Author: Charleston Daily

By Mark A. Leon

When Rachel Feldman and Patricia Clarkson came together to tell the story of one of the most influential women of the late 20th and 21st centuries, the stars aligned.

Take a writer/director who has spent much of her career as an activist supporting equal opportunities for women both in front of and behind the camera, and an actress who was raised by a Louisiana city councilwoman and has taken on some of the most dramatic roles in film and television in recent decades, and you have a power duo capable of thoughtfully delivering the story of Lilly Ledbetter to the masses.

Who is Lilly Ledbetter?

Lilly Ledbetter may be the most important woman in the movement to support equal pay and opportunities, yet most Americans do not know her by name. This film aims to change that.

The new film ‘Lilly’, co-written and directed by Rachel Feldman and starring Patricia Clarkson, will entertain, but its greater purpose is to bring awareness to and celebrate the life, struggles, and ultimate achievements of Lilly Ledbetter, the namesake of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, which was signed into law by President Barack Obama.

Why is this film important for all ages?

‘Lilly’ is a film about family, courage, perseverance, and strength, and its story has both a small and large impact on every adult living in the United States. 

With a beautiful backdrop of rural small-town Alabama, ‘Lilly’ tells the remarkable story of a woman who fought for a better quality of life for her family by working hard in a male-dominated industry, while still holding her head high. In the end, she became a voice of hope in Washington, D.C., defending all working women.

There are life lessons we can extract from ‘Lilly’ that will continue the conversation and create a foundation for our youth to learn from. Lilly Ledbetter came from humble roots without any ambitious goals to become the voice of a generation, but her life’s journey had a greater purpose.

We are thankful to Rachel Feldman, Patricia Clarkson, and a wonderful supporting cast including John Benjamin Hickey, Thomas Sadoski, and Josh McDermitt, who built the narrative and gave a legacy to a deserving pioneer for equality.

How do I see the film?

On Friday, May 9, 2025, theaters in Charleston, SC, and around the nation will premiere ‘Lilly’, telling the story of a 30+ year journey in pursuit of fairness, equality, and purpose.

The movie will premiere exclusively in the Charleston area at the Terrace Theater on Maybank Highway (James Island) beginning Friday, May 9, 2025.

Watch Trailer

Photo Credit: Lilly the Movie

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pam Harrington of Pam Harrington Exclusives Real Estate is pleased to announce the listing of an extraordinary coastal retreat at 83 Blue Heron Pond, located in The Preserve on Kiawah Island, a sought-after enclave known for its unspoiled natural beauty and seclusion. This stunning Sifly Custom Home includes an optional Kiawah Island Club Membership, providing access to world-class amenities.

The immaculate residence features four bedrooms, four full bathrooms, one half bathroom, and 3,751 square feet of living space; and is listed for $5,995,000.

Explore refined coastal living on Charleston SC’s barrier islands with trusted industry expert Pam Harrington Exclusives

“83 Blue Heron Pond is more than a home; it’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of Lowcountry paradise, where nature’s grandeur meets exceptional architectural design,” says listing agent Pam Harrington. “This property offers a truly unique retreat, surrounded by over three acres of natural beauty, complete with a charming wooden bridge, fenced yard for pets, and breathtaking views of not one, but two rivers.”

Nestled on a sprawling 3.46-acre homesite bordering protected Kiawah Conservancy land, 83 Blue Heron Pond offers sweeping views of the Stono and Kiawah Rivers, with the iconic Ravenel Bridge gracing the horizon.

Thoughtfully designed with timeless Lowcountry elegance, the home features arched entryways, rich paneling, custom built-ins, window seats, and plantation shutters throughout. A light-filled open floor plan boasts expansive windows that frame the ever-changing marsh and river views, opening to wrap-around covered decks.

The first-level primary suite provides a private retreat, complemented by a guest wing on the upper level and two additional spacious ensuite bedrooms. A private elevator, ample storage, and a smart Lutron lighting system add ease and modern efficiency to daily living.

