All Together NOW

Way, way, WAAAAYYYY back in 1969, a band you may have heard of — The Beatles — released a song called “All Together Now.” Reminiscent of a sing along, the light-hearted song invites everyone to join in with a repeated chant of “all together now.”

For many communities in the Lowcountry, “all together now” has taken on a more purposeful meaning. Seven local communities — Long Cove Club, Belfair, Palmetto Dunes, Hampton Hall Club, Colleton River Club, Hampton Lake and Moss Creek — have established funds with Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. Through these funds, residents are able to join together and increase the power of their generosity by pooling their donations for greater impact.

These charitable funds not only strengthen the larger community through grantmaking, but can strengthen connections among neighbors. Katy Doran, who was instrumental in establishing the Moss Creek Community Charitable Fund, says the fund has enhanced an already-strong sense of community — and community giving. “Charitable giving is woven into the fabric of Moss Creek. It’s a part of who we are. The fund allows everybody to feel like they’re a part of something, even if they can’t give a lot.”

The Moss Creek Community Charitable Fund has chosen to support local organizations focused on children and families. Patrick McNamara, who serves as president of the Moss Creek fund, says, “It gives us an additional focus — a chance to look outward.” He says residents feel more connected to the community through the funds because they get a chance to meet nonprofit leaders at the events the communities hold to raise money for their grantmaking. During the events, the nonprofit leaders share information about the programs being implemented and the impact these programs are having.

The Moss Creek Community Charitable Fund has held several fundraising events since its inception in 2018. The first event, a wine event, exceeded their fundraising goal by more than 100 percent. Carol Grish, another Moss Creek fund board member, loves the excitement the events bring. “I was taken by the spirit of Moss Creek and how excited everyone was to attend the events. There’s an energy that makes us feel like we’re all part of something exciting.”

Community funds have introduced an “all together now” charitable consciousness, and their impact cannot be understated. More than $1.5 million in grants has been awarded to local nonprofits because communities are coming together to practice philanthropy. If you and your neighbors would like to learn more about how you can set up a fund, give us a call at 843.681.9100.