Awards and Recognition

We are so grateful for the recognition we receive for our work in the Greater Charleston, SC community. Although we don't do the work for an award, it is wonderful to know we are making a tangible difference in the community. It helps BOWs to be recognized and respected as a viable community organization dedicated to children and families. We look forward to seeing our accomplishments in the future. We thank everyone for their support in this journey of hope to bring education, opportunities, and success to the children we serve.

Jefferson Award Winner: Joyce Maybin-Nesmith

February 28, 2024
Joyce Maybin Nesmith of Beyond Our Walls (BOWs) has been honored as the April 2023 regional recipient of the prestigious Jefferson Awards Foundation by ABC News 4 (WCIV-TV) and Multiplying for Good.
The local award honor individuals who are making a difference in the Lowcountry through public service. The Jefferson Awards is a national program that has been honoring extraordinary achievement in public service since 1972 by spotlighting those who put others first. Past recipients on the national level include Oprah Winfrey, Peyton Manning, Bill Gates, Condoleezza Rice, Faith Hill, and Gen. Colin Powell.
This recognition celebrates our unwavering commitment to transforming lives through education and exposure, and acknowledges our effective initiatives, collaborative partnerships, and engaged volunteer community to multiply the power of good. With a focus on fostering positive change, our goal remains to be an anchor of hope that inspires children and communities in the North Charleston, SC area.
Read the full story about Joyce and the Jefferson recognition here.


Elder Women Recognition: Joyce Maybin-Nesmith

March 2023
During Women's History Month, the Power Tribe Community celebrated the contributions of seven extraordinary women at the Wisdom of the Elders Brunch. These revered elders have left an indelible mark in their respective domains, shaping the course of history for decades. Guiding the event was Octavia Mitchell, the anchor of News 2, who served as the EMCEE for the program. The agenda encompassed a thought-provoking panel Q&A session, complemented by a captivating Women's History Month Tribute delivered by the visionary Dr. Tonya Matthews, CEO of the International African American Museum.
The presence of a formidable local luminary, capable of forging paths, consolidating resources, and adapting with agility, is paramount to our North Charleston community. Our Joyce Maybin Nesmith is that presence. She has stood tall for over 19 years as an elder and pillar bestowing an unceasing flow of wisdom anchored in education, love, and hope for our families.
Our Beyond Our Walls, Inc. (BOWs) family extends a heartfelt gratitude to the Power Tribe Community and Kenya Dunn, the visionary CEO and Founder of The Power Filled Woman for acknowledging the remarkable awardees, including Ms. Nesmith. Together with the dedicated BOWs Team of supporters and volunteers, we serve as steadfast beacons of love, guiding to a legacy of tomorrow that brims with promise and possibility for our children and our community.
Black History Month Trail Blazer Award

February 2023
With joy and appreciation, Beyond Our Walls (BOWs) Founder and Executive Director Joyce Maybin Nesmith accepted the Trailblazer Award by the North Charleston Police Department Cops Athletic Program (CAP) during Black History Month. This honor serves as a testament to the relentless efforts and unwavering commitment of our team at Beyond Our Walls. We are humbled to receive this recognition, which highlights the positive impact we strive to make within our community.
We believe that unity and collaboration are the cornerstones of progress. CAP has shown remarkable dedication to fostering meaningful relationships and promoting harmony between law enforcement and the community they serve. This Trailblazer Award further solidifies our shared commitment to creating a brighter future for all.
We extend our gratitude to each member of the North Charleston Police Department's CAP for their unwavering support and belief in our cause. We are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated individuals. We also congratulate the fellow award winners who are making an impact in North Charleston. Watch the video of the ceremony here.