The Spartanburg County Foundation values its partnerships with individuals, community groups, nonprofit and for-profit organizations and businesses across our community. By building these relationships, sharing knowledge, and partnering to serve others, we strengthen the ecosystem that helps us collectively improve the lives of Spartanburg County residents.
The Foundation, working in partnership with the City of Spartanburg, facilitated the Highland Neighborhood Leadership Institute, a series of workshops designed to support Highland community leaders in developing strategies to implement the Highland Neighborhood Transformation Plan. Sessions were held monthly to provide participants with access to field experts, resources, and connections to build their capacity to strengthen their community.
The Robert Hett Chapman III Center for Philanthropy has been an invaluable resource for building partnerships. This time last year, we announced Upstate Warrior Solution as our Partner in Residence, finding its new home in The Robert Hett Chapman III Center for Philanthropy. Now, in addition to providing offices for six (6) Foundation staff members, the Center has four additional tenants: Strategic Spartanburg, Beauty Marks for Girls, Liberty Fellowship, and Project Hope Foundation. Tenants in the Center enjoy the technology and flexibility in the Center, not just for office space but also for strategic planning, program sessions, and client meetings. Many local nonprofits also hosted meetings, community presentations, and other events in the Center.
The Foundation’s ongoing partnership with the City of Spartanburg in offering the Grassroots Leadership Development Institute graduated another 28 community leaders this fall.
The Grassroots Leadership Alumni Association has continued to support these community leaders with various educational, networking, and service opportunities.
Did you know? The Grassroots Leadership Development Institute will soon mark its 20th year. Stay tuned to our website and social media for news about the multiple celebratory events being planned for 2024.
Minority Business Connect, offered in partnership with the County of Spartanburg, continued to help expand opportunities for local entrepreneurs through learning and networking sessions held throughout the year. In conjunction with Minority Business Connect Week sessions held in June, Simone Laurent, the Center for Philanthropy Administrative and Facilities Manager, created a digital exhibit to highlight many local, minority-owned businesses.
Our team is building out a wide range of learning opportunities to engage the community in 2024. We will have exhibits open to the public in our Gallery of Philanthropy with monthly themed content. We will continue our learning sessions – bringing in new topics and extending our popular Estate Planning series. And we will continue convening with partners to work on strategies to meet the most pressing needs in our community. Engaging the community is a key to improving the lives of Spartanburg County residents – our mission.
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