FOLKWAYS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Folkways Community Development Corporation is a 501 C-3 non-profit organization. In 2019, we received a grant from the USDA Office of Rural Business Development to launch a pilot entrepreneurial training program, Dream Builders. We chose the highly successful CO.STARTERS curriculum for our cohort. When COVID-19 prevented face-to face classroom settings, we were able to launch virtually. Our participants were able to learn every aspect of owning a business using a modified business canvas. They were introduced to successful local business owners who did not hesitate to share valuable insights and mentoring. Dream Builders was also able to assist existing businesses during the initial corona virus onslaught by sharing valuable resources that helped business owners navigate changes and find funding.

Folkways is a Ramsey+ facilitator to help Western York County move from being a low wealth community to a debt-free community. Other services we offer are a free business directory and artist registry, free co-workspace, free wifi access, free phone access, and some printing services. We are currently working with local schools and various agencies to address the needs for tutoring/mentoring services and affordable housing. With a grant received from the South Carolina Association for Community Economic Development, we are purchasing equipment with the goal of becoming a stellar business training facility with a focus on the creative industries.