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🤝 Teams that give together, grow together
Volunteers help Keep the Midlands Beautiful with their work. | Photo via @kmbgreen803
You shared your volunteer plans, and we’re spotlighting six great group volunteer opportunities in Columbia. With National Volunteer Week around the corner, now’s a perfect time to plan a company volunteer day.
Harvest Hope welcomes group volunteers to help sort and package food, assist in the pantry, and support community events across the Midlands — thanks Michelle B. for the tip.
Meals on Wheels Richland County gives corporate teams the chance to deliver meals and support homebound residents across the region.
Pendleton Place welcomes teams to help with painting, landscaping, donation drives, and activities benefiting youth and families.
Keep the Midlands Beautiful invites group volunteers to help clean up neighborhoods, plant greenery, and support community beautification projects across the region... or turn it up a notch and adopt a highway, street, or waterway.
United Way of the Midlands partners with companies to design volunteer events tackling education, financial stability, and broader community needs — you can also join in on the Volunteer Week fun from Monday, April 20 to Saturday, April 25.
Note: Most volunteer shifts are free, though some custom experiences with supplies or special setups may have a small cost and require weeks of notice. If you’re not looking to get your hands dirty, there are also plenty of ways to support these organizations through donations and partnerships.
Mayor Rickenmann said, “It is our time as the capital city to shine” at the groundbreaking event. | Photo by COLAtoday
Editor’s Pick
Last week, Newsletter Editor David shared the latest on Seaboard Vista. The mixed-use redevelopment officially broke ground on Tuesday, April 7, bringing restaurants, retail, offices, and apartments to Gervais and Lady streets. Mashburn Construction is moving its HQ into the project during its 50th year, marking a milestone for both the company and downtown Columbia.
Development
Cheney Brothers Inc. has completed its first South Carolina distribution center in Florence. The 386,047 sqft facility, built by A M King, is expected to employ about 280 people, with a planned expansion adding 85 more jobs. (SCBiz)
Health
The South Carolina Pediatric Alliance is launching the Turtle Twilight Pediatric Clinic, offering after-hours care for Midlands families. Starting today, April 13, the Columbia clinic at 1749 Marshall St. will be open Monday-Friday from 6 to 9 p.m., with no appointments needed, aiming to give working parents more flexible access to pediatric care.
Job
Lead one of the Upstate’s longstanding nonprofits: the YMCA of Greater Spartanburg is seeking a visionary CEO to guide its programs, staff, and community impact. Salary ranges from $200,000 to $250,000, with robust benefits. Today, April 13, is the last day to apply.
Leadership
Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina Inc. named John Frick as president and CEO. Chris Koon was promoted to executive vice president, continuing as general counsel for the association serving the state’s electric cooperatives. (SCBiz)
Cause
Senior Resources received a $35,000 grant from the DAV Charitable Service Trust to support Meals on Wheels for homebound veterans in Richland County. The funding will help deliver daily meals and wellness checks, supporting veterans’ health and independence at home.
State
Cayce hopes to join cities worldwide with a Thomas Dambo troll sculpture, the larger-than-life art made from reclaimed materials. While negotiations stalled last week, city leaders say it could draw tens of thousands of visitors and boost local businesses — much like similar installations have done in other cities, including Asheville. (The State + Citizen Times)
Small Biz
Brittons, a family-owned Columbia business since 1947, celebrates 30 years on Devine Street on Saturday, April 25. Stacy Levinson marks 30 years on Devine, and Perry Lancaster celebrates 50 years with the company. Join the “Devine Union” event benefiting Keep the Midlands Beautiful — donate $10 for 30% off one item (excluding tuxedos and Brackish).
Plan Ahead
Hosting an event? Spread the word to our thousands of engaged subscribers. Explore our business promo portal to find the perfect fit for your budget — from standout banner ads to scroll-stopping social content.
Nominate
The Post and Courier is now accepting nominations for its annual Best of Columbia competition. Voting is open through Thursday, April 30, with more than 300 categories spotlighting favorite local businesses, people, and places. A few new additions this year include Best Place to Play Pickleball, Best Bowling Alley, and Best Local “X” Poster.
Events
Agenda
Editor’s Picks
AI in Action: Business Innovation and Workforce Transformation | Friday, April 17 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m. | Gateway 737 | $100 | AI in Action brings industry leaders and university partners together to explore how AI is transforming South Carolina’s energy, healthcare, and finance sectors.
Speed Networking at Venture X in Support of the Habitat for Humanity | Friday, April 17 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Venture X | $5 donation | Join this speed network for a cause while supporting Habitat for Humanity of Central South Carolina and affordable housing for local families
112 Arrowwood Rd. | 2,419 sqft | $285,000 | Versatile commercial property in the St. Andrews/Bush River Road corridor with excellent access to I-20 and I-26, flexible for office, multi-tenant, or value-add use, surrounded by strong residential and employment hubs.
Office, for lease
911 Lady St. | 984 sqft | $24/sqft | Flexible office or coworking space is available in the heart of the Vista district, with parking also available.
Motel, for sale
Glass Manor Motel, 5810 N. Main St. |
2,755 sqft | $950,000 | Prime Columbia investment opportunity with a well-maintained motel, high visibility, easy highway access, and potential for expansion or complementary uses like hospitality, apartments, or a wellness/innovation hub.
Retail, for lease
5 Lake Carolina Way | 900-2,880 sqft | $17-$20 sqft/yr | Office and retail suites in Lake Carolina’s Town Center with ample parking, access-controlled building, and proximity to shopping and major roadways.
Industrial, for lease
1051 Market Rd. | 16,500 sqft | $10.50/sqft/yr | Industrial flex space near Williams-Brice Stadium with office/showroom, warehouse with dock doors, and high-end finishes.
We love celebrating the local businesses that make the Midlands so special — and now it’s your turn. Share your favorite spots with David, and help us build COLAtoday’s reader-recommended guide to small businesses. Psst... check back monthly for fresh picks and keep supporting the shops you love.
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