48 www. ReadMPM. com | www.MountPl easantMagaz i ne. com | www.MountPl easantPodcas t . com BY COL I N MCCANDLESS The Ripple Effect Nonprofit Incubator Uplifts ThoseWho Uplift Community Arresting words inscribed on a picture bearing the visage of Mother Theresa capture your attention as you exit Ripple, a nonprofit incubator housed in the cigar factory building on East Bay Street. The quote, attributed to the revered missionary and global charitable crusader, reads, “I alone can’t change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” These words reflect the collaborative philosophy behind Ripple, a philanthropic project spearheaded by two prominent members of the Charleston community, Jerry Scheer and Dean Stephens. For Scheer— and Stephens, who serves as Ripple’s executive director—giving back to the community has always been in their DNA. Stephens wasn’t content to rest on his laurels after spending 31 years working with WCIV News Channel 4. The former newscaster, who retired in September 2021, was hungry for a new challenge that could also help make a difference. Scheer, along with his Homegrown Hospitality Group (TBonz, Pearlz Oyster Bar) co-owner Mark Cumins, established TBonz Foundation Inc., the nonprofit arm Photos prov i ded.
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