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2016 Columbia Giving

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Giving YOUR GUIDE TO COMMUNITY GIVING IN THE MIDLANDS | 2016-17

THE MANY FACES OF PHILANTHROPY

Celebrating givers from all walks of life Sponsored by:

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Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

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Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

CONTENTS Associate Publisher - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7546 Assistant Graphic Designer - Emily Matesi ematesi@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3124 Assistant Graphic Designer - Jessica Stout jstout@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 MIDLANDS NEWSROOM Editor - Chuck Crumbo ccrumbo@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7542

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DIVERSITY IN GIVING

QUICK FACTS

4

AWARD WINNERS

6

HELPING OUT

14

THE OCTOBER FLOOD AND GIVING

18

GENERATIONAL GIVING

Staff Writer - Melinda Waldrop mwaldrop@scbiznews.com • 803-726-7543 Research Specialist - Patrice Mack pmack@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7544

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

MIDLANDS ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT 24

Senior Account Executive - Alan James ajames@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7540 Account Executive - Lucia Smith lsmith@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7547

South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth President and Group Publisher - Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3103 Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3110 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox rwilcox@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117 Event Manager - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677, ext. 110 Audience Development & IT Manager - Kim McManus kmcmanus@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3116 Accounting Manager - Vickie Deadmon vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7541 Events Executive - Terri Alexander talexander@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677, ext. 100 CUSTOM MEDIA DIVISION Director of Business Development - Mark Wright mwright@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3143

ABOUT THE COVER: Kids play a giving game at EdVenture; see story, Page 18. (Photo/Jeff Blake)

Dear Readers,

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s we were wrapping up the articles for this year’s Giving, I got a call from Priscilla Henry, whose photos you’ll see on Page 16. She’s still wearing that mile-wide smile because she and her husband, Joseph, are back in their freshly cleaned and repaired home. After last year’s flood, they had lived among some unhealthy mold until nonprofit agency SBP came to their rescue. Licia Jackson “It’s all about love,” Henry said. “Love conquers all.” There’s a lot of wisdom in those words, and you will read here about how far love and caring for others have taken the Midlands this year. A year out from the October 2015 flood, the community has started a new effort, Restoring Hope, to keep working on home repairs for those who need help. Involved in that effort and many others are the United Way’s Humanitarians of the

Year for 2016. Be sure to read about these honorees, Stewart and Steven Mungo, as well as the winners of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ National Philanthropy Day awards. Also recognized here are the winners of the Central Carolina Community Foundation’s Best of Philanthropy Awards. This year Giving celebrates the wonderful diversity among donors and volunteers in the Midlands, and we take a look at how the community is mentoring a new generation of givers. There’s no time to lose. Finally, I’d like to thank our title sponsor, Bank of America, as well as our partners, the Central Carolina Community Foundation, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Central S.C. Chapter and the United Way of the Midlands. Keep on sharing,

SC Business Publications LLC A portfolio company of Virginia Capital Partners LLC, Frederick L. Russell Jr., Chairman The entire contents of this newspaper are copyright by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited. SCBIZ and South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

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Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 3


QUICK FACTS

GIVING

4.1%

BY THE

SINCE

2014

AMERICANS GAVE IN 2015

NUMBERS

$373.25 BILLION

FUN FACTS Historically, charitable giving rises about 1/3 as fast as the stock market.

1/3

Source: The Foundation Center

Online giving grew by 13.5% in 2013, while overall charitable giving grew by 4.9%.

13.5% IN 2013

Source: The Charitable Giving Report, derived from The Blackbaud Index

OF THAT TOTAL

$18.45 BILLION

5%

$31.76 BILLION

$58.46 BILLION

9%

16% 71%

ONLY 23.1% RESIDENTS VOULUNTEER

875,800

$264.58 BILLION

VOLUNTEERS

Individuals (71%) Foundations (16%)

Bequests (9%) Corporations (5%)

HERE’S WHERE THE MONEY GOES VOLUNTEERING IN SOUTH CAROLINA 23.1% OF RESIDENTS VOLUNTEER, RANKING THEM 44TH AMONG THE 50 STATES AND WASHINGTON, DC

132.2 MILLION HOURS OF SERVICE WORTH

$3.1 BILLION

35.2 HOURS

52.3%

VOLUNTEER HOURS PER CAPITA

RESIDENTS DONATE $25 OR MORE TO CHARITY

Source: Corporation for National and Community Service, www.volunteeringinamerica.gov; numbers are for 2014

4 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

RELIGION 32% EDUCATION 15% HUMAN SERVICES 12% GRANT-MAKING FOUNDATIONS 11% HEALTH 8% PUBLIC-SOCIETY BENEFIT 7% ARTS, CULTURE, HUMANITIES 5% INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS 4% ENVIRONMENTAL/ANIMALS 3% TO INDIVIDUALS 2% Source: Giving USA

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AWARD WINNERS

2016 AFP HONORS

NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY WINNERS E

very year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Central South Carolina Chapter, recognizes exemplary individuals, corporations and organizations involved in giving and volunteering in the Midlands. These winners illustrate what philanthropy is all about. AFP Central South Carolina is presenting six awards for 2016.

OUTSTANDING CORPORATION: THE MICHAEL J MUNGO FOUNDATION After growing up in poverty, Michael J. Mungo based his life on giving and quiet generosity after earning his fortune in residential real estate and development. Upon his death in April 2010, he left his estate to his foundation to better the lives of low-to-moderate income residents of the Midlands. His family has carried on his legacy and provides countless nonprofit organizations in the Midlands with philanthropic support to better our community and the people who live here. The Columbia Museum of Art and several other beneficiaries nominated The Michael J. Mungo Foundation and Mungo Homes for the AFP 2016 Outstanding Corporation for the National Day of Giving. The museum approached The Mungo Foundation with an opportunity to increase their support to bring a collection of art by famed artist Georgia O’Keeffe to Columbia—and more importantly, shed light on a little-known time when O’Keeffe herself taught at Columbia College. The Mungo Foundation also served as the presenting sponsor of the Ideas of My Own: Georgia O’Keeffe Centennial at Columbia College in memory of Columbia College professor Jennifer Mungo. The foundation’s contribution supported a yearlong celebration of the 100th anniversary of O’Keeffe’s time at the college as a professor of art. Since April 2014, Mungo Homes has partnered with WIS-TV to tell the stories of

Community Builders. People are asked to submit nominations through the WIS website and then a committee at Mungo Homes selects those who will be recognized. WIS and Mungo Homes then surprise each winner on camera with the very people who submitted the nomination. Mungo Homes presents the winners with a hard hat and a $1,000 check to the charity of their choice from the Michael J. Mungo Foundation. Over the last two years, Mungo has presented the Community Builder award to more than 50 local philanthropists. Looking farther back in history, Michael J. Mungo co-founded Harvest Hope in 1981 with the mission of providing for the needs of hungry people by gathering and sharing quality food with dignity, compassion and education. He understood that no family should ever face an empty table and no parent should look at their children to see the face of hunger. Most recently, The Michael J. Mungo Foundation presented Harvest Hope with a donation that provided almost 1 million meals. The exceptional kindness of the Mungo family continues to have a massive impact on Harvest Hope’s battle against hunger. Through their generosity, Mungo Homes reaches more people in our community by contributing to nonprofit organizations that serve the needs in the Midlands.

OUTSTANDING FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONAL: LOUIS FAWCETT Louis Fawcett has worked to raise over $14 million in major gifts for three organizations over 12 years. For six years, he raised support for orphans in China, Russia and Ethiopia. This included fundraising for orphans in China to receive cleft lip/palate and heart defect surgeries. In Russia, Louis’ efforts helped secure winter coats for children and vital equipment for orphanages. Louis led the $1 million capital campaign to build Acacia Village in Ethiopia – a

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children’s home for 200 orphans. While working for Mercy & Sharing in Haiti, Louis raised $6 million to fund an orphanage, three schools and five feeding programs. He instituted a child sponsorship program called Promise 126 to help fund the care of these orphans. At EdVenture, Louis has rebuilt the Development Department to achieve effective results. He is senior vice president of principal gifts and leads EdVenture’s fundraising efforts to expand locations and programming throughout South Carolina. Louis has secured funding to begin and sustain numerous programs for underresourced children and families, such as book distributions, literacy events and after school education. Due in part to Louis’ relationship building efforts, EdVenture has been named the Educational Coordinator for the Promise Zone in rural South Carolina. Louis has been an AFP member since 2010 and has been a fundraiser since 2005. He led sessions at AFP conferences in Dallas, Texas (“Turning Event Participants into Major Donors,” June 2015) and a session on in Greensboro, NC (“Running the Spread Offense Fundraising,” August 2015). He has also been a keynote speaker at AFP Chapter meetings in Georgia, Texas and California. Louis is president elect of the AFP Central SC Chapter and serves as president of the Lighthouse for Life Board. Lighthouse for Life is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing human trafficking and providing a refuge for underage victims of human trafficking. Lighthouse will soon open a safe house for underage victims – the first of its kind in South Carolina. OUTSTANDING MARKETING PROFESSIONAL IN SUPPORT OF A NONPROFIT: ASHLEY DUSENBURY Ashley Dusenbury, assistant vice president of public relations for Palmetto Health Foundation, is the consummate marketing professional.

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Ashley has used her experience in agency and nonprofit settings to attain great results for Palmetto Health Foundation. She has supported its four signature fundraising events (Festival of Trees, Walk for Life, KEMOPALOOZA and the McDaniels Golf Classic) plus two major partner events, Radiothon and USC Dance Marathon. These events raised on average $3 million per year, in total, and could not have done so without solid marketing and public relations support. Ashley has also supported the Major Gifts development team with special fundraising initiatives including four annual giving societies, special capital and programmatic campaigns that raised approximately $3 million per year. Ashley has supported, for example, the Child Abuse Medical Assessment Program campaign that was launched in 2015. She created all the marketing materials including the case statement and more than $800,000 was raised in a few months. She has been instrumental in securing in-kind media donations year after year to garner support and participation in fundraising events. Ashley has produced high-quality, awardwinning, professional marketing support materials and case statements for development officers and event directors to use in securing sponsorships, grants and other financial support for programs and services of the hospital. By getting to know the patients served by the hospital and learning about their challenges, Ashley has been able to connect prospective donors to the real reason they would want to give – to improve and save lives of people right in our community. Ashley has supported a team of fundraising professionals with proven tools that have helped raise more than $50 million in her nine-year tenure. These funds have supported the patients and families of Palmetto Health with special programs, treatment options and extraordinary care. OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPISTS: FRANK AND SARAH BROWN Frank and Sarah Brown are caring and involved members of our community. They feel it is their responsibility to give back and have demonstrated that through their support of many local nonprofits, and especially the United Way of the Midlands. The Browns have supported the United Way for over 40 years, both financially and with professional services. They joined the Tocqueville Society for donors of $10,000+ in 2006 and in just those 10 years have given a total of $150,000 to the United Way. They had 30 years of prior giving to United Way totaling over $130,000. Currently Frank is serving on the United Way’s newly created www.columbiabusinessreport.com

