Our History
LEAD Upstate brings the community and law enforcement together through appreciation and gratitude. Sponsors host the event to honor the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving their communities.
Participation and sponsorships grow each year, giving more people a way to thank the officers whose courage and selfless service help keep their communities safe.
Our Founder
Founder Seabrook Marchant has long held a special appreciation for law enforcement. As a member of Greenville’s Civil Service Commission, he helped oversee the hiring of the city’s police officers and firefighters.
That service gave him a close understanding of officers’ needs, concerns, and triumphs. His appreciation for their work became the foundation for LEAD Upstate.
LEAD Upstate began with Seabrook’s encounters with officers at Tommy’s Ham House. One morning, he and a friend saw officers waiting for breakfast and bought their meals as a gesture of appreciation.
That simple act inspired Seabrook to find more sponsors and continue the tradition. As officers from more municipal departments joined, the breakfast needed a larger venue.
A Growing Tradition
Seabrook arranged for the event to move to the Westin Poinsett, where officers could stop in between shifts to enjoy breakfast and fellowship with one another.
Along with breakfast, each officer receives a “valor bag” filled with gifts from local businesses and organizations. These contributions continue the tradition of thanking officers through the generosity of their community.
Connect with LEAD Upstate
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