The Seabrook Island Employee Assistance Fund (EAF) will celebrate one year of granting emergency funds to employees in November of this year. We are so grateful to the many Seabrookers who have supported this important effort. But just in case you aren’t familiar with the Fund, here are some FAQ’s to get you up to speed. After reading, we invite you to watch a short video featuring a bit more information about the Fund, as well as testimonials from employees. As always, for more information and to make a donation, please visit our website below.
Why was the Seabrook Island Employee Assistance Fund created?
The fund was established to assist the valued employees of Seabrook Island in an effort to successfully recruit and retain our employees. The Fund offers need-based assistance to employees through a structured granting process.
Is the Employee Assistance Fund under the direction of the SIC Board of Governors?
The Seabrook Island Employee Assistance Fund has been approved by the IRS as a 501.c3 non-profit organization and is governed separately from the club’s Board of Governors.
What types of circumstances are eligible for funding?
Hardships in the following categories:
Natural disasters, life-threatening or serious illness or injury, the death of an active employee, spouse or minor child, catastrophic circumstances such as fire, robbery or other reportable incident beyond the employee’s control, and transportation issues that would hinder an employee’s ability to get to work.
Who is eligible for employee assistance fund benefits?
All Seabrook Island Club employees qualify if in good standing, if they have been employed by SIC for at least 90 days and regularly work at least 20 hours per week.
Who determines which employees get funding?
The Employee Assistance Fund Board is comprised of 7 volunteers. The Fund Board, through a very structured application and granting process, determines the dollar amount and which employees will receive funding.
How are funds distributed?
Once the application is completed by the employee and reviewed and approved by the board on a timely basis, the amount determined is paid directly to the vendor. There will be no distribution of assistance funds made directly to the employee.
Are former employees eligible?
No, only current employees who meet the guidelines are eligible to apply for assistance.
Are family members of employee eligible to receive funds?
Only eligible employees will receive funds except in the case of an incident of death of an active SIC employee, spouse or minor child. The Fund will consider loss of income, cost of burial or funeral expenses or remaining medical costs of the deceased which prevent an applicant from affording basic living expenses.
What is the maximum amount eligible employees can receive in a year?
Awards may be made in the amount of the hardship up to $4,000 on an annual basis to eligible employees. The maximum award is not guaranteed and a lesser amount may be awarded. An employee can only be approved for assistance once within a six month period.
How many grants have been made so far?
As of August, 2024, 17 grants have been made. We are grateful for the generosity of Seabrookers allowing us to fund those in need. Your support comes in many forms; direct donations, sponsorship of the Alan Fleming Tournament, and participation in the Low Country Boil and The Good Shot Judy Concert.
How do I make a donation?
All donations are tax deductible and can be made online on our website theFundatSI.org (Venmo, Paypal, and credit card accepted). Checks are also accepted and can be made out to and mailed to: Seabrook Island Employee Assistance Fund, 3772 Seabrook Island Rd. Johns Island, SC 29455.
Is there a plan to include employees of Seabrook Island Property Owners Association and the Town of Seabrook?
Yes, currently The Fund is available only to eligible Seabrook Island Club Employees but our hope is to include eligible employees of SIPOA and The Town of Seabrook Island
Are volunteers needed and if so, how can I volunteer to help?
Yes, please send us an email to: theFundatSI@gmail.com
We need volunteers to assist with special events and fundraisers.
Comments