Simple Civics: Greenville County

Latest Episodes:

988: A Lifeline for Mental Health Apr 25, 2023

Show notes

Discover the major upgrade to South Carolina's emotional crisis helpline, now featuring the easy-to-remember 988 number, on this episode of the Simple Civics. We speak with Jennifer Piver, Executive Director of Mental Health America of Greenville County, about the importance of this change and the benefit for those seeking support. Jennifer describes the origins of the new number, the funding needs faced by the helpline, such as funding and local resources, and how listeners can get involved in this life-saving initiative. Tune in to learn how this vital service offers hope for individuals struggling with mental health challenges, and how the upgraded helpline is poised to make a difference.

Links:

Mental Health America of Greenville County

Jennifer Piver Bio

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Revitalizing Greenville: The Swamp Rabbit Trail's Journey & Community Impact Apr 18, 2023

Show notes

Today we uncover the story of the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, a transformative 25-mile multi-use trail in Greenville County, with special guests Frank Mansbach, Volunteer Executive Director of Bike Walk Greenville, and Ty Houck, Director of Greenways, Natural and Historic Resources for Greenville County Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Discover how this cherished trail has impacted recreation, transportation, and the local economy, attracting millions of users and breathing new life into once-vacant areas. Dive into the power of persistence, advocacy, and community collaboration as we discuss the years-long efforts to improve safety and accessibility on the trail, and the crucial role elections play in shaping policy outcomes. Don't miss this informative episode that showcases the potential of local civic engagement in transforming communities for the better.

Links:

Bike Walk Greenville

https://bikewalkgreenville.org/

Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail - Greenville County Rec

https://greenvillerec.com/swamprabbit/

Swamp Rabbit Trail - City of Greenville

https://www.greenvillesc.gov/316/Swamp-Rabbit-Trail

Article on Swamp Rabbit Trail crossing

https://www.postandcourier.com/greenville/news/stoplight-at-perilous-greenville-swamp-rabbit-trail-crossing-on-in-april/article_19b8e398-c9b2-11ed-9036-439bf9e6f601.html

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Creating Disability Inclusive Organizations: Practical Tips for Accessibility and Equity Apr 11, 2023

Show notes

Committed to fostering inclusivity for people with disabilities in your organization? This episode features Kimberly Tissot of Able South Carolina, who shares essential steps for enhancing accessibility and equity in workplaces. Learn how to optimize your website for visually impaired users, include disability representation in marketing, and comply with disability rights laws. Listen now for a valuable guide to implementing inclusivity and accessibility best practices in your organization.

Kimberly Tissot Bio.

Learn more about Able SC.

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Evictions: Understanding South Carolina's Rental Challenges and Protecting Your Rights Apr 04, 2023

Show notes

On this episode, we are joined by Mark Fessler, Deputy Director of Litigation and Training at South Carolina Legal Services. We delve into the complex world of evictions in South Carolina, the legal process, and the challenges faced by low-income renters. Discover the crucial steps to take when facing eviction, the importance of documentation, and how to protect your rights as a tenant. Plus, learn about the resources provided by South Carolina Legal Services to empower renters in their fight for affordable and fair housing.

Mark Fessler Bio.

Learn more about South Carolina Legal Services.

Self-Help Credit Union.

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Breaking Barriers: Unraveling the ADA & Local Government's Role in Disability Equity Mar 28, 2023

Show notes

Today we sit down with ADA expert and advocate Kimberly Tissot to explore the far-reaching implications of the Americans with Disabilities Act on our local communities and the ongoing fight for true inclusion. We discuss the role local and state governments play in ensuring accessibility and the work of Kimberly's organization, Able SC, in breaking down barriers for people with disabilities. Learn about the importance of normalizing disability, inspiring legislative victories in South Carolina, and the transformative power of advocacy. Tune in now to learn how we can all be a part of creating a more inclusive world.

Kimberly Tissot Bio.

Learn more about Able SC.