Outdoor living is equally inviting. A large screened porch flows into a covered deck, perfect for entertaining or simply soaking in the panoramic views. A heated, covered pool ensures year-round enjoyment, while multiple balconies and a wrap-around porch invite quiet moments of reflection.

This meticulously maintained home features dark cedar siding, a new copper roof (2023), landscape lighting, security and Sonos systems, a mosquito misting system, and an invisible fence for pets. A two-car garage with workshop, outdoor shower, and private grassy area complete this rare offering.

The Timeless Allure of Kiawah Island & Charleston
Kiawah Island is a pristine stretch of coastline known for its wide, flat shores, gentle waves, and untouched natural beauty. Framed by protected rolling dunes and maritime forests, it’s the perfect place to unwind, spot dolphins, or enjoy a peaceful sunrise. Whether you’re walking barefoot along the surf or exploring the island via 30 miles of paved trails, Kiawah offers a tranquil escape just 30 minutes from bustling downtown Charleston, with its Cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, award-winning restaurants, art galleries, and a thriving cultural scene.

A Coveted Setting in The Preserve
The Preserve community comprises hundreds of acres of maritime forest, tidal creeks, rivers and marsh savannas, a natural habitat for many bird species and wildlife. Kiawah Island’s Preserve offers an array of exclusive amenities including a community boathouse, floating dock (plus crabbing dock), observation tower and scenic nature trails that wind through Kiawah’s spectacular forests and wetlands. Neighborhood kayak storage offers easy access and endless opportunities to explore the winding tidal creeks.

Optional Kiawah Island Club Membership
Ownership includes the opportunity to join the prestigious Kiawah Island Club, granting access to championship golf and tennis, a luxurious spa, an oceanfront beach club, fine dining venues, and an engaging calendar of private social events.

To arrange a private showing or view the full property gallery, contact Pam Harrington Exclusives at (843) 768-3635 or visit pamharringtonexclusives.com.

About Pam Harrington Exclusives

Pam Harrington Exclusives has served Kiawah and Seabrook Islands for over four decades, offering unmatched local knowledge and personalized service. The firm is known for its integrity, discretion, and commitment to helping clients find their perfect coastal escape. Charleston’s barrier islands are home to some of the most desirable real estate and luxury waterfront properties on the East Coast. With 47 years of experience, Pam Harrington Exclusives brings expert insight into these niche island markets. Specializing in Kiawah and Seabrook Islands, the firm’s seasoned team offers a deep understanding of the local landscape, delivering trusted guidance and exceptional results for buyers, sellers and investors alike.

Acquisition Marks URS’s 8th Deal Since January 2024 and Underscores the Firm’s Ability to Execute Quickly in a Complex Market.

SUMMERVILLE, S.C., May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — URS Capital Partners has successfully acquired The Palms at Edgewater, a 288-unit Class A multifamily community located in the rapidly growing Charleston suburb of Summerville, South Carolina. The $58.5 milliontransaction closed in under 60 days, showcasing URS’s ability to execute efficiently in a time-sensitive environment.

Built in 2023, The Palms at Edgewater features a high-quality construction profile with modern amenities, strong in-place occupancy, and day-one cash flow. The property was acquired at an attractive basis with positive leverage and long-term upside.

“We’re proud of the speed and precision our team demonstrated on this deal,” said Chris Urso, Managing Partner of URS Capital Partners. “In a volatile rate environment, we were able to secure 5-year fixed agency debt at 4.77%—a rare win, with timing on our side. That speaks to the strength of our lending relationships and discipline in underwriting.”

“Uncertainty creates windows of opportunity,” Urso continued. “We’re not retreating—we’re growing strategically, with great partners by our side.”

Chris Gorman, Managing Director of Investments, added: “We’re excited to re-enter the Charleston market with a 2023 vintage asset that offers strong in-place cash flow at an attractive cost basis. It’s a great example of our ability to stay patient yet move decisively when the right opportunity emerges.”

This acquisition is URS’s eighth since the beginning of 2024 and further reflects the firm’s continued strategy of leaning into market dislocation to capture long-term value.

