The LENS Foundation is proud to support our public safety officials and their families. Public safety is the number one priority of government, and we aim to assist through direct support and community programs.
Through generous contributions, support, and partnerships, we have delivered hardship awards, educational scholarships, morale-boosting initiatives, and direct funding to address departmental priorities for both the police and fire departments. Thank you all who have participated in making our mission possible.
LENS Expansion of Services 2024
Welcome IOPFD: This year marked a significant milestone for the LENS Foundation as we expanded our support to include the Isle of Palms Fire and Rescue Department. This addition reinforces our commitment to serving all first responders on the island, ensuring they receive the resources and recognition they deserve.
Financial Relief Granted in 2024
Hardship Awards:
Support for newly recruited officers unique moving and transition assistance.
Stopgap financial support.
Debt relief.
Temporary housing relief.
Important non-insured medical coverage.
Emergency catastrophic storm home repairs.
Principal loan awards.
Education Scholarships:
Over $30,000 in educational scholarships awarded to IOPPD and FD dependents.
LENS Events in 2024
February 2024 I Wild Child Triathlon: Our inaugural triathlon at Wild Dunes welcomed over 100 families for an unforgettable day of swimming, biking, and running. The event’s success ensures continued support for youth and family-based programs in our community.
April 2024 I Boating Safety Course - Suddenly In Command: This event was a lifesaver, teaching you what to do if the captain becomes incapacitated or falls overboard. Designed for the inexperienced or non-regular helms people.
April 2024 I Bike Rodeo: This free event was perfect for the whole family to pedal, learn, and enjoy a day out in the fresh air at Sullivan’s Island Elementary School.
May 2024 I Fishing with Friends: This event taught kids how to fish. Bait and tackle was be provided and the SC Department of Natural Resources participated to help educate and enlighten attendees on our Lowcountry waterways and fish.
May 2024 I Annual LENS Banquet: Our theme this year was Taste of the Island, which featured 10 local restaurants in a community-wide celebration of public safety officials at Citadel Beach House. This is our largest fundraising effort. Mark your calendars for 2025’s Neighborhood Block Party on May 12th at Islander 71.
August 2024 I Party in The Park: LENS sponsored this community event at the IOP Rec Center for Deep Water Church.
September 2024 I Public Safety Open House: Our second annual event brought the community together at the Public Safety Building to meet and engage with first responders.
Family friendly event with both fire and police activities.
October 2024 I National Night Out: Supported this family-friendly fall event at the Recreation Center, strengthening ties between the public and safety officials.
October 2024 I Firefighter Appreciation Night: Over 300 neighbors joined us at this family-friendly event held at Islander 71 to celebrate with Mayor Pounds as the guest bartender.
December 2024 I Police Department Annual Awards Banquet: Fully sponsored by LENS and hosted at Wild Dunes, this morale-boosting event honors the dedication of our police officers.
LENS Programs in 2024
Wellness Program: Initiated in partnership with MUSC to support firefighters' health and well-being.
LENS Leadership Series: Hosted five impactful programs featuring community leaders on topics ranging from safety to wellness.
Public Safety Official Excellence Awards: Presented annually at our May banquet to honor outstanding service.
LENS Internship Program: IOP LENS is sponsoring internships for college students seeking summer employment and experience in a law enforcement setting.
LENS Partnerships in 2024
The Lonon Foundation: for family health care initiatives.
IOP Chamber of Commerce: for community support programs.
Sullivan’s Island Elementary School: for educational and safety programs.
Morale-Boosting Initiatives in 2024
Holiday weekend ice cream drops: On long holiday weekends like Labor Day and the 4th of July, we delivered ice cream bars to the Isle of Palms Police and Fire Departments. This small gesture was a refreshing way to show our appreciation on hot summer days.
Back-to-School Gift Cards for First Responders’ Children: In July, we provided back-to-school gift cards to the children of our island’s first responders. This small gesture was a way to support their families and help with education expenses.
Fair Passes for First Responders and their Families: Over the summer, we gifted passes to the Charleston County Fair to first responders and their families. It was a small token of gratitude for their hard work and dedication to our community.
Professional Development Support: In August, we proudly funded training for the Isle of Palms Police Department staff, enabling them to attend the prestigious FBI-LEEDA leadership class at the Mount Pleasant Police Department. This program enhanced leadership skills and fostered professional growth within our local law enforcement team.
New Additions 2024
New Team Members
Advisory Board Additions:
Lisa Ferguson
Lexi Kinsaul
Rod Turnage
Deputy Directors:
Rob Hauff (IOPFD liaison)
Mark Mitchell (IOPPD liaison)
Endowment Group:
Mike Powers
Jarrett Kraeling
Myron Tucker
Ambrose Schwallie
Gina Wurst Yeager
Zachary Lary
New Platforms
Social Media: Instagram debut on May 29, 2024, now engaging 313 followers and counting.
Newsletter: Beginning February 2025, we plan to roll out a LENS Foundation IOP Newsletter to streamline email communications.
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