Testimonial from a Former Board Member

I am a 2011 graduate of Furman University, and during my time there I participated in the Shucker Leadership Program. During our junior and senior year, all participants were required to join a board for a non-profit or some other group. I had never heard of Mental Health America, but the director of SLI told me it would be a good fit for me. I came for an interview, learned the basics of what MHAGC did, and instantly knew that I wanted to be part of this organization.

I recall being very intimidated walking into the first board meeting. I was younger than all other members and honestly had no idea what I was getting into. Fortunately, everybody welcomed me with open arms and I felt right at home. Going in blind, I was unsure of what board meetings entailed. Would we be talking about finances the whole time? Would we go visit the housing sites? I had no idea what to expect. The meeting was very easy to follow along with. We talked about financials, upcoming events, new and old business, and housing updates, nothing too complicated for me to understand. The more often I attended our once-a-month board meetings the more I wanted to get involved with MHA. I learned about all the great programs MHAGC has to offer along with the fundraising events and conferences we hold every year. I also realized the need MHAGC had for volunteers and membership.

Getting involved with the board has been one of the best experiences of my life. Without its involvement I would have never known about this great non-profit and all of the wonderful programs it has to offer. I would have never met the amazing people I have or had the opportunity to intern this summer. Although we have a solid board membership now, we are always looking for more compassionate and driven people to make the board stronger. New members usually join because of a friend or co-worker they know who is presently on the board, or who has been in the past, but you do not need to know someone to become a board member. We want board members who are passionate in the area of mental health, but also will go above and beyond to make the voices of MHAGC heard. We also want creative minds and lively spirits to enhance the programs MHAGC already has in place.

If you are interested in becoming a board member you can contact Jennifer Piver at (864) 467-3344 to set up an interview so we can learn about you, and you can learn about MHAGC. Once the interview is complete, the current board members will vote on welcoming new members at the next upcoming board meeting. From there on you will be welcome to join our once month board meetings on the second Monday of each month at 12 noon. Please consider becoming a board member. MHAGC thrives off the hard work and dedication of its staff, board and volunteers. The more people from the community become involved, the greater MHAGC will become.