Transaction Highlights:

• 288-unit community acquired for $58.5 million
• 2023 construction with modern finishes and amenities
• Closed in under 60 days to meet seller’s loan maturity
• 5-year fixed agency loan secured at 4.77%
• Day-one cash flow with positive leverage

URS extends its gratitude to the investors—both long-time supporters and new partners—who helped bring this deal to the finish line.

About URS Capital Partners
URS Capital Partners is a vertically integrated real estate investment firm focused on acquiring and repositioning multifamily assets across high-growth Southeastern markets. As of May 2025, URS’s active portfolio includes 11 properties totaling 2,592 units. The firm is looking to actively expand its portfolio by targeting assets with strong fundamentals and a quantifiable value-add component, capitalizing on market dislocation to unlock long-term value. URS is committed to generating superior returns for its partners while curating communities that residents are proud to call home.

Media Contact:
Rebecca Windsor
631-683-5176
394895@email4pr.com

SOURCE URS Capital Partners

By Mark A Leon

Charleston, South Carolina is nationally and in some circles internationally renowned for its culinary scene, but at the heart of its food culture are family-owned restaurants where the spirit of kinship shapes every meal. Here are four standout establishments where “family first” is more than a motto-it’s a way of life.

Magnolias – 186 E. Bay Street, Charleston, SC

A cornerstone of Charleston’s dining landscape since 1990, Magnolias is owned by the Parsell family, who restored a historic site to create a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Led by Culinary Arts Director Donald Drake, the restaurant blends traditional Lowcountry cuisine with modern flair, offering dishes like Fried Green Tomatoes and Shellfish over Grits. The family’s commitment to excellence and hospitality has made Magnolias a beloved institution for over 30 years, serving as a testament to the power of family vision and teamwork.

Pattaya Thai – 607 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

For the Lor family, Pattaya Thai is both a business and a dream realized. After immigrating from Cambodia in 2006, Bunpo and Chheng Lor, along with their children Devit and Kim, took over the restaurant in 2015. Today, the family works side by side-parents in the kitchen, children managing the front-bringing authentic Thai flavors to Charleston. Kim Lor describes the joy of seeing her family every day while serving heartfelt dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum, all prepared with genuine care and dedication to their community.

Halls Chophouse – 434 King Street, Charleston, SC

Founded by the Hall family in 2009, Halls Chophouse is a celebration of hospitality and togetherness. Bill and Jeanne Hall, after decades in the hospitality industry, established the restaurant with their daughter Stacey in Charleston. The family’s philosophy of “service before self” permeates every aspect of the dining experience, from the finest steaks to the welcoming atmosphere. Their commitment to treating staff and guests like extended family has helped Halls Chophouse become a cherished gathering place in the city.

Poogan’s Porch – 72 Queen Street, Charleston, SC

Since 1976, Poogan’s Porch has been a family-run gem in the heart of Charleston’s historic district. Set in a restored Victorian home, the restaurant is steeped in Lowcountry tradition and warm Southern hospitality. Named after a neighborhood pup, Poogan’s Porch welcomes guests as if they’re coming home, serving up classics like shrimp and grits and legendary fried chicken. The familial spirit is evident in every detail, from the attentive service to the inviting ambiance.

These four restaurants exemplify Charleston’s family-first culture, where tradition, hospitality, and love for food are passed down through generations, enriching the city’s vibrant culinary tapestry.

Photo Credit: Instagram (Respective restaurants)

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

By Mark A Leon

For those that do not know the heart and will of Briana Boehmer, Co-Founder and COO of Goodie Bag, this story will choke you up. If you know her Briana is a rare individual with athleticism, business savviness, a deep connection to a great good and a zest for life. It is this is the passion, determination and love that has helped small businesses in cities throughout the country, including Charleston, SC reduce waste and nurture community relationships. This story goes deeper exposing a truly loving relationship between daughter and father.

Briana’s story of overcoming adversity and the impactful goal to compete and complete the New York City Marathon on 2025

My dad has cancer, and I need your support.
That’s the most important thing I’ll say here.

