Francis Marion University and Together SC announce 2024 Nonprofit Leadership Award
May 14, 2024
Francis Marion University (FMU) and Together SC announced Sarah Pope as the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Fred R. Sheheen Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership. Named after Fred Sheheen, the founder of the Non-Profit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University, and first presented in 2007, the award recognizes outstanding leaders in our state’s nonprofit sector.
“Sarah Pope’s dedication and innovation have brought forth tangible change for those in need. Through projects like Oak Tree Farm and the Charleston Housing Market Analysis, she not only opens doors but creates a sanctuary, embodying the essence of compassionate leadership in South Carolina’s nonprofit sector. Sarah is a true Ally For Good” said Madeleine McGee, President and CEO, Together SC
Sarah Pope, Chief Executive Officer of SOS Health Care, Inc., and Oak Tree Farm in Murrells Inlet, SC, exemplifies extraordinary dedication and innovation in nonprofit leadership. With over 35 years of visionary advocacy and program development in the disability field, Pope has significantly impacted the lives of individuals with autism and disabilities.
Throughout her career, Pope has demonstrated exemplary leadership in various roles, including strategist, program developer, fundraiser, and advocate. Her achievements include expanding SOS Health Care, Inc. from one program to twelve, with a budget of nearly $4 million, and spearheading the development of the Oak Tree Farm affordable low-income housing project.
In addition, Pope led the Charleston Housing Market Analysis which provides critical missing data to catalyze a movement to develop the housing and community options needed for adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities across the Tri-County area.
This year SOS Health Care, Inc. celebrates its 35th anniversary and opened the doors of three new apartment buildings at Oak Tree Farm in April.
“This dream is now a reality in South Carolina, and it’s called Oak Tree Farm, a labor of love for those who need it most”. said Sarah Pope, CEO of SOS Care. Parents can rest easy knowing there IS a place for their loved ones. Once this project is complete, the challenge is not over; there will always be a desperate need for housing for those with autism and/or I/DD. Our team continues to push one building block at a time, one project at a time.” Saids Pope.
Sarah Pope’s remarkable contributions to the nonprofit sector extend beyond her professional achievements. She actively serves on various boards and councils, including the Advisory Council for Disability Rights of South Carolina and a Home Alliance board member.
“We received many worthy nominations for the Leadership Award this year. Among them, Sarah Pope’s accomplishments were significantly impressive and noteworthy for what she has accomplished in the Horry County area and what she is creating in Charleston. We are thrilled to recognize Sarah Pope for her exceptional leadership and commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities,” said Chuck MacNeil, Francis Marion University. “Her dedication, innovation, and tireless advocacy embody the spirit of the Fred R. Sheheen Award.”
The Fred R. Sheheen Award for Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership celebrates individuals like Sarah Pope, whose passion, innovation, and leadership inspire positive change and transform communities.
For more information about the Fred R. Sheheen Award and past recipients, please visit https://www.togethersc.org/fred-r-sheheen-award-for-excellence-in-non-profit-leadership
About the Fred. R Sheheen Award: Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership:
In 2017, the Award for Nonprofit Leadership was renamed to honor Fred Sheheen, founder of the Non-Profit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University, and a passionate advocate for the nonprofit community and excellence in leadership. This leadership award recognizes a graduate of Fred R. Sheheen Non-Profit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University or a Together SC member who has excelled in the management of their organization through organizational and resource development. This award is sponsored by the Fred R. Sheheen Non-Profit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University and Together SC.
About Together SC
Together SC is a statewide nonprofit membership organization serving and supporting South Carolina’s nonprofit community. With a mission to strengthen and advance the nonprofit sector through advocacy, networking, and professional development, Together SC empowers organizations to make a positive impact on their communities.
About SOS Care
SOS Care is headquartered in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina with locations in Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Conway and Charleston, and additional programs for kids, teens and adults in Greenville and Florence counties. Our mission is to answer the call for help when individuals or families are facing the challenges of autism and intellectual disabilities. For information on other SOS Care services and programs, please contact Kathi Grace, Director of Marketing and Development at [email protected] 843.449.0554
About the Charleston Housing Marketing Study
Charleston Housing Market Analysis provides critical missing data to catalyze a movement to develop the housing and community options so greatly needed for adults with autism and/or intellectual/developmental disabilities across the Tri-County area.
