Unifying South Carolina’s Nonprofits: Key Takeaways from the 2025 Together SC Summit
In February 2025, Project R.E.S.T. had the privilege of attending the 2025 SC Nonprofit Summit in Columbia, South Carolina. Hosted by Together SC, the summit convened over 600 nonprofit and philanthropic leaders under the theme “Creating Common Ground,” inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s assertion that genuine leaders are “molders of consensus.”
Keynote Speakers and Sessions
The summit featured distinguished keynote speakers who set the tone for collaborative and inclusive leadership:
- Governor David Beasley: A South Carolina native and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Gov. Beasley shared insights from his tenure as Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme, emphasizing the power of unity in addressing global hunger.
- Dr. Manuel Pastor: As a professor at the University of Southern California and director of the Equity Research Institute, Dr. Pastor discussed the importance of equity and inclusion in community development.
- Dr. Chris Benner: A distinguished professor and director at the University of California, Santa Cruz, Dr. Benner explored the role of technology and social change in fostering equitable growth.
These thought leaders challenged attendees to consider how South Carolina’s growth can be inclusive, ensuring that all communities benefit from progress.
Breakout Sessions and Networking
With over 30 breakout sessions covering diverse topics—from strategic planning to community engagement—the summit offered tailored learning opportunities for organizations of all sizes. Project R.E.S.T. representatives participated in sessions on nonprofit sustainability and collaborative partnerships, gaining valuable insights to enhance our programs.
The summit also provided six hours of dedicated networking, allowing us to connect with peers, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations. These interactions reinforced the collective strength of South Carolina’s nonprofit sector and the shared commitment to community well-being.
Reflections and Future Directions
Participating in the 2025 SC Nonprofit Summit was both inspiring and enlightening. The emphasis on creating common ground resonated deeply with our mission at Project R.E.S.T., reminding us that addressing issues like domestic and sexual violence requires unified community efforts.
We return to our work invigorated, equipped with new strategies and a broader network of allies. Our engagement at the summit reaffirms our dedication to fostering a safer, more supportive environment for all individuals.
We extend our gratitude to Together SC for organizing such a transformative event and to all the participants who contributed to its success. Together, we are molding consensus and driving meaningful change across South Carolina.