Retiree Council, tasked with engaging retirees in the United Way’s work. Frank is also serving as a mentor to the Young Leaders Society through its annual Cocktails and Conversations dinner, where young professionals just charting their philanthropy journey are seated at the table with a Tocqueville Society donor who offers insight into how they came to become our highest level donor. In addition to United Way, the Browns significantly support Harvest Hope, SCETV, Free Medical Clinic and CASA. Although Frank has been the front man as far as service, they are a true couple who have supported each other in everything. Frank’s lifetime of community service includes many years on various boards, including the United Way of the Midlands (past board member), the South Carolina Philharmonic (past board chair), Palmetto Health Foundation (past board chair), Junior Achievement (past board member), Sandlapper Singers (past board member), the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce (past board member), the Greater Columbia Children’s Choir (past board chair) and the Columbia Rotary Club (past board member). Sarah served as a volunteer church librarian at Eastminster Presbyterian for 19 years. Frank has been a deacon, a Stephen Minister and elder, Sunday school class teacher and a member of numerous committees. Frank has been involved in market and consumer behavior research for more than three decades. He began his professional career in market research in the mid-1970s, after teaching social psychology and research methods at both Emory University and the University of South Carolina. Co-founding Metromark Research in 1974 and then founding MarketSearch in 1985, Frank quickly became recognized nationally for his ability to produce practical research for clients. He has provided pro bono research for many area nonprofits over the years, including United Way. Frank has encouraged his staff to volunteer in the community and for professional organizations. His staff has had 100% giving to United Way since his company’s founding in 1985. His staff say that he has been the most caring, compassionate, generous employer that anyone could ever hope for. As a researcher Frank helped United Way of the Midlands understand its position and recognition in this community. He currently serves on United Way’s Marketing and Communications Committee. Sarah and Frank have been married for 53 years. They have two grown children and five grandchildren. They love the performing arts,

symphonic music and opera and enjoy traveling. After expressing some reluctance at being nominated, Frank accepted the nomination acknowledging that his wife Sarah’s advancing Alzheimer’s would make it increasingly challenging for her to understand and appreciate the recognition. OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISERS: MIKE BRENAN AND SARA FAWCETT Mike Brenan and Sara Fawcett are the co-chairs for the 2015 and 2016 United Way Campaigns. Their volunteer organization supports campaigns in six counties calling on over 550 companies and organizations annually and generating a projected $22 million for the twoyear period to support United Way’s focus areas including health access, homelessness, student success and flood recovery. Both serve on the United Way Board, which Mike Brenan chaired in 2008. Co-chairing United Way’s workplace campaign is actually a return visit for Brenan, who chaired the annual campaign in 2008, raising $8.7 million. Sara Fawcett, a former Junior Leaguer from Winston-Salem, NC, brings a rich direct service experience to the team, having previously served as chairman of United Way’s Financial Stability Council and chairman of the Community Impact Council. In that role, she helped direct United Way’s targeted investments over the past year. She additionally helped coordinate volunteer engagements at EDENS, including that company’s robust volunteer and financial response to flood recovery. Brenan’s volunteer leadership ability and engagement is legendary as illustrated by his chairmanship of the Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics Foundations, Transform SC, Palmetto Business Forum, Moore School of Business Partnership Foundation, SC Independent Colleges and Universities Foundation and Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce and the Central South Carolina Alliance. He has been the recipient of numerous honors including United Way’s Humanitarian of the Year (2012), the Beacon of Hope Award (2003) and Distinguished Service Award, Darla Moore School of Business (2010). Over the two-year period as co-chairs, they will have contributed over 240 hours. Based on accepted standard, the value of team volunteer time is $4,934. Brenan and his wife, Julie, have been Tocqueville Society contributors to United Way since 2007. They are currently recognized nationally as members of the Ordre de Liberte for 2015-2016. Sara Fawcett is a Silver Palmetto Society

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 7


AWARD WINNERS

PREVIOUS PHILANTHROPY DAY WINNERS SINCE 2008 Outstanding Corporation 2015 – Wells Fargo 2014 – Colonial Life 2013 – Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union 2012 – SCANA 2011 – Enterprise Holdings 2010 – B106.7 2009 – Palmetto Health 2008 – Bose Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser 2015 – Mollie Taylor 2014 – Bishop Redfern II 2013 – Barbara and Roger Blau 2012 – Sharon Bryant and Michael Seezen 2012 – Ron and Hannah Rogers 2011 – Bill McDaniels 2010 – Pamela Lackey and Scott Shockley 2009 – Steve Morrison and Mary Kennemur 2008 – Dr. Charley and Beebe James Outstanding Youth/Youth Group Fundraiser 2015 – Heathwood Hall students 2014 – Cardinal Newman School 2013 – Hammond School Student Body; Megan Marie Reardon 2012 – Rotary Club of Vista Night 2011 – Trinity Cathedral Youth Group 2010 – Miss Helen Clay/Airport High School SGA 2009 – Hammond School Red Cross Club 2008 – Spring Valley Homecoming Committee Outstanding Fundraising Executive 2015 – Maria H. DeHart 2014 – Ginny Waller 2013 – Denise Holland 2012 – Kathy Hill, CFRE 2011 – Mary Balbach 2010 – Anita Floyd 2009 – Love Collins III 2008 – Michael Gray Outstanding Philanthropist 2015 – Norman and Gerry Sue Arnold 2014 – Debbie Zvejnieks 2013 – Melissa and Joe Blanchard 2011 – Phillip Edwards 2010 – Mr. and Mrs. William P. Kennedy 2009 – Darla D. Moore 2008 – Dr. Colgate “Coke” W. Darden III Outstanding Volunteer Group Fundraiser 2015 – Junior League of Columbia 2014 – Pink Posse Philes 2013 – Richland Library Friends 2011 – Women in Philanthropy 2010 – Young Leaders Society 2009 – Colonial Life 2008 – USC Dance Marathon Committee

contributor and a member of United Way’s affinity group, Women in Philanthropy. During the 2015 campaign alone, total dollars generated through the United Way workplace campaign, including dollars specifically targeted at flood recovery, totaled $11.6 million, representing a 7.4% increase over the prior year. For the 2015 campaign, Brenan and Fawcett recruited 122 solicitors who made visits on 560 companies. They in turn helped recruit over 865 internal volunteers to work on their company drives. In the process, over 40,000 donors were engaged. The nominees were successful in engaging the United Way Board in the campaign process giving, soliciting companies and individuals, attending events and supporting the Legacy Society. They also successfully engaged their coworkers. Over the four-year period of 2012-2015, EDENS contributed $347,000, averaging 100% participation. BB&T similarly contributed $340,504 during that period. OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER GROUP FUNDRAISERS: PALMETTO HEALTH FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Palmetto Health Foundation’s 2015 board of directors is a 27-member volunteer group, nominated for their successful completion of a fundraising campaign on behalf of the community’s children. In spring 2015, the board raised $800,000 in just 90 days to expand the Child Abuse Medical Assessment Program at Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital. Child abuse and neglect are welldocumented, pervasive problems in the community. They are more common than Type I diabetes, pediatric cancer and sickle cell anemia. A critically important step in stopping the cycle is getting children who are suspected to have been abused in to see a specially trained health

care provider as soon as possible. Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital and the Palmetto Health-USC Medical Group have pediatricians and nurse practitioners specially trained to recognize injuries sustained from abuse. They not only help the child heal physically but help ensure the child is protected from further abuse or neglect – by providing a thorough, written medical assessment of the child’s injuries. Thanks directly to the board’s efforts, Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital was able to hire three FTE medical providers (two pediatricians and one nurse practitioner) and expand the Child Abuse Medical Assessment Program to two new clinical sites: The Family Services Center within Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital and Dickerson Child Advocacy Center in Lexington County. By growing the team and geographical presence, the program has been able to meet the needs of more children. The total, unduplicated count of children seen in the Midlands has increased from 388 in 2014 to an anticipated 1,035 in 2016. Put differently, the program is serving 647 more children annually compared to two years ago. In addition to providing physical exams and consultations, the medical team provides consultation to outside Emergency Departments, law enforcement and DSS. They are better able to work proactively to ensure children are referred for a medical assessment in a prompt manner. The providers often spend four or more hours on one child’s case – including conducting the initial examination; writing the assessment; communicating with the child’s caregivers; coordinating follow-up with DSS and other agencies; and testifying when cases go to court. They are an invaluable resource for our community.

Past Humanitarian of the Year Recipients United Way of the Midlands 2015 Paul Fant 2014 Judy Davis 2013 John W. Folsom 2012 Mike Brenan 2011 John D. Baker 2010 Cathy B. Novinger 2009 George W. “Bill” Rogers 2008 Martha Scott Smith 2007 Suzan Boyd and Ed Sellers 2006 Bill Cassels and Tobin Cassels 2005 Samuel J. Tenenbaum 2004 Guy F. Lipscomb 2003 Gayle Averyt 2002 Charlotte Lunsford Berry 2001 John W. Fling 2000 Joe Anderson, Joel Smith and Bob Staton

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1999 Betty Duffie 1998 Maj. Gen. Robert B. Solomon 1997 E. Perry Palmer 1996 Joseph L. Pinner 1995 Robert L. Blanton, Jr. 1994 Evan and Cindy Nord 1993 B. Palmer McArthur 1992 Sister Mary Jacob 1991 Jean W. Blount 1990 George C. Fant Jr. 1989 Frank S. Smith Jr. 1988 Virgil C. Summer 1987 William R. Ballou 1986 J. Willis Cantey 1985 O. Stanley Smith Jr. 1984 G. Cameron Todd

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AWARD WINNERS

BRINGING A DIVERSE SET OF PHILANTHROPISTS TO THE TABLE

C

entral Carolina Community Foundation’s mission is to promote, facilitate and increase philanthropy throughout the Midlands. Throughout history, philanthropy has been used almost exclusively to describe generous gifts of large sums of money – typically by millionaires and billionaires. For many people, philanthropy triggers images of billionaire moguls presenting huge cardboard checks to nonprofit organizations or front-page news stories announcing eight-figure donations to combat poverty. In recent years, the definition has begun to widen to encompass any size contribution, not just from the wealthy, but from people in every JoAnn Turnquist Central Carolina Comincome bracket. It includes donations, not only munity Foundation, of money, but of time and talent. And, the profile President and CEO of a philanthropist has broadened to include not only the elite but working men and women, many with multicultural heritages — African American, Asian American, Latino, Native American, Arab American — and the list goes on. Individually and collectively, these philanthropists are innovating and incubating new methods and approaches to engaging everyday people in the practice of organized philanthropy and, in doing so, expanding the capacity of communities to develop the resources, access and support they need. The resulting identity-based philanthropy is gaining momentum and making an impact. According to an updated 2009 Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors inventory of 355 funds, identity-based grantmaking totals roughly $400 million annually – an amount equal to an $8 billion endowment. In order to achieve our mission to promote, facilitate and increase philanthropy, our Foundation is working to bring a diverse set of philanthropists to the table. We are creating a culture of inclusion to ensure that today’s perception of a philanthropist is not the perception we will have tomorrow. This August we hosted a panel discussion — Philanthropy Across Cultures — featuring speakers with varied backgrounds: Indian, Vietnamese, Cuban and African American, all of whom are passionate about giving back. Their stories helped illustrate the importance of giving across every culture and reinforced our philosophy of inclusion. As one speaker, Maria Smoak, stated, “We each bring something to the table and when we blend it, it becomes something new and more meaningful.” The 11 Midlands counties we serve are diverse. In order to understand the many “cultures of caring,” we will continue to listen to others in order to learn their hows, whys and histories of giving. These lessons will provide new perspectives, insights and experiences and help us figure out how to create a true “culture of giving.” We invite you to join us on this journey.

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Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 9


AWARD WINNERS

HUMANITARIANS OF THE YEAR 2016

Steven and Stewart Mungo

T

he Humanitarian of the Year Award is given to those who clearly demonstrate extraordinary leadership in philanthropic and human services. It is the highest single honor of philanthropic achievement in the Midlands. United Way of the Midlands is pleased to announce the 2016 Humanitarian of the Year, Stewart and Steven Mungo. Stewart and Steven were raised with the propensity for charity as it was impressed upon them by their father — the late Michael J. Mungo — who had been raised in abject poverty in rural South Carolina. Inspired by the experiences of his youth and the influence of his wife, Mary Meech Mungo, the elder Mungo acknowledged a desire to give back once he had found success in the development and home

building industry. A founder of Harvest Hope Food Bank, the elder Mungo would tell his sons, “You can’t imagine what it’s like not to know where your next meal is coming from.” Like their late father, the brothers have been especially impactful on organizations that support basic human needs such as health care, housing, and feeding the hungry. For example, at the height of the economic downturn in 2008, Steven said that “It might be a little tough in the housing industry right now, but some of our neighbors are starving.” It was then the “Feed Your Neighbor” campaign was created and, together with a matching gift of $100,000 from the Mungo brothers, almost $400,000 was raised for Harvest Hope Food Bank during a 30-day period. Stewart and Steven have impacted the community with personal assets as well as through the Michael J. Mungo Foundation. They continue their generosity to local food banks, annually donate $100,000 to the Columbia Free Medical Clinic and have donated $200,000 in collaboration with United Way of the Midlands

to restore flood-damaged homes. They have also been consistent advocates for Pawmetto Lifeline and large supporters of EdVenture Children’s Museum and Families Helping Families. They have donated land for schools, churches, and parks, and numerous other organizations. To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the company in 2014, the Community Builder Award was created to recognize unsung heroes in the Midlands community who quietly work and volunteer to better the lives of others – much like the late Michael J. Mungo and the brothers themselves. The Community Builder Program acts as a source of encouragement of philanthropy and selflessness, like homebuilder and honoree RB Gallup who voluntarily — and without compensation — helped recover a home in Forest Acres three months after the flood of 2015. In addition to the award, the recipient is given a $1,000 check from the Michael J. Mungo Foundation to donate to the charity of their choice. The Mungos will be recognized at the Humanitarian of the Year Award Dinner in February 2017.

