Our #SwimLessonsSaveLives campaign wrapped up on September 2, raising $11,634.83. #SwimLessonsSaveLives is designed to generate awareness and support for for the Genesis Swim Safety Fund’s drowning prevention initiatives by collecting donations at the waterparks, pool, and beach parks.

For eight years, The City of Charleston Police Department, in conjunction with public schools and volunteer groups, has hosted the camp. Camp Hope focuses on teaching youth accountability, leadership, values, cultural arts, and social behavior. One eagerly anticipated camp activity has always been a day on the beach! While the majority of the campers are from the Charleston area, most of them have never experienced many of the outdoor adventures available in our area, and some have never visited a beach.

The Charleston County Parks Foundation remains a vital resource for non-profit groups like Camp Hope, and individuals needing access to our parks and programs.

The Charleston County Parks Foundation funded a successful summer of SK8 Forward! Over 200 kids and their camp counselors from the City of North Charleston Recreation Department, Metanoia Summer Program, and CCPRC’s Odyssey Camps got the full experience at SK8 Charleston. For most it was their first introduction to skateboarding, but we had quite a few who had been through the program before.

This year’s Evening at McLeod told the incredible story of Mr. William Dawson and his descendants – many of whom were in attendance. William was an enslaved man who lived with his family at McLeod Plantation. In May of 1862, he and nine others self-emancipated.

Evening at McLeod is a remarkable event that continues to evolve and helps to further realize the important history of our area and McLeod Plantation Historic Site.

“I would like to thank and congratulate everyone associated with this event. It was a lovely and meaningful evening.” – Evening at McLeod guest