A 501(c)3 serving the Lowcountry

Investing in the Future of Greater Summerville & Dorchester County

We strengthen our community by advancing economic vitality, education, and workforce development — building opportunity that lasts for generations.

Community members gathered at a Chamber Foundation event
Partners connecting at an Envision 2047 event
20+Years of community impact

About the Foundation

A foundation for a stronger community

The Greater Summerville / Dorchester County Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to the long-term advancement of our region. We support economic vitality and sustainability, education advancement, and workforce development — connecting people, businesses, and resources to create lasting opportunity.

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Students & learners supported

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Grants & scholarships awarded

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Partner businesses

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Years serving the region

See Our Impact

What We Do

Our three areas of focus

Economic Vitality

We champion initiatives that help local businesses grow, attract investment, and keep our regional economy resilient and thriving for the long term.

Education Advancement

Through scholarships, classroom support, and learning programs, we expand access to quality education for students and lifelong learners across the county.

Workforce Development

We prepare residents for in-demand careers — connecting talent with training, employers, and the skills our growing community needs to succeed.

Our Initiatives

Making an impact together

A student recognized at a Chamber Foundation event

Community Scholarship Fund

Helping local students pursue college, trade school, and certifications without the weight of financial barriers.

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Leadership Dorchester

Leadership Dorchester

An 11-month intensive study of the political, civic, economic, and social dynamics at work within Dorchester County.

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Panel discussion at the Envision 2047 kickoff

Envision 2047

A community-driven roadmap shaping how Summerville and Dorchester County grow with intention and shared progress.

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Get Involved

Be a catalyst for positive change in our community.

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Invested back into Greater Summerville & Dorchester County through grants, scholarships, and programs.

Speaker addressing the community at a Foundation event Attendees signing the Envision 2047 vision wall Community members networking at a Foundation event Attendees at an Envision 2047 session

Leadership

Meet our board of directors

Chris Kahler, P.E., Chair

Chair

Chris Kahler, P.E.

General Manager, Summerville CPW

Greg Shuler, Chair Elect

Chair Elect

Greg Shuler

Senior Vice President, The Bank of South Carolina

Rita Berry, Secretary

Secretary

Rita Berry

President/CEO, The Chamber

Carrie Bovender, Treasurer

Treasurer

Carrie Bovender

Owner/President, Grand Forest, Inc.

Testimonials

What our community says

Marcus Reed

Local Business Owner
"The Foundation's small business grant helped us expand and hire three new employees. Their investment in local entrepreneurs is real and tangible."

Aaliyah Carter

Scholarship Recipient
"Thanks to a Foundation scholarship, I'm the first in my family to attend college. It changed the trajectory of my entire future."

Thomas Greene

Community Partner
"Partnering with the Foundation on workforce training has connected us with motivated, well-prepared talent right here in Dorchester County."

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How can I make a donation?

You can give securely online, by mailing a check to our office, or through a planned or corporate gift. Every contribution is tax-deductible and stays invested in our region. Reach out via the contact form to get started.

How can my business partner or sponsor?

We offer a range of sponsorship and partnership opportunities tied to our scholarship, workforce, and economic development programs. Contact us and we'll share a sponsorship guide tailored to your goals.

Where does my contribution go?

Funds support our three focus areas — economic vitality, education advancement, and workforce development — through scholarships, grants, and community programs right here in Greater Summerville and Dorchester County.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. The Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit, so your gift is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. We provide a receipt for every contribution.

How can I stay updated on your work?

Email us or send a note through the contact form and we will keep you posted on program news, events, and community impact stories.

Contact Us

Get in touch with our team