Philanthropy Partnership with the Charleston Battery off to a Great Start with HALOS

Last month, I shared the exciting news that Blackbaud had forged a philanthropy partnership with the Charleston Battery pro soccer team.  As I said then, it's a natural fit for both organizations -- which were both founded by the same man, Tony Bakker, and both share the spirit of serving others and making a difference in the world.

This past Saturday, at the annual Challenge Cup -- a pre-season tournament that pits Major League Soccer teams against the Charleston Battery -- we honored our first Nonprofit of the Match during halftime.  My colleague Sally Ehrenfried joined Andrew Bell, president of the Charleston Battery, on the field with three representatives of HALOS, including Kim Clifton, the organization's amazingly talented executive director.

HALOS' tagline is "turing help into hope."  They do this by providing "resources and special opportunities to abused and neglected children and their caregivers."  Physically located in the DSS building in North Charleston, SC, HALOS works realy hard to keep children in safe, appropriate situations and to support those people who are stepping in as caregivers.  This is difficult work that takes its toll on the soul, but the people of HALOS never show it.  They are always enthusiastic, ready to partner and ready to help.

What I love so much about HALOS is that every ounce of energy and assistance you provide is valued like it was a major gift.  Whether you're donating an unused bed (yes, beds are in HUGE need and are sometimes the difference between whether a child can stay in a home or not...FYI, HALOS will even pick it up for you), giving your time or making a financial contribution, you're a valued part of the solution.

I want to thank Andrew Bell and the entire Charleston Battery family for making the kick off of our philanthropy partnership such a success.  We'll be featuring 12 more nonprofits this season and welcome all of you who live in Charleston to come out for a match.  The Charleston Battery did us proud this first game, playing Toronto FC to a 0-0 tie.

Up next....Wednesday, March 17th, Charleston Battery vs. Real Salt Lake.  The Nonprofit of the Match is Lowcountry Orphan Relief.  Then, on Saturday the 20th, during the closing night of the Challenge Cup, the Battery will face DC United for a much-anticipated rematch.  And we'll honor Communities in Schools, a nonprofit that works to keep kids within the educational system so they can lead full, productive lives.

If you can't join us in person, follow us on Twitter - @RachelHutchssn, @SallyEhrenfried and @Chas_Battery.