The Story of Good Friends: From Charlotte, NC to Bryan County, GA

In 1987, a spark of compassion and camaraderie ignited in Charlotte, North Carolina. Four good friends came together with a shared vision to create a supportive network for women. They assembled a diverse group to form what would become known as Good Friends, inspired by Good Fellows, an organization of men who had been meeting every December since 1917. To date, Good Friends of Charlotte has hosted 37 annual luncheons and raised $6.2 million since its inception.

Following this success, other chapters were founded, including Good Friends of High Point, North Carolina, in 1997. Shepherded by Katherine Covington, one of its founders, Good Friends of High Point spent 25 years raising over $1 million to assist individuals in crisis, collaborating with partner agencies to provide financial aid for rent, medical expenses, utilities, and more. The organization’s annual fundraising luncheons, guided by Katherine's leadership, were a hallmark of the community, bringing together hundreds of people to support their neighbors.

The idea of Good Friends spread, touching hearts and inspiring new chapters. In 2001, Good Friends of Georgetown County, South Carolina, was established. Local women united to create a financial safety net for working neighbors living paycheck-to-paycheck, facing temporary financial crises that threatened their basic needs. Since then, Good Friends of Georgetown County has raised over $1 million, all kept within the community to support those in need through one-time, urgent gifts.

Additionally, Good Friends chapters were established in Wilmington, North Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina, known as Good Friends of the Low Country.

In 2024, the spirit of Good Friends is set to take root in Bryan County, Georgia. A former board member from Good Friends of High Point, now residing in Richmond Hill, is bringing this passion to the area. Organized with the same principles and values as its sister sites, Good Friends of Bryan County aims to become an annual tradition. The chapter will hold an annual festive fundraising luncheon sharing impactful stories to illustrate how collective donations can make a significant difference for Bryan County neighbors facing temporary financial crises.

With an hour of fellowship leading to a year of giving, Good Friends of Bryan County will ensure that 100% of all luncheon donations remain in Bryan County to meet local needs through existing partnering agencies and by providing unrestricted funds. As this new chapter begins its journey, it carries forward the legacy of compassion, support, and friendship that started in Charlotte over three decades ago. The story of Good Friends continues to unfold, bringing hope and help to those in need, one community at a time.

We invite you to join us and become a Good Friend!

2025 Luncheon - Tickets

By Good Friends of Bryan County, Inc.

2025 Luncheon - Tickets

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