BUILDING OUR COMMUNITY’S FUTURE LEADERS

T

he most valuable resource in this community is the people who live here. We rely on each other to make the Midlands an environment where individuals and families can grow and prosper. A successful community is made up of successful people. Successful people don’t just happen by chance. They are nurtured, coached and mentored Mac Bennett into adulthood. President and CEO United Way of the United Way begins Midlands investing in successful individuals by ensuring that every child enters kindergarten ready to learn and succeed. Our commitment to quality child development programs like Vital Connections and Children’s Garden ensures children and parents are given basic tools for success; early literacy programs like the Midlands Reading Consortium (MRC) strive to help every child read on grade level by third grade, a crucial indicator of high

school graduation rates; and funding for highperforming after-school programs helps keep students on the path to graduation. But what happens after high school? After college? Our investments in human capital for the Midlands do not stop! We continue investing in the workforce to ensure that the leaders of tomorrow are equipped to serve. Whether it’s fostering a desire for lifelong community service through the Business and Community Leadership Fellows program with USC, training them to be effective board members through Blueprint for Leadership, or providing professional development activities through our Young Leaders Society, United Way is molding impact-driven leaders who are engaged in meaningful, productive lives in the workplace and community. Research shows that today’s employee wants more than a paycheck. They want to work for companies that offer them opportunities for career development, but more than that, they want a company that encourages community engagement. Recognizing a dramatic shift of norms and corporate expectations with the

10 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

generations that followed the boomers, United Way began several programs in the mid-2000s to engage and develop emerging leaders. Providing resources and opportunity for Generation X and Yers, United Way soon was harvesting fresh ideas and contributions from young men and women representing a previously untapped age demographic. Phenomenal results have indicated these early investments were lucrative in yields of leadership, advocacy, fresh perspectives and financial commitments. For example, United Way is increasingly being led by individuals who received their start through the Young Leaders Society. The two most recent board chairs both received their start with United Way as YLS members. Critical volunteer leadership roles are being filled by past and current members of YLS, many of whom also graduated from Blueprint. Age is an important characteristic of diversifying community boards and leadership. Fortunately, at United Way we have found a strategy that is paying dividends with sharp young men and women leading the way!

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AWARD WINNERS

E

ach year, Central Carolina Community Foundation and Columbia Metropolitan Magazine host the Best of Philanthropy Awards to honor and celebrate ordinary people in our community who are making giving a priority for themselves, their family or their business. The winners will be honored at an event on Nov. 10, 6 p.m. at 701 Whaley. The 2016 winners are:

FACETIME:

MATCHING THE NEED OF THE DONOR TO GIVE WITH THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY

F

or many, Facetime is a way to connect virtually through their Apple devices. Press a button on a screen and in seconds you are having a face-to-face conversation with a friend or loved one hundreds or thousands of miles away. For fundraising professionals in the nonprofit arena, face time (not the app, but in person conversations) is Jennifer McCormack the lifeblood of success President and progress. When Central S.C. Chapter of the Association of Fundwe raise support for raising Professionals our organizations, we meet face-to-face with generous individuals, corporations, foundations and government entities. We share small talk, laughter, stories and deep conversations with people in order to discover Louis Fawcett their interests and President Elect passions. Through these Central S.C. Chapter of the Association of Fund- relationships, we are able raising Professionals to connect the faces of philanthropists with the faces of those served by our organizations. Fundraising is not about money. Rather,

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2016 Award Winners

it’s about connecting the needs of a donor with the needs of the community. Humans inherently feel the need to be generous and connected to their communities. Communities have needs to improve health, education, homelessness, workforce development and access to the arts. Fundraising professionals have the privilege of serving as the liaison among these needs in order to change and save lives. Facetime leads to trust. Trust leads to enduring relationships. Enduring relationships lead to major and planned gifts that support our most important, pressing and significant community needs. Tweets, Facebook posts, emails and direct mail pieces can be easily deleted, overlooked or thrown away. But you can’t delete a faceto-face conversation. In these meaningful conversations, hearts and minds are moved to help others. When faces are connected, things begin to happen. Over time, these faces are woven together into a great tapestry that tells the story of lives transformed. The faces of philanthropy are diverse and so are the face time conversations about philanthropy. What connects us all is our innate passion to help others. The Association of Fundraising Professionals supports the work of those who dedicate their careers to these passionate conversations — every day.

Individual Award: Dr. Todd Crump Dr. Todd Crump has volunteered as the medical director of the Free Medical Clinic for 18 years. In addition to working as an emergency room physician at the Lexington Medical Clinic, Crump oversees the daily operations of the clinic and recruits medical providers to volunteer. Local Business Award: Cox Industries For the last nine years, employees at Cox Industries in Orangeburg have given nine families the dream of a fully furnished home in partnership with Edisto Habitat for Humanity. Young Professional Award: Erin McCaskill Erin McCaskill volunteers with a number of nonprofit organizations across the Midlands, helping them raise the much-needed funds that allow them to serve the community. Student Group Award: Richland One Middle College Team V.I.P. (Volunteering is Philanthropy) Richland One Middle College V.I.P.’s goal is to serve the community and create a sustainable philanthropic culture. Last year this group of 95 students volunteered over 8,000 hours to help local organizations. To learn more about Central Carolina Community Foundation and the 2016 Best of Philanthropy Awards, please visit www.yourfoundation.org/BestOfPhilanthropy.

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 11


FEATURE STORY

WONDERFUL DIVERSITY

REGION’S GENEROSITY KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES By Licia Jackson

T

he Midlands is blessed with philanthropists from all walks of life. People off different backgrounds give to the many nonprofit organizations doing good work here. The list of donors is diversified by gender, occupation, economic background, place of birth, religion and any other demographic that can be named. Those who live in this region have been and continue to be generous, but that does not happen by accident. For many, awareness of need and cultivation of relationships help support their generosity. “All organizations that depend on giving look at the ebbs and flows,” said Mac Bennett, president and CEO of United Way of the Midlands. As the population changes, it’s important to find ways to connect. The United Way tracks demographic changes, and a few years back noted that women were becoming more prominent in giving in their households. More women were achieving professional degrees and higher incomes, Bennett pointed out. Ways to encourage women

to give, such as Women in Philanthropy, gained importance. As the baby boomers age out of the working population, the United Way has started a targeted effort to reach the millennial generations. “We started communicating differently,” Bennett said. “We have more social activities, more volunteer activities.” One benefit of this initiative is being able to engage much younger people in leadership positions. “It’s important to have the right people to lead the effort engaged in this work,” Bennett said. “They bring in their networks and a lot of new people.” It’s also important to realize that people move to Columbia from many places, including other countries, and they need to find the causes they would like to support. Beyond those already mentioned, there are many other diversity factors, from economic strata to educational background. “We have to be very intentional about how we draw groups together. It’s not necessarily a natural process,” Bennett said.

12 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

Recruiting from the workplace is a good start, as businesses are more deliberate about diversity, with a good balance of gender and race, he said. Also, being the location of the state capital and Fort Jackson means that the Midlands draws in people from more diverse backgrounds. To get a further sense of the diversity of the nonprofit world in the Midlands, take a look at the growing list of causes supported each year by Midlands Gives, powered by the Central Carolina Community Foundation. From the tiniest baby to the oldest senior citizen, there are organizations receiving support to meet their needs. The list can be seen at https://midlandsgives.org/. Understanding the cultural factors in giving also helps involve more people in philanthropy. Those of Jewish background have a long tradition of giving, said Barry Abels, executive director of the Katie and Irwin Kahn Jewish Community Center. Every faith group is based in something else, biblical teaching and the lessons they have grown up with. “We have a strong tradition with roots in Hebrew concepts,” Abels said.

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An important concept is tikkun olam, roughly translated “to complete the world” or “to heal the world.” “God did a lot to create the world,” Abels explained. “Our job is to make the place what it was intended to be.” And that is why lists of donors to the arts, education, health care institutions, environmental organizations and many other causes include names from the Jewish community. Even with a relatively small population of Jews in the Midlands, many from their ranks are prominent in charitable giving. Another tradition is tzedakah, loosely translated as charity but rooted in justice and righteousness. “We have an obligation to do justice in the world, a responsibility to help,” Abels said. The Columbia Jewish Federation, which is like the United Way for Jewish causes, supports

work with refugees and other international needs as well as local organizations. “When someone passes, you are remembered as much for your acts and what you have left behind,” Abels said. As the Midlands’ Latino population has grown, outreach efforts to help with their needs have expanded. A newer organization is PASOS, which grew out of a master’s project by Julie Smithwick. The nonprofit, hosted in the Midlands at USC’s Arnold School of Public Health, provides health and early childhood development services and also works with other organizations and institutions to deliver more culturally appropriate services across the state. “There are not many Latino organizations,” said Smithwick, now executive director of PASOS. “We are the main organization focused on health and connecting people to resources.”

The nonprofit receives support from individual and corporate donors, some Latino and some not. It is also supported by many volunteers, some of them students or interns at USC. Smithwick said that women from the Latino community give their time to volunteer as peer educators. “They get training and then go back into their communities to help others connect with resources,” she said. Some of them have gone on to get jobs in school districts or special needs organizations. Another function of PASOS is building leadership capacity in the Latino community. The leaders can help others with community education and navigation of systems. Smithwick, a native of the state, is pleased at being able to develop a grass-roots nonprofit in South Carolina for South Carolinians. “This is not a model brought here from somewhere else,” she said.

MELISSA AGUIRRE

JAMES A. BENNETT

GERRY SUE & NORMAN ARNOLD

Giving through volunteering comes naturally to Melissa Aguirre, a student in the College of Social Work at University of South Carolina. “I feel like if I was in that situation, I would want help,” she said. “It feels good to me to help someone. You never know where life will take you. At the end when you die, it won’t be how much money you had, but the good you put out into the world.” Aguirre volunteers at SC PASOS, a nonprofit that helps Latino families with early childhood education and health care. From Myrtle Beach, Aguirre is the daughter of Mexican immigrants. She helps with translation and staff training, as well as taking care of the children while adults are in parenting class. She began volunteering at PASOS last year. Before coming to college, she volunteered with Special Olympics and animal shelters. Aguirre will graduate next spring and then hopes to go to law school, specializing in immigration law.

When he reached a point in life where much had been given to him, James Bennett realized it was time to step up his giving in return. Bennett, S.C. Central Area executive at First Citizens Bank, recently chaired a highly successful capital campaign for Claflin University. He takes pride in that campaign’s raising $100 million – surpassing its goal – but he says another proud moment came when he was able to buy his grandmother a home. She raised Bennett in Cheraw and taught him that charity begins at home. Bennett worked in public affairs at First Citizens, with part of his job focusing on the bank’s giving to the community. “How could I be effective at giving if I didn’t practice the same myself?” he said. He learned the benefits of giving and discovered that the more he gave, the more he received as a blessing. Now Bennett and his wife, Cynthia Bennett, chair United Way’s Tocqueville Society for top donors. He has learned a few more things about giving. First, “people really give to people,” Bennett said, and relationships matter. Second, it’s better to give than to receive – but that has a different meaning from the obvious one. “It is more blessed to be in a position to give,” he said, “than to have to receive.”

