Thrive Upstate announced as new name for county’s largest disability service provider
February 26, 2016
GREENVILLE, SC – The Greenville County Disabilities and Special Needs Board, the county’s largest and oldest provider of services for those with disabilities, has announced its new name: Thrive Upstate. The non-profit has chosen this new name to more accurately represent its role in the lives of those with disabilities and in the community. In addition to the name, the organization is also changing its logo and overall brand identity to align with its name and new tagline, redefining ability.
“We could not be more excited to continue serving our individuals and families as Thrive Upstate,” said John Cocciolone, executive director. “This name represents the dedication of our staff and families to help individuals with disabilities develop and utilize their unique skills and abilities to live their most independent life.”
The name and logo were revealed at an event on Thursday, Feb. 25 at the Midtown Artery. During the event, the organization also presented three awards to people who have made a significant contribution to the disability community. These included:
- Advocate of the Year, Skeeter Powell
- Employer of the Year, I H Services, Inc.
- Employed Individual of the Year, William Hawkins
“The profound improvements made in our organization’s quality, financial strength and management over the last three years have been transformational,” said Alexander McNair, chairperson of the Board. “Our new brand is really just a consummation of that transformation, and one that we hope will propel us into even stronger partnerships with the Upstate community.”
Thrive Upstate helps those with disabilities and special needs achieve independence through employment opportunities, skills development and residential facilities, ultimately helping each individual thrive in life, work and play. The organization chose the name and logo with the help of local marketing firm Crawford Strategy, who helped conduct thorough research among shareholders and the larger community, and designed the new logo and brand.
ABOUT THRIVE UPSTATE
Thrive Upstate is the largest and oldest provider of services for people with disabilities in Greenville County with a history that traces back to 1953 and the advocacy of founder Barbara Stone. Today, the non-profit provides services to more than 2,200 individuals and families at more than 80 locations across the Upstate of South Carolina. Services are provided for people of all ages, including early intervention, residential services, case management and family supports, employment services and day services. Services are also provided for those who have experienced a traumatic head or spinal cord injury. Connect with us at thriveupstate.org.
