AIKEN — In contrast to most schools’ typical hunt for funding, a local charter school is choosing to give back by donating $2,000 to community organizations.
Horse Creek Academy started its mini grant program three years ago as a way to support local non-profits and organizations in alignment with the school’s commitment to serving the community. “At Horse Creek Academy one of our pillars is service,” said the school’s director of marketing, Sarah Morris.
She said that each year since the start of the grant program, the school has sought out organizations that are “shaping lives, providing opportunities and building connections.” Winners selected this year were nominated by the community.
Three grants were awarded on Sept. 29, the first being a $1,000 grant awarded to Halfway to Heaven Mustang Rescue, an organization with a mission to care for, train and provide a healthy environment for mustangs as they prepare them for adoption into permanent homes. While Halfway to Heaven currently cares for two domestic horses, their overall focus is on wild mustangs.
“Their work is powerful, life changing, and we’re honored to partner with them in a meaningful way,” said Morris.
Halfway to Heaven’s President Lisa Mallory, spoke about the value of the award money to their cause.
“We are so thankful for this grant… as an organization, we not only work with equines, we work with a lot of children,” she said. “Education is huge… the next generation, we want them to learn why these equines, why these wild horses are so important to our culture and to our country.”
A $500 award was given to First Tee of Aiken.
First Tee is a national youth development organization that teaches life lessons through golf; the Aiken branch is located on USC Aiken’s campus. “They’re making a real impact shaping young people both on and off the course, and we are so proud to support the work they’re doing in the community,” said Morris.
CEO Summer Watson said that First Tee of Aiken plans to begin working directly with Horse Creek Academy’s special education program once a quarter to work with students with disabilities; the grant money they’ve received will be used to purchase the equipment and staffing needed for these specialized clinics.
“In my opinion, Horse Creek has one of the best special education programs, led by some of the most committed teachers, and I can’t wait to partner with them to grow this program for the benefit of our entire community,” said Watson.
Another $500 grant was given to Glam Stars Institute of Dance.
Glam Stars, which has an Aiken branch as well as several other locations throughout South Carolina, provides dance training for 4K to 12th grade. “Through the art of dance, students are not only learning discipline and technique, but also teamwork, creativity and confidence that will carry them far beyond the stage,” said Morris.
“This grant will allow us to continue providing a safe, structured and inspiring environment where creativity, teamwork and personal growth thrive,” said Glam Stars Director Stephanie Perry. “It directly supports our ability to serve youth through both dance and community programming, ensuring that every participant feels seen, supported and empowered.