We are excited to welcome Alex Bailey to the Serve & Connect team as our new Program Evaluator and Police Partnership Coordinator.

Alex brings a passion for research, collaboration, and community engagement that will help us continue building stronger, safer communities.

In this role, Alex will help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our programs and events while strengthening relationships with our law enforcement partners across the Carolinas. This role plays an important part in measuring our impact, strengthening partnerships with law enforcement agencies, and ensuring our programs continue to meet the needs of the communities we serve.

Originally from Summerville, South Carolina, Alex recently earned his Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina. He also brings valuable law enforcement experience, having served as a sheriff’s deputy with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to his studies and law enforcement career, Alex previously interned with Serve & Connect, making this a meaningful return to our team.

Alex is excited to build connections and help us reach more people in need. We are thrilled to welcome Alex back to Serve & Connect and look forward to the expertise, compassion, and dedication he brings to our mission. 

As we continue expanding our programs and partnerships, we’re excited to have Alex helping us deepen our impact throughout the communities we serve. 

Interested in learning more about the work we do in the Carolinas? Read more on our blog: https://serveandconnect.org/blog/

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Serve-Connect-61580299452368/  & Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serveandconnect/

Serve & Connect was honored to attend the 2026 Professionalizing Law Enforcement-Community Engagement Training (PLECET) Conference in Dallas, Texas.

Hosted by MovementForward, the annual conference brings together law enforcement leaders, community organizations, and public safety professionals from across the country to share innovative community engagement strategies, strengthen partnerships, and advance trust-building efforts between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

During the conference, the Serve & Connect team presented on our work to strengthen public safety through trust-based partnerships. We shared how collaboration between law enforcement, community organizations, businesses, and residents can create lasting positive change and build stronger, safer communities.

In addition to presenting, our CEO joined members of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Community Policing Committee to discuss the importance of community trust and the role of partnership-driven approaches in modern policing.

The conference also brought exciting recognition for Serve & Connect. During the Annual Torch Awards Breakfast, our CEO received the 2026 Community Practitioner of the Year Award, an honor recognizing outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing community engagement and public safety.

We extend our sincere gratitude to MovementForward, Reverend Markel Hutchins, Kevin Martinez, and the entire conference team for their leadership and dedication to bringing together professionals from across the nation around a shared vision of trust, collaboration, and community engagement.

We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from fellow leaders, share our mission, and continue advancing innovative approaches that strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Want to learn more about the work we are doing around the Carolinas? Click here to read more blog posts: https://serveandconnect.org/blog/

New Chair Announced for Serve & Connect Board

Serve & Connect is excited to announce that Retired Chief of Myrtle Beach Police, Amy Prock has stepped into the role of Board Chair for the 2026–2027 term. 

In addition to welcoming our new board chair, we are also proud to introduce two new board members: Bryant Davis, Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Greenville and Will Williams, CEO & President of Western SC Economic Development Partnership. Their leadership and experience will help further Serve & Connect’s mission of strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. 

Now retired, Chief Amy Prock joined the Myrtle Beach Police Department in 1996. She has been assigned within the department in several different positions throughout her career, to include the Patrol Division, Special Operations Division, Administrative Division and the Investigative Division. During her 28 years of service, the positions she filled have provided her the opportunity to serve the Myrtle Beach community from the Waterfront to Street Crimes, Narcotics, Patrol, Regulatory and several others. 

“I am honored to serve as the Chair of Serve & Connect this year. This organization is a true blessing for law enforcement and for communities across South Carolina and beyond—bringing officers and residents together, strengthening relationships, and creating meaningful change in the lives of those we serve. In the year ahead, we look forward to supporting our partners, serving our communities, and expanding our reach so that strong connections continue to drive real, lasting impact. I have one ask as Board Chair: if you want to truly understand the need for strong support between law enforcement and our communities, take the time to learn who we are—our organization, our founder, and the partners already doing this work every day. That understanding is how we grow stronger together and keep our focus where it belongs: on people,” Amy Prock, Police Chief (Retired).

Thank You to Our Previous Board Chair

We would like to thank our now Immediate Past Chair, Rick Jiran. He was instrumental in our development and we are so grateful for all of his hard work. Jiran will continue to remain on our board and assist with our growth and sustainability across the Carolinas. 

Two New Board Members Join Our Team

Bryant Davis currently serves as the Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Greenville. Previously, he served as the Assistant Director of Government and Community Services for Richland County. Davis has also served on several community boards, including United Way of Greenville County and Homeless No More. He brings extensive experience in leadership, community engagement, and public service. 

Before joining the Western SC Economic Development Partnership as CEO & President, Will Williams worked as a Project Manager at the South Carolina Department of Commerce and as an Area Director for ReadySC, part of the SC Technical College System. Prior to his economic development career, he spent approximately eight years in manufacturing, focusing on industrial engineering and quality assurance. Will serves on several other boards and has received several awards including recognition as one of the Top 50 North American Economic Developers.

