From the Board President: Andrew “Drew” Davis

Neighbors,

When I first set foot inside East Cooper Community Outreach, little did I know that it would be a transformative experience that would ignite a relentless passion within me. During a guided tour of the building, I witnessed the remarkable depth and breadth of support resources provided by this incredible organization.

As I walked through the halls, my eyes were opened to the harsh reality that many of our neighbors, the silent, voiceless, and unempowered, faced daily. The extent of poverty within our community east of the Cooper River was a revelation that struck me to the core. It was a wake-up call that demanded action, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference.

Before that moment, I had been blissfully unaware of the struggles beyond my doorstep. The tour shed light on the profound need that existed, and it was a call to arms that I could not ignore. It was a pivotal moment that compelled me to step forward and take responsibility, not for personal gain, but to channel my energy, resources, and determination towards effecting change within our community.

I harbor no illusions of grandeur, understanding that our challenges are vast and complex. However, armed with the knowledge and insight gained through my involvement with ECCO, I am driven to do everything within my power to make a genuine impact. I may be just one person, but I am fueled by the belief that collective action can yield extraordinary results.

My commitment as the President of the Board of Directors for ECCO extends far beyond individual efforts. It is about rallying our community, bringing together individuals, businesses, and organizations who share our vision of a better tomorrow. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, to empower those in need, and to build a stronger, more resilient community.

Close your eyes and let your heart be the guide on this emotional journey. Imagine a person, vulnerable and destitute, their pockets empty, their stomachs hollow, their bodies shivering in the cold. They wander through the shadows of a world that has forgotten them, their cries for help drowned out by the deafening silence of indifference.

Now, let your imagination take a daring leap. The face you see on that person is someone you hold dear – your sweet, innocent child, your cherished spouse, or your best friend. Feel the ache in your chest as you contemplate the unimaginable suffering they endure. The desperation etched on their face, the hunger gnawing at their insides, the despair that engulfs their every step.

Take a deep breath and let that reality sink in. How does it make you feel? What emotions surge within you as you envision a loved one or yourself in such dire circumstances? The answer is clear – an overwhelming urge to act, to extend a helping hand and provide comfort, support, and a glimmer of hope.

As you consider the poignant imagery of a person without money, food, clothing, or shelter, let it catalyze action. Let it ignite a fire within you to stand up, lend a helping hand, and to join the movement for change. Together, we can rewrite the narrative of hopelessness and create a future where no one is left behind.

So, I implore you, to ask yourself: What will you do? How quickly will you be there to help? The answer lies within your heart, and the time for action is now. Join us at East Cooper Community Outreach, and let us transform lives, one act of compassion at a time.

I am humbled and honored to stand at the helm of ECCO, steering a course toward a future where poverty is no longer a barrier to success and where every member of our community can thrive. Join me on this journey, and let us unite in our collective pursuit of making a real difference. If I can make a real difference in just one person’s life, then I can chalk that up to a small victory. However, if I can help motivate and engage everyone in our community who has the means to make a real difference in the life of at least one of our neighbors in need, then that is the real victory. Together, we can rewrite the narrative of our community and create a legacy of compassion, support, and empowerment.

With gratitude,

Drew Davis

Bio: Drew is the CFO and co-owner of TriMed Services, LLC, which is a fully accredited specialized provider of Durable Medical Equipment (DME) based out of Charleston, SC. Andrew serves as the Chief Financial Officer, where he oversees all of the financial and IT activities of the corporation. Andrew holds a Masters in Accountancy from the College of Charleston, a BA in Business-Economics from Wofford College, a CPA, and CGMA.