Local philanthropists establish $25,000 endowment to honor Salvation Army leaders in the Midlands
June 9, 2026
Local Philanthropists Establish $25,000 Endowment to Honor Salvation Army Leaders in the Midlands Columbia, SC
Longtime community leader and philanthropist Harrison Rearden, alongside his wife Alethia Rearden, has established a named endowment to support the ongoing work of The Salvation Army of the Midlands—created in honor of Majors Mark and Leighann Craddock for their exemplary leadership and service.
The Harrison and Alethia Rearden Endowment, established through The Salvation Army, is being launched with an initial gift of $25,000 and will provide lasting support for programs and services that meet critical needs across the Midlands, including food assistance, shelter, youth programs, and family support services. The endowment reflects both the Reardens’ deep commitment to the community and their desire to create a legacy of impact for generations to come.
“Harrison and Alethia’s generosity is truly inspiring,” said Lisa Huffman, Associate Planned Giving Director for The Salvation Army. “This endowment not only strengthens our ability to serve those in need but also honors the remarkable leadership of Majors Craddock, whose dedication has made a lasting difference in countless lives throughout our community.”
A member of The Salvation Army Midlands Advisory Board since 2002, Harrison Rearden has long been a champion of service and leadership in the region. His professional career included decades of leadership with the South Carolina Department of Social Services, where he served as Deputy Director (also known as Deputy State Director). His contributions to the community have been widely recognized, including the naming of a portion of Highway 277 in his honor and receiving two of South Carolina’s highest civilian honors—the Order of the Palmetto and the Order of the Silver Crescent.
The decision to establish the endowment in the Craddocks’ name reflects the Reardens’ deep appreciation for their leadership. “Majors Craddock have gone above and beyond in their service to the Midlands community,” said Harrison Rearden. “We wanted to recognize their commitment in a way that continues to support the mission they have carried forward so faithfully.”
The endowment is designed to grow over time, with the Reardens expressing their intention to continue contributing and potentially include future planned gifts, ensuring long-term sustainability for The Salvation Army’s work in the Midlands. This gift also highlights the importance of legacy giving as a powerful way for individuals to make a lasting impact in their communities.
As part of The Salvation Army’s regular appointment process, Majors Mark and Leighann Craddock will be departing The Salvation Army in the coming months to pursue new leadership opportunities at the Milton Hershey School. This recognition comes at a meaningful time as the Midlands community reflects on and celebrates their impactful service.
The official presentation of the endowment took place at The Salvation Army Midlands Advisory Board meeting on May 19. Additionally, The Salvation Army and the Board conferred emeritus status on Harrison for his decades of service with distinction on the board as well as his dedication to improving the lives of the underserved in our community.
For more information about supporting The Salvation Army of the Midlands or establishing a legacy gift, please visit www.salvationarmymidlands.org or contact Lisa Huffman, Associate Planned Giving Director, (803) 309-0436, [email protected].
About the Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 24 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is Doing The Most Good at nearly 7,000 centers of operation around the country.
