We asked members of the community how their organizations help the community. We’ve shared some of the responses below.

Kim Bowman | Founder & CEO K. Hope Creative and South Carolina’s Rural Innovation Network

We help startups build brands. We help municipalities build community awareness campaigns for compelling quality-of-life enhancements, like parks and golf courses. We help rural communities build digital economy ecosystems to ignite economic and workforce development. Most importantly, we help small to mid-sized businesses establish robust brands through strategic marketing efforts that encompass high-quality content and design for print and digital activation. In a nutshell, we help businesses, non-profits, and communities punch above their weight. Read more>>

TJ Rumler | Licensed Social Worker and Therapist

TJ Rumler Consulting helps the community and the world by providing schools, nonprofits, and businesses with workshops and consulting services on trauma, mental health, and wellness. This work helps to create a more resilient and supportive society, where people have the tools and resources they need to thrive. Specifically, we help to: -Reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. By talking about trauma, mental health, and wellness in open and honest ways, we help to break down the stigma that prevents people from seeking the help they need. -Increase access to mental health resources. we provide workshops and consulting services to a wide range of organizations, which helps to make mental health resources more accessible to people from all walks of life. Read more>>

Karl de la Guerra

Everyone deserves to feel safe. KDI Protective Services is in the business of providing peace of mind. An individual that feels threatened cannot focus on what they are required to do every day. When we assign a protection agent to an individual, that protectee knows they can go about their day not having to look over their shoulder or be concerned about the safety and security of themselves, their family or their business. All places where we may be assigned. Read more>>

Kadeem Ellis | Creative

I “GET TO” help the community through Kadeem A Ellis Photography & Events, LLC. I’m aware that I don’t have to do what I do, but I actually “GET TO” do what I do. This phrase brings me so much joy! I “GET TO” photograph lasting life moments for families, couples, events, and individual accomplishments. Photos are valuable and should be a priority for all moments of life. This is why I wanted to create a business that was affordable but offered quality work. I’m don’t do what I do for the money, but I do what I do because it is my purpose. I have found meaning through helping my community. Though my business offers more than photography (balloon decor & event planning), everything I do helps the community pause & remember. Read more>>

Sherrelle Coach Mrs. BluntlySpoken | Life Purpose Spiritual Coach & Ordained Youth Minister

Bluntly Vibes Kreations was created to reach many SOULs through messages, quotes, parties, events, apparel, and much more. This Organization impacts the community in several ways. First priority is advocating and mentoring the YOUTH in the community. Spreading Love and Light. By providing guidance and clarity amongst many things. Bluntly Vibes Kreations Mentor Program was established to give the youth HOPE that there is always someone that can relate on their level no matter the age. Also, most importantly being there when it counts the most, I show up and help with school supplies yearly, advocate in any other extra activities the youth may be involved in. Read more>>

Jennifer Middleton | Owner of The Mad Smash

The Mad Smash provides a safe space for people to release stress and emotions. Acknowledging negative feelings can help individuals let go and move through difficult experiences. The goal is to give people an opportunity to lighten their emotional load so they can be happier and spread more happiness to others. Read more>>

Amy Mulder | International Wedding Photographer and Educator

I love being able to use my gifting to tell my clients’ stories. It is always such an honor to be entrusted with one of the most important days of their lives. A big thing I have wrestled with a lot in the last year is how to use my gifts as a photographer on an even deeper level. So I have started a project to bring more visibility to the life changing work of missionaries around the world. I am starting in Kenya at an orphanage for children rescued from sex trafficking, FGM and forced child marriages. At this home, all of the children are given a free education, 3 hot meals a day, clothes, a warm bed, and are just able to be little kids again. They are also given counseling for all the trauma they have been through. Read more>>

Joselyn Johnson | Owner, Event Planner

My first “big girl” job was working for the housing authority. It sparked my interest in social impact and the importance of businesses being a part of positive change in the community it resides. So for that reason, 10% of the net revenue generated at Eventions by Joselyn goes towards our Community Evention effort. The funds are given to a local nonprofit(s) that are doing direct service or to a community event. Our mission is to make a positive impact on the community one event at a time. The 2023 Community Evention effort was sponsoring the Juneteenth Family Fest event. Read more>>

April Magill | Architect & Executive Director

I recently started a non-profit organization (501c3) in order to address community needs even more than I could do through my for-profit LLC. My mission, both as an Architect through Root Down Designs, and now as the Executive Director of the Root Down Building Collective, has always been focused on sustainable building solutions, affordable housing, and community empowerment. The new organization’s mission is ‘Advancing Regional, Climate-Smart, and Equitable Building Solutions.’ Read more>>

Yvette Grishina | Abstract Artist

My business, rooted in the creation of art, strives to serve the community and the world by offering a path to profound self-discovery. Through my artistic work, I strive to guide individuals on a journey that leads them to a deeper exploration of their core values and beliefs. This process encourages introspection and allows to recognize what genuinely holds meaning and significance in our lives, free of societal influences and external expectations. I firmly believe that in today’s fast-paced world, we often lose touch with our authentic selves. My art is a channel for this journey of self-discovery, enabling people to reconnect with their true essence. Read more>>

Brad Ebenhoeh | CEO, Co-founder and Partner

We support small businesses by offering a scalable and flexible way to have a professional accounting team. Most of these small business owners support amazing missions and causes that give back to communities and uplift those in need. By contributing to their success, we contribute to the overall success of these communities. Read more>>

