WCF – A Facilitator for Philanthropists
The Waccamaw Community Foundation (WCF) is a non-profit organization that strives to help both Horry and Georgetown counties. This foundation is dedicated to connecting a diverse group of donors and philanthropists to people or groups which they care deeply about and those who need financial assistance. Unlike many non-profit organizations that have a specific mission, a community foundation, such as WCF, has a broader mission whose goal is to improve the quality of like in a specific area. Grants, therefore, can be made in any field of interest which will benefit the community.
WCF supports many different local nonprofit organizations through grants and scholarships to those who qualify. Non-profit agencies may apply for grants; however, the fund holders do have specific criteria which must be met before disbursement of their funds. Over the last several years, thousands of dollars in grants have been awarded to aid the environment, the arts, children, education, community services, health care, wildlife, and many others. The decision for investment of all funds is made through the community foundation’s finance committee. By connecting people who want to give with people who need assistance, WCF has made a huge impact on the quality of life in both Horry and Georgetown counties.
An example of one program which is supported by the Waccamaw Community Foundation is Literacy Alive. The mission of Literary Alive is to provide literacy programs and services to communities across Horry County to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to access the education they need. This allows everyone from individuals to business to have a part in supporting literacy in Horry County.
The scholarship and grants donated to the Foundation is a huge asset to boost their Literacy Alive Program. To donate a scholarship fund, the Foundation has a $25,000 minimum to ensure a $1,250 scholarship to each eligible student. These funds are necessary to improve the poor literacy levels in students today. It allows them to continue their education and offer a brighter future. Since this foundation is not like others, by being so broad with who they help, they have more supporters and donors. Some donors establish a named fund for a certain purpose such as funding a scholarship for local students. A common practice is when you have endowed funds, family members create a scholarship in memory of the person who passed away. With the money and scholarships that the foundation raises enables people of every age to enjoy their academic opportunity. Visit http://www.waccamawcf.org/grants-scholarships/ if you are interested in applying for a scholarship or grant.
By connecting people who want to give with people who need assistance, WCF has made a huge impact on the quality of life in both Horry and Georgetown counties. For more information about the Waccamaw Community Foundation, you may contact them at 843-357-GIVE (4483) or email at http://www.waccamawcf.org/.
