SVP Charlotte Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Investee Alumni, Heart Math Tutoring

Our partners dedicate their time, resources, and networks to bolster the stability and impact of local nonprofits. The return on investment may be gradual, but the undeniable positive results speak volumes about the power of collaboration. A prime example of this is Heart Math Tutoring (HMT), which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. Click here for a recap and video of the celebration.

Starting as a small pilot program launched by SVP Partners in 2010, HMT officially incorporated as a 501c3 in 2014. From 2010 through 2018, SVP invested over $300,000 and hundreds of volunteer hours into HMT. We are proud it has grown into a multi-city nonprofit. Their impactful tutoring is improving the math skills of over 6,200 students across 20 schools and positively affecting the lives of numerous volunteers.

HMT’s mission is to build a robust math foundation and foster academic enthusiasm among elementary students performing below grade level. The program, initially named “HEART”, was launched in 2010 by SVP Charlotte, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and Communities In Schools. Over three years, the team offered free tutoring to 200 students. In 2013, HMT became an independent nonprofit, with many original SVP volunteers, including Steve Beam, Michael Clifton, and Anne Leggett, joining its inaugural board. SVP Charlotte’s partnership with HMT has deepened over the years, leading to significant milestones such as:

• Hiring Emily Gaffney as the organization’s CEO who has led the growing organization since 2013.
• Facilitating HMT’s connection with McGuireWoods for its 501c3 incorporation.
• Linking HMT with local funders like the Foundation for the Carolinas, Wells Fargo, and the Reemprise Fund.
• Supporting Heart Math’s expansion to new cities through a process mapping Spark Team project.
• Recruiting SVP Partners to serve as volunteer tutors, many of whom remain active over 10 years later, including Minna Elliot, Catherine Fischer, Jennifer Davis-Martin, Denise and Jim Ratchford, and many more.

Reflecting on her experience with HMT as a volunteer tutor and current board member, SVP Partner Margret Marshall shared, “Watching HEART math tutoring grow and thrive – just like the students it serves and the community it builds – has been a joy. Here’s to more growth ahead!” HMT’s enduring success underscores SVP Charlotte’s conviction in the power of collaboration to enhance social impact.

Interested in joining fellow SVP Partners as a tutor for HMT? Click here to learn more.