October is always a special month for the Isle of Palms Exchange Club, marking the culmination of months of planning, dedication and community spirit. This year’s efforts came full circle on Oct. 23 at the annual Member Dinner, where proceeds from the IOP Connector Run were proudly awarded to local child abuse prevention agencies.
Each year the event continues to grow and 2025 was no exception. Breaking previous records once again, the IOP Connector Run raised an impressive $200,000 to support child abuse prevention programs during the 2025-26 fiscal year. These funds were made possible through the generosity of sponsors, donors and the 2,500 runners who registered for the race.
Ten organizations received funding this year, including Windwood Farm, Landmarks for Families, Dee Norton Child Advocacy Center, CAPA-Beaufort, Florence Crittenton of South Carolina, Doors to Freedom, Darkness to Light, My Sister’s House, Lowcountry Orphan Relief and HALOS.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Michelle Priest, chairman of the IOP Connector Run Board; the entire Run Board; and Deb Barr, the Exchange Club’s Child Abuse Prevention Program of Service Chair. Deep appreciation is also extended to the cities of Isle of Palms and Mount Pleasant, their police and fire departments, the Isle of Palms Recreation Center and the many generous sponsors, donors and volunteers who made the event possible.
“This is what it’s all about – Exchange charitable giving,” said one IOP Exchange Club member at the close of the evening, summing up the gratitude and emotion felt by everyone in attendance.
By Robbie C. Berg
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