MURRELLS INLET, S.C. – The Waccamaw Community Foundation, the Grand Strand’s leading philanthropic organization, has awarded a pair of $50,000 Knight Foundation grants, both with the goal of bringing increased economic and cultural vitality to Myrtle Beach.
Mike Mancuso, the executive director of the WCF, presented the first grant to the Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B Chapin Art Museum to help fund a feasibility study and concept plan for relocating the museum.
The study, which will be conducted by AK Cultural Planning, will provide critical information to museum leaders and board members about the feasibility of moving the museum to the Arts + Innovation District in downtown Myrtle Beach, potentially enhancing development of the area.
The total cost of the project will be $73,900, with the WCF donation providing $50,000 while the remaining total will be paid for by an anonymous donor.
WCF also awarded a $50,000 grant to help fund Partnership Grand Strand, a comprehensive community and economic development strategic initiative led by the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
The project will focus on four interconnected pillars: (1) Prosperity: diversify the economy and grow small business; (2) Talent: attract and develop talent; (3) Place: revitalize downtown and the oceanfront; and (4) Infrastructure: scale up the area’s transportation infrastructure.
The WCF grant will be paid in $10,000 installments over five years, helping offset the cost of the $3.5 million project.
The Knight Foundation supports a more effective democracy by funding free expression and journalism, arts and culture in community, research in areas of media and democracy, and in the success of American cities and towns where the Knight brothers once published newspapers.
For more information on the Waccamaw Community Foundation, visit WaccamawCF.org.
About the Waccamaw Community Foundation
Since 1999, local philanthropists have turned to Waccamaw Community Foundation to effectively manage their giving and meet community needs. The organization serves many people who share a common concern: improving quality of life in Horry and Georgetown counties.
WCF makes charitable giving simple and effective by offering individuals creative ways to establish and manage funds that will positively impact the Waccamaw Region for generations to come. WCF also offers advice about projects and organizations, helping donors meet their philanthropic goals.
Waccamaw Community Foundation has made a lasting impact in Horry and Georgetown Counties. Through the generosity of donors, it has awarded more than $21 million in grants since the Foundation was established in 1999.