2026 September Newsletter

Summer has turned to fall, and another school year is well underway here at the Home! This season has been action-packed, between a high-energy board retreat with five of our newest board members and A Taste of Magic, which was equal parts delicious and magical.

Starting at a new school looks very different from child to child, depending on the cards life has dealt them. Although the school year is in full swing, youth coming to the Home may find themselves starting over at a new school at any point during the year. I can’t help but reflect on all the emotions I experienced as a kid when this time of year came. It makes me think about how different it must be for our kids living at the Home with all the additional social pressures that exist today.

At our retreat, we were able to enjoy fellowship with new and returning board members while participating in exercises that will help shape our future strategic plan. Hearing everyone’s “why” for joining the board gave each of us a new perspective on this work and reminded me what makes the Home such a special place for the kids we serve.

When I joined the Board of Directors last year, I knew I had a desire to support the kids living at the Home and brought my culinary talents to the table. Fast forward one year, and I had the opportunity to witness firsthand what can happen when talented people from across our community come together in support of a common mission.

To support the Way Forward Campaign, a team of us came together and envisioned an experience blending wonder, mission, and exceptional talent into a truly magical evening. We brought together local chefs, worked with local farms, and local entertainment to create a memorable evening supporting youth and young adults right here in our community. That night, the Gathering Space was transformed, creating a spectacular backdrop for an unforgettable evening. It was humbling to see how many leaders and donors from our community stepped up to support this great mission, and we are so grateful to the countless volunteers that donated their time. You can read more, including the final results, in the article below!

With deep appreciation, thank you to everyone that came together for the kids. You are the reason these kids know how much their community cares about them.

All the best,

The Good Stuff

Every day, our youth are working hard toward their goals - check out their progress below!

• Kaleb's transition to Lander University was successful.
• Alan was promoted to the 7th grade!
• Jan is participating in the Rock Hill High School marching band.
• Kelani completed her summer finals and was promoted to junior status!
• Alan and Kamri are participating in extracurricular activities through their school.
• Three youth in Freeman Cottage opened checking accounts by engaging in DSS Independent Living classes.

Your support changes what's possible for these youth. Thank you!

Details are changed to protect the confidentiality of the youth, but the stories are real moments you make possible!

Your Snippet

Over $210,000 Raised at A Taste of Magic

More than 80 guests joined us on August 29 for our inaugural A Taste of Magic, an evening that brought together local chefs, community partners, volunteers, and supporters to create something truly special. Together, they helped raise more than $210,000 to support young adults as they transition toward independence.

View full article and photo gallery

Building Hope for Children:
Learning, Growing, and Leading Together

Earlier this month, members of our leadership team attended the Building Hope for Children Conference hosted by Children's Trust of South Carolina. The message: effective leadership is rooted in relationships, courage, and a willingness to continue growing.

Read reflections from Executive Director Tara Burgess

Building Healthier Futures: Atrium Health

For more than a decade, Atrium Health and Children’s Attention Home have shared a commitment to strengthening the health and well-being of local youth and families.

Read full article with reflections from Atrium Health Vice President

Change of Administrative Office Location

The Children's Attention Home finalized the sale of the Bridge House on Ebenezer Road. All operations, including our administrative teammates, are now centralized on our main campus.

Want the full scoop? Sign up now to receive our newsletters for monthly updates on needs, events, opportunities, highlights, & more. Sign me up!