Brookland Lakeview

Empowerment is
the Key

Improving the quality of life for youth and adults of all ages in the Midlands.

22,000 individuals served
by BLEC each year
100+ families served per month
woman holding up food in cooking class
About Us

A Hub for Community Support

At the heart of our mission, we strive to improve the quality of life for community members of all ages and backgrounds. We provide a safe, inviting environment where youth, adults, and seniors can engage in physical and cultural activities that promote health and wellness. We are dedicated to preserving the historical significance of our Center, establishing it as a beacon of civic pride and a hub for community support.

+ youth and teens participating in community activities each year
healthy meals served to children and senior citizens per year
in farmers' market vouchers distributed to eligible senior citizens per year
+ senior citizens completed AARP Technology classes per year
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Why Your Support Matters

Invest in Community Transformation

​To engage and serve people ​of all ages and backgrounds while promoting advancements in ​health, education, economic empowerment, and improving the lives of residents in Lexington ​and Richland counties and neighboring communities throughout the Midlands of South Carolina.
The Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center (BLEC) was established in 2008 when the Brookland Center for Community Economic Change (BCCEC) acquired a former school to establish a community service center.
Our location in West Columbia is in an economic development zone eligible for special economic incentives for businesses and to encourage growth. Plans and programs for the building are being designed to specifically target low-to-moderate-income people for our services.

21st Century COLA

A program offering after-school and summer camp opportunities for youth.

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AARP Digital Skills Ready @50

For adults over 50 to master digital tools and enhance their connectivity in today's world.

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Community Food Table

A fresh, accessible food distribution program to support health and well-being.

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Diabetes Intervention

Offering expert-led guidance on managing diabetes through nutrition, activity, and stress reduction.

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Farmers Market & Local Food Promotion

Empowering community health with local, sustainably-grown foods and agricultural education.

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Helping Families

Comprehensive support services for housing, education, and financial empowerment.

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Mental Health First Aid Training Initiative

Supporting mental wellness and crisis intervention in our community.

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WE CARE 2: Clothing and More Bank

Providing essential clothing and resources to families.

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Our Programs

Bringing Light to Every Community

Explore our diverse programs and events designed to inspire and uplift every member of our community.

Become a Volunteer

More than 250 volunteers are actively involved in running our programs and extending our reach in the community each year.

Support with a Donation

The success of our programs and services depend upon outside funding in the form of grants, donations, and major gifts.

Volunteer

Become a volunteer

Join our community as a volunteer and make a meaningful difference in empowering and uplifting our neighbors.





    Events

    Our Upcoming Events

    Join us to connect, learn, and grow together.

    Discover
    Our Impact

    News & Update

    Food Policy Coalition

    WeCo-Cayce Food Policy CoalitionJoin our mission to combat food insecurity and enhance food equity in

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    WE CARE 2: Clothing and More Bank

    WE CARE 2: Clothing and More BankOur WE CARE 2 program is dedicated to providing

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    Mental Health Awareness Training Initiative Program

    Mental Health Awareness Training InitiativeLearn to Support Mental Wellness in Our CommunityEmpower yourself with the

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    three-round-green
    The BLEC serves as a beacon of hope for so many in the community who too often lack the necessities in life such as food and shelter, and it gives them hope. I volunteer and support the BLEC to give back to a community that gave me so much when I was once in need.

    Dr. Rudy Wise

    MD and BCCEC Board Member
    Through our support of the BLEC we will be able to help the BLEC continue to draw those from the surrounding communities and others who need assistance in education, free health initiatives, the arts, gardening, housing, employment, food, clothing distributions and more.

    Rev. Mardell Whyte

    BLEC Staff

    Empower Change with YourContribution

    Your donation helps us continue to provide essential services and programs that uplift and support our community.

    Donate Now