The programme provides grants to organisations in regions where S.C. Ports operates with the goal of positively impacting maritime commerce, economic development, environmental awareness, community outreach, education and workforce development efforts. S.C. Ports is providing more funding to more organisations than ever before through its fiscal year 2020 grants. “Our continued growth and success as an economic development engine for South Carolina enables us to support charitable organisations through our Community Giving Programme,” S.C. Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome said. “Our grant recipients work to improve children’s literacy, cultivate a world-class workforce, enhance the environment and support students’ creativity and curiosity, among other critical initiatives. We are proud to partner with these organisations as they undertake incredibly important work for our state.” Grant recipients apply for the Community Giving Programme. A committee – made of members with various backgrounds at the port – review applications and prioritise funding. The programme offers grants of USD5,000, USD2,500 and USD1,000. This year’s USD5,000 grant recipients include: A Backpack Journalist, Greenville Tech Foundation, Wounded Nature – Working Veterans, Dillon County First Steps and SC Future Makers. A Backpack Journalist provides students with real-world journalism experiences, including the process of writing, storytelling, film making and promotion. The group plans to use the funding to further their mission, including telling stories about the maritime industry. Greenville Tech Foundation received SCPA funds for its Truck Driver Training Programme, a 10-week certificate programme that trains entry-level commercial truck drivers in long haul, short haul and basic rules and regulations of the Department of Transportation. Wounded Nature – Working Veterans received SCPA funds to help with its mission of protecting coastal habitats and wildlife. The group assembles volunteer boaters and veterans to remove debris from hard to reach coastal areas designated by the Fish and Wildlife Service and Department of Natural Resources as critical wildlife areas. Dillon County First Steps is a non-profit striving to help every student in Dillon County arrive at kindergarten ready to succeed. The programmes offer a comprehensive approach to ensure children receive excellent care and develop an interest in reading from a young age. SCPA funds will help support this early childhood education initiative. SC Future Makers exposes and connects the next generation of students to state-wide career opportunities. The organisation works to close the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) gap and retain emerging talent. SCPA funds will be used to engage high school students and connect them with businesses.
Sunday, December 22, 2024
