The History of HALOS

The first Charleston area HALOS meeting was held on May 1, 1997, organized by Eve Spratt, M.D. and supported by chairman of Pediatrics, Charles Darby, MD., as well as by many other health care providers. Dr. Spratt heard about an "Adopt a Social Worker Program" in Texas and brought together this group of concerned citizens to explore the possibility of starting a similar program in the Charleston area. Mayor Riley of Charleston and more than 100 people from various health and legal professions, along with representatives of their various houses of worship, joined HALOS at the organizational breakfast.

Since that time, HALOS has benefited from the support of more than 50 faith communities, health care, legal, business and community groups, including The Medical University of South Carolina Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, The Exchange Club Center, College of Charleston Center for Learning, and the Charleston County Department of Social Services. The program has had tremendous success with over a million dollars of time and goods donated to sponsor either individual needs or one of the eight program initiatives.

Initially, the Trident Urban League provided no-cost administrative support, but as administrative costs increased, it became necessary to find a fiduciary agent who could donate services. The Church of the Holy Cross served that role until the Exchange Club Center of Charleston generously agreed to donate administrative costs. In 2004, a grant from the United States Justice Department - Office for Victims of Crime, was received to help grow and prepare the model for replication throughout the country. In 2005, HALOS applied for and received status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

The South Carolina American Professional Society of Abuse to Children has recognized HALOS for its collaborative, innovative approach in assisting needy victims. Dr. Spratt has presented the model at the San Diego conference on Child Abuse, at the Children's Mental Health Research and Treatment Conference in Tampa, FL, and at the National Center for Child Abuse Prosecution Research Institute. HALOS partners and volunteers are committed to making a difference one person at a time. This has been the fundamental theme of success for HALOS.