About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
The LENS Foundation helps the local police department connect with thousands of youth and adults through enriching opportunities, supportive programs and fun events. Our mission is to provide officers with the vital resources and support needed to create lasting, positive bonds with the community members they serve. We also provide much-deserved recognition of police officers and funding for advanced training.
Your tax-deductible gift contributes to a stronger, safer Isle of Palms for everyone. Thank you!
Established in 2022, LENS Foundation IOP stands as a beacon of hope and support, offering vital assistance to island families and officers facing monetary hardships related to health matters, abuse, or challenging circumstances. This heartfelt commitment extends to education scholarships, benefiting school-age children and spouses of law enforcement officers, all while reinforcing the community's fabric through sponsorship of events that promote safety, education, and joyful experiences for island families.
In alignment with our vision, IOP LENS works hand in hand with the IOP Police Department, strengthening the bonds between law enforcement and neighborhoods. Through our initiatives, IOP LENS strives to create a safer, more harmonious Isle of Palms. Our dedication to giving back is evident in our unwavering support for island families, visitors, and those in need, making IOP a secure and inviting haven for all.
Our Story
Our First Responders are dedicated to ensuring safety for all, often placing their own welfare secondary. Yet, even these brave individuals sometimes need support. Recognizing this, city leadership has taken the initiative to identify those in need and connect them with the LENS Foundation IOP, a beacon of assistance and solidarity.
We are honored to share a few transformative stories:
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An encounter at a local business by an IOP Exchange Club member unveiled the harsh reality of an employee's homelessness. Swiftly, LENS intervened, securing a week of temporary housing by the day's end, a testament to our community's responsiveness and compassion.
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In the wake of a heart-wrenching accident that claimed the life of an 11-year-old girl, a distraught Isle of Palms family found solace in LENS. Understanding the family's dire need for financial support, LENS expedited the aid process, providing essential funds within 48 hours, offering a glimmer of hope during a time of profound sorrow.
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The IOP Police Department exemplified compassion and urgency when assisting a visiting pregnant mother with a young child, facing distressing circumstances. Collaborating with LENS, they ensured immediate provision of safe shelter, showcasing our community's commitment to safeguarding the vulnerable.
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The generosity of a philanthropic family, inspired by the LENS initiative, pledged a five-year commitment to educational support for IOPPD families. In a remarkable display of efficiency and community spirit, LENS, with the aid of expert volunteers, crafted a comprehensive support program, culminating in the awarding of the first educational grant to a deserving college freshman.
Isle of Palms residents, embodying the essence of community and altruism, have stepped forward to contribute to our mission. Their unwavering dedication across various pivotal roles, from Advisory and Selection Panels to Banquet and Endowment Oversight Committees, has been instrumental in shaping the LENS Foundation IOP into the impactful entity it is today. This endeavor thrives on the collective efforts of our community members, driven by shared values and a unified vision. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, recognizing the sacrifices made and the profound impact of your involvement. Together, we continue to make a meaningful difference.
Meet The Team
The LENS Advisory Board
George Reeth
Chairman of the LENS Advisory Board
Dick Cronin
Former Isle of Palms Mayor
Al Cannon
Retired Sheriff, Charleston County
Jean Blackwell
Retired CEO of Cummins Foundation
Dimi Matouchev, CFP
LENS Endowment Manager at Edward Jones
Kitty Riley
Founder of the Kitty Foundation
Paul Coleman
Pastor at Deep Water Church
Dennis McLendon
Harris Teeter Store Manager
The LENS Selection Panel
This committee provides recommendations on hardship awards
Ted Kinghorn
The LENS Whisperer
Betsy Reidenbach
Educator
Tony Jones
Businessman
The LENS Endowment Oversight Committee
This committee oversees where the Endowment funds get allocated
Mike Powers
LENS Director of Development
Jim Thompson
Retired Entreprenuer
Ted Kinghorn
LENS Whisperer
LENS Executive Team Members
Rob Hauff
LENS Deputy
Rob has lived on Isle of Palms with his family for the past 10 years. He and his wife, Paige, have raised both of their daughters on the island and they love the family friendships that have been formed over this time frame. Rob’s career has spanned several roles, including over 20 years working in the Capital Markets business at Wells Fargo, to working at a startup Insurtech company, to his current career as a realtor for Wild Dunes Real Estate. Away from work, Rob has spent the last 15 years as an active volunteer for various organizations that help raise money for cancer research. He and his wife are also active supporters of Girls on the Run in the Coastal South Carolina area. In his spare time, Rob enjoys being in the outdoors with his family, exercising, boating, hiking, skiing, and spending time with his friends.
Laura Anderson
Marketing Director
Laura has been an invaluable asset to the LENS Foundation IOP from the very beginning, contributing extensively to our web development, maintenance, and all facets of our visual and marketing materials. With a rich background in marketing and graphic design, Laura's creative expertise has not only elevated our online presence but also significantly enhanced our marketing and promotional efforts. Her dedication and innovative approaches have played a crucial role in effectively communicating our mission and values to a wider audience. Laura's contribution has been instrumental in helping the LENS Foundation IOP fulfill its mission, making her a vital member of our team.
The LENS Program Founding Members
"The Fab Fifty"
Anonymous (2)
Randy & Mimi Bell
Robbie Berg
Brian & Beth Berrigan
Jean Blackwell & Kim Williams
Dan & Barbara Brown
Jeff Burda
John Cipkala
Dick &Marcy Cronin
Patrick & Barby Harrington
Bob & Kathy Heller
Dave & Barb Janssen
Tony & Whitney Jones
Daulton & Harriet Keith
Ted & Anne Kinghorn
Paul & Nancy Newlin Lain
Katherine & Kathy Magruder
Dimi & Brooke Matouchev
Pete & Michelle Page
Scott & Jennie Pierce
Phillip & Laurie Pounds
Keith & Linda Rogerson
Kelly Sanchez
Ambrose Schwallie
Kathy Shook
Murray & Elizabeth Small
Sandy & Peggy Stone
Jim & Linda Thompson
Mimi & Tom Wood
Acme Lowcountry Kitchen
Beachside Vacations
The Betty Poore Group:
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Donna Bell
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Vanessa Carter
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Christy Humphries
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Ginn Maiers
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Betty Poore