But for those who know me—personally or professionally—you know I’ve built my life and career around helping others live healthier, more intentional lives. Whether through endurance sport, impact-focused startups, or my current work at Goodie Bag, my path has always been rooted in doing work that matters. Right now, one of those things is this.

When I was 19 months old, my mom was killed. I don’t remember her.

All I’ve ever known is my dad.

Last year, I was invited to run in the elite field of the NYC Marathon—something I’d quietly worked toward for decades. But two days before the race, I got sick and had to pull out at mile 4. At the same time, my dad had just been diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Since then, I’ve stepped into the role of caregiver. And like many things in life, it has been both heartbreaking and clarifying.

This fall, I’m returning to New York—not just to finish a race, but to run with purpose.

I’m fundraising for The Brave Like Gabe Foundation, a foundation that supports rare cancer research and honors the resilience it takes to keep going—on the track, in the clinic, and in life.

My goal is to raise $15,000. I’ve kicked it off with a symbolic gift of $26.20, and for every donation of $50 or more, I’ll be sending a health-focused gift from a woman-led small business I believe in deeply: Raw Bites by Risa.

The truth is: cancer is everywhere right now. Two friends I care about have lost loved ones in just the past two weeks. This disease is not rare in reach—it’s growing, and the need for better research and support is urgent.

🔗 I hope you’ll take a moment to read my full story here: https://fundraisers.hakuapp.com/briana-boehmer

This campaign reflects everything I believe in: showing up, doing hard things, and leading with heart—even when the road ahead is uncertain.

Thank you for being part of my network. Any support—whether it’s a share, a donation, or simply reading—is deeply appreciated.

Follow Briana’s journey on Instagram.

CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Interstruct, Inc. CEO Ryan Young, AIA, is pleased to announce the official opening of Interstruct Design + Build’s newest office in Charlotte, North Carolina. This marks the company’s fourth office, joining locations in Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota, Florida, and reflects Interstruct’s ongoing commitment to strategic growth across the Southeast.

“Interstruct expands to Charlotte with Branson Bowen leading Southeast growth.”

“For several years, my business partner, Rich Monroe, and I have considered expanding Interstruct Design + Build to new markets,” said Young. “Identifying cities with similar demographics as Orlando and Tampa is easy. Finding the right person to lead new business is incredibly challenging.”

Effective immediately, Branson Bowen has been named Principal of the Charlotte office. Bowen brings a decade of commercial real estate and construction experience and has a strong track record of community involvement and leadership. Since 2019, his grassroots organization, Contractors, Closers & Connections, has donated $130,000 to Orlando-area nonprofits. In 2024, he was named one of Orlando Business Journal’s “40 Under 40.”

Now residing in Charlotte with his wife, Bowen is set to bring Interstruct’s distinct design + build capabilities to adaptive reuse, healthcare, and hospitality projects throughout the city.

Why Charlotte?
Charlotte mirrors key demographic and economic characteristics of Interstruct’s successful Florida markets. From transit expansion plans and rich opportunities for infill development, to its position as the second-largest financial center in the U.S., Charlotte is an ideal environment for Interstruct’s expertise in commercial design + build solutions.

“With Branson Bowen at the helm, who has already proven his ability to grow market share, this is a home-run opportunity for Interstruct,” said Young.

About Interstruct Design + Build
Founded in 2001, Interstruct is an architect-led commercial general contractor delivering innovative Class A construction across the Southeast. With an in-house architecture studio, Interstruct supports clients from conceptual design through execution, offering expertise in adaptive reuse, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and corporate interiors.

Contact – Charlotte Office
Branson Bowen Interstruct Design + Build
2030 S Tryon St, Suite 3G
Charlotte, NC 28203
704.402.2058
bbowen@interstructinc.com 

Original article written by Megan Padilla, Writer and Content Strategist. Read the full blog post here:
https://interstructinc.com/interstruct-opens-new-office-in-charlotte-nc/

SOURCE Interstruct

Lowcountry Land Trust Expands Caw Caw Interpretive Center with Protection of 35-Acre Holly Grove Property

Expansion will improve trail connectivity, increase recreational access, and preserve scenic Lowcountry views for future generations.

