Around Town: Oct. 4, 2025

Sumter County Citizens for Life will hold its Sumter Life Chain on Broad Street from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, and again on Sunday, Nov. 2. For additional information, call Hugh Wilson at (803) 464-1450 or Brandi Hall at (803) 464-1918.

Are you a teacher looking to make a bigger impact in your classroom? A national nonprofit with local roots in Batesburg-Leesville has a unique opportunity for you. The Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation and Innovation's IMPACT initiative is tackling two of education's biggest challenges: teacher retention and student literacy. The program empowers teachers with the tools and strategies to reach each student, individually. Participating teachers receive a quarterly stipend, professional development, and the chance to earn valuable micro-credentials. The EPI Center is currently seeking certified English Language Arts and Elementary Education teachers. This is your chance to transform your classroom and make a real difference. To apply, visit epipathways.org or call (854) 222-7243.

Love in Action Outreach Ministries will present the inspiring seminar "Yes, You Can!" on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the James Clyburn Center, Suite #5, 129 S. Harvin St. The RSVP-only event will begin at noon with a country-style hot lunch provided by Jackson Cuisine and Catering in Sumter. Following lunch, Michele Abraham, a former S.C. State Director of Small Business Development Centers, will speak. This seminar will empower you to discover your gifts and your "calling." Key takeaways include: Doubt doesn't live here anymore; Develop fearless confidence; Learn to believe, before you receive; and Develop a mindset and determination to never quit. This free admission event requires an RSVP so that a head count can be achieved for the free lunch and to honor building capacity requirements. Call (404) 513-5683 to RSVP.

Shiloh Project Lift will hold its annual Fall Festival on Nov. 1 at the St. John School building, 4515 Narrow Paved Rd, Lynchburg. Barbecue will be available for purchase. Attendees may enter for chances to win prizes such as a TV, an air conditioner and cakes. Activities include cake walks, hayrides, corn hole toss, sack races, kickball, basketball and horseback riding. This event supports fundraising efforts for the renovation of St. John School. Residents of surrounding communities are invited to attend. For more information, call (803) 459-7463.

The Evening Optimist Club is accepting applications for the annual Sumter Christmas Parade which will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7. The theme for the 2025 Christmas Parade is "A Candy Cane Christmas." If your school, civic club, church, or business would like an application, please contact Gail Hyatt at (803) 983-3916, or via email, gailhyatt@sc.rr.com. Deadline for entry is Friday, Nov. 14.

Sumter County Recreation Department, in conjunction with South Carolina Attorney General's Office, will host "Golden Connections, A Senior Community Health & Resource Fair" on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Sumter County Civic Center. This is a free event and will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local and state agencies will be on site. There will be prevention information and guest speakers. Activities will include entertainment, bingo and giveaways. Refreshments will be available. For more information, email recreation@sumtercountysc.gov or call (803) 436-2248.

On Saturday, Nov. 1, from noon to 5 p.m., the Pietas Coalition will host its first Communities Against Trafficking walk-a-thon at Patriot Park in Sumter,. This event will bring together families, local leaders and advocates to raise awareness about child trafficking and prevention. The day will include a walk, family-focused educational activities and a pledge canvas where participants commit to protecting children and supporting survivors. There will be food trucks, face painting, a popup art show and more.

Sumter S.C. Combat Veterans Group supports veterans and their families through various initiatives. Members have a chance to contribute to causes that directly impact veterans' lives, join in on community events, network with fellow vets and supporters and help shape the future of veteran support in the Sumter area, according to the group's website. Members have the chance to give back, stay connected and make a difference in the lives of those who served our country. Anyone interested in joining can attend one of the regular group meetings on the third Friday of each month at 10 a.m. at 529 N. Wise Drive. The application at https://sumtercombatveterans.org/membership can be downloaded, printed and completed beforehand.