THE WEST AFRICA COUNCIL OF SOUTH CAROLINA

The Corporation for Economic Opportunity (CEO) founded the West Africa Council of South Carolina in late 2005.

 MISSION:

The mission of the West Africa Council of South Carolina is to help its members and others initiate, increase the awareness of and support for individual, group and organizational initiatives that connect South Carolinians, through business, educational, cultural and social relationships, to countries and communities in West Africa.  The Council intends to be an advocate and to build upon the strong historical, social and blood connections between the people of West Africa and the people of South Carolina.

ACTIVITIES:

In addition to meetings, the Council will hosts and participates in a variety of events, which inform, educate and enhance the interests of the members of the Council and the public at large about things related to West Africa.  In addition to encouraging dialogue among its members, experts and foreign dignitaries will be invited to speak at Counil-sponsored events.  Relevant television and radio shows and events will be promoted and supported.

The Council will also explore ways to create formal and informal linkages between business groups, communities, churches, educational institutions, governments and other public and private organizations in West Africa and South Carolina.

The Council may arrange for a variety of trips and trade missions to West Africa and will help host delegations from West Africa, when they visit South Carolina.  The Council will help to develop, attract or display exhibits, art, artifacts and other items related to West Africa, that help to further the Council's mission.

The Council may raise funds for a variety of humanitarian purposes related to West Africa and for other purposes in support of its mission.

Council membership is open to anyone who lives or works in South Carolina and pays the appropriate membership fee.  Out-of-state Associate Members are also welcome.  To become a member of The West Africa Council of South Carolina, simply complete the membership application form below and mail it along with a check made payable to the Corporation for Economic Opportunity, for the applicable membership fee, to:  116 Wildewood Club Court; Columbia, SC  29223.

THE WEST AFRICA COUNCIL OF SOUTH CAROLINA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM  {please print)

Name:  ___________________________________________________________________________

Organization:  ___________________________________________________________________________

Street Address:  ___________________________________________________________________________

City/State/Zip/Country:  ___________________________________________________________________________

Area Code/Telephone: (If international, please include country & city codes) ___________________________________________________________________________

E-Mail Address:  ___________________________________________________________________________

Signature / Date:  ___________________________________________________________________________

Please select a Membership Category:

______ Student ($10)                              ______ Individual ($25)

______ Family ($40)                              ______ Associate ($50)

______ Corporate ($100)                        ______ Benefactor ($250)

Please Make Checks Payable to:  the Corporation for Economic Opportunity