Just a BRIEF Welcome!!

Exciting milestone! BRIEF's first newsletter! BRIEF has now been serving our community for 1 ½ years and we want to keep you, our supporters, prayer warriors and donors informed in the many exciting things that are going on with BRIEF. BRIEF is teaching Robotics, Hands on Science Lab and Intro to Computer Science and AI classes in both Pickens and Oconee counties and exploring an expansion into Greenville county. It is our promise to keep these newsletters concise and informative. If you ever have any questions, suggestions or need additional information do not hesitate to reach out to us and we will be happy to assist. The newsletter will include pictures of our activities along with stories to help you better understand what we do. This will allow you to know how to pray for us and to join us in celebrating the successes along the way. One student from Oconee County recently told her Mom how much she loves learning about computers and is so excited she has been able to discover this love through BRIEF. Another student came home from PARI Space camp this summer and announced to his Mom that he wants to become an engineer! How exciting that these students are discovering talents and loves that can assist them in a successful life. BRIEF classes will continue to help these students develop and grow these skills while focusing on Problem Solving, Critical Thinking, Communication and Teamwork. Through the newsletter you will also get to know our Board Members and our terrific team of volunteers. BRIEF is blessed to have talented people who are passionate about helping others and making our community a better place. We hope you like what you see and share the exciting news with your family and friends. 

Mac Devine, Executive Director, and Karen Devine

"Volunteer Highlight"

Janiece Jackson is a 21-year-old, Mathematical Sciences senior at Clemson University. She has been a volunteer with BRIEF since January 2022. Originally from Winnsboro, SC, her personal origin story of being raised in a single-parent home drove her passion for volunteering in her community. Jackson is the oldest of four and being raised in apartment complexes gave her a magnitude of experiences with different children and parents. This perspective gave her insight into the various dynamics of poverty. Jackson became involved with BRIEF after meeting Mac Devine, executive director, at a math club session at Clemson University. Jackson was intrigued with BRIEF and emailed Mac with her curiosity. This curiosity lead to her becoming a consistent volunteer with BRIEF.

One thing Jackson loves about BRIEF is that is geared toward single-parent homes and impoverished children. She appreciates that BRIEF allows these children to experience new technologies outside of their current surroundings. Jackson strives to continue volunteering in her community and values the lessons of humility and service BRIEF has taught.

Stay connected to more BRIEF updates by following our social media accounts and visiting our website.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to email us.