Our Story
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Our Story *
Illuminate Lives was started by college students who shared the same values and mission: To be a light in others’ lives. We began our nonprofit to be a light to children in the foster care system. Since then we have expanded and helped children hospitals and homeless shelters. We now have created a clothing brand to spread our mission: Be The Light and pass it on.
Illuminate Lives exists to be a light through action. We host monthly donation drives and outreach initiatives that directly support children in foster care and individuals and families in need throughout our community. Each month, we focus on specific, tangible needs — from essentials like clothing and hygiene products to seasonal drives such as back-to-school supplies, holiday gifts, and special care packages.
Our goal is not only to provide resources, but to restore dignity, create joy, and remind those we serve that they are seen, valued, and deeply loved. Through intentional partnerships, community involvement, and faith-driven service, we turn compassion into impact — one drive, one family, and one life at a time.
Sweater Drive for Our Daily Rest homeless shelter, where we collected over 80 sweaters!
What We Do
Angel Tree Shoe Drive for the Calvary Home for Children in Seneca where we were able to provide 31 children with 2 brand new pairs of shoes!
Halloween Goodie Bag Drive where we were able to provide the children at the Calvary Home with goodie bags filled with their favorite treats and toys!
Meet the Founder
Nicole Abraham began Illuminate Lives as a junior at Clemson University, where the organization first launched as a Clemson-affiliated initiative. What started as a simple desire to serve quickly grew into a calling. With determination and faith, Nicole pursued and secured 501(c)(3) certification, officially establishing Illuminate Lives as a nonprofit organization recognized in the state of South Carolina.
As a first-generation college student, Nicole is beyond grateful for the opportunities she has been given and understands firsthand the power of support, encouragement, and community. Her journey has shaped her deep passion for serving children in foster care and uplifting individuals and families who may feel unseen or overlooked. Nicole founded Illuminate Lives with the belief that even the smallest act of kindness can create lasting impact and that when we choose to be a light, we reflect hope, compassion, and purpose into the lives of others.
Through faith-driven leadership and intentional service, Nicole continues to grow Illuminate Lives with a heart for excellence, transparency, and genuine community impact.
Contact us
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