About Us

THE FOUNDATION

The Briggs-De Laine-Pearson Foundation (BDPF) is a grassroots organization with 501 (c)(3) status. It depends on donations, grants and volunteers to reach its goals. Support is welcomed from individuals, corporations, philanthropies, other organizations and government agencies.

BDPF was founded by a group of people who wanted to memorialize the Clarendon County (South Carolina) citizens who initiated the first public school desegregation case to reach the US Supreme Court. Its 15-member Board of Directors share a common vision and have set goals and objectives that will enable the organization to pursue the organization’s mission.

THE VISION

We envision Clarendon County (SC) developing into a thriving community that nurtures personal and cultural growth, that recognizes the historical contributions of all its citizens, and that provides opportunities for each individual to make positive contributions for the common good.

THE MISSION

BDPF’s mission is twofold:

To perpetuate the Briggs v. Elliott legacy of making positive community changes by facilitating the educational, social and physical well-being of all members of the community.
To honor and memorialize the people whose courage and sacrifices were responsible for Briggs v. Elliott by stressing the value of education, knowledge of local history and responsible citizenship.

THE GOALS

The Foundation’s goals are to motivate higher academic achievement, to facilitate economic competitiveness of individuals, to help address social and medical needs, and to stimulate greater community involvement in civic affairs.

THE OBJECTIVES

Current objectives of the BDPF are:

To foster the creation of programs and all-inclusive community partnerships that address the educational, social and medical needs of the people of Clarendon County (SC).
To encourage personal and community development, and to inspire a sense of pride in local history.
To develop a permanent center to house BDPF programs, a community center, and to house Briggs v. Elliott artifacts.