By Daniel Rendelman
Chapin, South Carolina — Now is the time to recommend local non-profits for grant money from the Greater Chapin Community Foundation. Since 2003, the Greater Chapin Community Foundation has collected more than $734,000, which has been saved and invested in the community’s nonprofit organizations. Over $263,000 in grants have been awarded to over 45 groups that address the area’s critical needs.
The annual grant cycle is now open through September 30. “The community foundation grants support a broad range of charitable needs for the community and are awarded to uplift and strengthen worthy causes. Chapinites are known for their philanthropic opportunities for neighbors to help neighbors, and this is a fantastic way to benefit many people,” said board chairman Paul Sadler. Other active board members include Nicholle Burroughs, Scott Hanners, Ashley Summers, Harry Cromer, Joe Perrit, Terri Baurelin, Christy Todd, Daniel Rendelman, and Beth Geirhart.
There is no maximum grant request amount; however, the average grant awarded in the previous year was over $2,000. Some of the groups the foundation has benefited from include the Free Medical Clinic of Newberry, American Legion Post 193, Chapin Community Theatre, Chapin We Care Center, Boys Farm, Crooked Creek Art League, and Screaming Eagles. To receive funding, organizations must serve the Greater Chapin area of Ballentine, Chapin, Little Mountain, Peak, Prosperity, or White Rock, complete the online application, and be recognized as 501(c)(3) charitable organizations.
Recipients develop the competencies and skills of individuals to live fuller, more productive lives in the community and provide opportunities for underserved populations. “We’re looking to help non-profits who demonstrate systems or approaches to build on individual, family, or community strengths. We hope to help many more people during this grant cycle,” said Sadler, who is also the President and CEO of the Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce.
Those who wish to leave an unending legacy of generosity often consider donating to the Greater Chapin Community Foundation, an endowment publicly funded by and for residents. Each year, the foundation holds the Groundhog Ball in February, hosts an awards ceremony, acknowledges local leaders with the Bud Lewandowski Youth Philanthropist of the Year and the Louetta Slice Philanthropist of the Year Awards, and participates in the Midlands Gives drive in May.
“Donating to the Foundation is investing in the future of Chapin. Each gift received is invested and multiplied over years so we can award grants,” said Sadler.
