The Waccamaw Community Foundation (WCF) proudly celebrated 25 years of service to the Waccamaw Region of South Carolina, encompassing Horry and Georgetown Counties. The event, held at the Dunes Golf & Beach Club in Myrtle Beach, gathered over 100 donors and fund holders to commemorate the foundation’s achievements and look toward the future of philanthropic growth.
Since its founding in 1999, WCF has been a trusted resource for local philanthropists, helping them manage their giving and address community needs. Guided by the mission to build and maintain sustainable philanthropy and the vision of being the primary resource for donors and nonprofits, WCF supports the region through servant leadership.
“Our donors share a common concern: improving the quality of life in Horry and Georgetown Counties,” said Michael Mancuso, President & CEO of WCF. “Over the past 25 years, we’ve made charitable giving simple and impactful for individuals and organizations, offering creative ways to establish and manage funds that benefit our region for generations to come.”
Key Accomplishments Over 25 Years:
- $41 million awarded in grants and scholarships since 1999, positively impacting countless lives in the Waccamaw Region.
- Guidance for donors on how to connect with projects and organizations that align with their philanthropic goals.
The 25th Anniversary Celebration was highlighted by a series of speakers who reflected on WCF’s past achievements and future ambitions:
- Rick Elliott – 2023-2024 Board Chair, opened the evening by welcoming attendees and expressing gratitude to the many contributors who have supported the foundation’s mission.
- David Bishop – The foundation’s first CEO, shared the story of WCF’s humble beginnings and how it has grown into a powerful force for good.
- Dennis Wade – Past Board Chair and Current Board Member, spoke about family philanthropy, the impacts of the past 25 years, and the foundation’s role in regional leadership.
- Raj Borsellino – Director of National Philanthropy & Community Relations at the Truist Foundation, delivered the keynote address, focusing on trends in philanthropy and the critical role local community foundations play in supporting their regions.
- Robert Hucks – Chair Elect, outlined the foundation’s path forward and reaffirmed WCF’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the Waccamaw Region.
- Michael Mancuso – President & CEO, closed out the evening by thanking the donors, board members, and community partners who have stewarded the foundation’s growth over the past 25 years.
During the evening, guests viewed a series of videos highlighting the work and impact of the foundation over the years, further underscoring the importance of continued support for the Waccamaw Community Foundation.
