About Us

Our History

Founded as the SC Therapeutic Association in 1962 by a Methodist Minister, the Reverend Eli Alston Wilkes, the Alston Wilkes Society’s (AWS) original mission was to provide rehabilitative services to adults released from correctional facilities in South Carolina. Over the years this mission has expanded to serve those returning from State and Federal institutions, at-risk youth, Veterans and their families, and those experiencing homelessness in our community.

Our Mission

The mission at AWS is “Rebuilding Lives for a Safer Community” and we look to achieve that by providing the assistance and resources necessary for our clients to find the security and stability that allows them to become productive members of society, Our programs work in partnership with the Veterans Administration and Federal Bureau of Prisons and are nationally accredited.

Our Values

Our primary responsibility is to those we serve. The success of the Alston Wilkes Society is measured by how we meet our responsibilities to clients, employees, volunteers, partner agencies, and our community. We operate in the spirit of doing unto others as we would have them do unto us.

Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are all part of the Alston Wilkes Society DNA. We believe our Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive workforce allows all of us to better serve others. Together, we promote an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of all of our employees. No discrimination of any kind will ever be tolerated within the Alston Wilkes Society. Our shared commitment to social responsibility, innovation, and excellence requires us to always be mindful of and dedicated to these values.

Professional Affiliations

American Correctional Association 
Council on Accreditation 
Correctional Accreditation Managers Association
Foster Family-Based Treatment Association of Homes & Family Services
International Community Corrections Association
Palmetto Association for Children & Families
S.C. Association of Non-Profit Organizations 
S.C. Correctional Association
S.C. Jail Administrators Association
S.C. Law Association
S.C. Law Enforcement Officers Association
S.C. Probation, Parole & Pardon Services
Southern States Correctional Association
United Way