Our team is incredibly passionate about serving others, and in 2023, we have worked with over 200 nonprofits to impact lives in our communities. Though the holiday season is often filled with hustle and bustle, it is also a time of purpose for our associates, who continue to lead donation drives and volunteer their time amidst year-end festivities. We are proud to share some examples of their unwavering generosity and compassion as we close out the year.

Home is where the holidays are

The holidays start at home, and our Columbia team recently volunteered with Home Works to assist with repairs, upkeep, and renovations for a homeowner in need. Home Works helps senior citizens in South Carolina stay in their homes through compassionate construction. Their work builds communities, eases the affordable housing crisis, and mentors the next generation through workforce development.

Our Credit Team packed 1,600 meals with Meals on Wheels of Greenville for seniors and homebound neighbors. Beyond providing necessary nutrition, meal delivery allows these individuals more independence and an opportunity for personal interaction.

It’s hard to imagine not having the essentials you need, but this is a reality for many in our communities. In Charlotte, our bankers helped sort donations of medical and household goods to be given to local families in need, thanks to Second Harvest Food Bank.

Spreading holiday cheer

This season is also about bringing joy and hope to others. Waking up to gifts under the tree on Christmas morning is a magical experience that no one should miss out on. This tradition makes every child feel special, and our team has partnered with a number of organizations that ensure that children facing adversity can experience the generosity of the season.

Members of our Upstate team spent a festive morning wrapping presents for United Way of Greenville County’s Project Joy. This initiative helps make the season bright for families in need by alleviating some of the burden of the holiday season with new clothes and toys. They also worked with the Salvation Army of Greenville, bell ringing for the Red Kettle campaign and donating and sorting Angel Tree gifts. These efforts provide critical support for individuals and families experiencing poverty.

In Charleston and Summerville, our team completed a Toys for Tots drive and partnered with Going Places, whose goal is to provide every child in every title 1 school in tri-county area the simple joy of receiving a bike.  

Our Greensboro associates helped “Fill the Bus” with toys for children with the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office, and in Raleigh, our team filled gift bags for children at Dove Missions in the Dominican Republic. These bags go to boys and girls, ages 9 and 10, that likely would not receive any other gifts this holiday season.

Our associates have embraced the true essence of the season—spreading kindness and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. As we bid farewell to 2023, we carry these stories with us and remember that the season of giving is truly year-round.