Tina Gulledge named 2023 Best Buddies National Top Champion of the Year!

The 2nd annual Best Buddies South Carolina Champion of the Year Gala was an incredible success, raising over $240,000. We are proud to announce Tina Gulledge as the South Carolina Grand Champion supported by her Mission Partner, Caroline Reynolds. Tina and Caroline raised over $142,000 for Best Buddies in South Carolina. Tina not only raised the most in the state, but the most across the country being named the 2023 National Top Champion of the Year for Best Buddies.

Tina Gulledge and her family have supported Best Buddies in South Carolina since its formation in late 2021 when her friend, Caroline Hudson, approached her to help introduce Best Buddies International to South Carolina. Together, with the support of their extended families, they were instrumental in raising both awareness and funds for the inaugural South Carolina Champion of the Year Gala in November 2022. Notably, Knox Hudson, Caroline’s brother, was recognized as the Champion of the Year!

Building on Knox’s Champion Legacy, Tina embraced the opportunity to become a 2023 Champion Candidate, aiming to raise $125,000- also the revenue goal for the event! Tina paired up with her longtime friend, Caroline Reynolds, as her Mission Partner. Despite Best Buddies being new to South Carolina, Tina and Caroline have enjoyed an enduring friendship, engaging in activities such as family beach trips, ice cream dates, and visits to the art supply store over the past 20+ years.

Leveraging her extensive network of hometown friends, Tina sold tables and event program advertisements, secured sponsorships from businesses, strongly encouraged her guests to contribute during the event, and obtained donation items for the live and silent auction, including original artworks by Caroline Reynolds. On gala night, the duo proudly modeled matching t-shirts featuring Caroline’s artwork.

The unwavering commitment of Tina Gulledge and others has played a crucial role in the success of Best Buddies’ expansion efforts in the state. We are grateful for her dedication and support of Best Buddies in South Carolina.