UNITED VOLUNTEER AWARD WINNERS
Cathy Dolan and Brittany Owen
The LIVE UNITED Award recognizes volunteers who have dedicated themselves to service throughout the year and helped promote the spirit of volunteering with United Way. Winners are chosen by a selection committee of United Way volunteers.
As a longtime United Way Midlands Reading Consortium volunteer, Cathy Dolan has gone above and beyond for the students and instilled a love of reading and knowledge. Brittany Owen has served with United Way for 14 years, during which she has volunteered on several committees and chaired multiple initiatives. Congratulations, Cathy and Brittany!
Brittany Owen (right) presented with the 2024 LIVE UNITED Award by United Way’s Sara Fawcett.
Kevin Lindler (right) presented with the 2024 Alyce Kemp Dewitt Award by United Way’s Sara Fawcett.
QUICK FACTS:
NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: United Way of the Midlands
YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1925
TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Sara Fawcett, President and CEO
CONTACT INFORMATION:
1818 Blanding St., Columbia, SC 29201 803-733-5400 uway.org
CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS:
GB Olsen, Vice President, Resource Development 1818 Blanding St., Columbia, SC 29201 803-758-6992 golsen@uway.org
AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2024: United Way of the Midlands directly recruited 3,552 volunteers last year, who gave 20,000 hours of service. In addition, United Way’s Volunteer Center (uway.org/volunteer) referred 15,988 volunteers to United Way partners.
TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2023-2024):
$10,821,532
PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: On average, 82 cents of every dollar we raise goes to program services.
GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties.
GREATEST NEEDS: Donations and volunteerism are the two most important ways you can help. The needs in our community are many, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene, so if you are able to give, please do so at uway.org. Volunteer opportunities have increased as well—both virtual and in-person, and if you are able to volunteer in any way, we have many opportunities to choose from. You can search and sign up for opportunities at www.uway.org/volunteer. We need volunteers to read to kindergarten through third grade students through our Midlands Reading Consortium at www.uway.org/mrc. We are also seeking mentors and internships for our Young Men United program at www.uway.org/ ymu.
MISSION STATEMENT:
We unite people and resources to improve the quality of life in the Midlands.
A CLOSER LOOK:
2024 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS:
Last year, United Way of the Midlands served 38,416 people across the Midlands through grant-making and direct services.
ADDRESSING BASIC NEEDS:
• 3,106 individuals received emergency shelter; 75% of families and 331 individuals transitioned to permanent housing.
• 1,378 individuals, including 80 youth, were placed in permanent or transitional housing.
• 1,157 individuals made measurable behavior changes through case management services.
IMPROVING HEALTH:
• 5,863 dental and eye care visits provided through WellPartners.
• 2,834 patients received medical care at free clinics, with 1,609 improving health status.
• Over $1 million in in-kind dental treatments were provided, and 1,211 pairs of glasses distributed.
SUPPORTING SENIORS:
• 2,122 seniors received services, including 200,900 meals through Meals on Wheels. Improving Behavioral Health:
• 307 individuals made positive behavior changes through UWM-supported programs.
Accessing Resources:
• 13,285 calls and 23,400 referrals made through UWM’s 2-1-1 service; rent and electric assistance were the most-requested services.
BUILDING RESILIENCY:
• 2,528 students participated in UWM’s education and resiliency programs, including 2,371 students served through the Midlands Reading Consortium (MRC).
Creating Career Pathways:
• Young Men United expanded to serve 75 students across four schools with a 100% high school graduation rate for seniors.
Creating Generational Change:
• 438 families served, improving income for 67% and housing stability for 60% of families.
FINANCIAL STABILITY:
• 176 individuals increased their income, and 46 fathers completed job training programs.
ADVANCING AFFORDABLE HOUSING:
• $4 million invested in affordable housing projects, creating 377 new units. 2024-2025 IMPACT GOALS:
1) Forge strong education foundations in literacy and STEM for children.
2) Build pathways of economic opportunity for youth.
3) Help families permanently exit cycles of crisis and poverty.
4) Increase options for stable, affordable housing.
5) Improve our community’s connectedness and caring.
6) Cultivate equity in care and opportunities.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS:
January 2025: YLS Oyster Roast
February 2025: Driving Down Main Virtual Golf Tournament
May 2025: Women in Philanthropy’s Power of the Purse
Visit our website to view more upcoming events! www.uway.org/events
CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES:
United Way welcomes individuals and organizations to increase community capacity to care for itself through individual, leadership and major gifts, corporate gifts and sponsorship and employee giving.
FOR INFORMATION ON:
CORPORATE GIVING, WORKPLACE GIVING, SPONSORSHIPS – GB Olsen, 758-6992, golsen@uway.org
TOCQUEVILLE SOCIETY, LEGACY GIFTS, MAJOR GIFTS – Maria DeHart, mdehart@ uway.org
INDIVIDUAL PHILANTHROPY – Chelsey Malloy, cmalloy@uway.org
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES – Laura Gould, lgould@uway.org
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