SEGMENT #1: Charleston Surfriders
GUEST: Zach Watkin, Chapter Chairperson
ISSUE: Conservation
The Charleton Surfdider is the local chapter of the Surfrider Foundation, a grassroots non-profit that works to protect beaches, oceans and waterways across the United States. Zach Watkin, the local chapter chair explained how we got involved in the Charleston Surfriders and what the non-profit does locally. The group has a Grassroots Gala event annually, and this year it will be on May 24th at the Wonderer in downtown Charleston. Watkin spoke of the point of the event and what people could learn by attending. He also discussed some of the things the organization does including a plastic pellet count, removing “nerdles” from the marshes and beaches in the area. Additionally, he shared clean-up events the group hosts and how individuals can join the non-profit and assist in their mission.
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SEGMENT #2: Bradley Blake Foundation
GUEST: Sylvia Blake, President
ISSUE: Gun Violence
Gun violence is a challenge in big cities across our nation, and now a growing problem as well here in the Lowcountry. Sylvia Blake’s son Bradley was a victim of gun violence, and out of his death she found the motivation to create the Bradley Blake Foundation, a nonprofit created to bring local awareness to the gun violence issue. Every June the organization hosts the Tri-County Orange Walk to help raise awareness of the cause, and funds for the non-profit. This year’s event is set for June 7 in Moncks Corner. Blake explained the reason of using the color orange and also provided specific details on the walk. She also discussed her son’s death and how she is trying to use her experience to assist others in similar circumstances. Blake also shared programs her foundation offers to the community.
