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Together SC Launches Highly Anticipated 5th Edition of Guiding Principles for SC Nonprofits

Date postedJanuary 28, 2026
Posted By: Brooke Robertson Learning Together,
Together SC proudly announces the launch of the new and significantly updated 5th Edition of Guiding Principles for South Carolina Nonprofits, a cornerstone resource designed to help organizations of every size operate effectively, ethically, and sustainably. 

First published in 2007, the Guiding Principles have long served as South Carolina’s gold standard for nonprofit excellence. This new edition reflects nearly two decades of sector growth and evolution and builds on more than 30 years of work by the state’s most respected nonprofit leaders, advisors, and subject matter experts. 

“Much has changed since the last edition, from how we weathered the pandemic, to the rise of generative AI, to increased advocacy and accountability expectations,” said Together SC CEO Karen Riordan. “This edition meets the moment while remaining rooted in the timeless foundations of strong nonprofit leadership and governance.” 

The 5th Edition is organized across ten core focus areas critical to effective nonprofit management, including governance, financial management, legal compliance, strategic planning, fundraising, marketing, operations, evaluation, and advocacy. It is designed to serve as: 

  • A practical self-assessment tool 

  • A guide for board and staff development 

  • A framework for continuous improvement 

  • A benchmark for accountability and excellence 

Free Access for All South Carolina Nonprofits 

In alignment with Together SC’s mission to strengthen and advance the nonprofit network, the 5th Edition is available as a free download to all South Carolina nonprofits. 

“We believe every nonprofit, regardless of size or budget, deserves access to high-quality tools to operate legally, efficiently, and effectively,” said Together SC Board Chair, Dr. Shawn Edwards. “Strong organizations build strong communities; and these guiding principles set the standard for nonprofit success.” 

Nonprofits are encouraged to download the publication and use it across their organizations, including with boards, staff, committees, and strategic planning processes. Business, philanthropic, association, and academic partners are also invited to share the resource with grantees, clients, and networks. 

Gratitude to Sponsors and Contributors 

This new edition was made possible through the leadership and generosity of founding sponsors The Leader’s Perspective (Patrick Jinks) and Grayson Law Firm (Clay Grayson), who were instrumental in shaping the publication. 

Together SC also extends sincere thanks to the principle sponsors: 

  • Advocacy: Arras Foundation 

  • Strategic Planning: Heightened Development 

  • Legal: Michelle A. Mapp, Attorney at Law 

  • Financial Management: Greene Finney Cauley, LLP 

  • Operations and Operational Excellence: The Weathers Group 

  • Governance: Solutions by Shawn Edwards 

  • Leadership and Organizational Culture: Solutions by Shawn Edwards 

  • Marketing: 1000 Feathers 

  • Fundraising and Development: The Winkler Group 

  • Evaluation and Metrics: Doug Snyder, CPA 

Download the Guiding Principles 

The 5th Edition of Guiding Principles, along with the Legal Compliance Checklist, can be downloaded at: 
https://www.togethersc.org/guiding-principles 

About Together SC 
Together SC is the state association for nonprofits in South Carolina, serving as a trusted convener, advocate, and resource hub for the nonprofit sector. Through training, partnerships, advocacy, and shared learning, Together SC strengthens nonprofit organizations so they can better serve across the state. 

 

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