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Preserving Greenville's Legacy and Natural Beauty: The Impact of the Historic and Natural Resources Trust Mar 21, 2023

Show notes

Learn how Greenville County is preserving its natural and historical gems in today's conversation with Alex Reynolds, a board member of the Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust. We dive into the trust's mission, formation, and triumphs, exploring how the trust has successfully attracted $7.20 for every county dollar invested. Discover inspiring projects like the Paris Mountain Project and the preservation of a historic YWCA building, while learning about the trust's commitment to transparency and communication. Don't miss this fascinating conversation about safeguarding Greenville County's natural and historic treasures!

Alex Reynolds Bio.

Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust Website.

Learn how you can get involved with boards and commissions.

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

An Inside Look at Greenville County's $650 Million Budget Process with Finance Committee Chairman Butch Kirven Mar 14, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Councilman Butch Kirven, the Finance Committee Chairman for Greenville County Council, to discuss the county's budget process. Learn how the budget is developed, what priorities will likely be seen in the final budget, and how residents can get involved. With a two-year budget of just under $650 million, Greenville County has a lot of moving parts. Discover how the county allocates its resources, insights on economic development strategy, and how the county is incentivizing businesses to provide opportunities for everyone in the community.

Butch Kirven Bio: https://www.greenvillecounty.org/Council/CouncilMember.aspx?m=ButchKirven

Scott Case Episode: https://simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org/property-taxes-in-greenville-county-an-overview-with-county-auditor-scott-case/

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Getting Specific About Affordable Housing in Greenville Mar 07, 2023

Show notes

Today we sit down with affordable housing leaders Monroe Free with Habitat for Humanity and Don Oglesby with Homes of Hope to discuss the state of affordable housing in Greenville County. From defining affordable housing to addressing rising costs and challenges in development, these leaders discuss how they are innovatively tackling the issue and providing life-changing opportunities for families to achieve affordable homeownership and economic mobility. Don't miss this conversation on the importance of affordable housing and the positive impact it can have on Greenville County.

Learn about the new Greenville Development Code: https://simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org/exploring-the-new-greenville-development-code-understanding-how-it-will-impact-your-community-neighborhood-and-greenville/

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

The Childcare Crisis in Greenville County: Exploring the Shortage, Implications, and Solutions Feb 28, 2023

Show notes

Are you a parent in Greenville County struggling to find quality, affordable childcare for your little ones? You're not alone. The shortage of available childcare is at an all-time high, and it's not just impacting parents but the whole community as well. In this episode, we sit down with Derek Lewis, Executive Director of Greenville First Steps, to discuss the statistics and issues behind the childcare crisis in Greenville County. With most childcare providers struggling to find staff, parents are left waiting for months or even years before they can secure a spot. Tune in to learn why this is happening, what it means for us all, and what we can do about it. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that will leave you thinking about the future of our community.

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org

Revolutionizing School Food in Greenville County Schools with Joe Urban Feb 21, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Joe Urban, the Director of Food and Nutrition Services at Greenville County Schools. Learn about the revolutionary food service program at Greenville County Schools, serving an astonishing 85,000 meals a day to students. We explore the challenges and triumphs of implementing a healthier and more nutritious menu, breaking down the regulations and costs associated with serving students from different financial backgrounds. Joe shares how they achieved this feat, from investing in training their staff to becoming an advocate for change in the community. We also discuss the origins of the program and the remarkable impact it has had on Greenville County.

School Food Rocks (SFR) Website: https://schoolfoodrocks.com/

SFR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolfoodrocks

SFR Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SchoolFoodRocks/

SFR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-urban-6b02542b

SFR Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/schoolfoodrocks

SFR Podcast: https://schoolfoodrocks.com/podcast-episodes-1

Produced by The Greenville Podcast Company.

Simple Civics: Greenville County is a project of Greater Good Greenville.

Support Simple Civics with a tax-deductible contribution.

Email us: contact@simplecivicsgreenvillecounty.org