Spartanburg Young Professionals (SYP) and United Way of the Piedmont Young Leaders (YL) unveil a $12,170 contribution to EMERGE Family Therapy Center & Teaching Clinic in support of the organization’s Mental Wellness Resources Group.
The Gala improves the quality of life for Spartanburg’s young professionals by offering a unique social opportunity and empowers SYP and the Young Leaders to continue Spartanburg’s long philanthropic history. The fourth annual 1831 Gala, named for Spartanburg’s founding, was held Jan. 25 at The Piedmont Club.
Proceeds from the event will support EMERGE’S high school program, Mental Wellness Resources Group, which provides students in need the opportunity to learn life skills and participate in therapeutic exercises crucial to mental health and wellness. It is implemented by EMERGE Clinical Fellows, who are Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Interns in EMERGE’s Post Degree Institute. It benefits students who oftentimes do not otherwise have access to mental health services, and provides a safe space for students, therapists, and teachers to engage.
“The program is going so well. We are getting great feedback from the students and teachers. And we are excited to continue to expand it with the support of SYP and Young Leaders. We really couldn’t do it without them,” said PJ McEnroe, EMERGE’s Executive Director.
Over the past four years, the event has generated $51,720 for local nonprofit organizations. “The Spartanburg community has such a strong culture of giving back and the 1831 Gala is a great example of that. Every year, young professionals volunteer their time to organize and plan the event. It’s a great way to get involved,” said Kelly Harvey, Chair of Young Leaders Advisory Board.
The next 1831 Gala is already in the works and scheduled for January 24, 2020.
About Spartanburg Young Professionals
Spartanburg Young Professionals engages young adults in the Spartanburg community by providing its members with social, leadership and civic opportunities. SYP, aimed at professionals age 21-40, is coordinated through the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce, and achieves its mission by: educating and developing the next generation of Spartanburg’s leaders, creating social environments where young professionals can network and connect, enhancing the visibility of young professionals in the Spartanburg community, and encouraging young professionals to remain in and locate to the Spartanburg area. For more information, visit spartanburgyp.com.
About United Way of the Piedmont Young Leaders
Young Leaders are United Way of the Piedmont donors in their twenties and thirties who want to work to make our community better through philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy. United Way of the Piedmont is a local nonprofit that fights for the education, financial stability, and health of every member of our community. Our mission is to connect, engage, and inspire people to transform our community. For more information, visit www.uwpiedmont.org.
