Our History: Empowering Communities for Over Five Decades
GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission, Inc. was established in 1966 as a private, nonprofit organization in response to President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “War on Poverty.” Founded under the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, GLEAMNS has spent more than 50 years evolving to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves.
A Legacy of Growth and Service
Our journey began with a mission to uplift communities in Greenwood, McCormick, and Abbeville Counties, operating as GMA Community Actions, Inc. Over the years, we’ve expanded our reach and refined our focus to create lasting impact:
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1966: Chartered to serve Greenwood, McCormick, and Abbeville Counties. -
1970: Expanded services to Saluda County, becoming GMAS Community Actions, Inc. -
1974: Merged with agencies in Laurens and Edgefield Counties. Transitioned to a public organization under South Carolina law and renamed as GLEAMS Human Resources Commission, Inc. -
1982: Further expanded to Anderson County through another merger. -
1993: Refocused operations, discontinuing services in Anderson County and adding Newberry County, officially forming the GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission, Inc. we know today, serving seven counties: Greenwood, Laurens, Edgefield, Abbeville, McCormick, Newberry, and Saluda.
Early Leadership and Programs
Under the leadership of our first Executive Director, Mr. William A. Pruitt, and Board Chairman, Dr. James A. Bowers, GLEAMNS began with just four staff members. Our initial efforts included a Program Development Grant, followed by the launch of a Summer Head Start Program in 1966 and a full-year Head Start Program in 1967. By 1969, we had established our administrative offices at the historic Old Brewer Hospital in Greenwood, where our headquarters remains today.
Comprehensive Services for Empowerment
GLEAMNS has grown into a cornerstone for community empowerment, offering diverse programs designed to foster self-sufficiency among low-income families. Our services include:
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Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) -
Head Start and Early Head Start -
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) -
Weatherization Assistance
Commitment to Our Mission
GLEAMNS remains dedicated to delivering quality services and creating opportunities that emphasize education, employment, and self-sufficiency. Guided by our simple yet powerful motto - People Helping People - we continue to empower individuals and communities to build a brighter future.