Spring is in full bloom, bringing a season of renewal, hope, and new beginnings. We are reminded of the power of change and the promise that growth is always possible—even in challenging times. This season invites us to reflect on the progress we’ve made and look ahead with a 'stubborn faith' and purpose. Thank you for being with us on this journey.

-Donna Waites, SCFSC President

2025 Annual Report Now Available

In case you missed it, we are excited to share our 2025 Annual Report with you! This past year brought important changes, including a deeper focus on systems change and the launch of our new strategic plan. This work was shaped by our staff, Board of Trustees, partners, research studies, and community voices. We invite you to explore the report and learn more about the impact we made together.

Read Our 2025 Annual Report

Easter Reflections

As we celebrate the miracle of Easter this month, we reflect on hope, renewal, and new life. This season reminds us that our true rewards don't come from material things, but from compassion and service towards each other. It is a time to move forward with faith and purpose here in the land of the living.

175th Anniversary Prayer Service

We were honored to gather with partners, board members, and community members for the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine’s 175th Anniversary Prayer Service a few weeks ago. The event was a meaningful time to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate a long legacy of service as we look towards the future together alongside Healthy Learners and the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families. Together, we renewed our shared commitment to carry forward the spirit of “In All Things Charity” in our work.

Learn More About The Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine

Fair Housing Month

April is Fair Housing Month, a time to recognize the importance of equal access to safe and affordable housing. It's also a chance to reflect on the work still needed to ensure fairness in housing for all, because fair housing means more than compliance–it means justice, opportunity, and inclusion. We encourage partners to learn more and find ways to get involved in their communities.

Cover SC Advocacy Call Day

Cover SC is organizing its second Advocacy Call Day on Tuesday, April 21. People across South Carolina are encouraged to call their State House Representatives and support solutions for working residents who cannot afford health insurance but do not qualify for assistance. Participants can use a simple call guide and are encouraged to share the effort with others to increase impact across the state.

Event: Advocacy Call Day
When: April 21, Business Hours
What: Call your SC State House Representative, asking to support common sense solutions that help working South Carolinians who earn too much to qualify for assistance but cannot afford private health insurance.
How: Use this guide as a helpful tool during your call.
Questions: Contact info@coversc.org for any questions!

Get Involved on Advocacy Call Day

Civic Engagement Reminders

Voting is the most powerful way we can protect our democratic freedoms. With primary elections coming up soon, now is a good time to check your voter registration.

Key deadlines include:

May 8 for in-person registration
May 10 for online, fax, or email registration
May 11 for mail-in registration

Staying informed and voting are important ways to take part in your community. Make sure your voter registration is up-to-date before it's time to vote!

Learn More at SC Votes

Community Advancement and

Engagement Survey

The South Carolina Commission for Community Advancement and Engagement (formerly the South Carolina Commission for Minority Affairs) is asking residents to share their experiences through a statewide survey. The goal is to better understand the needs and priorities of communities across the state, with feedback from this survey guiding future efforts and supporting positive change. Take the survey now!

Take the Survey

Center for Heirs' Property Policy Agenda

The Center for Heirs’ Property has released its 2025–2027 Policy Agenda. The plan shares practical, bipartisan ideas to strengthen property rights and improve access to housing, economic opportunities, and disaster support. The agenda is based on more than 20 years of work with families and communities!

Read the Policy Agenda

Launch Carolinas Leadership Accelerator

Applications are open for the 2026–2027 Launch Carolinas Leadership Accelerator Program! This program helps nonprofit leaders build skills and strengthen their organizations across the Carolinas. Applications are open now through May 15. Learn more and apply below!

Learn More About the Leadership Accelerator Program

Norfolk Southern Grants Programs

Did you know that Norfolk Southern offers grants that support community development, education, and economic mobility? Organizations with projects across a variety of categories are encouraged to review the guidelines and apply.

Learn More About Norfolk Southern's Grants

Opportunity Zone Nominations Open

South Carolina is seeking public input for the next round of Opportunity Zone designations, which help direct investment into communities to support economic growth and job creation. Community feedback will help guide which areas are selected and ensure investments reflect local needs and priorities!

Learn More About Opportunity Zones

Knight Cities Challenge

For our friends in Columbia and Myrtle Beach, the Knight Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Knight Cities Challenge. This program funds creative ideas that help communities grow stronger and more connected. Selected projects may receive up to $200,000. Applications are open through April 30th!

Learn More About the Knight Cities Challenge

Welcoming Vanessa Brown

We are pleased to welcome Vanessa Brown as our new Office Administrator. Vanessa supports the Foundation’s daily operations, including finance, human resources, and board coordination. Her experience in policy and administration helps strengthen both our daily work and long-term goals. Welcome to the team, Vanessa! We're so happy you are here.

Meet Vanessa

Thank You, Natalia!

We thank Natalia Leary, our Spring 2026 Intern, for her contributions this semester! She supported several areas of our work, including community engagement, grant making, and communications. We are grateful for her time with us and wish her continued success in the future. Onward and upward, Natalia!