For Gerry Sue Arnold and her late husband, Norman Arnold, giving has been a way of life. “We were just brought up that way. It’s a generational thing in our religion and in our family,” Gerry Sue Arnold said. “When you are fortunate enough to help other people, you do it.” The Arnold family’s philanthropy is legendary, benefiting Jewish organizations and charities as well as education and health care and other causes across South Carolina and beyond. It’s important for one generation to help the next, she said. “I feel that when our parents have passed on and we do these things, we are honoring them.” And passing on the tradition of generosity to sons and daughters is also important. Early in their marriage, the Arnolds had an experience that focused their philanthropy. Norman Arnold was diagnosed with cancer and was told he had just six months to live. Exploring many treatment options, he survived his illness and died recently at 86. The Arnolds have supported many medical and health care causes, including USC’s Arnold School of Public Health. “You can’t have that kind of experience without thinking you owe something,” Gerry Sue Arnold said, adding that she is very thankful for all the years the couple had together.

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Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 13


FEATURE STORY

Volunteers help with home repairs after the October 2015 flood, At top right, a volunteer works on mold remediation. (Photos/United Way)

AN OUTPOURING OF HELP AFTER FLOOD

RESTORING HOPE S By Licia Jackson

ometimes a crisis hits a community and leaves it in ruins. Other times, a crisis hits and the community comes together and grows stronger. The Midlands community saw the second scenario when historic floods wiped out many homes and businesses on Oct. 4, 2015. The very next day, neighbors helped neighbors, church groups and businesses fanned out into hardhit areas and volunteers from across the nation poured in. The United Way of the Midlands coordinated the efforts of more than 45 local, regional and national volunteer groups through the Midlands Flood Recovery Group. In response to the flooding, the One SC Fund was established at Central Carolina Community Foundation to accept donations and award funds to nonprofit organizations working on flood relief in the state. The United Way also received about $1.1 million in donations for flood relief, including many gifts from out of state. A total of 3,715 volunteers who registered with United Way have contributed more than

46,000 hours of service. Those are just the hours that were documented; many hundreds more volunteers gave many more hours. And that was just the beginning. On Oct. 3, 2016, a year after the floods hit, the United Way of the Midlands kicked off a renewed effort to repair and rebuild homes for residents who are still waiting. “Twenty-seven percent of the flood’s destruction in South Carolina happened in Richland and Lexington counties,” said Mac Bennett, president and CEO of United Way. “We’d like to bring the community together to address the needs that still exist in the Midlands.” The new initiative, called Restoring Hope, is an effort by United Way and community partners to raise $2 million to repair 250 more homes in the Midlands. Restoring Hope has its own website, restoringhopesc.org, that gives an easy path for businesses and individuals to make donations or to volunteer. Some needs come with a specific price tag; for example, $1,500 will pay for a home’s mold remediation or $7,000 will pay for

14 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

a new roof. The donation of volunteer labor and supplies holds down the cost of these repairs. Also needed is housing for the many outof-town volunteer repair groups, often bringing in 15 to 60 workers. Churches or recreation facilities with showers and cooking facilities can be used for housing. The One SC Fund, as of August, had awarded $2 million to 29 nonprofit organizations working in South Carolina. These organizations provided an additional $16 million in financial support. More than 900 homes in 24 FEMAdeclared disaster counties will receive assistance through the grant recipients. Donations have been received from across the country. The Central Carolina Community Foundation’s board provided initial funding of $50,000 and Gov. Nikki Haley’s Original Six Foundation has donated $50,000 to underwrite administration of the One SC Fund. A matching challenge gift of $100,000 was donated by the Lipscomb Family Foundation. In addition to donations received for the

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FEATURE STORY S.C. Flood Relief Fund, the foundation’s partners provided an additional $400,000 in specific grants for flood relief. Among the One SC Fund grant recipients in the Midlands are Brethren Ministries, Catholic Charities of the Diocese, Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity, Hearts and Hands Disaster Recovery, Palmetto Project Inc., S.C. DVP, the St. Bernard Project and United Church of Christ Disaster Ministries, as well as the United Way of the Midlands. Since the early days after the flood, the coordinated efforts of the Midlands Flood Recovery Group have repaired 86 homes. The agencies work with Richland and Lexington counties; other ongoing repair efforts are outside the United Way’s work. FEMA received 26,050 applications for flood assistance from Richland and Lexington counties, said Anita Floyd, senior vice president for community impact and strategic implementation for United Way. Of FEMA applications relating to 43 named disasters across the country in 2015, 48% of those who registered were in South Carolina. The average FEMA grant is less than $3,000, Floyd said, while many homes are costing $40,000 to $50,000 to repair. Those without other

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resources have been unable to get their homes rebuilt, and some are living in their damaged homes while waiting for repairs. Many homes need a new roof, mold remediation, HVAC repair or replacement or foundation repair. The Restoring Hope effort provides an opportunity for businesses, individuals or organizations to sponsor these repairs. With volunteer efforts, the Midlands Flood Recovery Group can reduce the cost of these repairs by 25%, Floyd said. “We need to engage people to do things,” Floyd said. “If churches in the community could each do a home, we could repair 50 homes.” “We’re asking people to do a little extra.” Going forward, “we need that same energy and enthusiasm that we saw last Oct. 5,” Bennett said. “We need to accelerate getting families back into their homes . . . I believe this community can do that.” Those who would like to help with Restoring Hope can donate or volunteer at restoringhopesc.org. To donate to the One SC Fund, visit yourfoundation.org or call the Central Carolina Community Foundation at 803-254-5601. Those needing help for flood repairs can call the United Way’s help line at 211.

Repairs to flood-damaged homes in the Midland continue, as many residents are still in need of assistance. (Photo/ United Way)

ONE SC FUND TO HELP HURRICANE VICTIMS The One SC Fund, a statewide effort established to help victims of the 2015 flood, has expanded to support nonprofit organizations providing relief and recovery assistance to those impacted by Hurricane Matthew. The fund, administered by the Central Carolina Community Foundation, also continues to support the work of serving those impacted by last year’s flood. Donations are accepted online at yourfoundation.org or checks can be mailed to the foundation at 2711 Middleburg Drive, Suite 213, Columbia, SC 29204.

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 15


FEATURE STORY

Priscilla and Joseph Henry cut the ribbon in September at their repaired home. (Photos/Licia Jackson)

AFTER FLOOD’S TRIALS,

A WELCOME HOME By Licia Jackson

P

riscilla and Joseph Henry celebrated a joyful welcome home just a few weeks ago. “I never knew we would be a flood victim, but we were the worst on this block,” said Priscilla Henry. Her modest home near Eau Claire High School was hit by rushing water on Oct. 4, 2015. The house is special to the Henrys because it was her mother’s home for 40 years. Priscilla Henry’s mother gave it to her, debtfree, and it has been the site of many family celebrations. But there was no celebrating after water settled under the house and mold claimed several rooms. “Mold covered the paneling to the ceiling,” Henry said of the small room where her mother once operated a neighborhood snack shop. She hung shower curtains over the walls in one bathroom to cover up the mold, and

hoped that no guests would ask to use it. In another room, black mold looked like tar covering the floor, and air ducts were full of mold. To the rescue came SBP, formerly known as the St. Bernard Project, a nonprofit founded in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina to help disaster-impacted residents and communities recover faster. SBP opened an office in Columbia last October and has helped residents clean up mold so that they can return home. “We’re here to celebrate,” said Michela Schildts of the Columbia office of SBP. “So many clients are on the waiting list. We cherish the moment when we can come together and celebrate.” SBP coordinates volunteers in using proven methods to clean up after disasters. The Henrys’ home got a thorough cleaning of mold, with drainage improved so that water

16 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

won’t settle under the house again. Flooring and air ducts were replaced. Hearts and Hands Disaster Recovery, another nonprofit, provided housing for the Henrys in a hotel for about three months while the repairs were underway. “They treated us like family,” Priscilla Henry said. “We thank all of them.” Henry, who has worked for 20 years as a cook at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, has always given to United Way along with Joseph Henry, who worked in construction. “We never knew it would come back to us like this,” Joseph Henry said. He said that when the flood damaged their home, they called everywhere asking for assistance. “No one was willing to help till we called SBP,” he said. “They sent two white women and we filled out the form.” And the rest is now history.

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FEATURE STORY

How to Raise Generous Kids

By Licia Jackson

N

ew York Times personal finance columnist Ron Lieber thought he had a pretty good handle on his topic. Then he became a parent. “We produced a kid who asks a lot of questions about money, starting at the age of 3,” Lieber said on a visit to Columbia earlier this year. Ron Lieber Finding himself Personal Finance stumped much of the Columnist time, Lieber took a New York Times deeper look into kids and their attitudes about money, as reporters often do. He came up with two guidelines to start with: Don’t lie. Explain things in ways a young child can understand. Behind the questions, there’s much more than meets the eye. “It’s not as much about

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money as it is about choices and community values,” said Lieber, author of a book on the topic, “The Opposite of Spoiled.” No one wants to raise a spoiled child, and so it’s important to start talking about values and virtues early. When a hard question about money comes up, Lieber suggests steering the conversation toward saving, spending and giving. He and his wife use an exercise with their daughter to help her understand the finite nature of their money. Beans, each representing $100, are divided into piles for each part of the family budget, including college savings and donations to individual charities. The beans can be moved from one category to another, but the total number stays the same. Raising generous children is harder today because of social media, Lieber said. Adolescents, in particular, brag about their possessions and experiences on social media. “It’s very difficult not to come to the conclusion that you don’t have enough or as much,” Lieber said. “It’s an engine for

comparison, and it’s hard not to be overly focused on what you don’t have.” He suggests giving a child allowance as soon as he or she is old enough to understand. Set up three jars: one for saving, one for spending and one for giving. As the child grows, increase the amount. By the time the child reaches middle school, consider turning the clothing budget over to her and let her figure out how to use it to meet her needs. A teenager can be given a pool of money to give away, deciding who needs help the most. “I encourage families to talk about their own family and how they have been helped,” Lieber said. “Kids love family stories, about their grandparents especially. It helps them connect with what’s going on in the world.” When the child is old enough, it’s important to be transparent about the family budget, he said. Parents need to make it clear how much of the family budget is going to the children’s needs. They need to know that there is only so much money. “Every choice is a tradeoff.”

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 17


TALKING ABOUT

GIVING By Licia Jackson

T

o become a generous human being, you have to be carefully taught.The Central Carolina Community Foundation, like many organizations, realizes that research shows actively engaging children in talking about how and why to give yields more generous, empathetic children. But parents and teachers may have trouble figuring out where to begin. To help the process, not to mention make it more fun, the foundation developed the Talk About Giving game, a set of conversation cards. The cards have questions designed to spur discussion in four areas: Giving Matters, Money Matters, Family Matters and What Matters to Me. They can be used in any way – on game night, on a car trip or at a family gathering. It’s a way to get the kids thinking while passing on family values about philanthropy. Questions range from “What does it mean to be charitable?” to “How many pairs of shoes do you need?” To learn how Talk About Giving works, we used the cards to encourage discussion, writing and art work with children attending summer camp at EdVenture children’s museum in Columbia.

Olivia

Lena

The cards have been very popular and are out of stock now, but you can read more about them at www.talkaboutgiving.org (Photos/Jeff Blake)

18 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

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FEATURE STORY

THE CARDS GOT THEM THINKING! HERE ARE SOME QUESTIONS AND THEIR ANSWERS:

Tyler

Brycen Sophia

Should children get paid to do chores? “Yes, they should . . . Grownups get paid for doing work. They did work so they deserve some money.” — Tyler, 10 “I think I should get $5 a day for doing chores — making my bed, sweeping the floor, doing the dishes, folding the clothes. I would give it to the animal shelter.” — Taylor, 9

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If you fou $20, nd woul what do w d you ith it ? “I would give it to a neighbor who didn’t have enough money – or give it to myself.” — Sophia, 8

James

we Should er? volunte

If you had $10, how would you use it?

