SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

10/27/2026

What an incredible turnout for this year’s Bub Lollis Whitten Center Ride!

This annual charity motorcycle parade brings the community together to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. All of the funds and items raised directly benefit the residents of the Whitten Center, providing them with clothing, entertainment and special activities throughout the year.

The community showed up in full force, and the best part of the day was seeing the Whitten Center residents cheer, smile, and light up with pure joy as the bikes rolled through.

A massive thank you to the Woodlawn Ramblers Riding Club, the riders, and the volunteers for keeping this amazing 37-year tradition rolling strong. Your generosity packed the donation table and proved once again that the motorcycle community has the biggest heart around.

Thank you, Clinton!

10/26/2026

We loved partnering with the South Carolina State Fair for Sensory-Friendly Morning!

This special morning provided a calmer, more welcoming environment with lowered lights and quieter spaces, so that individuals with sensory needs could experience the fair comfortably.

Our partnership shows what happens when we work together to make community events truly inclusive. Thank you to the Fair for your commitment to accessibility, and to everyone who joined us!

10/26/2026

We’re hiring! Join BHDD at our upcoming hiring event at the Midlands Center and explore opportunities for direct support and nursing staff.

📅 Wednesday, October 28th | 9 am – 4 pm
📍 8301 Farrow Rd, Columbia, SC 29203
📞 803-898-9612

Apply online: careers.sc.gov
Come learn how you can make a difference while building a rewarding career with BHDD.

10/23/2026

Thank you to WIS TV for spotlighting Substance Use Prevention Month and Open Conversation SC! BHDD's Michelle Nienhius, manager of prevention and intervention services, joined WIS Sunrise this morning to share an important reminder: Substance use prevention starts at home.

Parents and caregivers can find helpful information and practical tips for starting conversations with their children at openconversationsc.com.

October is Substance Abuse Prevention Month, and South Carolina health officials say protecting youth starts with simple, everyday dialogue.

10/21/2026

A quieter zoo experience makes a big difference!

BHDD was proud to join at their Sensory-Friendly Day, sharing helpful resources with families while supporting a more welcoming, inclusive experience for the autism community.

10/20/2026

We’re hiring! Join BHDD at our upcoming hiring event at the Coastal Center and explore opportunities for direct support and nursing staff.

📅 Tuesday, October 27th | 9 am – 4 pm
📍 9995 Miles Jamison Road, Summerville, SC 29485
📞 843-821-5864

Apply online: careers.sc.gov

Come learn how you can make a difference while building a rewarding career with BHDD.

10/12/2026

Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed October Substance Use Prevention Month in South Carolina.

Prevention is a shared responsibility, and BHDD is proud to work alongside county alcohol and drug authorities, health care professionals, law enforcement, schools, faith communities, youth-serving organizations, and other partners to educate young people about the risks of substance use and help them build healthy coping skills.

Thank you to partners and families across the state for doing your part and to Governor McMaster for recognizing this important work.

10/06/2026

October is Substance Use Prevention Month!

BHDD encourages families and communities across South Carolina to talk openly about substance use and support healthy choices. Prevention starts with a simple question and listening without judgment.

Read our full press release: https://bhdd.sc.gov/news/SUPMonth26

Find free conversation tools: openconversationsc.com

10/02/2026

For Su***de Prevention Month, South Carolinians came together to share a vital reminder: .

This video is a collection of their photos, videos, and messages of hope. If you are going through a hard time, please reach out to a loved one or use the resources below. You don't have to carry the weight alone.

If you or someone you know needs support, free and confidential help is available 24/7:
Call or text 988 to reach the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

09/30/2026

In honor of Su***de Prevention Month, an artist within the Department of Corrections created a special painting of a ship and a life preserver. Depression and trauma can feel like drowning, but this artwork reminds us that help can come from unexpected places.
Through the Zero Su***de Initiative, the state is expanding mental health care for people in the justice system, inpatient facilities, and local communities. Every South Carolinian deserves support.

Need Help? Free Support is Available 24/7

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or substance use, free and confidential help is always available:

Call or Text: 988
Chat Online: 988sc.org

Social Media: Follow for year-round resources.

***dePreventionMonth ***de