As part of the December First Friday nonprofit showcase with the Greater Greer Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Duncan, Greer City Executive for Countybank, presented a check for $5,000 to the Creative Advancement Centers. The donation was given on behalf of the Countybank Foundation, which was established in 1971 and represents Countybank and Greenwood Capital.

“Service to our community is a cornerstone of the Countybank Foundation,” said Duncan. “We are honored to contribute and support this organization as it provides students with the tools they need to succeed through a community–school partnership.”

Creative Advancement Centers partners with the Greenville County School District and the City of Greer to provide after-school academic and creative activities for at-risk children in Kindergarten through 12th grade. The program includes an hour of tutored help with homework followed by 30–60 minutes of instructional teaching based on subject needs.

The program also provides creative learning opportunities through educational field trips. Children are engaged in social activities such as Halloween parties and Thanksgiving meals, and they receive Christmas gifts during the holidays.

The Creative Advancement Centers program includes around 70 children with the hope of increasing attendance in the near future. The Countybank Foundation contribution will aid in general program operations and potentially providing the funds to grow participation from students.

For more information about the Creative Advancement Centers, visit www.cityofgreer.org/517/Creative-Advancement-Afterschool-Program.