Community Commitment & Philanthropic Pursuits
Our members and residents exemplify the spirit of giving, dedicating countless hours and generously sharing their talents with a wide range of organizations. From supporting educational initiatives and local children’s charities to contributing to arts and cultural programs, their impact is both broad and profound. They work hand-in-hand with fire departments, sports charities, and hospital foundations, providing critical support to essential services. Their commitment extends to environmental conservation, local parks, and numerous other community-focused groups in nearby towns, including Greenville and Asheville. This unwavering dedication not only strengthens our communities but also reflects the values that make The Cliffs a truly special place to call home.
As we reflect on 2024, we are proud to highlight some of the incredible charitable efforts that defined the year. These efforts showcase the generosity and dedication of our members and the profound impact they continue to make in our communities.
Cliffs Resident Outreach Receives Angel 2024 Award
Cliffs Residents Outreach (CRO) is a philanthropic member lead 501C3 group based in our South Carolina communities (Glassy, Valley, Mountain Park, Keowee Vineyards, Keowee Falls, and Keowee Springs). For nearly two decades, CRO has made a meaningful impact on The Cliffs’ neighboring communities by supporting 25,000 regional children annually, from early childhood through K-12, across four counties. These efforts have yielded transformative, life-changing results.
Since 2007, volunteer participation and donations have increased three-fold, with $900,000 in financial support each year. CRO’s programs are focused on literacy, technology, education, nutrition, human services, and student/family crisis situations.
Secretary of State Mark Hammond recognized CRO in November as the winner of the Angels of 2024 award. The award honors organizations that make significant contributions to communities and devote 80 percent or more of their total expenditures to charitable programs. CRO continues to be at the forefront of providing children the tools needed for lifelong success; and, with 80 percent of its donor base coming from residents of The Cliffs, its mission to be a 100 percent volunteer organization is well within reach.
Walnut Cove Members Association—Connecting to Community
The Cliffs Walnut Cove Members Association’s (WCMA) mission to “…build a sense of community…to support our Members’ charitable efforts in Western North Carolina” may have seemed a lofty goal in 2007, with $5,600 donated from 56 Walnut Cove residents. By 2024, WCMA grew to 540 members with over $4 million in grants to support over 450 programs that improve the lives of Western Carolina families.
Once a year, the Walnut Cove Members Association (WCMA) hosts its highly anticipated two-day event in September, the Weekend of Giving. From invigorating hikes to spirited golf tournaments, the weekend culminates in a spectacular gala—combining fun, camaraderie, and philanthropy to benefit the Asheville community. This year was no different, in September Walnut Cove club operations switched gears from normal operations and hosted events to support this incredible tradition of giving back.
With nearly 90 percent of funds raised going to the surrounding communities annually in grants, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Western NC Chapter named WCMA an “Outstanding Philanthropic Organization.”
Hurricane Helene: Lending a Helping Hand
The Western Carolinas experienced tremendous challenges in 2024. In late September, Hurricane Helene swept through the region, impacting hundreds of miles along the Western Carolinas. This historic storm inspired generosity from around the globe, but we were especially moved by the incredible support shown by our members, neighbors, and surrounding communities.
Members and staff not only stepped up to assist their neighbors but also extended their volunteer efforts to surrounding towns, showcasing an inspiring spirit of compassion and solidarity. The Cliffs, in collaboration with its members, established an Employee Relief Committee to support employees impacted by the storm. This committee, made up of both members and employees, distributed funds that provided assistance to over 700 employees. The remarkable resilience of those who underwent extreme circumstances, and the generosity of our members, staff, and communities, was and is, simply inspiring.
These are just a few examples of the philanthropic efforts made by our members and staff throughout the year. To discover more, read about other inspiring members in our latest issue of Cliffs Living magazine.
