About LENS IOP
The LENS Foundation Isle of Palms, established in 2022, is a vital support system for the Isle of Palms Police and Fire Departments and a unifying force in the community through a range of safety, education, and engagement programs. Beyond providing financial assistance to first responders facing hardships, medical expenses, and educational needs, LENS enriches community life with initiatives like bike, water, and boating safety programs, leadership speaking series, and youth triathlons. Events such as Crabbing with Tia and community dinners promote family bonds and community spirit. LENS ensures every donation is meaningfully utilized to strengthen the community—offering Back to School Gift Cards for children of public safety families, sponsoring dinners and events to bolster unity among first responders and their families, enhancing team dynamics with specialized programs, and meeting essential equipment needs beyond city budgets. Additionally, LENS spreads joy during festive seasons with holiday treats and restaurant gift cards, supports wellness programs for first responders, and provides comfort during illnesses or deaths.
Our Story
How We Began:
A Journey of Love
Our first responders are dedicated to ensuring safety for all, often putting their own welfare second. 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:
At a local business, an IOP Exchange Club member discovered the harsh reality of an employee's homelessness. In a swift response, LENS intervened and secured a week of temporary housing by the end of the day, showcasing our community's responsiveness and compassion.
After a tragic accident that claimed the life of an 11-year-old girl, a grieving Isle of Palms family found solace in LENS. Understanding the family's dire need for financial support, LENS expedited the aid process and provided essential funds within 48 hours, offering a glimmer of hope during a time of profound sorrow.
The IOP Police Department demonstrated compassion and urgency when assisting a visiting pregnant mother with a young child facing distressing circumstances. Collaborating with LENS, they ensured the immediate provision of safe shelter, underscoring our community's commitment to protecting the vulnerable.
Inspired by the LENS initiative, a philanthropic family pledged a five-year commitment to educational support for IOPPD families. In a remarkable display of efficiency and community spirit, LENS, with the help of expert volunteers, developed a comprehensive support program, culminating in the awarding of the first educational grant to a deserving college freshman.
Isle of Palms residents, embodying the spirit of community and generosity, have stepped forward to support our mission. Their unwavering dedication across various roles—from serving on Advisory and Selection Panels to overseeing Banquet and Endowment Committees—has been instrumental in shaping the LENS Foundation IOP into the impactful organization 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.
Our Team
Meet the Hearts Behind The LENS Foundation IOP
Ted Kinghorn
Director/Whisperer
George Reeth
Founder of LENS Charleston and Chairman of the LENS Advisory Board
Laura Strecker
Marketing Director
Jim Thompson
LENS Endowment Oversight Committee
Al Cannon
The LENS Advisory Board
Dick Cronin
The LENS Advisory Board
Jean Blackwell
The LENS Advisory Board
Dimi Matouchev, CFP
The LENS Advisory Board
Kitty Riley
The LENS Advisory Board
Pastor Paul Coleman
The LENS Advisory Board
Dennis McLendon
The LENS Advisory Board
Dave Rohr
The LENS Advisory Board
Betsy Reidenbach
LENS Selection Panel
Tony Jones
LENS Selection Panel
Rob Hauff
LENS Executive Team
Kathy Shook
LENS Executive Team
Mike Powers
The LENS Endowment Oversight Committee
Sherry Welsh
LENS Executive Team
Lisa Ferguson
The LENS Advisory Board
Lexi Kinsaul
The LENS Advisory Board
Rod Turnage
The LENS Advisory Board
Our Partners
LENS IOP is committed to growing its relationships with strategic partners and subject matter experts that are like-minded to support our IOPPD, IOPFD, and neighbors. These partners provide knowledge, services, facilities that we rely upon to implement quality programs to meet our mission. We are thankful for their support and collaboration.
Our 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 WoodAcme Lowcountry Kitchen
Beachside Vacations
The Betty Poore Group:-
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
Charleston Homes/Suzy Copp
Delicato Family Wines
Harris Teeter
Island Eye News
Islander 71 Fish House & Deck Bar
Loop Carts, LLC
The Trailer Shop/Tommy & Mary Stone
Tyler Hawkins Group
Wild Dunes Resort, Hyatt
The Windjammer-
City of Isle of Palms
George Reeth Family Foundation
IOP Exchange Club
The Kitty Foundation