Making a Difference at Home
Although he grew up in the Upstate, Keith Hays and his family have had more than a dozen mailing addresses in the U.S. and abroad due to his job in the engineering business. Along with his wife, Kay, and their children, they enjoyed experiencing a wide variety of cultures and getting to know people they met along the way.
In 2016, Keith and Kay decided to settle permanently back in Greenville. After years of moving frequently, Keith and Kay wanted to fully integrate themselves into the Upstate community they now call home.
“Because we lived in so many different locations, it was sometimes difficult for us to partner with local philanthropic organizations because we might not be there very long,” said Keith. “But once we made our home in Greenville, Kay and I knew we wanted to spend more time giving back and volunteering in a meaningful way.”
Keith said he learned early on from his parents the importance of serving others. “My parents were active volunteers in our community when I was growing up. It was just ingrained in me that if I was fortunate enough to be able to give back, it was my responsibility and privilege to do so.”
Keith and Kay were thoughtful about deciding where they wanted to volunteer their time and talents. After research and conversations, Keith joined The Salvation Army of Greenville Advisory Board in 2021. Kay spends considerable time volunteering with The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club at the Kroc Center.
“We chose to give back through The Salvation Army because we believe in their mission to serve those in need in the name of Jesus Christ, and because we could see how intentional they were in their work to help individuals and families experiencing the effects of poverty get on their feet.”
As part of his Advisory Board role, Keith serves on the Community Relations Development committee. “I appreciate the care, the diligence, and the effort that everyone puts into their volunteer work,” he said. “The board is comprised of people from different backgrounds and career experiences, and they’re able to apply their gifts to support the common goal of helping people in need.”
Just as his parents modeled charitable involvement for him, Keith feels it’s important to pass that experience on to the next generation. “It’s important to show our children and younger people that it’s our responsibility to serve those less fortunate. By regularly volunteering and giving back to the community, we hope our actions inspire others to want to do the same.”
Keith also works with his employer, Hargrove Engineers and Constructors, to partner with The Salvation Army. From collecting toy donations to share with families in the Angel Tree program, to supporting The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle campaign, to organizing volunteers throughout the year, Hargrove has shown their dedication to helping make Greenville a better place.
“The Salvation Army makes it easy to make a difference in Greenville,” Keith said. “I look forward to continuing to support they work they do throughout the year.”