Mike Stark | owner/head coach HCCF

HCCF provides a space where people can come in and check out for an hour, get a fun workout in, and connect with people that are trying to get better every single day. We also provide ongoing fitness/wellness education to all levels and walks of life so that our athletes can take what they learn in the gym out into the world with them. Our goal isn’t to create competitive individuals (although we love to see it), but to teach people to move their bodies in a way that preps them for whatever life throws their way whether its a hike, a surf trip, or helping your buddy move. Read more>>

Peyton Sheheane | Dog Mom

I believe the impact I am putting into the community is inspiring young entrepreneurs to just go for it. It might be hard at first but by pulling the trigger you can really change lives even if you don’t think you are! My goal for Isabellasdoodlediaries is to share how you can have a job doing social media even at a young age even doing it with your best friend. Read more>>

April Hall Gill | Certified Placenta Remedies Specialist and Newborn Care Specialist

My business supports birth families locally and nationwide with a natural way to support their postpartum healing. We provide birthing families with the amazing natural healing benefits of certified placenta encapsulation and many other placenta remedies. We believe families should have access to safe and affordable certified placenta services regardless of their location. Read more>>

Michael Casciello | Founder/CEO

Food Fire + Knives mission from the beginning and what we ask ourselves every single day is, “how can we better the lives of Chefs everywhere.” Our company was and will always be a Chef founded and driven company. We take pride in the diversity and talent of our Chef community. The Chefs are interviewed and fully vetted, including background checks before joining. We understood Chefs miss the camaraderie and social interactions of a traditional restaurant. Through Slack, we’ve re-created a tight-knit community of Chefs willing to assist each other, lend advice, or chat about anything and everything. So whether you continue on the FFK platform or not, you’ll always be a part of our Chef community. Read more>>

Sheree Rabinovich | Wedding & Portrait Photographer

Documenting life’s pivotal moments holds profound significance. When our memories waver, photographs endure, acting as timeless storytellers for generations. While my expertise lies in capturing weddings, often considered among life’s most monumental occasions, it’s sometimes the subtle, everyday moments that leave an indelible mark. It’s in these fleeting, often overlooked instances that we find life’s true essence. Capturing unscripted moments, set against the backdrop of our daily lives, weaves a narrative that genuinely reflects the joy and richness inherent in everyday living. Read more>>

Octavia Cohen | Advocate & Artist

My business helps the community by bringing awareness and information about Alopecia, the medical term for hair loss. Read more>>

Quynh Tran | Entrepreneur and beautician

I’ve always believed that true beauty goes beyond appearances; it’s about helping people feel confident and be the best version of themselves. When I opened my nail and lash salon in Summerville, my goal was to create a welcoming haven where our customers not only look great but also feel fantastic. What sets us apart is the experience we offer. Our salon provides a serene environment, and we take the time to understand our customers’ unique needs. It’s not just a transaction; it’s about creating an atmosphere where every visit is a delight. We’ve introduced organic and luxurious options to make our customers feel truly valued. Read more>>

Dr. Yadira Báez-Lockard | Licensed Clinical and Forensic Neuropsychologist

I have a clinical and forensic psychology practice and they both each our community in distinctive ways. The clinical practice helps children, families and individual of all ages develop healthy coping skills as well as gain insight regarding their difficulties so they can build a better and healthier life. The forensic practice aids the judicial system when making life pivotal decisions by educating the courts. It is difficult for individuals to put aside their biases and misconceptions, and as such, individuals’ lives are at stake, in particularly that of minorities. I believe that the more we educate our judges and those in the legal system, perhaps one day, minorities will receive equal and just treatment. Read more>>

Lakesha Quarles | Certified Full Spectrum Doula & Community Advocate

My business SunFlower Births continues to help the community by providing support and resources to birthing persons and their families. By offering Birth and Postpartum support I am able to help ensure that another mom gets to return home with her baby and heal properly through her postpartum journey. My services also include providing resources such as doulas and lactation consultants resources. I am also an advocate for birthing rights and access to health care for birthing people. I am proud of the work I have done to help mothers and families during this time of need. Read more>>

Madi Balman | Founder & Creative Director of Mae Creative, Creative Director of Carolina Spark Magazine and North Carolina Bridal Magazine

Mae Creative is a marketing and design company with a mission to help people figure out branding and marketing solutions. Nowadays, many companies and start-ups have a hard time figuring out what is going wrong & why they are not growing. These individuals and their hardships are targeted by companies in my industry – they get sold things they don’t necessarily need. Mae Creative puts empathy and morals on the forefront, making sure that our clients get what they need & build on what they have first, not completely drain them of money before figuring out the structural problems. Read more>>

Jasmine Mullins | Handlettering Artist

In a really technological time, where more people use their thumbs to commicate than their hands, a handlettered message connects in a personal, unique way. When I teach someone Handlettering skills in a class, I’m excited they can craft a card, sign, or gift for someone with a thoughtfully lettered message that makes them feel special because of the time & love & vulnerability that went into it. When I make a handlettered sign, logo, or mural, I’m hoping the viewers sense some personality and heart beyond what a machine could generate. In a world of screens that strive to capture our frenzied attention spans, I’d like to think a beautiful, unique, handmade message on the wall may capture someone’s hearts. Read more>>

Wendy Newman | Photographer/Fashion Designer

I would like to think that my community work (funded by Wendy Newman Designs) Is one of the4 most valuable things I do. It’s the reason I get up in the morning. I photograph terminally ill children, for free in Asheville and surrounding areas as well as inn Florida which is where I am from and visit frequently. I had the honor of being On e of the top four finalists in the WLOS Person Of the Year because of my work which you can find on FB Wendy’s Cancer Warriors. https://www.facebook.com/wendyscancerwarriors/ Read more>>