“I would give it to poor people.” — Brycen, 8 “Last year during the flood we went to help my aunt. We had to help move furniture. I felt good.” — James, 12

“I would give to poor people. I went on a trip and saw lots of poor people in the street. I read a story about poor people in Chicago.” — Emma, 9

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 19


WAYS OF GIVING YOUNGER GENERATIONS CONNECT DIFFERENTLY WITH NONPROFITS

By Licia Jackson

L

earning to give is an important part of finding a place in the world. As new generations enter the workplace, the differences in how people give have become apparent. Millennials give differently from baby boomers, and students give in their own ways. Senior citizens like to stay involved as they can. It’s important for nonprofits to address the different ways that people donate time and treasure. “As the boomers age out, if we’re not focused

on the different characteristics millennials use to determine their giving, we would find ourselves in a bad spot,” said Mac Bennett, president and CEO of United Way of the Midlands. “We come up with ways to court the millennials and Generations X and Y.” Many younger donors find their entry level in giving online. The Central Carolina Community Foundation’s online giving event, Midlands Gives, is appealing, as well as “donate now” buttons on nonprofit websites. The millennial generation need to feel that

20 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

they have engagement, that they belong, said Becky Wych, leadership programs director of United Way of the Midlands. The United Way has a new theme for their age group, “Plug In and Lead On.” The effort has three pillars, Wych said: social opportunities in a relaxed setting; monthly volunteer engagement, whether with a United Way project or with another nonprofit; and professional growth, a quarterly opportunity for increasing their network. “We have connections with leadership in the

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FEATURE STORY

“Plug In, And Lead On.” community, and we bring them in to mentor and network,” Wych said. United Way’s Young Leaders Society is in its 10th year, and some of the first participants are becoming the agency’s volunteer leaders. The Young Leaders participants give $500 (ages 21-29) or $1,000 (ages 30 to 40). The group is very diverse, Wych said, and last year totaled 445 donors. The communication with the millennial generation is through social media and emailed newsletter. Everything sent out is mobile friendly, Wych said. But when it’s time to be invited to a big event, a formal invitation is still sent in the mail. Most of the young donors give through workplace giving, but those campaigns are increasingly online. The donation can be made through payroll deduction or can be billed quarterly to a credit card. Young adults may have begun their volunteer traditions as students at schools that require community service hours. At the Auntie Karen Foundation, an artsbased organization focused on education and empowerment, students and older volunteers help with the Black History Program in conjunction with the Columbia Museum of Art or with the silent auction for the organization’s “Legends Of” event. The foundation is also a certified Teen After School Center for the S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice, allowing students to do their service learning hours under an arbitration program with DJJ or the Richland County solicitor’s office. “The kids are really amazing,” said Karen Alexander, executive committee

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president. Auntie Karen Foundation sponsors a Young Entrepreneurs Conference showing off young people ages 7 to 22 and their businesses. The program is in its 14th year, and some of those entrepreneurs showcased in earlier years have come back to make contributions to the program, Alexander said. At the other end of the spectrum, senior citizens’ giving is often based on their life experiences, said Sandra Owensby, executive director of the Lourie Center. “If they have a friend or family member touched by cancer, then that’s their focus.” Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Lourie Center, with classes and activities for ages 50 and older. “They are our members, they love the center and they feel ownership,” Owensby said. Even when energy runs low, there are chores such as folding the newsletter that don’t require walking or standing. Many of the members live alone, and they like the socialization, Owensby said. Realizing that many of the area’s go-getters are nearing retirement, the United Way has started an initiative to keep in touch with those who are leaving the workplace. “We want to keep them involved in volunteering and donation,” Wych said. “Those are the names you have heard forever.” The United Way has organized a retiree council to try to keep them involved as a group. And while the younger folks like to meet from 7-8 a.m. or 5-5:30 p.m., the retirees want to meet at 9 or 10 a.m. “They say, we have had to get up early all our lives,” Wych said.

Members of the Young Leaders Society enjoy volunteer events and other gatherings. Opposite page, Brianna Davis and Elizabeth Wynn pack boxes. This page, at left, Chad Neill and Adam Lovett work together. Above, Paula Sabbagha and Elizabeth Cardell, Jason Laughlin and Alex Guzman attend meeting. (Photos/United Way)

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 21


HELPING OUT

MIDLANDS GIVES

GIVING DAY

Each year, the Central Carolina Community Foundation hosts Midlands Gives, a 24-hour online giving event for local nonprofits. The May 3, 2016, event had added excitement of being headquartered at Spirit Communications Park, home of the Columbia Fireflies baseball team. Nonprofit organizations welcomed visitors to learn about their work. The day included activities for all ages, food and fun, and yes, a camel. Midlands Gives 2016 raised $1.6 million for 382 local nonprofits. Next year's Midlands Gives will be May 2, 2017, and nonprofits can register through Dec. 19. (Photos/Jeff Blake)

HEADQUARTERS GRAND OPENING: MIDLANDS

UNITED WAY

In late September the United Way of the Midlands celebrated the opening of its new headquarters at 1818 Blanding St. The building combined three vacant industrial buildings into the Community Innovation Center, including 5,500 square feet of meeting space as well as offices. (Photos/Chuck Crumbo)

22 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SECTION The following Midlands nonprofits are featured in this section:

25 ��������������������������������������������������������� Habitat For Humanity

43 ������������������������������������������������������������Junior Achievement

27 ����������������������������������������������������Harvest Hope Food Bank

44 ���������������������������������������������������Make A Wish Foundation

29 ��������������������������������������������������� The Cooperative Ministry

45 ����������������������������������SC Center For Fathers and Families

31 ����������������������������������������������������������American Red Cross

47 ��������������������������������������������������������������YMCA of Columbia

33 �������������������������������������� Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter

49 ����������������������������������������������������Communities in Schools

35 ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������MEBA

51 ������������������������������������������� EdVenture Children’s Museum

37 ������������������������������������������������������������� City Year Columbia

53 ��������������������������������������������� Water Missions International

39 �����������������������������������������Mental Illness Recovery Center

55 ������������������������������������������������United Way of the Midlands

41 ����������������������������������������������� The Original Six Foundation

24 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Central South Carolina Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1985 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Roy Kramer, Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 209 S. Sumter St. Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: 803-252-3570 Fax: 803-252-7525 Website: www.habitatcsc.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Roy Kramer, Executive Director 803-252-3570 ext. 2109 Email: rkramer@habitatcsc.org Carl Cox, Development Director 803-252-3570 ext. 2101 Email: ccox@habitatcsc.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 3,100+ TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $2.38 million PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 96% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity serves the Midlands, consisting of Richland, Lexington and Fairfield counties. Habitat for Humanity works to serve families with low to moderate income. GREATEST NEED: Our single greatest need is for unrestricted funds to support our programs which allow us to expand our work in the Midlands. Financial donations are just as important to our ministry as picking up a hammer.

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A CLOSER LOOK: 2015-2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity has broadened from building houses to serving entire neighborhoods. Habitat stepped up to assist in the flood recovery and we are currently working on home repair number 18. As an NR affiliate, when we build or renovate a home, we survey the entire block to identify needs of existing homeowners and find ways in which we can partner to build a thriving neighborhood. Exterior repairs, weatherization and yard cleanup have been some of the ways Habitat is changing the landscape in which we operate. In addition to the 40+ households we served as an NR affiliate, in 2015-2016 Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity served 203 households, which includes 15 satisfied mortgages. We moved seven new families into homes this year and welcomed eight new partner families into our programs for the new year. Through our programs of repair, counseling and homeownership, we served 177 individuals this past year. 2016-2017 GOALS: With a continued focus on strengthening our internal operations, capacity and service-delivery, we have a much focused external agenda that includes: • Continuing to address the needs of neighborhoods, not just individual homes, in order to build thriving communities. • Strengthening Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity as a leading voice for affordable housing solutions in our community.

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Evening with Habitat, March-April 2017: Our annual dinner and silent event auction event. Join us for a night of fellowship, food, and handmade auction items by Habitat staff and volunteers. • Golf Tournament, May 2017: Grab your clubs! Central S.C. Habitat for Humanity is hosting a golf tournament to help benefit our ministry. Bring your friends and make a team or enter the tournament solo and enjoy a day filled with fun! • Giving Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2016: Move over cyber Monday, it’s time for #givingtuesday, a movement to make a national day of giving. Donate to CSC Habitat and become a part of the movement for change. • Midlands Gives, May 2, 2017: Midlands Gives is a 24-hour online donation marathon. Help out CSC Habitat for Humanity by going online and donating to us on May 2, 2017. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • New opportunity to contribute through your South Carolina Individual Income Tax Return. • Corporate sponsorship opportunities are now available for 2016-2017 build projects. • All levels of corporate giving for our build projects include guaranteed volunteer opportunities for your employees as well as recognition and publicity of your donation. Learn more about us by visiting our website www.midlandshabitat.org or come and join our Facebook page @midlandshabitat.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

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MISSION STATEMENT:

To provide for the needs of struggling people in S.C. communities by gathering and sharing quality food with dignity, compassion and education.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Harvest Hope Food Bank YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1981 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Denise Holland, CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: PO Box 451, Columbia, SC 29202 Phone: 803-254-4432 Fax: 803-254-6011 harvesthope.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Denise Holland, CEO Phone: 803-254-4432 Email: mail:ceo@harvesthope.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 10,600 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $8.2 million PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 98% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: 20 Central South Carolina counties GREATEST NEED: Harvest Hope works with the community to gather donations, dedicating 98 cents out of every dollar donated to our mission to provide for struggling families in the community, and can provide five meals for every dollar donated. Donating is easy at www. harvesthope.org. Harvest Hope also needs volunteers to help with sorting donated food, packing emergency food boxes and providing food directly to those in need at our Emergency Food Pantries. Volunteering at Harvest Hope is a great community or business team-building opportunity

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A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: In the aftermath of the flooding of October 2015, Harvest Hope provided more than 2.3 million meals and continued offering food pantries to victims until eight months after the flood event. 2017 GOALS: Harvest Hope will continue to find ways to gather more food to provide for struggling individuals and families across 20 South Carolina counties. This includes growing our Greenville and Florence operations, as well as continuing to grow our Columbia center’s impact. FUNDRAISING EVENTS FOR 20162017: Harvest Hope looks forward to working with the community to gather donated food and funds at events like Food From the Heart, Share Your Holiday, community food drives and this year’s Annual Gala.

CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • Annual Gala – March 10, 2017: Silent and Live Auction Fundraising Gala to celebrate Harvest Hope’s serving our community for 36 years! Contact Amy George for more information at 803-254-4432 ext 1143 or ageorge@ harvesthope.org • Pack2Feed – A year-round opportunity for companies or organizations to have an in-house volunteer effort. Harvest Hope will deliver food and boxes for packing at your location and then pick up completed boxes to distribute in our own Midlands communities. For more information about Pack2Feed opportunities, please contact Chuck Backman at 803-254-4432 ext 1107 or at cbackman@harvesthope.org • Over the Edge – Date and location to be announced (fall 2017). Contact Amy George for more information at 803-254-4432 ext 1143 or ageorge@harvesthope.org

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

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MISSION STATEMENT: To increase the economic self-sufficiency of people experiencing poverty in the Midlands through crisis assistance and sustainability programs

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: The Cooperative Ministry YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1982 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Beth Irick, Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 3821 W. Beltline Blvd Phone: 803-799-3853 Fax: 803-252-8621 Website: www.coopmin.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Beth Irick, Executive Director AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 197 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $3,321,070 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 88% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: We serve the Midlands of South Carolina through programs that are coordinated to move lowincome families toward financial stability. GREATEST NEED: We need cars that can be refurbished economically and given away to low-income, employed heads of household through our Autos for Opportunities program. We need monetary contributions to support our clothing and furniture bank warehouse, repair donated automobiles, assist more low wage earners with utility shut off and evictions notices and to build community awareness to relieve impacts of poverty among the working poor.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • Prepared 6,208 tax returns at no cost to taxpayers to set new production record • Provided financial assistance to prevent foreclosure or eviction for 336 families • Filled over 3,700 clothing orders for visitors to our office and for social workers and case managers seeking help on behalf of children and families. • Assisted 477 people to afford health insurance. • Reduced outstanding mortgage debt by 80% 2017 GOALS: Increase the number of families receiving assistance to prevent eviction or foreclosure by 5%; decrease the waiting time for a low-income, employed head of household to receive a refurbished car through our Autos for Opportunities program to 60 days or less. Satisfy the remaining mortgage debt on our building. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: Outreach and appeals to faith congregations • Midlands Gives (May 2017) • Annual year end appeal CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: We gratefully accept financial gifts that support all of our programs, service and operation of our facility. In-kind donations are also greatly appreciated. At the top of our wish list are: • Sponsorship of our 3,584 square-foot Clothing and Furniture Bank warehouse. • Cars that can be refurbished and given to a qualified beneficiary who needs transportation to commute to work. • A truck or cargo van for our Clothing and Furniture Bank that can be used for furniture pickups and deliveries. • Boats, motorcycles, junk cars and any other vehicles that can be sold to raise funds for programs and operations. • Volunteers giving their time and talent as tax return preparers, client interviewers, warehouse workers, Clothing Bank sorters, receptionists or marketing consultants. • Marketing for Autos for Opportunities program. • The Cooperative Ministry directly touches over 10,000 lives each year. A gift to The Cooperative Ministry is an investment in strengthening families and the greater Columbia community. 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 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Rebecca E. Jordan, Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 2751 Bull St. Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: 803-540-1240 Website: www.redcross.org/sc AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 1,300 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $1.5 million 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 GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Central South Carolina including: Richland, Lexington, Calhoun, Orangeburg, Clarendon, Sumter, Lee, Kershaw, Fairfield, Newberry, Saluda, Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell and Edgefield counties.

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: In FY16, the American Red Cross of Central SC assisted 2,200+ individuals affected by disasters – primarily home fires; distributed 48,000+ units of blood to area hospitals; trained 20,000+ 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 create a more resilient community by installing more than 6,400 smoke alarms and teaching nearly 2,000 about emergency preparedness through the Pillowcase Project. Your Red Cross also brought relief and comfort to thousands of South Carolinians after devastating flooding uprooted lives and destroyed homes. We mobilized more than 1,700 Red Cross workers and 45 response vehicles that provided over 4,700 overnight shelter stays, served more

than 154,000 meals and snacks working with community partners, distributed over 181,000 relief items including comfort kits, tarps, flashlights, trash bags, shovels, rakes, bleach and work gloves and provided nearly 7,000 health and mental health services. 2016 GOALS: Expand our volunteer base, grow our financial support and increase blood donations. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: The Red Cross accepts financial donations throughout the year. Anyone interested in donating can call 1-800-REDCROSS or go to www.redcross.org or mail a check to their local chapter. Corporate donors are encouraged to contact Rebecca E. Jordan, executive director of the Central SC Chapter, at 803-540-1240 or Sarah Dow, regional chief development officer with the Palmetto SC Region at 864-901-9973.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

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.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: To provide safe, nurturing residential placement for children and youth of Lexington County and South Carolina who are victims of sexual or physical abuse, abandonment, neglect, exploitation or caregiver emergency. To come alongside abused and traumatized children struggling with life, to meet their needs and guide them through the stages of change towards a healthy recovery in an intimate homelike family setting.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: The Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: All-time record donations, separated from Lexington County government and are now a totally independent 501(c)3 organization.

YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1972 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Jarrell M. Smith, PhD, Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Mailing address: PO Box 344 Lexington, SC 29071 Phone: 803-359-8595 Fax: 803-359-8518 Website: www.nkp4kids.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Jarrell Smith, Executive Director E-mail: jarrell@nkp4kids.org Phone: 803-466-8847

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • The Elton John Tribute Concert in January each year at the Koger Center packs the house featuring Greg Bickley of popular local band Tokyo Joe. Contact Jarrell Smith at 803-359-8595, or jsmith@nkp4kids.org. • Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Christmas Gift and Food Drive (700 canned goods and 1,000 boxes of cereal) CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: Corporations, faith-based organizations, civic groups, committed individuals and community foundations may donate a sponsorship in the Elton John Tribute Concert at the Koger Center event for any amount. Contact Jarrell Smith, Executive Director. 359-8595 or jsmith@nkp4kids.org.

AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 52 individuals and the following organizations: “Right Where You Are Ministries”, Hope World Wide, Lexington Baptist Church, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, Southeastern Freight and BB&T. TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2015-2016): $ 466,237 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 80%

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Lexington County and the State of South Carolina GREATEST NEED: Financial and in-kind contributions as well as more volunteers to support the on-going needs of the children.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT:

Midlands Education and Business Alliance connects students of all ages, parents and educators to career opportunities through business partnerships, training and resources.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Midlands Education and Business Alliance YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1990 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Mary Snipes, Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: P.O. Box 2408 Columbia, SC 29202 Phone: 803-822-3778 Website: www.mebasc.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • Student programs and activities across all service area districts and Department of Juvenile Justice. (Presentations: 76 , Participants: 8,605) • Parent programs and activities in the Midlands. (Presentations: 19, Participants: 1,174) • Educator programs and activities across all service area districts and DJJ. (Presentations: 45, Participants: 4,465) • Business and Community Partner programs and activities. (Presentations: 64, Participants: 1,176) • Richland County Television Outreach to Parents, Students and Educators – RCSC 1 and RCSD 2. (Presentations:7, Participants: 72,000) • Totals for Education, Business, Community and Other (Presentations: 221, Total Participants: 87,420)

AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 200

2017 GOALS: • Increase response to current trends in filling the talent pipeline as dictated by open career tracks in the Midlands. MEBA has structured three new working committees that will implement activity this school year to provide increased support and connection between companies seeking employees and students making career path choices. • MEBA will create additional opportunities for in-person discussion between parents and business leaders to build confidence in guiding their child to success by helping families discover learning prospects for their child outside of the classroom.

TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $500,000

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: MEBA’s new website, coming late fall, will provide the opportunity for monthly gifts. Donors will be able to use a credit card option.

PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 80%

CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: MEBA has both marketing sponsorships and program support gifts. The fall signature event for educators reaches capacity each year. A Gold sponsor is encouraged. This event will be announced by press release and lasts a full day. MEBA is planning a parent-business connect in all districts of Lexington, Richland and Fairfield. There is opportunity for business sponsorship of this traveling event. With over 27,000 distributed resources each year to educators, parents and students, we encourage businesses to view MEBA materials for their marketing.

CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Mary Snipes, Executive Director Phone: 803-422-5972 E-mail: msnipes@mebasc.com

GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Richland, Lexington and Fairfield counties GREATEST NEED: Business partners to participate in 1) fiscal backing of programs; 2) as speakers in panel discussions and classroom settings; 3) host field studies at their workplace for educators and students as part of the solution for talent recruitment.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

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MISSION STATEMENT: City Year is an education-focused nonprofit organization and AmeriCorps program that partners with public schools to keep students in school and on track to graduation. In Columbia, and 26 other communities across the United States, this innovative public-private partnership brings together teams of young AmeriCorps members who commit to a year of full-time service in schools. Corps members provide individual support to students who need extra care and attention, focusing on attendance, behavior, and course performance through in-class tutoring, mentoring, and after school programs.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: City Year Columbia YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1993 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Gail Wilson-Giarratano, Executive Director And Vice President CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 1122 Lady St., Suite 600, Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: 803-727-1579 Fax: 803-727-1579 Website: www.cityyear.org/columbia CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Alton D. Adams Development and Operations Director Phone: 803-727-1575 Email: aadams@cityyear.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2015: 300

A CLOSER LOOK: OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS: City Year has been a member of the AmeriCorps network for more than 20 years, annually receiving diverse, idealistic corps members with a deep commitment to public service. City Year Columbia corps members and alumni are well-suited to teaching careers in high-need schools and we encourage them to remain in the local workforce. City Year has developed more than 60 partnerships with graduate schools and teacher certification programs that actively recruit our corps members. In fact, City Year now contributes more corps members to the Teach for America program than any single college. Today’s City Year Columbia corps members have the potential to continue their careers in Columbia and become our next generation of education leaders. LONG TERM IMPACT GOALS: City Year has a national long-term impact goal to serve more students, turn around more low-performing schools and increase the number of youth who graduate from high school, ready for college and career—over the next 10 years 80% of students in the City Year schools will reach 10th grade successfully (up from 44%). Students who achieve this milestone are four times more likely to graduate than students who do not.

TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2015-2016): $1,186,000 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 80% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Richland and Lexington counties GREATEST NEED: Research shows that struggling students can succeed with the right support at the right time, but teachers and schools don’t always have the time and resources to meet students’ needs. City Year fills this gap with our Whole School Whole Child intervention model — a proven strategy that includes math and literacy tutoring, extended-day programming, and behavior, attendance and school-climate initiatives to reinforce academic learning and social-emotional skill development. City Year Columbia is committed to increasing local graduation rates and nurturing the development of 21st century skills to help students become critical thinkers, effective communicators, collaborative team members, strong leaders and self-advocates, and engaged community members—important skills that educators and employers identify as key to post-secondary education and workplace success. www.columbiabusinessreport.com

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Annual Ripples of Hope Gala: March 2, 2017, honoring Happ “Mr. Golf” Lathrop, Marcus Lattimore GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: All information can be found on our website at www.cityyear.org/ columbia

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

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MISSION STATEMENT:

MIRCI is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that assists individuals with mental illness to recover in the areas of their lives impacted by their illness through housing, behavioral health care and assistance with obtaining and managing their disability income.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Mental Illness Recovery Center Inc. (MIRCI) YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1960 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Julie Ann Avin, President and Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 3809 Rosewood Drive, Columbia, SC 29205 Phone: 803-786-1844, ext. 110 Fax: 803-754-7783 Website: www.mirci.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Julie Ann Avin, President and Executive Director 803-786-1844, ext. 110 E-mail: javin@mirci.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2015: 60 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016): $4,683,098 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 95% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Midlands area of South Carolina; individuals with mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorders, many of whom were homeless upon service entry.

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: Providing supportive housing with Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team services to 311 individuals and families, with over 70% having been homeless before entry. Of those housed, 97% remained housed for three months or longer; 94% remained housed for six months or longer; and 86% remained housed for a year or longer. In the year following entry into MIRCI housing and services, inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations dropped by 84% and emergency department visits for mental illness dropped by 59% 2017 GOALS: MIRCI began leasing units fora new HUD Continuum of Care for the Homeless grant in September 2016, to provide housing for an additional 30 chronically homeless individuals using the Housing First model. All 30 units will be filled no later than June 1, 2017. In partnership with United Way of the Midlands, MIRCI is in the pre-development stage of a supportive group home for youth/ young adults, ages 17 to 24. MIRCI has submitted an application to HUD for an additional Housing First grant to house 12 homeless youth/young adults ages 18 to 25, who are chronically homeless, in apartments.

