Maybe it’s the memory of someone who offered a helping hand in the past, or perhaps it comes from upbringing and strong mentors. Others say that it’s God’s calling, and some claim it comes from a voice within. Still, the majority of these humble, completely unselfish people usually can’t put into words why they do what they do. Instead, their philanthropic ways are just a part of who they are.

Amidst the constant turmoil and bad news that today’s world brings, it’s easy to focus on all of the problems that need fixing. When we turn on the television or radio and hear about the latest bombing in Afghanistan or robbery down the street, many of us become overwhelmed by all that’s wrong in society. However, it’s during these times that we should be extra thankful for all that is still good, and here in the Midlands, we are fortunate to be surrounded by people who strive to spread kindness. Therefore, we at Columbia Metropolitan magazine, along with The Central Carolina Community Foundation, decided to award some of these people that make living in Columbia more pleasant for all of us. We took nominations from around the Greater Columbia area for those unsung heroes who you believe have proven to be community champions in their everyday lives. Then, a panel of judges decided upon the top five, who we have awarded as Best of Philanthropy winners.

On pages 26 through 31, celebrate these winners with us: Student Community Champion Anna Price; Group Community Champion Knitting for the Needy; Individual Community Champion C.J. Bilka; Family Community Champion the Singletarys; and Local Business Community Champion Michael Tucker of Chick-fil-A Lexington. All of these winners will be celebrated on Sept. 16 during the Central Carolina Community Foundation’s annual gala and will be given a $500 donation made in their name to the charity of their choice. Congratulations to this year’s winners – your generosity, goodwill and determination inspire us all.

Columbia Metropolitan magazine is constantly inspired by the generous philanthropic work generated in this town and hopes to give back to our community through awareness and community involvement as much as possible. After all, we’ve been your city magazine for over 20 years, and we want to be a part of making this city the best it can be.

As part of this community effort, we have again teamed up with Robert Haas Construction, Coldwell Banker United, Realtors®, Time Warner Cable and SCE&G to present the 10th annual Dream Home, which raises money for the American Cancer Society. The 2010 Dream Home, located in the Preserve neighborhood off Garner’s Ferry Road, showcases the work of Columbia’s top interior designers and suppliers in a beautiful 3,900-square-foot home built by Robert and Julia Haas. The designers have shopped the markets and brought the latest trends in color, fabric, furniture and accessories, and the vendors have stocked the house with the best the industry has to offer.

Come visit the Dream Home Sept. 10 through 26 and gather fresh and inspiring ideas for your own home. Admission is $10 at the door, and remember, all proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

We hope you enjoy the issue.

Sincerely,

Emily S. Tinch
Editor