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Isle of Palms Public Safety Annual Fundraising Banquet

The LENS IOP Annual Banquet is a cherished tradition that brings the Isle of Palms community together each May during National Police Week to celebrate community, support our local first responders, and foster a stronger, safer island. Organized by the LENS Foundation Isle of Palms, this lively gathering directly supports our police and fire departments, raising essential funds to enhance public safety and community well-being.

What makes this event especially memorable is its unique theme each year, bringing fresh excitement to every banquet. In 2025, our "Neighborhood Block Party" featured the island's largest block party at Islander 71 with plenty of entertainment for families. In 2024, our “Taste of the Island” theme at The Citadel Beach Club gave attendees a chance to sample featured dishes from local restaurants in a friendly competition for the top spot. In 2023, the event took place at Wild Dunes and featured a spirited live auction hosted by Tom Crawford, while in 2022, the focus was on fabulous food at Islander 71. Looking ahead, our May 2026 banquet theme will be the "Cheese Ball" featuring a Big Cheese competition amongst fundraisers, a sit-down dinner, dancing, wine and cheese reception, live orchestra, and keynote speaker Doug Mills. 

Each year, attendees can expect an inspiring night filled with great food, live entertainment, community connection, and the chance to make a real difference. Join us this May to support a cause that impacts every resident and to celebrate the incredible spirit that makes Isle of Palms home!

Give Back to Those Who Give Everything

Your Ticket or Sponsorship Supports Local First Responder Families

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What We Accomplish Year-Round

Your support has impact you can see and feel. In 2024, LENS expanded full support to both the Isle of Palms Police and Fire Departments, sponsored community safety and youth programs, funded firefighter wellness initiatives, and provided leadership training for officers. LENS also ensured first responder families were cared for during holidays, back-to-school season, and times of personal hardship. The majority of funds—68%—went directly to programs and assistance, reflecting LENS’s commitment to financial integrity and purpose-driven spending. When you donate or attend The Cheese Ball, you are truly strengthening the wellbeing, morale, and future of our first responders and their families.
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Serving Those Who Serve Us

The LENS Foundation exists to support the men and women who safeguard our island every day. In 2024 alone, LENS provided over $71,000 in direct assistance to Isle of Palms police officers, firefighters, and their families. These funds helped cover emergency housing, storm damage repairs, medical expenses not covered by insurance, and essential equipment and training. LENS also awarded more than $30,000 in educational scholarships and funded hardship assistance and family support programs during times of crisis. Community events—like the Wild Child Triathlon, Bike Rodeo, and First Responder Appreciation Nights—help strengthen the bond between our first responders and the community they protect.
Every donation fuels real, immediate help for those who are always ready to help us.
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Meet Our 2026 Sponsors

    • Explore Charleston

    • Island Jim Boiled Peanuts, pd

    • Delicato Family Wines

    • George Reeth

    • Carroll Realty Inc.

    • Cumulus Media 

    • Dan and Barbara Jones

    • IOP Beach Chair Co.

    • Thomas and Hutton

    • Nothin bundt cakes

    • Island Liquors’

    • Gary and Kim Chesson

    • Trident Construction

    • Exclusive Properties

    • Moultrie News

    • Madigan Projects, LLC

    • Austin Garland, The Cassina Group

2026 Banquet

2025 Banquet

2024 Banquet

2023 Banquet

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