In honor of National Non-Profit Day, I would like to take an opportunity to recognize our non-profit investors who work so hard to serve our community, generate economic impact, and improve our quality of life.  These organizations are a strong and significant part of our local economy.  The Chamber presently has several investors who fall into the association/non-profits category.  Of course that listing doesn’t include numerous others who are listed in their specialty area like healthcare, arts, social service organizations, museums, and other services.  These non-profits provide invaluable services that help children, the hungry, the sick, the elderly, families in need, those in underserved communities, people with disabilities, and many others in Greenville County and the Upstate, and they are active Chamber and community investors.

They bring energy and breathe life into our visual and performing arts, and our museums.  They protect the remarkable landscape and heritage of this place that we call home and assure that the people of this area have a quality of life that is second to none. 

While the mission of each of these non-profits varies, they are all businesses and as businesses, they buy supplies, pay taxes, and are an important customer base for our local for-profit businesses.  In fact, some of these non-profits are among the largest employers in our community providing an impressive diversity of employment opportunities and salary ranges. 

These dollars ripple through the community and have a positive multiplier effect on our local economy.  We would also be remiss if we didn’t mention the draw some of these organizations have in bringing people to our county for special events, cultural activities, and medical services.  As a result, the economic impact of these non-profit organizations is huge and benefits all of us in numerous ways.

As charities, a lot of these organizations often rely on the generosity of the community to fulfill their missions.  It has been shown time and time again that the people of our community share their resources with philanthropic gifts and donations.  I am always impressed with the level of philanthropy in our community.  The philanthropic efforts, of businesses and residents in Greenville County, have resulted in significant donations of charitable dollars to make a positive difference and long-term contributions to the lives of people in this community. 

In this community, we are surrounded by people—like you—who envision a better life for the generations to come and help to make that vision a reality through giving.  They are all around us in this community, and give from their hearts to provide many of the programs and services that we use and enjoy every day. 

Please take a moment to tell them “thank you”.  Take a little more time and volunteer, and if you are so inclined, and find a non-profit whose mission you are passionate about, make a donation.  Your investment in those businesses is an economic engine that strengthens us right here at home.