Alston Wilkes Society

Rebuilding Lives for a Stronger Community. The Alston Wilkes Society (AWS) is a state-wide nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved populations with the resources and hope to build brighter futures. Through a continuum of rehabilitative and preventive services, AWS supports formerly incarcerated individuals, veterans, and at-risk youth as they transform their lives and overcome barriers to success.

At the Alston Wilkes Society (AWS), we're passionate about second chances. For 63 years, we've helped South Carolina's most vulnerable-homeless veterans, struggling families, people returning from prison, and high-risk youth-overcome life's toughest challenges and build brighter futures.

Founded in 1962 by Rev. Eli Alston Wilkes as a reentry program for former offenders, AWS has grown into a statewide force for change. From supporting successful transitions after incarceration to providing housing for veterans and care for at-risk youth, we rebuild lives every day.

As a trauma-informed organization accredited by industry leaders, we're committed to excellence. In 2023 alone, we empowered 2,561 individuals to achieve self-sufficiency-helping reduce recidivism, secure housing, and create meaningful community contributions.

Your support fuels this change. Together, we can continue turning obstacles into opportunities and making a lasting difference for those who need it most.

Testimonials

Through AWS' veteran programs, Terry transformed his life. When he came to us for help, he faced housing instability, financial struggles, and health challenges. With the support of our program staff, he reconnected with VA health care, raised his disability benefits from 30% to 100%, and secured back pay. Now housed and stable, Terry credits AWS for his fresh start. Your generosity empowers veterans like Terry to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting self-sufficiency