Nonprofit headquarters finds new home in former church

Listen to this article

A North Charleston-based nonprofit has purchased the Cherokee Place United Methodist Church building as its headquarters. 

Neighbors Together has leased the first floor of the church at 2105 Cosgrove Ave. in North Charleston since 2017. The building became available for sale when the Cherokee Place UMC congregation closed in October. 

“Thanks to the hard work of our board and our staff, and the vision and commitment of United Community Bank, we were able to purchase the building,” Neighbors Together executive director Kara Stewart said. “We are excited about the many ways we can expand our services as owners of the building. And we are proud to put down roots in the North Charleston community where we can continue to serve our neighbors for years to come.” 

The larger space will allow the charity to expand and grow its programs, including its job training program. Plans call for outfitting rooms with up-to-date technology for online classes to serve neighbors who do not have internet access at home. There is also space for vocation-specific training, including a woodshop, service kitchen and computer classroom.  

Food pantry space has now quadrupled, allowing for the expansion of Neighbors Together’s nutrition and grocery program. The health and wellness program will soon grow from one exam room to four, to help serve more neighbors’ long-term health care needs. 

“It was an honor representing Neighbors Together and signing for the purchase of the Methodist church we have been leasing space in for the last five years,” said Bob Fetch, Neighbors Together board chairman. “The purchase will allow us to better serve and expand our services for our clients who we currently feed, clothe, train and assist in housing as we make necessary renovations.” 

The Cherokee Place United Methodist Church building will turn 100 years old next year and has a long history of serving the Chicora-Cherokee neighborhood.