Taking a risk never felt so good. #HashtagLunchBagGreenvilleSC was only a risk because of the unconventional nature of this concept being executed by a chamber of commerce. While many asked why, I asked why not? After all, we certainly have a large enough network to convene volunteers and donors to pull this idea off. Several other markets are doing it with great success. So can we. And, we did! This is say thank you to all those who contributed in helping to bring this nontraditional Chamber initiative to fruition. Here are just a few stats worthy of sharing concerning #HashtagLunchBagGreenvilleSC:

• Activated 250+ diverse volunteers from Greenville Chamber’s corporate and nonprofit member organizations, PULSE, LG alumni, and community at large.
• Secured 20+ businesses and organizations for in-kind donations, monetary contributions, volunteer assistance, and event sponsorships.
• Served approximately 600 men, women, children with bag lunches filled with food and lots of love.
• Mobilized teams of volunteers to 6 different distribution locations informed by working with nonprofit agencies: Triune Mercy Center, Salvation Army, West End Community Development Center, Miracle Hill Boy’s Shelter, Pleasant Valley Community Center, and East Washington Village Apartments (a poverty-stricken Hispanic community).

This effort supports Greenville Chamber CAPACITY’s focus area of diverse community impact. Below are just a few of the anecdotal feedback received form a few of those involved. “That was the most organized volunteer event I have ever been too. You did an amazing job. When I came to town on Sunday, I passed a few of the people who came from the community and they were carrying their bags and wearing the shirts.” -APRIL ORTIZ, JHM Hotels “I had a wonderful time during #hashtaglunchbagGreenvilleSC and I hope this is something that the Chamber will continue to do in the future.  I love volunteering and fighting hunger is a cause that I regularly support.” -Daysha Bonner, DeMint Howe, P.A. “I really had A LOT of fun participating in the volunteer work Saturday.  It opened my eyes in a lot of ways.  Everyone we encountered was more than friendly and thankful.” -Natalie Powell, Scott and Company “Thank you for an opportunity to serve and fellowship. It was inspiring to see so many people focused on community action, and the high energy was just amazing! I love grassroots efforts…there's nothing like the special energy of like-minded POSITIVE people and movements! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of such a great initiative. It was an awesome experience!” -Joy Jones, AppleOne Employment Services Learn more about CAPACITY, Greenville Chamber’s Diversity and Inclusion Initiative Follow CAPACITY on Twitter Like CAPACITY on Facebook Check out the CAPACITY YouTube Channel