The number of residents within our region who face the challenges that come along with obtaining attainable housing, finding affordable, high-quality childcare, navigating their communities without effective mass transit, and searching for quality education for their children is countless.
Whether directly or indirectly, we are all impacted by these struggles, as traffic, housing costs and the future workforce are affected by these shortcomings. This may not be apparent to those who do not face these challenges on a daily basis but hearing from real people who live with these challenges and understand how they influence everyone in our region can open eyes to a better understanding of our region’s full ecosystem.
The Chamber had the opportunity to connect with community members who are facing challenges and seeking solutions in hopes of leaving a legacy where future generations worry less about a resolution.
To learn more about People First, visit www.shapethelegacy.org
Meet Amanda Matsumoto
Public School Speech Therapist & Softball Coach
A passionate speech therapist within our public school district, Amanda is a young professional who values the importance of living in the community where she works. Working with students, both as a speech therapist and softball coach, she seeks to build a supportive network within the community she serves.
However, the reality of affordable housing being located further away presents a significant challenge. Instead of seeking balance, many find themselves spending valuable time commuting. Amanda, like many others, encountered this obstacle, finding it frustrating that suitable housing options were scarce within her budget. Witnessing peers resorting to drastic measures like relocating or taking on a second job solely to affordable housing, Amanda recognizes the critical challenge facing our region.
Amanda remained determined and discovered a workforce housing opportunity in her desired area. Currently in the process of purchasing her first home, she realizes the importance of this opportunity plays in her ability to remain an active member of her community. Without this option, she would have been faced with the difficult decision of either leaving her job or enduring the strain of a challenging commute. Amanda’s journey underscores the importance of attainable housing in enabling professionals to not only thrive in their careers but also actively contribute to their communities.
Meet J.R. Wilson
Charleston County High School Senior
J.R., a determined local high school senior, possesses exceptional qualities that set him apart. With a love for soccer and basketball, he remains focused on his education and building a promising future for himself. Having received multiple college acceptances, he aspires to a rewarding career in business and marketing.
Raised by a single mother, JR deeply appreciates the sacrifices she has made to ensure he received a good education. Grateful for the unwavering support from his family, as well as numerous teachers and school administrators, he understands this is not affordable to every kid.
With an awareness beyond his years, JR recognizes the educational disparities within our community. Benefiting from additional course offerings from the advanced study programs, he supports equal access to resources and opportunities and values the importance of education in fostering individual growth and community development.
Meet Morgan Grimes
Communications Specialist & Transit Supporter
Morgan, a native of the Charleston region, is a dedicated young professional and long-time supporter of advancing transit initiatives in our community. Within her career, Morgan has had the opportunity to engage with the community around the need for accessible transit to connect our region. In a community that is heavily reliant on cars, exacerbating traffic congestion, particularly during commutes to and from work, Morgan recognizes the pressing need for viable alternatives. She understands that many do not have access to a car and depend on buses and ride share… or are unable to pursue opportunities that are not within close proximity to their home.
A reliable mass transit system, like Lowcountry Rapid Transit, will be a game changer, connecting difficult routes by dedicated bus rapid transit. Morgan eagerly anticipates being able to leisurely indulge in a book or podcast on her way to the office. She envisions hassle-free commutes to her favorite activities, like music festivals, without the burdens of parking. Mostly, though, Morgan values the impact of transit accessibility – serving as a catalyst for expanding career opportunities, alleviating traffic congestion, mitigating the financial burdens of owning a car and ultimately enriching the overall quality of life in our region.
Meet Amanda & Anthony Anduiza
Process Improvement Consultant, Account Executive & Working Parents
Anthony and Amanda, devoted parents to two young boys, want to provide the best opportunities for their children while also advancing their careers. However, as a dual-income household, they grapple with the substantial financial burden imposed by childcare expenses in our region, a staggering 20% of their income (with 7% considered affordable).
Their journey into parenthood was marked by the daunting realization of the challenges surrounding childcare. Faced with the decision of whether both parents could continue working or if childcare was an option, the Anduizas encountered endless waitlists, some stretching over a year, each requiring nonrefundable deposits.
While fortunate to secure a spot in a newly-opened center, they witnessed many young families forced to choose between a parent staying a home or splitting their children between different facilities due to the scarcity of available slots.
The lack of quality childcare is a significant obstacle to workforce participation, disproportionately affecting women, but also impacts family planning decisions. Like the Anduiza family, many are forced to forgo expanding their families due to the exorbitant costs associated with childcare.
