Community

SC Ports and its employees are very active and visible in communities throughout South Carolina. By supporting trade-related organizations, providing volunteers and resources for local service projects, and fostering school and community partnerships, SC Ports seeks to be a good neighbor, and our staff is always available to answer your questions.

Community Partnerships & Giving

SC Ports strives to be a positive force in the community. Our employees give their time for volunteer activities, and the Port supports business and charitable organizations that align with its mission.

Through the annual Community Giving Program, SC Ports dedicates a portion of its revenues each year to support charitable organizations across the state. In fiscal year 2023, SC Ports awarded $252,500 in grants to 90 community organizations and nonprofits throughout South Carolina.

Speaking Engagements & Tours

Have you ever wondered how a seaport operates or how our ports help attract new business investment to South Carolina? Interacting with our local community is an important part of what we do. Consider hosting a Port representative at your organization's next meeting or setting up a group tour of our facilities.

SC Ports also partners with local schools and universities across South Carolina to share information on the maritime industry and related careers. To request a speaker for your class, set up a group tour or receive resources relevant to the port, please contact us.

Due to the high volume of speaking and tour requests, SC Ports is unable to accommodate every request.  If no response is received within three business days, your group will be added to our wait list.  Thank you for your interest.  We hope to accommodate every request. 

Community Tour Program

Our community tour offers a firsthand look at port operations at two Charleston terminals.  Spend the morning with us to learn about port activities, major projects, and the future of our state port system. Space is limited to 12 participants.

Our next community tour is scheduled for Friday, March 1, starting at 9:00 am. Register here.

Visit our FAQ page to learn more about the program.

Port Ambassador Program

The Port Ambassador Program consists of delegates nominated by each of the ten SC Ports Review and Oversight Commission (ROCSPA) members, the nine board members and two ex-officio members of the SC Ports Board of Directors, the Chairman of Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Dillon and Spartanburg County Councils, and select members of the SC Ports Leadership team. The target class size is thirty individuals from around the state with varying professional backgrounds and community engagement.

The program runs September through May; over that time, delegates observe the Port and intermodal industry's inner workings through a series of full and half-day educational sessions and tours. Additionally, to foster an atmosphere of networking and industry understanding, delegates are included in special events hosted by the Port and port partners when appropriate. Visit our Port Ambassador page for more information about the program.