Charleston Hope’s mission is to increase access to mental and behavioral health programs for students in Title I schools to enhance student well-being.
Charleston Hope Hero's Fundraiser, a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign scheduled from May 3-16, with a closing celebration from 6-9 p.m. May 16 at the Harbour Club, aims to raise funds for mental health programs in low-resourced schools.
With a mission to increase access to mental and behavioral health resources in Title 1 schools, Charleston Hope is committed to ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally. Through initiatives such as THRIVE and Step-In programs, Charleston Hope has made significant strides in providing essential counseling and after-school programming to students in need.
The need for such programs is underscored by alarming statistics: According to a recent report from the Boston Consulting Group, 77% of youth in South Carolina with a major depressive episode do not receive any mental health treatment. This is well above the national average of 60%. In 2021, leading organizations declared a National State of Emergency in children’s mental health. Additionally, in 2022, the mental health counselor-to-student ratio 2022 was 1:1,300 in South Carolina.
Charleston Hope’s journey began in 2011 when executive director Emily Kerr brainstormed from her kitchen table how she could help enact real change. Since then, Charleston Hope has grown exponentially, thanks to the unwavering support of community members. This year alone, Charleston Hope expects to provide more than 1,000 hours of mental health support to students.
Charleston Hope is highlighting the efforts of Charleston community members who have come together to support students’ mental health programs at the closing event, “Heroes Unite: A MARVELous Affair!” The public is encouraged to attend the May 16 event for an evening featuring an open bar, food, live music, a vacation raffle and support of Charleston Hope’s mission.
One of the program's therapists, Amy Gregorie, shared her testimony.
“The THRIVE program is allowing us, as therapists, to reach children we would never have had the opportunity to help,” she said. “I have been able to help children identify their emotions, learn essential coping skills, process their trauma, and simply have a safe space to talk about their lives."
Supporters can donate online or attend the in-person fundraiser from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, May 16, to learn more about the organization's mission, programs and impact. More information can be found at www.charlestonhope.org.
WHAT: Charleston Hope’s Heroes Unite: A MARVELous Affair fundraising event – online and in-person.
WHEN: May 16 from 6-9 p.m.
WHERE: The Harbour Club
HOW: $50 entry fee, ticket price includes open bar and food. To purchase tickets and learn more about the fundraiser, visit: charlestonhope.charityproud.org/EventRegistration/Index/15826
