ABOUT OUR MISSION.
As a 501(c)(3) organization, we’ve awarded scholarships to deserving students and now proudly serve 13 high schools across Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg counties in South Carolina. Since 2016, The Brave at Heart Foundation has grown from modest beginnings into a powerful force for education and community engagement.
WHO WE SERVE.
We proudly serve in 13 high schools across Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg counties in the state of South Carolina. Each year, The Brave at Heart Foundation awards between 10 and 13 scholarships to deserving students, reaffirming our commitment to education and equal opportunity.
Our annual back-to-school drive has supported hundreds of families over the years, ensuring students start the academic year with the supplies they need to succeed. We also host community events like an annual kickball game, a 5K Run/Walk in the city of Myrtle Beach, and a charity golf outing, promoting a spirit of togetherness and wellness. Beyond scholarships, the foundation is deeply rooted in community engagement. These efforts reflect our broader mission to eliminate the barriers to higher education and sponsor equity and inclusivity.
As we continue to grow, we are excited to explore new initiatives and partnerships that align with our vision of transforming lives and communities. With every scholarship, every event, and every step forward, we embody our slogan:
“Strong Minds Striving for Excellence… Every Beat of the Way.”
TEAM MEMBERS.
Founded in 2016 by a group of high school friends determined to be the change they wanted to see in the world.
Jerome Vereen
Chief Executive Officer
President & Founder
Jerome (Rome) Vereen is a Myrtle Beach native. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 2002. With tours to Iraq, the Horn of Africa and the Republic of Korea he is still currently serving on active duty in the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. He has a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a Masters Degree in Leadership Studies from Marshall University.
Jerome Vereen
Jerome (Rome) Vereen is a Myrtle Beach native. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 2002. With tours to Iraq, the Horn of Africa and the Republic of Korea he is still currently serving on active duty in the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. He has a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a Masters Degree in Leadership Studies from Marshall University.
Chief Executive Officer
President & Founder
Darrell Tremble
Darrell Tremble is the Vice President of Human Resources at William James Group, a role he has held since August 2023. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Wingate University and an MBA. With over 15 years of Human Resource experience in recruiting, workforce planning, and organizational development, Darrell brings a strong background in senior living and a passion for building supportive, high-performing workplace cultures.
Meeting Facilitator & Coordinator, Founder
LaToya Myers
LaToya Myers is a dedicated wife and proud mother of two daughters who has spent over 15 years working as a nurse. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about helping and caring for others, bringing compassion and commitment to the people she serves every day. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team and is a loyal fan of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Meeting Facilitator & Coordinator Founder
Jarrelle Linnen
Just happy to be a part of something that impacts others in a positive and uplifting way!
Chief Executive Officer
President & Founder
Shannon "Nicki" Gore
Nicki Gore is the Owner of Nicki Travels and a Senior Sales Representative with Spectrum. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration Management and is passionate about delivering exceptional service, driving results, and helping others create memorable experiences and additional income opportunities.
Director of Administration
Shaquasia Coleman
Shaquasia Coleman is an entrepreneur and community leader, best known as co-owner of Juice Crush, a Conway-based juice bar. With more than 15 years in property management, she is also a partner and local property manager with Blueprint Property Management, LLC. A University of South Carolina graduate with dual MBAs from Webster University, Shaquasia is deeply committed to community service through organizations such as the Brave at Heart Foundation, She Is Me, Leadership Grand Strand, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is passionate about wellness, leadership, and creating meaningful impact across the Grand Strand.
Chef Strategy Officer
Shannon "Nicki" Gore
Director of Administration
Shaquasia Coleman
Chief Strategy Officer
Labia Strong
Team Member
Casandra Myers
Team Member
Terrell Vereen
Team Member
OUR HISTORY.
Driven by a mission to create change, The Brave at Heart Foundation was founded in 2016 by a group of high school friends committed to making a difference. Their inspired journey began humbly, pooling their personal funds each month for a year to establish a scholarship fund.
In 2017, this effort culminated in awarding scholarships to three graduating seniors from their high school alma mater. It was the first step in what has grown into a legacy of empowerment and opportunity. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation is steadily growing, expanding its reach and impact.
This nonprofit organization has a grassroots approach and a passionate commitment to giving back, we raise funds for scholarships annually through back-to-school drives, 5K runs, and charity golf outings—championing inclusivity and empowering students.
To learn more, attend an event, or donate, please reach out to us or register for an upcoming event to help move our mission forward!
OUR SPONSORS.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible partners for supporting our mission and making a lasting impact. If your organization is interested in becoming a sponsor, let's connect—contact us today!
