As I reflect on the past 15 years of SC Thrive’s journey, I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished. The success of SC Thrive is not only the result of the organization’s hard work, but also the unwavering dedication of our incredible partners, our outstanding team, and our amazing South Carolina communities. I’ve learned so much throughout this time, but what stands out most is how our commitment to learning and growth has made us both successful and set us apart.
One of the key factors in that success has been our ability to stay flexible. We’ve learned that in order to make the greatest impact, we must be adaptable – ready to pivot when necessary and always responsive to the needs of South Carolinians. This flexibility has allowed us to remain nimble, embrace new opportunities, and overcome challenges because of our resiliency. But we can’t do it alone. This work takes a collective effort, and I have seen firsthand the power of partnership.
Since our inception, SC Thrive and our network have helped hundreds of thousands of individuals access vital services that put them on a path to sustainability, empowering them with the physical, mental, and financial wellness necessary to thrive. But what truly stands out is how we approach this work. The social care landscape is constantly shifting, and in order to stay relevant we must remain prepared to anticipate what’s next. The work we do is about more than just outcomes; it’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of trust with the people we serve and the organizations with whom we partner.
Success isn’t about individual accomplishments – it’s about the collective efforts of our partners and our team. As a leader, I have always placed the focus on people – whether that’s the partners in our network, the individuals we serve, or the members of our staff. True leadership is about serving others, and that’s why I’ve worked to create an environment where everyone on our team is valued and given the opportunity to grow. I’ve also been open about what I don’t know, and I think that transparency has helped create a culture where people feel they have the opportunity to learn, take risks, and contribute to our shared success. The passion we have for serving our partners and community fuels everything we do, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated individuals.