MIRCI received a SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) grant of $400,000 per year for three years to establish a Drop-in Center for homeless youth/young adults, and create a network of service providers to support the recovery of these individuals. The Dropin Center will open and begin services in January 2017. MIRCI will continue to reduce inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations and emergency department visits for individuals in its housing and services. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • The premiere fundraiser is 52 Windows – An Evening of Art to benefit the housing and homeless programs of MIRCI. This gala will be held on Thursday, May 11, 2017, at 701 Whaley from 5:30 to 9 p.m. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: Corporate sponsorships are available for 52 Windows. Benefits to sponsors include: recognition in printed media, complimentary tickets to the event, links on MIRCI website, and the opportunity to support getting homeless individuals with mental illness into stable housing and behavioral health care services.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

GREATEST NEED: Additional housing subsidies to house homeless individuals and families, including homeless youth and young adults ages 18 to 24, with mental illness and/or co-occurring substance use disorders. www.columbiabusinessreport.com

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of the Original Six Foundation is to serve as a catalyst for change by uniting public, private and civic leaders and resources to identify and address the challenging issues facing South Carolina’s communities in the areas of education, quality of life and workforce readiness.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: The Original Six Foundation YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2011 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Nikki R. Haley, Founder and Board of Trustees Chair CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: PO Box 2246. Columbia, SC 29202 Phone: 803-244-9511 Fax: 803-251-9484 Website: www.theoriginalsixfoundation.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Victoria Halydier, Executive Director E-mail: victoria@theoriginalsixfoundation.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 100

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • Started new after-school programs in Bamberg, Clarendon and Union counties. • Implemented a robotics program in Marlboro County at two schools. • Implemented literacy initiatives in Barnwell, Dillon and Marion counties. • Assisted with renovations of a community house to serve as location for a new afterschool program that will launch in 2017. • Supported the One SC Flood Relief Fund. • Awarded a grant to Townville Elementary School to replace playground after tragic shooting. • Funded renovations and upfitting for the new Meeting Place on Main in Union to assist with workforce readiness. • Held a back to school celebration in Bamberg where backpacks filled with school supplies and new sneakers were given to every student.

2017 GOALS: Expand after school and summer programming that we started in 2016 in rural counties. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: Golf tournament in fall 2017. Contact Victoria Halydier for more details at victoria@theoriginalsixfoundation.org. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • General financial support through donations • Grants • Any in-kind donations of needed school supplies for after school programming.

TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $450,000 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 85% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Clarendon, Dillon, Marion, Marlboro and Union. Other areas are on a special needs basis.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

GREATEST NEED: Funding and school supplies

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

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NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

®

MISSION STATEMENT: To Inspire and Prepare Young People to Succeed in the Global Economy

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Junior Achievement of Greater South Carolina

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: Junior Achievement of Greater South Carolina received the JAUSA 4 Star award at the National Conference for excellence in programs and financial stability of the organization.

YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1968 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Casey Pash, President and CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 2711 Middleburg Drive, Suite 104, Columbia, SC 29204 Phone: 803-252-1974 Website: www.centralsc.ja.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Casey Pash, President and CEO E-mail: casey.pash@ja.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 390 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $541,000

2017 GOALS: To inspire over 12,000 students by teaching life skills of financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • 33rd Annual South Carolina Business Hall of Fame – Columbia Marriott – March 16, 2017 CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • Junior Achievement Program Sponsorships: • Whole School, $10,000 • High School Class, $1,000 • Middle School Class, $750 • Elementary Class, $500 33RD ANNUAL SC BUSINESS HALL OF FAME SPONSORSHIPS: • Presenting Sponsor, $25,000 • Ambassador Sponsors, $10,000 • Champion Sponsors, $5,000 • Table Sponsors, $2,250 • Tickets, $225

PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 77% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: 34-county region including the Midlands, Lowcountry and Pee Dee

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

GREATEST NEED: Junior Achievement’s greatest need is volunteers to go into the classroom to teach JA programs.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

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MISSION STATEMENT: We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Wishes are more than just a nice thing. The impact of a wish can last a lifetime. In fact, medical professionals say wish experiences can improve children’s state of mind, make them more willing to comply with treatment requirements, and even influence their physical health. Former wish kids tell us their wish experience improved their health and strength; gave them more confidence and the will to pursue more challenging life goals; made them more philanthropic and compassionate; and even helped save their life.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Make-A-Wish® South Carolina YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1984

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: During fiscal year 2016, Make-A-Wish South Carolina achieved new records in wish granting, fundraising and volunteer recruitment.

TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Bill Tiller, President and CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 225 S. Pleasantburg Drive, Suite C17, Greenville, SC 29607 Phone: 864-250-0702 or 800-250-WISH Fax: 864-250-0704 Website: www.sc.wish.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Misty Herrin, Director of Development mherrin@sc.wish.org Maggie Morton, Corporate Relations Manager mmorton@sc.wish.org Phone: 864-250-0702 or 800-250-WISH AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: Make-A-Wish South Carolina is honored to have 214 statewide volunteers with 28 located in the Midlands. Volunteers selflessly give their time, and often their resources, to help make wishes come true for local kids. They are critical to our mission. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Susanna Marino, Director of Volunteer Services, smarino@sc.wish.org or 864-250-0702

2017 GOALS: Make-A-Wish aims to grant 180 wishes in fiscal year 2017. For every wish we grant, there is a child whose wish has not been granted. It is estimated that there are currently 400 children in our state with a life-threatening medical condition. Your financial support will help us get one step closer to reaching every eligible child in our state. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • The Wish Ball is Make-A-Wish South Carolina’s premier signature event. The gala will be held at the University of South Carolina Alumni Center in Columbia on Feb. 25, 2017. Evening highlights will include a gourmet dinner, silent and live auctions, dancing and live entertainment, guest speakers and a few more surprises that you won’t want to miss. More information can be found at: http://SCwishball.org • The Trailblaze Challenge is a unique endurance program where participants hike 28.3 miles in one life-changing day on the Foothills Trail to raise funds and awareness for Make-AWish South Carolina. Early bird registration is now available for the Spring 2017 hike. Sponsorships are available. Visit http://SCtrailblazechallenge.org.

TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $2,763,028 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 80% of every dollar is directly allocated to wishes. GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Our chapter serves all 46 counties of South Carolina. The Midlands region is defined by 10 counties: Lexington, Richland, Lee, Kershaw, Newberry, Fairfield, Sumter, Calhoun, Clarendon and Orangeburg. GREATEST NEED: Funding is the only thing stopping Make-A-Wish from granting the wish of every eligible child in our state. Support can be given through direct donations, corporate giving, sponsorships, online fundraisers, planned giving or event participation. Make-A-Wish South Carolina also has a great need for donated airline miles. Travel is one of the costliest expenses for our chapter. Donating airline miles is another great way for supporters to help us grant more life-changing wishes.

44 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Lowcountry

CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: Corporate partners are an essential part in helping Make-AWish® South Carolina accomplish its mission. Through the generosity of businesses ranging from family-owned local enterprises to some of South Carolina’s largest corporations, we are able to share the power of a wish® with South Carolina children with life-threatening medical conditions. Our chapter can work with you to develop an integrated and strategic alliance that allows you to focus your corporation’s valuable assets toward helping advance our important mission of granting wishes. For more information on sponsorships and other ways to help, contact Maggie Morton, Corporate Relations Manager, at mmorton@sc.wish.org or 864-250-0702.

www.charlestonbusiness.com


NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: Our mission is to provide the means for fathers to become great dads.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: The South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2002 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Pat Littlejohn, Executive Director CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 2711 Middleburg Drive, Suite 111, Columbia, SC 29204 Phone: 803-227-8800 Fax: 803-227-8806 Website: www.scfathersandfamilies.com AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016-2017: 75 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (20162017): $7.66 million PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 95% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: The center serves primarily low-income, noncustodial fathers across the state through a network of local program centers and satellite offices in Aiken, Anderson, Bennettsville, Columbia, Conway, Florence, Georgetown, Greenville, Lancaster, Lexington, Myrtle Beach, North Charleston, Spartanburg, Sumter and Winnsboro. GREATEST NEED: The center’s greatest need is for unrestricted donations to support program services, operations, and to promote public awareness of the issues and obstacles for fathers striving to be the engaged, supportive role models they want to be for their children and families. www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2015-2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • In partnership with SC Department of Social Services, the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families began expansion of fatherhood program services statewide, resulting in the opening of three new program offices and multiple satellite locations. • Partnered with Children’s Trust of SC and SC Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy to expand services to young fathers and teen moms. • Launched SCVISITATION.COM, a video-based tutorial website to guide non-custodial fathers through the process of properly preparing paperwork and requesting visitation through the court when the cost of hiring an attorney is prohibitive. • Operated Jobs Not Jail, a program which serves both fathers and communities by helping dads secure or maintain employment to meet child support payments in lieu of jail time, saving taxpayers millions of dollars in unnecessary incarceration costs. • Through partnership with area health care providers, expanded Access to Men’s Health program component increasing health education, direct care and treatment services for fatherhood program participants. 2016-2017 GOALS: • Complete statewide expansion of services to better serve fathers and families • Increase partnerships and opportunities for collaborative work • Build understanding of the value of fathers to children, families and communities and to break stereotypical views and societal biases that hinder the development of services to fathers.

CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: The center and our network of 15 local fatherhood programs across the state comprises the Southeast’s most experienced and effective organization focused on creating an environment to foster stronger, more stable and successful families by supporting engaged, responsible fathers. We offer fathercentered, community-based services delivered in a respectful, non-judgmental environment. In addition, the center helps secure ongoing financial support and statewide partnerships and serves as a resource for practitioners and a voice for fathers. We gratefully accept financial and in-kind gifts to support programs and operations serving fathers and families in the Midlands and across South Carolina. In addition, we welcome volunteers who can provide medical services, legal guidance, help with financial literacy, or who would be interested in joining our board of directors. Specific sponsorships opportunities include: • Job Recruiter Services (6 Months) — $16,000 • Meals for Fatherhood Group Sessions (One Year) — $10,500 • Meals for Fatherhood Group Sessions (6 Months) — $5,250 • Job Boot Camp Instruction — $7,200 • Peer Support Group Meeting Facilitator — $4,500 • Emergency Fund for Programs — $2,000 • Sponsor a father through the Jobs Not Jail program — $1,800 • Parent/Child Activity — $1,000 • Bible and Devotionals for 10 fathers — $450 • Personalized Job Placement Services for a father — $400

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Celebrating Fathers, annual Father’s Day campaign • Year-end donation appeal NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

THE AMAKER FAMILY Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 45


NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: YMCA of Columbia YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1854 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Kurt Stringfellow, Chief Executive Officer CONTACT INFORMATION: YMCA of Columbia Association Office Address: 1612 Marion St., Suite 100, Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: 803-748-9622 Website: www.columbiaymca.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Wendy Broderick, Chief Development Officer 803-748-9622 ext. 113 E-mail: wendybroderick@columbiaymca.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 2,100 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016): $10,800,000 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 88% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: The YMCA of Columbia includes six branches serving Richland, Kershaw, Lexington, Calhoun and Orangeburg counties and is also home to Palmetto Center for Women (formerly the YWCA). The YMCA of Columbia also operates two water parks in Orangeburg County and six afterschool sites in Richland County School District One. GREATEST NEED: To thrive we all need to eat well, stay safe, be active, spend time together, learn and grow. Sadly, in an increasingly technological and polarized world, it’s not always easy to get what we need. But where society falls short, the Y steps in. After 160 years of serving the Midlands, the Y knows what we need to be our best selves. It provides a place to play, to learn, to be healthy, to eat well and give back. It gives parents child care, young adults job training and children a safe place to go. Everything the Y does is in service of making the Midlands better. www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: To date $1.3 million has been pledged to the YMCA of Columbia in support of annual, capital and endowment campaigns. These campaigns ensure all have access to quality Y facilities and programs regardless of their ability to pay. Programs such as LIVESTRONG at the YMCA for cancer survivors, a year-round feeding program that has served over 130,000 meals, a summer learning loss prevention program, the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program, and Safety Around Water swim lessons. 2017 GOALS: The YMCA of Columbia fundraising goals for 2017 include completing a capital campaign to support the new Downtown YMCA. Goals to expand programming include: the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program into underserved areas; the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program; magnify the Achievement Gap programming into afterschool sites in addition to summer camp; the year-round feeding program to address food insecurity; STEM programming; the Safety Around Water to third-graders throughout the Midlands; and the Y’s signature Social Responsibility program, Togetherhood, to promote community service throughout the Midlands. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • The YMCA of Columbia hosts six annual races: Bunny Hop 5K, Festival of Roses 5K/12K, Run Red Bank 5K/10K, Tom Hoskins Memorial Sprint Triathlon, Pumpkin Run 5K, and Harborside Lights 5K, where all proceeds benefit the Annual Campaign. • Palmetto Center for Women hosts the annual Prayer Breakfast and the PCW Honors awards luncheon, and all YMCA branches also host various individual events throughout the year. INDIVIDUAL GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • Annual – An annual gift will support the YMCA of Columbia Annual Campaign to ensure all have access to programs and services. • Capital – A capital gift will support facility updates and enhancements. • Endowment – A gift to the YMCA of Columbia Endowment will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: The YMCA of Columbia appreciates the support of numerous corporations around the Midlands. Corporate giving opportunities include annual giving, capital giving (facility naming opportunities), and youth sports, race or special event sponsorship. SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: All YMCA of Columbia races include sponsorship opportunities with recognition at the event and in marketing materials. Sponsorships are also available for youth sports teams. Palmetto Center for Women events offer differing levels of sponsorship each year.

