Our History

Established in 1948, the Exchange Club on the Isle of Palms was instrumental in the development of the Isle of Palms and continues to be a pillar of the community. The club provided the first means of mosquito control for the island residents and financed and provided staff for the Island’s first fire wagon. In 1952, the Exchange Club sponsored the organization of a volunteer fire department, all before the incorporation of the city of the Isle of Palms.  

The Exchange Club was constantly working to meet the needs of the young people.  In 1953 one project resulted in the start of the playground, with the club obtaining and moving its first building to the playground property. 

In 1961, on land donated b J.C. Long, a charter member of the club,  the current club house was built at cost of $10,000. The older white street signs on the island were provided by the Exchange Club.

 

The Club also supported the first church on the island, an interdenominational group that met at the Exchange Club building, and sponsored the construction of a 2,100 foot long airport which provided a landing filed for light aircraft. The land is now being used as a golf course on Waterway Boulevard.

Over the past several decades, the IOP Exchange Club has grown and continues to bring on new member helping hands.  IOPEC was recently recognized by the National Exchange Club as one of the fastest growing clubs. 

 

We've also completed several improvement projects like our new Waterfront Seawall, Dock and Pier, along with establishing new partnerships with Sponsors and Community Organizations like Law Enforcement Neighborhood Support (LENS) and Carolina Youth Development Center (CYDC), while maintaining strong relationships with our partners like the VA, Windwood Farm and HALOS.

 

As a fixture in the community the IOP Exchange Club continues to work in partnership with the city for many activities, including sponsoring teams at the recreation center, participating in the island's festivals and events, and hosting the annual Isle of Palms Connector Run and Walk for the Child.