Press Release
Florence Crittenton Programs of South Carolina congratulates board member Friend Gray (right) on receiving the 2022 Charleston Trident Association of Realtors Good Neighbor Award. Gray was nominated by Charleston area real estate peers for her contributions to the organization's mission, including doubling the revenue generated from its annual fundraiser during her time as the Development Committee Chair.
“Both personally and professionally, Friend is a tremendous advocate for women and girls,” said Cheryl O'Donnell, Executive Director of Florence Crittenton, the state's only home for pregnant and parenting teens and girls in foster care. “She's been instrumental in expanding our services to reduce barriers for the young women we serve, including allowing residents to remain in our home until their children reach 2 years of age and creating new housing options for pregnant and parenting teens.
Gray, Principal of Property Management at Holder Properties, has served on the Florence Crittenton Board of Directors since 2017. During her tenure, she served as Board Secretary and Chair of the Development Committee. As Development Committee Chair, she led Florence Crittenton's annual gala for 3 years, raising more than $800,000 to support the organization's critical services.
“It's such an honor and pleasure to give my time and talents to Florence Crittenton Programs, ” said Gray. “I have learned a great deal through the experience and I encourage all Charlestonians to volunteer in the community. In the words of Bernard Meltzer, ‘There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.'”
As the local Good Neighbor Award winner, Charleston Trident Association of Realtors will submit Gray's nomination for the National Association of Realtors Good Neighbor Award.
Located in downtown Charleston, SC, Florence Crittenton Programs of South Carolina has been serving the entire state of South Carolina since 1897. Florence Crittenton's mission is to provide hope, safety, and opportunity to young women in order to instill self-worth and self-sufficiency. Florence Crittenton operates a licensed residential group home that provides comprehensive services to pregnant and parenting teens, as well as girls in foster care. We also offer housing assistance and home visitation services to help young mothers in Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties achieve self-sufficiency. For more information: florencecrittentonsc.org
