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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.

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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

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Ted Kinghorn

Director/Whisperer

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George Reeth

Founder of LENS Charleston and Chairman of the LENS Advisory Board 

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Laura Strecker

Marketing Director

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Jim Thompson

LENS Endowment Oversight Committee

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Al Cannon

The LENS Advisory Board

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Dick Cronin

The LENS Advisory Board

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Jean Blackwell

The LENS Advisory Board

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Dimi Matouchev, CFP

The LENS Advisory Board

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Kitty Riley

The LENS Advisory Board

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Pastor Paul Coleman

The LENS Advisory Board

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Dennis McLendon

The LENS Advisory Board

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Dave Rohr

The LENS Advisory Board

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Betsy Reidenbach

LENS Selection Panel

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Tony Jones

LENS Selection Panel

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Rob Hauff

LENS Executive Team

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Kathy Shook

LENS Executive Team

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Mike Powers

The LENS Endowment Oversight Committee

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Sherry Welsh

LENS Executive Team

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Lisa Ferguson

The LENS Advisory Board

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Lexi Kinsaul

The LENS Advisory Board

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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"

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    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:
    • Donna Bell
    • Vanessa Carter
    • Christy Humphries
    • Ginn Maiers
    • 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

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