As we find ourselves in the midst of another South Carolina summer, we’re pressed to pause in nature’s boom and sit with the significance of this month in particular. 

June is marked by many poignant anniversaries. We remember the Emanuel Nine, whose lives were cut short eleven years ago on June 17th in a violent act of racism that still shakes our state. We honor their legacies, hold space for their families, and double-down on our values of love and dignity for all South Carolinians.

On June 19th, our country celebrated unity in the truest sense of the word on Juneteenth. On that day in 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Texas to share news that enslaved African Americans were finally free. Now widely recognized as the nation’s second Independence Day, we are moved by this perseverance, the hope in celebration, and the endurance we harness as we journey onward.

As we reach the midpoint of the year, we are reminded that growth takes reflection. Let's continue building the stronger, more equitable South Carolina–not just this year, but for all the years to come.

Sisters of Charity Foundation

Celebrates 30 Years

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina! Founded on June 3rd, 1996 by the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine and now a ministry of the Sisters of Charity Health System, we have always worked towards helping shape a state where all people can live with dignity.

Thirty years later, that vision continues to guide us as we remain committed to challenging the systems that perpetuate poverty. As we implement our new strategic plan, we are energized by our progress and inspired by the work still ahead.

DREAM WITH US

To celebrate this milestone, we're asking you a question: What would South Carolina look like if there was no poverty? 

Dream with us and share your vision for a stronger, more equitable South Carolina. Follow along with us on social media as we share answers from our event attendees, Board of Trustees, and staff!

Follow along to share your answer!

Celebrating the Life of

Sr. Mary Jacob Yelcho

We join the Sisters of Charity Health System and countless others in honoring the life and legacy of Sr. Mary Jacob Yelcho, CSA. From 1967 to 1991, Sr. Mary Jacob served as the President/Executive Director of Providence Hospital in Columbia.

Sr. Mary Jacob dedicated her life to faith, service, and the pursuit of justice. Her leadership, compassion, and commitment to those most in need touched many lives and helped shape the mission that continues to guide our work today.

We invite you to read more about her remarkable life and lasting impact below. A memorial service will be held on July 20th at 10 a.m. at MUSC Midlands (former Providence Hospital) at 2435 Forest Drive, Columbia, SC 29204. For more details, please contact scfsc@sistersofcharitysc.com.

Systems Change Grant LOI

Deadline Reminder

The Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina is currently accepting Letters of Intent for our Systems Change Grants (Round 2) through August 4th.

These grants support organizations and coalitions working to change the policies, power structures, and mindsets that cause and reinforce poverty in South Carolina. Funding is focused on systems change efforts that advance economic mobility and housing security for people experiencing poverty.

Interested organizations are encouraged to learn more and submit a Letter of Intent by August 4th!

SCFSC Grants:

Grants Overview + Resources

We've published a new video of tips for writing a competitive Systems Change Grant letter of intent and application! This advice is based on what Foundation staff have learned in the early rounds of the grant process.

Watch below or on on YouTube. The video is a complement to the 2026 Grants Overview webinar held in January.



For additional information, visit our Grants webpage or contact Ashlee McGandy, Grants Manager, at amcgandy@sistersofcharitysc.com.

Karriem Edwards Named 2026

Joyce Gillespie Ford Black Nonprofit Leader of the Year

Congratulations to Karriem Edwards, President of the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families, on being named the 2026 Joyce Gillespie Ford Black Nonprofit Leader of the Year by Together SC!

The award recognizes outstanding nonprofit leadership across South Carolina and celebrates Karriem's commitment to strengthening families, expanding opportunities for fathers, and building systems of support with lasting ripple effects.

The recognition also includes opportunities to engage with Black nonprofit leaders across the state and a scholarship to the 2027 Together SC Summit. Congrats, Karriem!

Celebrating 25 Years of Expanding Opportunity with Tony McDade

SCFSC Board Member Tony McDade recently reflected on 25 years of work to expand opportunity and economic mobility in Greenville. As Board Chair of fellow funder Hollingsworth Funds, Tony credits the expansion of this philanthropic legacy to collaboration, community investment, and shared pathways to success for all residents.

We are grateful for Tony's service as a SCFSC Board Member and encourage you to read his thoughtful reflections to discover the impact this work continues to have across the region!

2026 Legislative Roundup

Want to stay informed on the issues shaping South Carolina? 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 special legislative recap to learn more about the decisions impacting our communities.

Fred R. Sheheen Nonprofit

Leadership Institute

The Fred R. Sheheen Nonprofit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University equips nonprofit professionals with practical leadership, management, and governance skills to strengthen their organizations and communities. Applications are open now with a deadline of August 21st, or until the program 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.

Institute for Child Success

Housing Listening Sessions

This summer, the Institute for Child Success has been hosting regional Housing Listening Sessions to gather community input on housing challenges that affect children and families across the state. Lawmakers have heard directly from residents, advocates, service providers, and organizations to help inform future housing policy discussions.

Don't miss out! The final session will be held on July 28th in the Upstate.

FY 2025 Rural Capacity Building for Community Development and

Affordable Housing Grants

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is accepting applications for its Rural Capacity Building for Community Development and Affordable Housing program. This funding opportunity supports organizations working to strengthen local capacity, expand affordable housing, and advance community development efforts in rural communities.

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