Charleston, SC, May 6, 2025 – Lowcountry Land Trust, a nonprofit committed to preserving Lowcountry landscapes and waterways for current and future generations, is proud to announce the permanent protection of the 35-acre Holly Grove property—which will serve as an official addition to the Caw Caw Interpretive Center in Ravenel, South Carolina. This strategic acquisition in collaboration with the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) significantly expands public access to nature, enhances water quality protection, and ensures the long-term conservation of vital habitats in one of Charleston County’s most ecologically and recreationally valuable public spaces.

The addition of Holly Grove to the Caw Caw Interpretive Center enhances the park’s highly visible and ecologically rich landscape, boasting approximately 2,300 feet of waterway frontage along Tea Farm Creek and the Wallace River, and about 850 feet of scenic frontage along U.S. Highway 17 South (Savannah Highway). The land is a vital natural buffer, enhancing wildlife habitats, protecting water quality, and preserving stunning views both from the water and the highway. In the future, it could also serve as a place for a paddlecraft launch at all tides, offering a new opportunity for water-based exploration. Bordering the 3,000-mile East Coast Greenway route, the Caw Caw addition also opens the door for a future movement of the trail off the highway and onto more protected terrain, improving safety and the visitor experience for cyclists, runners, and walkers alike.

“Caw Caw is one of the Lowcountry’s ecological gems, and we’re thrilled to partner with CCPRC to help expand and protect it,” said David Ray, chief conservation officer at Lowcountry Land Trust. “This addition increases recreational access, enhances habitat protection, and ensures the long-term stewardship of a place that reflects the very best of the Lowcountry’s natural heritage.”

Previously at risk of development, the Caw Caw addition was purchased by Lowcountry Land Trust, then transferred to the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. The Land Trust now holds and will monitor a conservation easement in perpetuity, partnering with CCPRC to safeguard the land’s natural value and public benefit for current and future generations.

“The expansion of Caw Caw through the addition of the Holly Grove property is a great example of what strong partnerships can achieve,” said Kevin Bowie, executive director of CCPRC. “We’re grateful to the Lowcountry Land Trust, Charleston County Council, and the County’s Greenbelt Program. By working together, we’re able to expand public access to this remarkable property. We look forward to creating even more trails, water access points, and recreational opportunities at Caw Caw in the years ahead.”

The $2.2 million project was made possible through generous public funding: $2.09 million from Charleston County’s Greenbelt Program and an additional $110,000 provided by CCPRC. The collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to balancing growth with permanent protection of the region’s most treasured natural areas.

Charleston County is fortunate to have iconic, publicly accessible green spaces, and Caw Caw stands out as one of the finest,” said Joe Boykin, Charleston County Council Member (District 8). “Expanding and protecting places like this through our Greenbelt Program isn’t just smart land use—it’s a lasting investment in quality of life.” 

Stay connected by following @LowcountryLandTrust on social media and signing up for their email newsletter to receive the latest updates on conservation efforts and ways to get involved.

ABOUT LOWCOUNTRY LAND TRUST

Lowcountry Land Trust—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—permanently protects land throughout coastal South Carolina that is foundational to the area’s coastal ecosystem and residents’ quality of life. Having protected over 163,000 acres of land since its founding in 1986, Lowcountry Land Trust is one of the most impactful local land trusts in the United States. More information about Lowcountry Land Trust is available at www.lowcountrylandtrust.org.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

By Mark A Leon

The Saint Cecilia is a dynamic rock band from Costa Rica making waves on the international stage with their passionate blend of classic and modern rock influences. The group’s lineup features Stewart Heigold (lead vocals/guitar) and Daniel Solorzano (drums) from Costa Rica, alongside French musicians Romain Garriot (lead guitar) and Guillaume Devigne (bass), creating a unique blend of cultural backgrounds and musical perspectives.

On May 10, 2025 they are making their Charleston, South Carolina debut at LoFi Brewing – Click HERE for Tickets.

