First Citizens Donates $40,000 to GGC Foundation

In 2011, First Citizens Foundation made a five year, $40,000 financial commitment to the Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC). Representatives from the bank recently presented $8,000 to the GGC to complete that commitment. The donation has been used to fund next-generation sequencing in the Center’s diagnostic and research laboratories.

“We are very appreciative of the long-standing relationship and support that we have had with First Citizens,” said Dr. Mike Friez, Director of the Greenwood Genetic Center’s Diagnostic Laboratories. “Their support has helped us ensure that our patients have access to the latest technology available.”

Next-generation sequencing technology provides families with faster and more accurate diagnoses for a variety of genetic conditions including autism, intellectual disability, and seizure disorders. “This technology has allowed us to provide answers for patients who may have been on a diagnostic odyssey for years, and in many cases, can guide treatment decisions,” said Friez.

“First Citizens is pleased to make this grant to the Greenwood Genetic Center Foundation,” said Jerry Stevens, Market Executive and Senior Vice President for the bank. “The additional resources we have provided will continue to support families across the state by advancing diagnostic testing and research discoveries, and we look forward to continuing to pledge our support for the Center’s mission.”

Photo Caption: L-R: Victoria Hann, Director of Development at GGC; Matt Howard, Vice President at First Citizens; Jerry Stevens, Market Executive and Senior Vice President at First Citizens; and Dr. Mike Friez, Director of the Diagnostic Laboratories at GGC.