OUR MISSION & HISTORY

The mission of Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach Services, Inc. is to provide educational, health and direct outreach services to people in need on James, Johns and Wadmalaw Islands and at the Neighborhood House in Charleston, while encouraging and supporting self- sufficiency and self-esteem.

Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach Services, established in 1989, is a non-profit , 501©3 organization sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady of Mercy. A fifteen member Board of Directors governs the organization which employs twenty-four staff members. From the beginning, the organization responds to human needs and focuses on the whole person, not just the immediate crisis. Located at 1684 Brownswood Road on Johns Island, SC, the Outreach extends a helping hand to over 10,000 residents yearly through educational programs, health services and response to basic human needs.

Since its beginning, the organization has expanded its facilities to include an education building and a trailer for dental services. Presently, a Capital Campaign is in place for the purpose of constructing a permanent health facility on the grounds. A new building for health services will increase the capacity for health education, women’s health, pre-natal and dental care.

Over 200 volunteers effectively deliver a variety of services, including emergency services, life-skills classes, English as a Second Language classes and after-school tutoring.

Building on the synergy between the areas of service, the Outreach seeks to address the undercurrents of poverty and foster the capacity of area residents To improve the quality of their lives and the life of the community.