EMPOWERING UPSTATE SOUTH CAROLINA’S FUTURE
Since 2007, Cliffs Residents Outreach (CRO) has worked to empower children across Upstate South Carolina through educational and human services. CRO supports a wide range of programs designed to enrich the lives of children and young adults in Greenville, Pickens, Spartanburg, and Oconee Counties. From literacy and technology initiatives to early childhood and K-12 education programs, nutrition assistance, and family crisis support, CRO plays a vital role in fostering growth and opportunity for Upstate South Carolina’s future generations.
CRO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and operates as five chapters through the collective efforts of six of The Cliffs communities: Glassy, Valley, Mountain Park, Keowee Vineyards, Keowee Falls, and Keowee Springs. Each community has its own Advisory Council, which works independently to address the needs of local schools while staying aligned with CRO’s overarching mission. The nonprofit is proud to be fully volunteer-driven, with over 1,000 dedicated volunteers and more than 80 percent of funding coming from residents of The Cliffs. Impressively, 93 percent of CRO’s funding goes directly toward its mission, ensuring resources are maximized to support the 25,000 children and young adults it serves. Through the generosity of residents, business partners, and volunteers, CRO continues to make a lasting impact, transforming the lives of children and their families across Upstate South Carolina.
Looking To The Future
The Angel Award
Cliffs Residents Outreach Was Honored As A 2024 Angel Charity By The State of South Carolina
In November 2024, Cliffs Residents Outreach (CRO) received one of South Carolina’s most prestigious charitable honors—the Angels of 2024 award. Presented by Secretary of State Mark Hammond in Columbia, the award recognizes nonprofit organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to the well-being of South Carolinians and exemplary stewardship of resources. CRO was celebrated for its profound impact on education and human services in the Upstate.
Angel charities are selected based on rigorous criteria, including devoting at least 80 percent of funds to charitable programs, operating for three or more years, effectively utilizing volunteer services, maintaining a significant presence in South Carolina, and adhering to state charitable fund regulations. CRO’s outstanding track record stood out during the review process.
“The 2024 Angels exemplify the diverse needs and passions of people from all over South Carolina,” said Secretary Hammond. “It is my hope that this recognition will encourage others to donate their time and resources to an area that interests them.”
To learn more about the incredible work of Cliffs Residents Outreach, please visit cliffsresidentsoutreach.org or click here to watch a video that introduces key players and provides an overview of outreach programs.
This story was featured in Cliffs Living magazine. To see more stories like this one and learn more about The Cliffs, subscribe here.
