The Village Group celebrates 20 years of empowering youth in Georgetown County
What began as a simple backyard baseball game between a father and son has grown into a transformative movement uplifting hundreds of children and families throughout Georgetown County.
It all started two decades ago in Ray Funnye’s Plantersville backyard. Tossing a baseball with his then 9-year-old son, Funnye invited other parents and their children to join. The games quickly outgrew the backyard and moved to a nearby park, evolving into a weekly community gathering complete with hot dogs, sodas and a spirit of togetherness fueled by dedicated parents.
Ray Funnye speaking at The Village Group event
“Before you knew it, on a Sunday afternoon we had tremendous games going on, families coming together,” Funnye recalled. “I said, ‘This is fantastic. Let’s take it to the next level.’ ”
This year, what is today known as The Village Group is celebrating 20 years of inspiring and motivating young people in Georgetown County through a variety of programs, events and services. The nonprofit embodies the same philosophy that made those early baseball games so successful -- active engagement from parents and the community is crucial for a child’s successful development.
Now, the thriving organization that supports hundreds of local kids and families each year is embarking on its next level -- a $6 million fundraising campaign to transform 10 acres into the Plantersville Cultural Complex, a planned hub of learning and healthy activities offering everything from nature trails, biking paths and a farm to exhibit space, educational programs and more.
“We have continually grown our program. We want to be an active part of this community,” Funnye said. “Let’s grow together and do something special together.”
Stepping up to the plate
Fueled by its mission to equip youth with the tools needed for success, The Village Group provides a range of opportunities to inspire and empower young people, from a summer camp and back-to-school rally attracting nearly 300 kids to opportunities to sing in a choir or develop public speaking skills.
Programs encourage participants to explore a variety of career opportunities to find what fits their interests. Field trips to see some of the state’s major employers including BMW in Spartanburg and Boeing in Charleston aim to open kids’ eyes to the variety of career possibilities ahead of them.
“This is what you can be a part of,” Funnye said. “Exposure is so important. Those things make a difference."
Health is also a cornerstone for a child’s success and a focus for The Village Group. In collaboration with Tidelands Health through LiveWell Georgetown County, The Village Group offers the Village Flyers Bike Club and a bike rental program and is planning an elaborate walking and biking trail at the planned cultural complex.
“Healthy living is so important,” Funnye said. “We want to keep kids active.”
One of the group’s signature fundraising events also promotes an active lifestyle. Tour de Plantersville, a scenic bike ride through Georgetown County and cultural festival, attracts hundreds of cyclists a year and raises thousands for The Village Group. Tidelands Health is proud to serve as a sponsor of the popular event.
“Kids in our community are better positioned for healthy and successful lives as adults thanks to the dedicated efforts of The Village Group,” said Monica Grey, vice president of care continuum at Tidelands Health. “From bike rides to community gardens, The Village Group encourages healthy habits and active lifestyles in our youth. The vision for the Plantersville Cultural Complex – with an elaborate trail system and gardens producing healthy foods – is remarkable and can help advance our shared goal of a healthier community.”
Giving back
Born at what is now known as Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital, Funnye is dedicated to giving back to and investing in the community he proudly calls home. He now serves as a member of the volunteer Tidelands Health board of trustees.
Growing up on a Plantersville farm picking tobacco and cucumbers, Funnye learned the value of hard work and was inspired by his father and older brother, as well as his always supportive mother. He’s always been motivated to help others.
Founder and Executive Director
Ray C. Funnye
“My dad had about 10 acres of land, and he kept us busy. I understand the value of work, and that has been resonating in my soul all my life,” Funnye said. “I enjoy being able to serve others.”
A dedicated public servant, Funnye - who earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering technology and a master’s degree in management - joined Georgetown County as a plans examiner in 1992 and has served as director of public services since 2002.
Funnye plans to retire in August, freeing up more time for him to focus on The Village Group and its fundraising campaign for the cultural center.
“I need to raise $6 million. I can’t do it at night or the weekend. I need to dedicate some time to do that,” he said. “I’m at a point in my life now where I can focus on that full time.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from knowing that the work I’m doing is making a positive impact on other people and making a difference in the lives of our young people.”
Want to support The Village Group? Learn more here.
