Spirit of the Island Award Honors Those Who Give Back

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C.- The City of Isle of Palms (IOP) recently awarded its Spirit of the Island Award to two recipients: former city council member and IOP resident, Ted Kinghorn, and island restaurant Acme Lowcountry Kitchen (Acme). The award recognizes an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the Isle of Palms and its community. Recipients are chosen based on letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the nominees’ character, accomplishments and commitment to serving on Isle of Palms. 

Ted Kinghorn is a native of New Jersey who previously worked in municipal, state and federal government. He is currently a member of the Isle of Palms Exchange Club and facilitates various community service projects for the club. The Exchange Club is a national nonprofit organization that is dedicated to serving communities through youth programs. The Isle of Palms Exchange Club has a significant role in the development of the island and continues to partner with the city on various initiatives.

Kinghorn earned a bachelor’s degree from Alderson Broaddus University (ABU) in West Virginia after transferring from Erskine College in South Carolina. He also earned a master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Carolina. Additionally, Kinghorn served in several civic leadership positions as an ABU board of trustees member, chair of the Charleston County Park Foundation and mentor for the Liberty Fellows Program.

 He said that working in public service was always his goal and was involved in civic organizations since high school.

 “If you have the tools and resources to make a positive impact, why not try to make a difference?” Kinghorn said.

 He emphasized that while he helps implement community service projects through the Exchange Club, there are many others involved in helping Isle of Palms thrive.

 “I’m just a catalyst,” Kinghorn said. “I work with so many community partners who give generously to many causes and people in need. I think if you initiate a community service project, define it well and if there’s a need, people are responsive. We just want people to know that if they need help, they can look to us for support.”

 Much of Kinghorn’s work is centered around the Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support (LENS) Program. The LENS program is one program of the Community Service Committee of the IOP Exchange Club and is a part of the IOP Community Corporation. The program aims to provide law enforcement with support to strengthen community relations and improve public safety on IOP. LENS hosts various community events that offer learning opportunities, including a bike rodeo and boating and water safety classes for children.

 The Exchange Club hopes to expand the LENS Program to other organizations that are interested.

 When Kinghorn is not out volunteering, he is traveling, enjoying outdoor activities and spending time with his three daughters and grandchildren.

 For more information about the Exchange Club and LENS program, visit: iopexchange.org and lensiop.org.

As the second recipient of the Spirit of the Island Award for 2023, Acme was awarded for its generosity to first responders during emergencies, by offering free meals and support. The restaurant also provides discounted prices to city employees, island organizations and is deemed a well-respected member of the Isle of Palms business community. Acme offers locally sourced, traditional coastal cuisine.

Both recipients received their award during a city council meeting in late June of 2023.

During the meeting, Isle of Palms officials spoke highly of each recipient’s dedication and volunteerism throughout the years.