Summer is in full swing! As we move through the second half of 2026, we're reminded that lasting change is built one step at a time, one conversation at a time, and one action at a time. Thank you for being part of this journey as we continue building a state where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Sisters of Charity Foundation

Awards Inaugural Systems Change Grants

We're excited to announce the recipients of our inaugural Systems Change Grants. Through a $400,000 investment, five organizations across South Carolina will advance bold efforts to address the root causes of poverty by removing systemic barriers to economic mobility and housing security.

As the Foundation continues implementing its new strategic plan, these grants reflect our commitment to partnering with organizations that are creating lasting, community-driven change. As Foundation President Donna Waites shared, "The work of these five organizations is rooted in community, centered around meaningful partnerships, and driven by a vision to truly change systems. I couldn't be more honored to partner with them in this work."

Meet the Partners

Driving Systems Change

Remembering

Sr. Mary Jacob Yelcho

More than 120 friends, colleagues, and family members gathered on the MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown campus to celebrate the life and lasting legacy of Sr. Mary Jacob Yelcho, CSA, whose decades of leadership and service shaped healthcare and communities across South Carolina. Following the memorial service, guests continued the celebration at a reception in the Sister House, sharing stories and honoring the remarkable impact she made throughout her nearly 100 years of life. We remain deeply grateful for Sr. Mary Jacob's enduring commitment to the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina and to building a healthier, stronger South Carolina.

Systems Change Grant (Round 2)

LOIs Due August 4th

Organizations working to advance economic mobility or housing security through systems change are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent by August 4th for our next round of Systems Change Grants.

We've also shared a new blog with practical tips to help applicants prepare stronger submissions before the deadline.

SCFSC President Joins Together SC

Board of Directors

Congratulations to our President, Donna Waites, on joining the Together SC Board of Directors. This appointment reflects a shared commitment to strengthening South Carolina's nonprofit sector and advancing collaborative solutions that help communities thrive. We extend a heartfelt congratulations to all the new Board of Directors for 2026!

Latest & Learning:

A Season of Learning

Six months into our 2026 to 2028 Strategic Plan, we're taking time to reflect on what we've learned and how those lessons are shaping our work moving forward. In our newest Latest & Learning article, we share how listening, partnership, and continuous learning are helping guide our approach to systems change and our commitment to reducing poverty across South Carolina.

Melinda Merrell Selected for Leadership South Carolina Class of 2027

Congratulations to our Senior Director of Grantmaking and Strategy, Melinda Merrell, on being selected for the Leadership South Carolina Core Program Class of 2027. Chosen through a competitive statewide process, Melinda joins a distinguished group of leaders committed to strengthening South Carolina through collaboration, service, and innovative leadership. We look forward to seeing the impact of her continued leadership both at the Foundation and across our state!

Donna Waites Featured on the

Opportunity SC Podcast

How do communities move beyond treating the symptoms of poverty and begin changing the systems that create it? In the debut episode of the OpportunitySC Podcast, Foundation President Donna Waites joins host Bernie Mazyck to discuss systems change, community power, and building lasting solutions for South Carolina.

United Way of the Midlands

Campaign for Good Donor Wall

United Way of the Midlands recently unveiled its Campaign for Good donor wall, created by artist Penny McPeak and inspired by the Saluda River. Flowing through each of the six counties United Way serves, the artwork symbolizes the connection and collective impact that strengthen communities across the Midlands. Congrats on the completion of this momentous project!

Disability Pride Month Spotlight:

Able South Carolina

July is Disability Pride Month, and we're proud to celebrate our grantee partner, Able South Carolina, for its role in the Disability Next Door initiative. Featured alongside partners from across the state in Who's On The Move, the initiative highlights the voices, experiences, and contributions of people with disabilities while encouraging communities to build a more accessible and inclusive South Carolina.

2026 Legislative Roundup

Stay informed with issues facing South Carolinians. This Week in South Carolina host Gavin Jackson sits down with state lawmakers and policy leaders to break down key developments from this year's legislative session.

Check out this recent special legislative recap below to learn more about the decisions impacting communities across the state.

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation Health Priority Grants

The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation is accepting Letters of Intent for its Health Priority Grants through August 7th. The program supports organizations working to improve health outcomes and expand access to care for South Carolinians.

Fred R. Sheheen Nonprofit

Leadership Institute

Applications remain open for the Fred R. Sheheen Nonprofit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University. The program equips nonprofit leaders with practical tools to strengthen organizations and build lasting community impact. Applications close August 21st or when the cohort reaches capacity.

2027 Relentless Challenge Grant

The South Carolina Department of Commerce's 2027 Relentless Challenge Grant offers funding to support entrepreneurship and small business growth across the state. Eligible nonprofits, higher education institutions, and local governments can apply for up to $50,000 through the Traditional Small Business Track or up to $75,000 through the Innovation Track. Applications open September 1st and close September 30th.

Labor South Young Workers Collective

Paid Apprenticeship

Labor South is accepting applications for its Young Workers Collective, a leadership development program for workers, organizers, and working class students ages 18 to 30. Participants will build organizing skills, connect with movement leaders, and take part in an eight-month, part-time paid apprenticeship. Applications are due July 31st.

8/10-8/12 | Together SC Advocacy Boot Camp

Don't miss these "101" sessions hosted by Together SC if you wish to dive deeper on state-level advocacy basics. Join them for their annual Virtual Advocacy Boot Camp, a three-part series running August 10th through August 12th!

9/11-9/12 | Healthy Learners Songwriters in the Round

Join Healthy Learners for an unforgettable evening of live music while supporting their mission to remove health barriers to learning for children across South Carolina. Proceeds from the event help ensure students have access to the healthcare they need to thrive in school and beyond.

Follow us on social!