For Ned McNair, addressing poverty in the Lowcountry became more than an observation, it became a calling.

After moving to the South Carolina Lowcountry decades ago, Ned was struck by the contrast he saw every day: areas of great beauty and prosperity existing side by side with deep generational poverty. That reality stayed with him, shaping his perspective and prompting a lifelong question of how could meaningful change happen for children growing up in those circumstances?

That question eventually led to the founding of Real Champions Inc. Alongside Dr. Carl Martin, Ned helped create the organization with a shared vision: to break the cycle of generational poverty by investing directly in the lives of vulnerable children.

Real Champions takes a unique approach to mentorship. Rather than short-term programs, the organization pairs professionally trained, full-time Advocate mentors with children beginning in early elementary school and walking with them all the way through high school graduation. These mentors invest deeply in each child’s development, academically, emotionally, and socially, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

As a member of the board, Ned continues to champion this mission and the long-term impact it can have on families and communities throughout the region. His heart for service and commitment to meaningful solutions helped lay the foundation for a program designed not just to help children survive difficult circumstances, but to give them the support needed to truly thrive.

Through Real Champions, Ned and the team are working toward a future where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and become a champion in their own story.