For me, being part of the Folly Beach community means more than just living here. It means contributing my time, skills, and energy to help keep our island connected, informed, and thriving. I do all of this as a volunteer, receiving no payment, because I believe in giving back to the place we all call home.
Strengthening Local Organizations
I’ve used my technical skills to help our civic and service clubs share their message more effectively. I built and continue to support the Folly Beach Civic Club website and its electronic newsletter, which keeps members updated on events and projects. I also developed the Exchange Club website, helping the group expand its reach and community impact.
Additionally, I’ve assisted the Folly Beach History Museum with technical and website support, ensuring their stories and resources remain accessible. I also built and continue to manage the Folly Beach Mahjong Club website and newsletter, creating a place where residents enjoy staying connected through one of our island’s favorite new activities.
Beyond these projects, I am working with the Folly Beach Turtle Team on a new utility app designed to record and track sea turtle nesting data, making it easier to collect, share, and protect vital information about one of our most important coastal species.
Keeping the Community Informed
Communication is key to a strong community, and I’ve taken an active role in maintaining the online calendar for the Folly Current, our local news source. This ensures residents and visitors alike can easily find information about upcoming events, meetings, and island happenings. It’s also a way to support our local musicians and community events, helping to showcase the talent and energy that make Folly such a vibrant place to live and visit.
Supporting Local Clubs and Traditions
I’m proud to be a member of the Folly Beach Senior Club, where I enjoy sharing delicious meals with neighbors and supporting social activities that connect longtime and new residents. I also participate in Toby the Turtle Beach Sweeps, helping protect our shoreline and sea turtle nesting habitat.
In addition, I enjoy taking part in Folly Community Yoga at River Park, a wonderful gathering that promotes wellness and community in one of our island’s most beautiful natural spaces.
Off-Island Mentoring Through Be A Mentor
For the past four years, I’ve also lent my time beyond Folly Beach by volunteering with Be A Mentor, an organization that connects adults with youth in the Lowcountry to help them reach their full potential. Through the Lunch Buddies program, I dedicate one hour per week to mentor a student in a local Charleston-area school. This program has meant a great deal to me, and it’s a reminder that sometimes the smallest, most consistent commitments can make the biggest difference in a young person’s life.
A Shared Commitment to Folly and Beyond
Whether through technology, hands-on service, community efforts on the island, or mentoring youth off-island, my involvement reflects a deep belief in the power of giving back. All of this work is done without compensation as part of my commitment to supporting our neighbors, organizations, and future generations. Our community is stronger when each of us contributes in the ways we can. I’m grateful for every opportunity to do my part.
