South Carolina’s annual Nonprofit Summit, hosted by Together SC, our state’s association of nonprofit, philanthropic, and community organizations and sponsored by Dominion Energy, will convene over 700 leaders from across the state.

Scheduled for February 21-23 in North Charleston, the Summit promises insightful discussions, dynamic keynote speakers, and opportunities for collaboration and growth.

The Summit will kick off February 21 at 2 pm with a keynote address from Dr. Drew Lanham, a renowned ornithologist, poet, author, and conservation activist.

A 2022 MacArthur Fellow and Clemson professor, Dr. Lanham will share his unique perspective on the intersection of social justice and environmental justice, urging attendees to consider the importance of our connection to the natural world in shaping vibrant communities. Following his remarks, Dr. Lanham will join a panel, moderated by Shawn Edwards (Solutions by Shawn Edwards, and Summit Co-Chair) to explore how nonprofits can weave his message into their daily work.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from Dr. Manuel Pastor, Director of the Equity & Research Institute at the University of Southern California, whose research on policies, economics, and equity has garnered widespread acclaim.

Dr. Pastor’s keynote on February 22 at 11 am will explore strategies for achieving inclusion and prosperity for all, emphasizing the role of bold leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and the solidarity economy in fostering community resilience.

Dr. Manuel Pastor’s expertise in policies, economics, and equity underscores the need for nonprofit leaders to understand and embrace the solidarity economy. This economic model, prioritizing social profitability over purely financial gains, offers a unique perspective for achieving shared prosperity. A panel of local leaders, along with Dr. Pastor, and moderated by Darrin Goss (Coastal Community Foundation, and Summit Co-Chair), will discuss how to put action behind Dr. Pastor’s research in our local communities.

The Summit will also feature an essential conversation with neighborhood-level leaders during the event’s final plenary session entitled “Listening to Local Leaders.” Moderated by KJ Kearney of Charleston Promise Neighborhoods and featuring Lydia Cotton (ArtPot Multicultural Center), Latarsha Giles-Ansah (Concerned Citizens of Accabee), and AJ Davis (Chicora Cherokee Neighborhood Association), the panel will explore how the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors can best serve their communities without impeding the important work at the grassroots level.

Nonprofit leaders can play a crucial role by incorporating these principles into their work, fostering community engagement, and promoting economic activities that benefit society as a whole.