On April 15, SCORE, the nation’s largest provider of free business mentoring services to aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses, held its annual celebration and awards ceremony. SCORE SC Lowcountry volunteers, clients, sponsors, and honored guests gathered to celebrate and recognize achievements at the luncheon and ceremony held at the Lakeview Room of Hampton Lake.
The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina was awarded the Non-Profit of the Year at the event, presented to the organization by its accomplished SCORE mentor, David Gray.
“It has been my pleasure and honor to work with the Arts Center -- a truly remarkable organization. This recognition is well-deserved. It’s a reflection of the vision and values that guide everything they do,” Gray stated.
“Over the past six months, the Arts Center has partnered with SCORE on a strategic planning journey,” Gray explained. “Sandy Leath and I have worked with a fantastic Strategic Planning Committee that has brought energy, thoughtful creativity, and lots of heart to this work. They have asked insightful questions. They’ve shared innovative ideas. And they’ve been heavily engaged to ensure the success of this important project.
“The Arts Center’s vision is to be a world-class organization that enriches and benefits our region through exceptional arts entertainment, education, and experiences. They create, produce, and present exceptional events for the region in collaboration with local, regional, and national partners. Using this collaboration, the Arts Center has strengthened its strategic foundation – and it has reaffirmed its commitment to enriching lives through the transformative power of the arts.
“Their impact on the surrounding region is undeniable. From world-class productions to inclusive educational programs and vibrant community events, their work touches hearts, sparks imagination, and brings people together.”
David Gray himself won SCORE’s Volunteer of the Year, for his commitment and dedication. He was noted for representing SCORE, not just by mentoring, but also by his willingness to help promote SCORE on many levels through workshops and presentations to the business and non-profit community.
“We were overjoyed to receive the Non-Profit of the Year award from SCORE,” stated Jeffrey Reeves, the Arts Center’s President/CEO. “And the fact that David won Volunteer of the Year as well made the day even more special. We have been so fortunate to have both David and Sandy guide our strategic planning process, which has included numerous committee meetings, community focus groups, in-depth surveys, and staff feedback.”
Also bestowed that afternoon was the award from the SC District for the Chapter of the Year, presented to the SCORE SC Lowcountry.
For more information on SCORE SC Lowcountry, visit their website at www.score.org/sclowcountry.