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 47


NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: Education can be a solution to the cycle of poverty, homelessness and other challenges that our community faces. Communities In Schools of the Midlands addresses this by surrounding students with a community of support, empowering students to stay in school and achieve in life.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: Communities In Schools of the Midlands YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1987 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Terry L. Linder CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 2712 Middleburg Drive, Suite 219, Columbia, SC 29204 Phone: 803-254-9727 Fax: 803-254-0320 Website: www.cism.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Jordan Thie, Director of Development E-mail: jthie@cism.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 68 volunteers provided 10,082 hours to support students. TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $559,459 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 89% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: District-selected schools in Richland School District One and Lexington School District Two. Ideally, we serve feeder patterns following and supporting students from elementary school through graduation. GREATEST NEED: The Midlands is a giving community. Financial resources and targeted volunteers time to support and expand the number of students to help them reach their full potential.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • 95% of the students in grades K–12 who received targeted and sustained services with an attendance goal progressed. For some students, the goal was to increase the number of days they attended. • 82% of the students in grades K–12 who received targeted and sustained services with an academic performance goal progressed. These goals, which are tailored to each student, include improving class grades, overall GPA, standardized test scores and homework completion. • 85% of the students in grades K–12 who received targeted and sustained services with a behavioral goal decreased their suspensions and behavior referrals. • Expanded number of partners and volunteers. • Helped students complete their FASFA and apply for scholarships so they can continue their education. 2017 GOALS: • To expand into another school district. • To meet the new national CIS accreditation standards. • To further ensure long-term sustainability so our students can count on our continuing support. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: The Oyster Roast, Friday, April 7, 2017, 6-10pm at the Columbia Museum of Art. Tickets are $50 and must be purchased in advance. CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: • $75,000 “Adopt-a-School” fully funds the implementation of the evidence-based CIS model in one school for an entire year. This includes an on-site, full time employee and all supporting materials for students. • $25,000 supports student and family engagement at one site for an entire year. • $10,000 provides support to create more sustainability and recruit volunteers and community partners. • $5,000 provides support to create partnerships and recruit students at one of our school sites. • Oyster Roast sponsorships are also available.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 49


NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT: EdVenture’s mission is to inspire children, youth and the adults who care about them to experience the joy of learning.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: EdVenture YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 2003 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Karen Coltrane, President/CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 211 Gervais St., Columbia SC 29201 Phone: 803-779-3100 Fax: 803-779-3100 Website: www.edventure.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Louis Fawcett, Senior VP of Principal Gifts 803-667-6266 E-mail: lfawcett@edventure.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 521 volunteers worked 3,773 volunteer hours TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $4.85 million PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 85% GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: South Carolina GREATEST NEED: Support for EdVenture’s book distributions, after school programs and healthy cooking classes in low income neighborhoods throughout South Carolina.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: EdVenture is the largest children’s museum in the Southeast, with total visitation of 217,323, which is a 6.5% increase over last year. EdVenture manages six school gardens and a half-acre farm plot to teach how food is produced and healthy eating choices for area students. • EdVenture was chosen as the pilot program for the USDA Summer Feeding Program and was a site in the nationwide program (number of lunches served, 3,013 and snacks, 1,035). 320 children attended Club EdVenture after-school programs on scholarships totaling more than $62,092. Over 4,000 children and their families attended healthy cooking classes and demonstrations at community events, including those partnerships with Columbia Housing Authority. 5,143 books were distributed to under-resourced children. • EdVenture was appointed by SC Economic Alliance to chair the S.C. Promise Zone’s education workgroup. • The BeABoss Leadership Tour hosted Chef Jeff Henderson, from the Food Network’s "Flip My Food," toured six high schools in the Promise Zone and a correctional facility reaching over 5,000 high school students.

• EdVenture hosted events to prepare children for school readiness with 1,574 children and families attending Countdown to Kindergarten and over 600 children participating in the Back to School Bash. • EdVenture was invited to represent South Carolina at the White House for National Maker Faire and hosted South Carolina’s Mini Maker Faire in May. 2017 GOALS: • Serving more people in communities such as Hartsville and Myrtle Beach • Evolving the museum’s business model to strengthen financial sustainability • Partnering with USC to implement the Health RV • Opening of the NASA Flight Exhibit FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • StoryBook Ball: Nov. 19,2016, at EdVenture • FROST: Jan. 26, 2017, at EdVenture, EdVenture’s annual gala • 100 Men Who Cook for Kids: March 24, 2016 CORPORATE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: Sponsoring exhibits, sponsoring events, supporting educational programming. All funds raised help EdVenture reach more under resourced students and families.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 51


NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT:

To be a best-in-class Christian engineering organization that transforms lives through sustainable safe water solutions.

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: Address: P.O. Box 71489, N. Charleston, SC 29415 Phone: 843.769.7395 Website: www.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 AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2016: 500 TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2016-2017): $17.5 million PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 86% In 2016, Water Mission earned Charity Navigator’s top 4-star rating for the 10th consecutive year, a distinction shared by less than one percent of the charities rated by the organization. GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Water Mission has over 250 staff members working around the world in 10 permanent country programs located in Africa, Asia, the Americas and the Caribbean. GREATEST NEED: Prayers for the organization to deliver on its mission and for the safety and protection of our staff who work in dangerous or insecure places around the world. Financial support to help deliver safe water systems and latrines to the 2.5 billion people around the world who lack adequate sanitation.

www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: • Secured $5 million grant commitment from the Poul Due Jensen Foundation (Grundfos Corp.) to bring safe water to 250,000 refugees in western Tanzania. • Surpassed 3.3 million people with over 2,300 of safe water systems and latrine installations in community development programs and disaster response. • Worked closely with global NGOs including UNICEF, UNHCR and the World Bank in Uganda and Tanzania. • Earned global stage recognition alongside Blackbaud at the 2016 Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference. • Featured in Oracle’s JavaOne™ 2016 Conference in San Francisco as one of three organizations pushing the technical boundaries for solving global problems. 2017 GOALS: • Provide safe water and sanitation to 375,000 people in places we operate around the world. • Deliver safe water treatment systems during natural and manmade disasters such as civil unrest that results in refugees fleeing for protection.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Scotty’s Ride for Water – 13-year old Scotty Parker will ride 3,200 miles from Santa Monica Pier in California to Water Mission Headquarters. Help Scotty achieve his awareness and fundraising goals to combat the global water crisis. • Charleston Walk for Water - Register yourself or form a team, and join us for the Annual Charleston Walk for Water on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Register now at http:// walkforwatermission.org/walk/ charleston/ CharlestonWalk.org • 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 Honor your customers and employees this season with a meaningful gift of safe water. Give your holiday tribute gifts today through our Christmas Catalog. Visit watermission.org/Christmas.

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT SPONSORED BY:

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 53


NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

MISSION STATEMENT:

We unite people and resources to improve the quality of life in the Midlands.

QUICK FACTS: NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION: United Way of the Midlands YEAR ESTABLISHED LOCALLY: 1925 TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE: Mac Bennett, President and CEO CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 1818 Blanding St., Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: 803-733-5400 Fax: 803-758-8925 Website: www.uway.org CORPORATE GIVING CONTACTS: Mike Gray, Senior Vice President, Resource Development 803-733-5422 E-mail: mgray@uway.org AVERAGE NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS IN 2015: In the 2015-2016 fiscal year, 2,233 direct service volunteers supported United Way of the Midlands’ efforts by providing over 12,500 hours of volunteer service. In addition, we helped place 1,400 volunteers who provided almost 7,000 hours of emergency flood assistance from October to December 2015. Overall, our community was able to donate almost $400,000 worth of time to United Way of the Midlands and its partner agencies. TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET (2015-2016): $10,519,769 PERCENT OF REVENUE DEDICATED TO PROGRAM SERVICES: 86.2%. GEOGRAPHIC AREA OR SPECIFIC POPULATION SERVED: Calhoun, Fairfield, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg and Richland counties. GREATEST NEED: In October 2015, South Carolina experienced a 1,000 Year Flood. Since then, volunteers have provided more than 46,000 hours to help. UWM leads the Midlands Flood Recovery Group, a network of over 45 agencies providing assistance. The MFRG has helped 100 homeowners return to safe housing but more than 1,200 families are on Midlands waiting lists for home repair. www.columbiabusinessreport.com

A CLOSER LOOK: 2016 TOP ACHIEVEMENTS: In 2016, United Way deepened its focus on early learning with the goal of ensuring our young students are reading at grade level by third grade. More than 3,500 parents demonstrated increased knowledge about their children’s development through school readiness and parent engagement programs. More than 300 volunteers tutored 531 pre-K through second grade children at 19 schools through the Midlands Reading Consortium (MRC). This year, UWM supported four summer reading camps that enrolled 488 secondand third-graders. No child in the program experienced “summer slide,” and 74% increased their literacy skills by one or more instructional levels. In 2014-2015, United Way partnered with City of Columbia to operate the Inclement Weather Center (IWC) and improve coordination of housing and services in the region. 2014-2015 was the inaugural IWC season in partnership with Midlands Housing Alliance (Transitions) and Salvation Army. In 2015- 2016, the IWC operated 65 nights serving between 46 and 193 people each night. UWM also participated in Zero: 2016, an effort to improve placement of veterans and others who are chronically homeless. Since February 2015, 305 veterans, 114 chronically homeless veterans, and 59 chronically homeless non-veterans were placed into permanent housing. UWM and hospital partners established WellPartners to serve Richland, Lexington and Fairfield Counties. Services provided through WellPartners include eye and dental care for adults and dental care for children. A new adult dental clinic was opened in February, substantially increasing the number of adults served. Last year, 317 people received eye care services and/or corrective lenses; 3,316 adults had their dental needs met; and 976 children were provided dental hygiene and care.

2016-2017 GOALS: United Way of the Midlands will partner with other organizations in the Midlands to accelerate its work in flood recovery. To accelerate the recovery, UWM and its partners launched Restoring Hope, an initiative to return 250 households home. To donate or volunteer, visit RestoringHopeSC.org. To date, 100 homes are repaired or are underway. UWM plans are to secure $2 million in funds and the volunteers required to restore an additional 250+ homes and make them safe and livable. UWM also has goals to increase the number of adult volunteers working with students to increase educational success both in schools and through community programs. FUNDRAISING EVENTS: • Dec. 6, 2016 - Women in Philanthropy Leadership Breakfast, Palmetto Club, 7:30-9 a.m. Contact Sarah Brennecke, 803-733-5107, sbrennecke@uway.org • Late January 2017 - Young Leaders Society Oyster Roast, Adams Pond. Contact Becky Wych, 803-733-5419, bwych@uway.org • February 2017 – LIVE UNITED Awards, Location TBD. Contact Mike Quinn, 803-7335443, mquinn@uway.org • February 2017 - Humanitarian of the Year honoring Stewart and Steven Mungo., Location TBD. Contact GB Olsen, 803-7586992, golsen@uway.org. • May 2017 - Women in Philanthropy Power of the Purse, Location and Time TBD. Contact Sarah Brennecke, 803-733-5107, sbrennecke@uway.org 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, contact Mike Gray, 803-733-5422, mgray@uway.org.

Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands 55


56 Giving: Your guide to community giving in the Midlands

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