The Butterfly Collaborative

Team Members: Eva Burgmeier, Shaunté Evans, Kelly Gregory, Beth Lancaster, Brad McMillen, Courtney Meeks, Larry Miller, Stacy Wright, Mike Yearout

Project Mission: Provide needed manpower to SAM staff as they open their new Center for Resilient Schools and Communities, which will provide Spartanburg County families, schools, and communities with supports and systems that can increase children’s success, particularly in neighborhoods where educational disparities exist.

Project Objectives:

• Increase SAM staff capacity to focus on tasks outside of the needed manual labor
• Create an inviting space, both inside and out, where parents and community members feel welcomed and comfortable
• Create and engaging space for children who may come to the CRSC with their caregivers
• Provide logistical and public relations support to SAM staff as they plan and execute the soft opening for the CRSC, which will help to educate the community about CRSC’s purpose

Additional Benefits:

• Increased awareness in the Northside community about SAM and the CRSC’s mission, values, and work.
• Strengthened connection between SAM, the CRSC, and leaders in the Upstate who have or will participate in Furman’s Diversity Leaders Initiative.