Starfish Award Winner: Gifted Hilton Head

By Kristen Hampshire

Gifted Hilton Head goes all in on its charitable initiatives by hosting Give Back Day and supporting other causes.

When Meredith Taylor plans a Give Back Day at Gifted Hilton Head, she’s all in. That means that day’s proceeds go entirely to a charitable initiative. She selects a different organization to be “gifted” on these days.

Gifted Hilton Head is busy, with 20 customers milling around at any given time. To Taylor, this means an opportunity to engage in conversation and make an impact with dedicated give-back events that support Hilton Head. For example, one Give Back Day event raised $12,090 for Samaritan’s Purse in Boone, North Carolina, to help with Hurricane Helene relief efforts.

“I want to give back, and I feel that’s what it’s all about.” — Meredith Taylor

“I feel absolutely blessed to live in such a beautiful place and have this store and wonderful customers,” Taylor says. “I want to give back, and I feel that’s what it’s all about.”

Customers enjoy coastal-themed decor with the Hilton Head Island name drop at Gifted Hilton Head.

Photos: Caitlin Ryan

Mutts, margs and more

Taylor is an idea engine, coming up with fun ways to support local causes, including those close to her heart that help four-footed friends. At Mutts and Margs, guests can drop off wish-list items from the Hilton Head Humane Society like dog food and Taylor donates 25% of sales during the event time to the nonprofit. Retailer neighbors join in the event, too. Taylor notes that the store raised $5,000 during the last two-hour event.

Another benefactor of Taylor’s efforts was the Palmetto Animal League. One of the store’s Give Back Days raised $7,215 for the cause, and anyone who brought in dog food or bedding earned 20% off a purchase at the store.

“I had an entire SUV full of bedding and food to deliver and I’m hoping to do this quarterly,” says Taylor.

Of a conviction for community support, Taylor says: “This is how I can make an impact.”

Starfish Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.seasideretailer.com/starfish-award.