Greenville’s KIND of the Upstate Receives $45K Grant, Recognition on ‘Today’ Show

In the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, a non-profit organization with the goal of spreading empathy and inclusion in their community made headlines nationwide when they were highlighted on a national morning show. Founded in 2020 by Caroline Giguere and Francie Todd, KIND of the Upstate was featured on a recent episode of the “Today” show which aired on June 21, 2024, earning recognition for the phenomenal work they carry out in their community.

From Being Honored on TV to Receiving a Generous Grant

During the segment on the “Today” show, KIND of the Upstate’s origins and initiatives were highlighted, giving the organization the attention it so richly deserved. In celebration of the organization’s inspiring work, a celebratory gathering was organized at Greenville Textile Heritage Park, which more than 200 KIND supporters attended.

During this gathering, the heartfelt work from Giguere, Todd, and every part of the KIND operation was further acknowledged with a handsome $45,000 grant, presented personally by Johnsonville spokesmen and social media personalities, The Grill Dads. The Grill Dads then went on to grill a selection of brats and sausages, adding a cheerful touch to the event and supporting the camaraderie and spirit of KIND of the Upstate.

The Significance of the Grant and KIND’s Mission

Caroline Giguere, one of the esteemed founders of this non-profit, expressed her excitement and gratitude about the grant. Importantly, this funding will help to extend KIND of the Upstate’s mission, which focuses on teaching children about the monumental importance of kindness, inclusion, and understanding disabilities.

KIND of the Upstate equips young people with valuable knowledge about disabilities, not just fostering a generation of kindness but also creating a platform to discuss themes of inclusion and understanding. With the considerable help of this grant, KIND’s work will only continue to grow and shape the community in Greenville, SC and beyond.

It’s evident that Giguere and her team’s passion, dedication, and genuine empathy have raised positive awareness for disabilities and increased inclusion in Greenville. Thanks to the recognition and financial boost so generously provided by Johnsonville, KIND can exponentially expand their reach, impact more lives, and continue to weave the fiber of kindness deeper into their community.

Continued Support for KIND’s Mission

Communities can follow suit in supporting KIND’s mission by choosing to prioritize events and initiatives that promote empathy, inclusion, and love for our neighbors. Greenville has proven to be a shining example of a community that nurtures and celebrates empathy, showcased perfectly through the work of KIND of the Upstate.

By celebrating the work of an organization like KIND, we can only hope to inspire more cities and towns to take on similar journeys of inclusion and understanding. KIND has shown us that every act of kindness isn’t just beneficial for the individual receiving, but for the entire community at large.