Scholarship Endowment

The Garden Club of Charleston Scholarship Endowment was established to secure scholarships for deserving students in horticultural and related fields in perpetuity. The endowment is supported by the club’s membership, its funds are invested for long-term growth, and its interest earned is used to fund the scholarships.

In establishing the Scholarship Endowment, an initial goal of $100,000 was set before the earnings from the Endowment could be available for scholarships. It was a number that ensured the endowment was going to be a cause supported by the TGCC membership. The TGCC Board showed their support by offering a match for the first $50,000 raised. The total initial goal was achieved within months, confirming the enthusiasm and commitment of the club to its new Scholarship Endowment program.

Today the fund has continued to grow and will continue to grow over the years. The endowment concept ensures that the initial amount of Endowed Funds will be there in the future to fund scholarships with the annual earnings each year.

Each year the Club Scholarship committee works with the current Charitable Fund Treasurer and Finance Director to determine the earnings that are available to fund scholarships in the upcoming year. This amount is then presented for Board approval, the applications are carefully reviewed, and the scholarships are presented to the students. This yearly cycle, secured by the Endowment, is a legacy for TGCC that builds on our mission in education and our commitment to the future.