Outgoing Board Members

In addition to welcoming new board members, we also recognized several outgoing members for their service and dedication to Serve & Connect, including Angela McDuffie, Ron Harvey, and Katie Titus. McDuffie, a founding board member of Serve & Connect, most recently served as Immediate Past Chair. Harvey and Titus completed their board terms and we are grateful for the leadership, support, and impact each of them has had on our organization and mission. 

Read more about the work we are doing around the Carolinas here: https://serveandconnect.org/blog/

Serve & Connect Reappointed to South Carolina Victim Service Coordinating Council

Founder and CEO of Serve & Connect Kassy Alia Ray has been reappointed to the South Carolina Victim Services Coordinating Council for another term. We are honored to continue serving alongside leaders across the state who are dedicated to supporting victims of crime and strengthening victim services in South Carolina.  

The South Carolina Victim Services Coordinating Council plays an important role in advancing resources and advocacy for crime victims while helping ensure their rights are respected throughout the justice system. 

“I am honored to be reappointed to the South Carolina Crime Victim Services Coordinating Council. This work is deeply personal to me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue serving alongside people committed to supporting victims, strengthening communities, and advancing meaningful change across our state,” Kassy Alia Ray. 

This reappointment reflects Serve & Connect’s continued commitment to building safer, stronger communities and supporting individuals and families impacted by crime. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue this important work across South Carolina. 

Read more about the Victim Service Coordinating Council here: https://www.scag.gov/inside-the-office/crime-victim-services-division/victim-services-coordinating-council/

Read more about the work we are doing around the Carolinas here: https://serveandconnect.org/blog/

Strengthening Fatherhood Support

We believe that strong families build strong communities, and for years, our partnership with the Midlands Fatherhood Coalition has been a powerful reflection of that mission in action.

For the past 20 years, their organization has worked to equip fathers with the support, tools and resources they need to be present and empowered in their families. 

Since November of last year, this partnership has grown even stronger. The Midlands Fatherhood Coalition has been utilizing Serve & Connect’s community center as a hub for impact, transforming the space into a welcoming environment where fathers in the Northeast area of Columbia can access free resources, build community, and find encouragement.

Their series, titled “Venus vs Mars” brings in professional women from the community to have conversations about understanding different life perspectives. The conversations are designed to help the eight men who participate to understand the importance of having healthier relationships while working to improve communication and co-parenting.

“We intend for our fathers to leave this group setting with a better understanding that although men and women are different in several ways, we must communicate and cohabitate effectively to provide the best environment for the child(ren) they share together,” Eric Neal, Site Manager of the Richland & Lexington Offices, Midlands Fatherhood Coalition.

By opening our doors and combining our strengths, we are creating a space where fathers feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. We are grateful for our continued partnership with the Midlands Fatherhood Coalition and look forward to the lasting impact we will continue to make together.

If you are interested in getting involved with the program, they meet weekly on Thursdays at 4pm at our office located at 8131 Brookfield Rd, Columbia, SC 29223. You can reach out to eneal@midlandsfathers.com for more information on how to join the program.

You can learn more about the Midlands Fatherhood Coalition on their website: https://www.midlandsfathers.com

A Community Space for Collaboration

We are proud to host the Midlands Fatherhood Coalition and this is just one example of how our community center serves as a hub for connection and impact. Serve & Connect is committed to making our space available to other organizations that are working to strengthen the community.

If you are interested in utilizing our space, please feel free to contact tina@serveandconnect.org for more information. 

Make sure to check out our other blog posts here: https://serveandconnect.org/blog/

Each year, Serve & Connect gathers community leaders, law enforcement partners, and supporters for an evening dedicated to recognizing those who embody the very best of service. At the heart of this celebration is Illuminight, Serve & Connect’s signature annual gala, where extraordinary individuals are honored for their commitment to strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

This year’s gala will take place Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Central Energy in downtown Columbia, presented by the City of Forest Acres.

The theme for this year’s event, “Reflecting Light,” highlights the everyday courage, compassion, and leadership demonstrated by police officers and community partners across the Carolinas. Through their work, these individuals shine a light on what’s possible when service, trust, and collaboration guide the way.

The evening will feature the presentation of two prestigious honors: the Greg Alia Award and the Community Champion Award, recognizing individuals whose dedication reflects the very best of community-centered policing.

We are proud to spotlight this year’s inspiring nominees.

Greg Alia Award Nominees

The Greg Alia Award honors law enforcement officers who exemplify exceptional commitment to building trust and strengthening relationships within the communities they serve.

