I Have a Dream...Center
By Ashley Cooper
 It isn't very often that an applicant arrives at a site visit wearing basketball shorts and a whistle, but there he was, Pastor Sam Lesky, straight from North Charleston Cougar football practice. I automatically understood that the North Charleston Dream Center, operated by Seacoast Church, was dedicated to the people and area they serve. The Center has been modeled after the L.A. Dream Center, and they have a holistic approach to providing services to the community and bettering entire neighborhoods. On the small but very active campus is a food pantry, clothes closet, health clinic, and extensive youth mentoring program that makes sure to not duplicate services by assisting youth who are not involved in other programs... much, much more than simply Sunday worship services. Also, the "Adopt-a-Block" program sends teams of dedicated volunteers out to meet with residents and help with home repairs and beautification efforts. The Center is building strong relationships and changing lives. These efforts were recently recognized when the U.S. Attorney General approached them with a plan to assist in the further reduction of local crime in partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice, local law enforcement, and other community leaders. The staff and volunteers have brilliant dreams for the future; they are making a long-term investment and working diligently to help the community dream.
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Lots of Little Drops Fill the Bucket
By Edna Crews
My mailboxes, postal and electronic, are full of requests for donations. All are from legitimate organizations that add value in my local community, statewide, or nationally. How do we decide who gets something and who will not make the cut at this time?
These are decisions based on real emotional issues for me. A very dear and close relative had breast cancer. Do I support breast cancer research so we truly can find the cure? My mother suffered from Alzheimer's for 10 years. There are wonderful support organizations for families and caregivers right here in my lowcountry community that can help others deal with what I did for those years. Will I put their request in the pot? I was an educator for over 30 years. Helping children is a high priority. I know the needs are great in that area. Will a fraction of my giving make any difference?
I am sometimes overwhelmed by the needs in my community and at the same time proud when I hear a nonprofit organization has met its fundraising goals. Then I realize I am not in this alone. Many others are contributing too. As we approach this season of giving and giving thanks, I hope you will look around your community and see where you can make a difference. Even better, call us at Coastal Community Foundation and we can help guide your giving in a way that meets your charitable intent.
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Philanthropy Week 2010
Philanthropy Week 2010 is the fifth annual celebration of philanthropic work in coastal South Carolina. This year's celebration is scheduled for November 14-20. Events include panel discussions, educational workshops, and grant award ceremonies recognizing both nonprofit agencies and donors for their extraordinary work in our communities. Join Philanthropy Week on Facebook before coming out and joining the celebration where you will learn about the philanthropic work in your community. This year's Philanthropy Week is coordinated by Center for Women, Coastal Community Foundation, Association of Fundraising Professionals South Carolina Lowcountry Chapter (AFP), Women Making a Difference, the Junior League of Charleston, Be A Mentor, and Charleston Association of Grant Professionals (CAGP).
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What's Going On
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BarCamp Charleston is the must-attend ad-hoc "un-conference" for anyone in need of tech help. While this event is open to anyone, there will be a special session for beginning nonprofit-related discussion and assistance. Join BarCamp on November 13 at College of Charleston for this "un-conference" where you, the participants, decide what is discussed and taught.
Family Connection of South Carolina and Healing Farm Ministries invites you to the Share Fair for families with and friends of disabled children. Each family member will have workshops tailored to them. The Share Fair will be held at the East Cooper Baptist Church on January 15, 2011. Pre-registration is required.
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Main Office (843)-723-3635
90 Mary Street
Charleston, SC 29403
Beaufort Office
(843)-379-3400
2015 Boundary Street 2nd Floor
Beaufort, SC 29902
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