GREENWOOD, SC – Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries celebrated an evening of transformational announcements and heartfelt recognition during the For the Dreams of Children Gala, held November 15, 2024. The event not only introduced the organization’s latest initiatives but also honored Ruth Graham with the inaugural Aspen Award for her lifelong commitment to healing and ministry.
A Vision for the Future
In 2020, Connie Maxwell embarked on a 10-year strategic journey with the vision of becoming a national leader in healing and ministry for vulnerable children and families. On Friday, the organization publicly launched its For the Dreams of Children Campaign, marking a pivotal step in achieving this goal.
“We’re here because we believe in Connie Maxwell’s mission,” said Greenwood Mayor Brandon Smith. “For 132 years, this ministry has served as a cornerstone of our community, evolving to meet the needs of children and families.”
Throughout the evening, attendees were moved by cinematic films sharing heartfelt stories from students, alumni, and staff, offering a glimpse into Connie Maxwell’s legacy of transformation and its dreams for the future.
Transformational Announcements
President Danny Nicholson shared groundbreaking plans, highlighting Connie Maxwell’s deep commitment to addressing trauma and fostering healing. Among the announcements was the creation of a state-of-the-art Healing and Trauma Center, a 25,000-square-foot facility named, The McCall Center, designed to advance research, education, and care for children and families impacted by trauma.
“The center will be a beacon of hope,” Nicholson said. “It will not only help individuals understand trauma but also provide a framework for healing, using a neurosequential model to examine brain function and its connection to trauma.”
John McCravy, South Carolina State Representative, commended the initiative: “This is a solution. It’s a faith-based approach, and that’s what I appreciate most.”
Larry and Jerry Anne Faulkenberry, longstanding supporters of Connie Maxwell, announced a $2 million gift to support the building of the new Healing and Administration Center. Initially, the building was to be named in their honor; however, in a surprise turn of events, the Faulkenberrys requested the facility be named after Danny and Debra Nicholson instead. Jerry Anne Faulkenberry expressed her gratitude for the original honor but insisted it reflect the Nicholsons’ tireless dedication to the ministry.
“This building is not about us,” said Jerry Anne. “It’s about honoring those who have worked day and night to care for children and families.”
Expanding Outreach
To further its reach, Connie Maxwell announced a $2 million transformational gift from Mike and Suzie Kocak, dedicated to establishing The Kocak Campus in Charleston—the organization’s first expansion beyond Greenwood. The gift honors Billy Rigdel, a Connie Maxwell alumnus and close friend of the Kocaks. “We need more people like Billy in the world,” said Mike Kocak. “This gift is our way of ensuring that happens.”
Additional plans unveiled include:
- An amphitheater on Connie Maxwell’s 600-acre farm, designed to host public events and provide alternative revenue streams, with a capacity of 3,000 attendees.
- Renovations to cottages and historic buildings to enhance services for children and families.
- A campaign goal increase to $25 million, more than doubling the original target. “We’ve already surpassed expectations, but we remain committed to being fiscally responsible,” Nicholson said.
Honoring Ruth Graham
The evening’s emotional highlight was the presentation of the inaugural Aspen Award to Ruth Graham. Named after the resilient Aspen trees of Colorado, the award recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of healing and ministry.
“Ruth Graham has dedicated her life to loving and healing others,” said Nicholson, reflecting on his long-standing friendship with her. “She exemplifies the essence of this award.”
Graham’s son, Dienert, called his mother a hero, praising her resilience and faith. Accepting the honor with humility, Ruth Graham expressed her gratitude: “God has been faithful to me. Even in my unfaithfulness, He has remained faithful and will continue to be faithful to these children.”
A Call to Action
A powerful testimony from a current student underscored the profound impact of Connie Maxwell’s work: “If I could look at where I am today compared to when I first arrived, I wouldn’t believe it. My plan is to become a nurse and come back to Connie Maxwell to help others, just like Nurse Lacy does.”
Kevin Jones, a close friend of Ruth Graham, closed the evening by urging attendees to reflect on their priorities: “What truly matters is the life of a child and being a champion for those who cannot stand on their own.”
Join the Movement
Connie Maxwell’s For the Dreams of Children Campaign represents a bold step forward, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to transforming lives and inspiring hope for generations to come. To learn more or get involved, visit www.conniemaxwell.com.