Corporal Christopher Stokes

Irmo Police Department

Corporal Christopher Stokes is widely recognized for his authentic commitment to community engagement and service. Nominated through multiple letters of support, Stokes is described as an “indispensable asset” who consistently goes beyond the expectations of his role.

From assisting vulnerable residents to supporting individuals experiencing poverty and those without reliable support systems, Corporal Stokes demonstrates a deep dedication to the wellbeing of the community he serves.

Lt. Dale Edwards

York Police Department

For more than a decade, Lt. Dale Edwards has been recognized for his unwavering commitment to strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community.

Supporters highlight the initiatives he leads as impactful and transformative—addressing critical community needs, expanding access to resources, and fostering a culture rooted in unity and shared responsibility.

Deputy First Class Scott Danback

Clarendon County Sheriff’s Office

Deputy First Class Scott Danback is known across Clarendon County for his tireless dedication to service. Colleagues describe him as always ready and willing to represent the Sheriff’s Office, no matter the time of day.

Officials say his work is more than a job—it is truly a calling. Deputy Danback is widely recognized for his community engagement and the meaningful connections he builds alongside his therapy dogs, Minka and Matteo, who help bring comfort and support to those they meet.

Honorable Mentions

Serve & Connect is also proud to recognize two additional officers whose dedication to service and leadership is making a lasting impact in their communities.

Lt. Brad Markevicz

Columbia Police Department

With more than 15 years of service, Lt. Brad Markevicz exemplifies outstanding leadership, unwavering integrity, and a deep commitment to public safety. He is widely respected for his dedication to mentoring and developing the officers he leads.

Senior Police Officer Sarah Desz

Charleston Police Department

A 12-year veteran and member of the department’s Community Oriented Police Services (COPS) Unit, Officer Sarah Desz is recognized for her creativity, leadership, and tireless dedication to strengthening relationships between the Charleston Police Department and the community.

Community Champion Award Nominees

The Community Champion Award honors individuals outside of law enforcement who work alongside officers to create stronger, safer communities.

Anslie Moss

Founder, Tenderhearts Ministries

Twenty-five years ago, Anslie Moss approached the York Police Department with a vision: to serve unsheltered individuals and support women experiencing domestic violence with compassion, dignity, and practical resources.

Through Tenderhearts Ministries, Moss has helped thousands of individuals and families facing hardship. In 2025 alone, the organization served more than 3,000 clients, providing housing assistance, transportation, food, and other essential resources.

Charlette Hancock

Manager, Gable Oaks Apartments

Charlette Hancock is a dedicated community leader committed to strengthening the Belmont community. Through partnerships with the Columbia Police Department and local organizations, she has helped launch initiatives that support children, families, and senior residents.

Her leadership continues to foster trust, collaboration, and connection throughout the neighborhood.

Richard Hammond

President, Belmont Community

Richard Hammond is a respected advocate whose leadership has strengthened relationships between residents, law enforcement, and local partners in the Belmont area.

Deeply committed to unity and engagement, Hammond works tirelessly to support initiatives that enhance public safety, encourage collaboration, and uplift families throughout the community.

A Night to Reflect the Light

The 2026 Illuminight Gala will bring together supporters, community leaders, and law enforcement partners to celebrate these remarkable individuals and the impact they are making across the Carolinas.

The evening will be emceed by Judi Gatson, WIS-TV News at 5 & 6 anchor, whose long-standing dedication to community service aligns closely with Serve & Connect’s mission.

Illuminight is more than an awards ceremony—it is a powerful reminder that when communities and law enforcement work together, meaningful change is possible. Together, we celebrate those who give so much of themselves in service to others and who continue to reflect light in our communities every day.

Serve & Connect joined partners from across Richland County to celebrate something truly special — the grand opening of Greg’s Place!

Tucked just off Decker Boulevard at 8131 Brookfield Road, Greg’s Place isn’t just a building. It’s a symbol of hope, collaboration, and the power of community coming together to write a new chapter for the Decker corridor.

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Honoring Greg’s Legacy

Greg’s Place is named in honor of Officer Greg Alia, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on September 30, 2015, while serving with the Forest Acres Police Department.

Greg grew up right here — he attended Richland Northeast High School, played in these neighborhoods, and later returned to serve the very community that shaped him. His life and legacy inspired the founding of Serve & Connect and continue to guide our mission every single day.

So it feels fitting — almost poetic — that Greg’s Place now stands in the heart of the community he loved, carrying forward his spirit of service, compassion, and connection.

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From Church to Community Hub

Before it became Greg’s Place, this property was home to Petersen Presbyterian Church, a congregation that faithfully served this community for decades. When the church closed its doors at the end of 2022, the future of the space was uncertain — until the Trinity Presbytery (PCUSA) made a decision that would change everything.

They could have sold the property for a higher price. But instead, they chose a higher purpose.