After seeing them at Lovin’ Life Music Fest in Charlotte, NC this past weekend, we were blown away by the rhythmic sounds, stage presence, lighting, costumes and overall energy. After speaking to the band for a few minutes, it was clear music was in their blood, but what makes them special is that they know the road ahead is going to be filled with music fans who don’t know their sound, but like Springsteen, they plan to win you over with their high powered live shows.

This coming Saturday, May 10, we have our chance Charleston to see this amazing band who are embarking on the first official U.S. “Tour”. We strongly recommend you come out to dance, rock and become a fan of The Saint Cecilia. Click HERE for tickets.

Let’s learn more about the band…

Musical Style and Influences

The Saint Cecilia’s sound is rooted in the classic rock of the 1960s and 70s-drawing inspiration from legends like The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Rush-while also embracing the energy and style of modern rock bands such as Arctic Monkeys and The 1975. Their music is characterized by energetic guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and lyrics that reflect personal experiences, love, and the challenges of pursuing a musical dream. The band members’ diverse backgrounds add further depth, with French discipline and Costa Rican “pura vida” spirit blending in both their sound and work ethic.

Costa Rican Roots and International Ambition

The Saint Cecilia takes pride in representing Costa Rica’s vibrant rock scene, which is notable for its American and British influences and a surprising number of bands per capita in the capital, San José. Their mission goes beyond commercial success-they aim to showcase the quality of Central American rock and inspire other Costa Rican bands to reach international audiences. The band’s name itself is a nod to the patron saint of music, underscoring their dedication to their craft and their desire to guide listeners on a “mystical journey by way of music”.

Breakthroughs and U.S. Tour

The Saint Cecilia’s rise has been marked by significant milestones, including opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers at Costa Rica’s National Stadium-a performance in front of 50,000 people that cemented their status at home. Their international breakthrough came with performances at major U.S. festivals, such as Austin City Limits (ACL) in Texas and BottleRock in California, marking their first major shows in the United States. These appearances have been deeply meaningful for the band, who self-financed their journey to the U.S. and see each show as a chance to represent Costa Rica on a global stage.

Their U.S. tour has included both large festival stages and more intimate club shows, allowing them to connect with new audiences and industry figures. Notably, they have performed at iconic venues and studios, sharing stages where rock legends have played and recorded. The band’s Instagram and festival spotlights highlight their growing popularity and the pride they bring to Costa Rican fans watching their success abroad.

Looking Ahead

With only a few singles released including The Pretender which is gathering airplay in various regions, The Saint Cecilia’s catalog is still growing, but their live performances and authentic approach have already earned them a devoted following. As they continue their U.S. tour and announce new festival dates, Saint Cecilia stands as a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration and the enduring appeal of rock and roll-Costa Rican style.

Stay connected with The Saint Cecilia on Instagram.

Subscribe to Charleston Daily today.

By Mark A Leon

The Katie Blessing Center is poised to transform pediatric behavioral health care in Charlotte and across North Carolina, addressing a critical gap in services for children and adolescents facing mental health challenges.

A New Standard in Pediatric Behavioral Health

Set to open its first phase in 2026, the Katie Blessing Center will be the largest and most advanced pediatric behavioral health facility in North Carolina, located at 5516 Central Avenue in east Charlotte. The center is designed to serve children and teens ages 5 to 18, offering a continuum of care that includes behavioral health urgent care, acute inpatient treatment, residential care, and outpatient services-all on a single campus. This integrated approach is unique in the state, ensuring continuity and comprehensive support for young people in crisis and their families.

Facilities and Programs

The center will be constructed in phases. Phase 1 will feature a renovated building with a 6-10 chair behavioral health urgent care unit, 48 acute inpatient beds, telehealth services, and both indoor and outdoor recreational spaces. Phase 2, opening in 2027, will add up to 24 more beds, an expansive gymnasium, and additional therapy spaces. Ultimately, the facility will offer up to 72 beds, addressing the dire shortage of pediatric behavioral health resources in the region.

