Friday: The day that everyone still *has* to be at work but wishes they could focus on where their weekends are taking them (happy hour, anyone?) But, let's deepen the conversation a little bit, Greenville.

Meet the organizations (just a few, out of many) working on growing Greenville in a positive light by focusing on the foundation of our community: each other.

We’re not talking about grocery delivery services or discounted tickets to Peace Center shows (although those are both welcomed with open arms). The Greenvillians working behind these organizations create huge impact in our community + beyond. 🙌🏽
Upstate Coalition for Equality stemmed from the Women’s March in January. The group formed as a platform to educate members about upcoming laws, share opportunities to meet, and contact South Carolina representatives. Some of the issues discussed in the group include homelessness, gun violence in schools, and women’s health.

GSP Republican Women - Upstate SC was founded in 2013 as a way to work towards “increasing the effectiveness of women in the cause of good government”. The group meets monthly to listen to guest speakers as well as share ideas on opportunities to get involved on issues that affect the local area, the state and the nation.

Greenville Forward aims to understand and help solve local issues by building relationships and facilitating dialogue with leaders to work towards a better future for Greenville. Their mission is to make Greenville better, healthier, and greener through education, innovation, creativity, by 2025.

Thrive Upstate, formerly known as Greenville County Disabilities and Special Needs Board, was founded in 1971 to support and advocate for individuals with disabilities in Greenville County. The organization supports individuals with intellectual and related disabilities find opportunities to contribute to the community.

Here are some (not all) other organizations working towards positive change in the Upstate. Click the green links to learn more about the organizations (+ to support them).

Greenville Literacy Association | Programs for adults with any income or education level.
Julie Valentine Center | Offers education programs, therapy, and other resources for sexual abuse victims.
Leadership Greenville | A wide variety of programs help develop leadership skills.
Meals on Wheels Greenville | Provides homebound seniors with nutritious meals.
Operation Freedom Awareness | Raise awareness and educate community on ways to prevent sex trafficking.
Our Eyes Were Opened | Works to educate and increase compassion about poverty.
Project Host | Feeds the hungry and teaches unemployed people culinary and life skills.
Upstate Chamber Coalition | Seeks to create jobs and lower the unemployment rate.
Upstate Pride SC | Advocates for acceptance of all gender identities through education and networking.
Upstate Young Republicans and Young Democrats of Greenville | Platforms for young professionals to share political ideas and events.

Our mission here at GVLtoday is to be a part of the conversation and community: From restaurant specials and city events to local government and community organizing. Join the local conversation with us, Greenville. 🙌🏼

There are an incredible number of organizations in the Upstate dedicated to making life better for so many individuals and groups. It’s nice to know that Greenville is more than a vibrant city, it's also a place to make strong connections with people who share similar interests.

We all ended up in here somehow so it only makes sense that we should strive to make meaningful contributions to the future of our community.
See you out there this weekend, Greenville.

– Jordan