Pastor Ellen Skidmore of nearby Forest Lake Presbyterian Church read the letter dedicating the space for Rev. Dr. Danny C. Murphy, General Presbyter and Stated Clerk of Trinity Presbytery (PCUSA) who could not be there that day.

“Good morning, beloved friends, neighbors, and visionaries of God’s tomorrow.
On behalf of Trinity Presbytery—56 congregations, 10,000 members, and countless saints who believe God is still doing great things—I bring you greetings in the strong and saving name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

This ground is holy. Not because of the bricks. Not because of the beams. But because of the prayers that have been prayed here, the lives that have been changed here, and the faith that has been nurtured here.

In 1959, a small group gathered in the Woodfield Community Center and dreamed of a church. By 1961, they dedicated this sanctuary. Over the decades, Petersen Presbyterian baptized infants, welcomed soldiers from Fort Jackson, and served its neighbors with joy. Their motto was simple yet powerful: Go Forward with God.

But as seasons changed, their numbers dwindled. On December 31, 2022, Petersen Presbyterian closed its doors—a day of sorrow. But child of God, hear me: when one door closes in Christ, another door is ready to open!

When Petersen’s doors closed, Trinity Presbytery was entrusted with this property. Yes, we had choices. Some buyers even offered more than twice what Serve & Connect could pay.

But we are not guided by Wall Street—we are guided by the Kingdom of God. And the Kingdom doesn’t ask, What brings the most money? The Kingdom asks, What brings the most glory?

So, we chose to invest in a vision—a vision big enough to bless this community for generations to come.

Serve & Connect embodies the very words Petersen once declared: Go Forward with God.

• They believe police and neighborhoods long for the same things—safety, dignity, trust, and peace.
• They believe healing comes when we stand side by side, not apart.
• They believe tragedy should stir compassion, not silence.
• They believe hope can rise in the hardest places.
• They believe partnerships are stronger than suspicion.

And that’s where The Decker Collective steps in. Together, Serve & Connect and The Decker Collective are building not just programs, but partnerships.
Not just services, but solutions.
Not just community safety, but community healing.

It is one thing to say we need change—it is another to build tables where police, neighbors, nonprofits, and leaders sit down together. That’s the work of Serve & Connect. That’s the heartbeat of The Decker Collective.

Yes, we sold this property for less. But hear me clearly:

• We didn’t sell out; we sowed in.
• We didn’t lose money; we invested in mission.
• We didn’t give away property; we planted possibility.
• We didn’t just mark an ending; we sparked a new beginning.

So today, this place is not just brick and mortar—it is a place of healing, a place of hope, and a place where God’s vision for the Decker Corridor will unfold.

Petersen’s motto lives on: Go Forward with God. And now, Serve & Connect, in partnership with The Decker Collective, has picked up that mantle.

This is resurrection work. This is Kingdom work. This is God’s work.

So let us rejoice and celebrate this partnership—with our prayers, our presence, and our participation. Because when they flourish, our whole community flourishes.

One day, when our grandchildren look back, they won’t say, ‘They took the highest offer.’ They’ll say, ‘They took the higher road.’

To God be the glory—for the great things God has done, is doing, and will yet do through the partnership of Serve & Connect and The Decker Collective.”

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Built by Community, for Community

Turning Greg’s Place from a dream into reality took countless hours, ideas, and hands.

We want to extend a special thank you to everyone who shared such meaningful words during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Pastor Ellen Skidmore of Forest Lake Presbyterian Church; South Carolina Representative Joe Wilson; State Senator Overture Walker; State Representative Beth Bernstein; Richland County Councilmember Cheryl English (District 10); Forest Acres Mayor Tom Andrews; Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott; Greg’s father, Dr. Richard Alia; and Greg’s sister, Rebecca Mesnil.

This project came together through the hard work and generosity of many partners, including the City of Forest Acres, the City of Arcadia Lakes, Forest Lake Presbyterian Church, Trinity Presbyterian Church, Richland School District Two, Richland County, and the grassroots energy of The Decker Collective — a local network of residents and leaders committed to making the Decker area stronger.

The vision for Greg’s Place grew directly from conversations with community members. We listened to neighbors and youth who shared what they wanted and needed most — a place to belong, to learn, to grow, and to connect.

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Looking Ahead

The ribbon cutting marked the opening of the first of three buildings on the Greg’s Place property. Over time, this campus will become a true hub for the Decker community — a place where residents can attend workshops, training sessions, community events, and access resources that support their well-being.

Thanks to funding from Richland County and the South Carolina State Legislature, Greg’s Place will serve as a cornerstone for revitalization and collaboration along Decker Boulevard.

But beyond the programs and partnerships, Greg’s Place stands for something bigger: the belief that lasting change happens when we come together — police, neighbors, leaders, and community members — to build something we all can be proud of.