Programming at the Katie Blessing Center is diverse and evidence-based, including:

• Art, music, horticulture, animal, and recreational therapies

• Nutritional wellness and exercise therapy

• Education, tutoring, and peer/family support programs

• Yoga, mindfulness, and martial arts

The center’s environment is intentionally designed to be bright, modern, and welcoming, helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health treatment.

Impact on the Charlotte Community

Charlotte and North Carolina have long struggled with limited access to youth mental health care-North Carolina ranks 42nd in the nation for prevalence of youth mental health issues and lack of access to care. More than 50 children each week have been reported sleeping in emergency departments due to a lack of appropriate behavioral health resources. The Katie Blessing Center aims to change this by providing local, high-quality, and accessible treatment options.

By offering urgent care, short- and long-term residential treatment, and outpatient support, the center will alleviate pressure on emergency departments and provide families with a clear path to healing. The center is also expected to create over 200 jobs, contributing to the economic vitality of east Charlotte.

Community and Financial Support

The project is a collaborative effort, led by the Katie Blessing Foundation and supported by local government, health systems, and private donors. Over $30 million has been raised so far, with significant contributions from the State of North Carolina, the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and partners like Novant Health. The total project cost is estimated at $62–$63 million, with ongoing fundraising to ensure completion and sustainability.

A Vision for the Future

The Katie Blessing Center is more than a facility-it represents a movement to redefine youth mental health care in Charlotte. By prioritizing family-centered, holistic care and innovative therapies, the center seeks to give every child the chance for a healthy, hopeful future. As COO Tracey Hummell noted, “By bringing this facility to the east side, we’re going to improve the community, we’re going to strengthen the community, beyond just jobs. Directing people away from emergency departments again, and giving them a space where they can receive healing for their mental health issues”.

With construction underway and community momentum building, the Katie Blessing Center stands as a beacon of hope for Charlotte’s youth and families, setting a new standard for pediatric behavioral health in the region and beyond.

Follow the Katie Blessing Center on Instagram.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

The partnership’s investment will ensure the preservation of affordability of all 104 units across the two South Carolina properties

Charleston, SC, (May 1, 2025) —  Tesatura Capital, LLC, Ellavoz Impact Capital, LLC, the Ellavoz Neighborhood Homes Fund, and The Community Preservation Corporation (CPC), announced the acquisition of two affordable housing properties, Canopy at the Element and Canopy on Ashley in North Charleston, South Carolina with the goal of preserving workforce and affordable housing in a rapidly appreciating region of the state. The properties, which are located just one mile apart, have a combined 104 two- and three-bedroom townhomes that serve the housing needs of the local community. The transaction ensures that these properties will remain attainable for existing and future residents.

In addition to preserving the properties as affordable housing, the partnership plans to make meaningful capital improvements to the properties to increase energy efficiency, add physical amenities, and promote community building among the residents.

Allie Zamfir, Managing Principal, Tesatura Capital stated, “This investment showcases our ability to execute on our vision to preserve and enhance much-needed workforce and affordable housing in South Carolina. We look forward to implementing programming and providing resources to strengthen these communities and ensure the residents are proud to call these places home.” Jeffrey Crum, Chief Operating Officer, Ellavoz added that “these acquisitions build on our firm’s commitment to making meaningful impact investments that support the preservation and creation of workforce and affordable housing units”.

“At a time when cities of all sizes are struggling with a crisis of supply and affordability, CPC is focused on investing in the long-term stability and preservation of housing that serves the needs of our communities,” said Tell Metzger, Senior Vice President, Equity Investments, CPC. “We are proud to be supporting the work and growth of two mission-aligned partners and helping to preserve the affordability of 104 units of housing that will serve the North Charleston community for years to come.”  

Canopy at the Element, located at 8101 Honeysuckle Lake Drive, is a 90,000-square-foot, 72-unit apartment complex spanning 90,000 square feet. The community consists of two- and three- bedroom townhomes with modern interior finishes and is situated within close proximity to major thoroughfares. Residents benefit from a range of amenities, such as laundry facilities and storage spaces, in addition to access to quality schools, shopping, and dining. 

