Humanities Foundation Named an Outstanding Innovator for 2006

Chronicle of Philanthropy

July 26, 2006

Humanities Foundation, a Charleston-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to end homelessness by providing affordable housing through advocacy, education and nonprofit housing, was named one of the Lowcountry's top "innovators," acknowledging the orgnization's significant contributions toward solving this critical need, particularly in an era of spiraling housing costs.

At the reception and awards ceremony at the Dock Street Theatre last evening, the Charleston Regional Business Journal honored its 2006 Innovators, a select group of 10 companies and organizations that demonstrate forward-thinking vision and groundbreaking ideas. To be eligible, an individual or company must have created or introduced the product, service, program or process in S.C. and be based in S.C.

Humanities Foundation was honored not only for its efforts to develop affordable housing, but also for creating a program that helps reduce the need for it. Shelter Net provides emergency financial assistance for families and individuals who are in immediate danger of eviction from their homes or loss of essential utility service. Since its inception in 1995, the program has prevented homelessness for well over 14,000 people throughout Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester Counties by providing one-time assistance with rent, utilities or a mortgage payment. This combination of affordable housing development and prevention was judged to be both a unique and proactive approach not practiced by most affordable housing providers.

"We are proud to stand among so many dedicated, pioneering companies making a positive difference in the Lowcountry," says John Henry, executive director of the foundation, "Humanities Foundation is deeply committed to providing safe, attractive and affordable communities to low-to-moderate-income households."