Canopy on Ashley, located at 3360 Ashley Phosphate Road, is a 35,200-square-foot, 32-unit apartment complex. Each two-bedroom apartment is designed with updated finishes, spacious layouts and abundant light. In addition to the living spaces, the property is conveniently located near shopping, dining and entertainment options.

Tesatura and Ellavoz formed a joint venture in 2024 with the goal of creating and preserving affordable housing throughout the Carolinas while the population of the region continues to grow. This was the joint venture’s first acquisition. The partners plan to continue their acquisitions in the Charleston MSA and in other key markets of South Carolina in 2025 and beyond.

CPC provided a $5 million equity investment to aid in the acquisition and preservation of the two properties. CPC’s Equity Investment platform seeks to address the growing national housing crisis through investments in the preservation and creation of high-quality housing at affordable and workforce rents. The company works carefully to deploy its capital to help grow the capacity of the affordable housing industry by supporting emerging sponsors, with a focus on long-term ownership of multifamily buildings to ensure that the properties remain financially strong and physically sound. 

The sponsors worked with Walker & Dunlop to arrange Freddie Mac financing. Total financing across both assets was approximately $10 million. The transaction was led by Walker Layne, Austin Sneed, and PJ McDevitt. This transaction features a strong example of Walker & Dunlop’s commitment to supporting high-capacity emerging managers alongside Freddie Mac’s mandate to expand access to affordable housing. 

To further support its mission, the Partnership was awarded a grant through Charleston County’s Affordable Housing Land Acquisition Grant program. These funds are a critical part of the capital stack used to support the noted capital improvements associated with the investment’s business plan.

##

About Tesatura Capital LLC

Founded in 2023, Tesatura Capital is an emerging investment management firm focused on creating and preserving high-quality workforce and affordable housing in the Carolinas. Tesatura executes on this mission by directly investing in and operating multifamily properties via partnerships with mission-aligned investors and non-profits. We believe that by focusing on community needs, both at the property and neighborhood level, we can help families and individuals live vibrant lives.

Firm Managing Principal Allie Zamfir brings deep institutional investment and asset management experience both in impact investing and managing a large portfolio of multifamily assets throughout the region.

To learn more about Tesatura Capital, visit tesaturacap.com.

About Ellavoz Impact Capital and Ellavoz Neighborhood Homes Fund (ENHF)

Ellavoz is a social impact investor, advisor, asset manager, and real estate developer focused on creating and preserving workforce and affordable housing assets and other community-oriented real estate properties. Ellavoz’s strategy concentrates investments in price-attainable housing and economic development projects by working with socially aligned operators, local nonprofits, and governmental agencies to deliver positive community outcomes and double bottom line returns. Based in Belmar, New Jersey, Ellavoz currently has total managed and controlled assets with a value approaching $300 million. Ellavoz’s principals have decades of experience leading large community development financial institutions and nonprofit organizations. Collectively, the management team has led transactions with a total capitalization value of nearly $3 billion.

ENHF is the Ellavoz managed impact fund focused on creating and preserving affordable and workforce housing in the Carolinas. ENHF provides co-general partner investment capital to emerging managers and nonprofits who need additional sponsor equity and balance sheet support to fully capitalize impactful housing transactions.

To Learn more about the Ellavoz family of funds, visit Ellavoz.com.

About The Community Preservation Corporation (CPC)

CPC is a nonprofit, multifamily finance company that was founded in 1974 to provide financial and technical resources to stabilize and revitalize communities. Today, CPC uses its unique expertise in housing finance and public policy to expand access to affordable and workforce housing, advance diversity and equity within the development industry, and expand investment in the green economy and lessen the impact of climate change. Since its founding, CPC has invested over $15 billion to finance the creation and preservation of more than 230,000 units of housing. The company provides a suite of construction and permanent lending products and is an Equity Investor with approximately 4,500 affordable units under ownership. CPC is a carbon-neutral company and maintains AA- S&P rating. Visit CPC at communityp.com, and on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Stay connected and subscribe to Charleston Daily.