(Columbia, SC)—Family Connection of South Carolina is pleased to welcome Ashley Abbott to their board of directors. Family Connection provides resources and services to South Carolina families who have a child with a disability or chronic health condition.

Ashley Ellison Abbott is a mother of four girls, a wife of 22 years, and a teacher by heart. Her husband Brandon is a self-made entrepreneur who retired two years ago after Ashley became very ill. After overcoming this life-threatening illness, Ashley has devoted her life to serving others and creating spaces of empowerment and inclusion. Drawing on her family’s business experience, Ashley and Brandon purchased Bitty & Beau’s Coffee and later Shiloh Abbott Ranch to create opportunities for others.

Shiloh Abbott Ranch empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through life skills training, micro-business development, and sustainable housing. Inspired by Genesis 49:10, the Abbotts believe each person is a unique creation of God. Their vision is to build the world’s first self-sustaining, non-government-funded community that fosters independence, dignity, and belonging. The ranch is a place of healing and retreat, featuring a petting zoo, agriculture, events, camping, horseback riding, and creative outlets—all led by residents of the farm. The goal of the farm is to create opportunities for every individual to thrive and share their gifts with the world.

Ashley currently serves on the Chamber of Commerce Board and has volunteered with multiple local organizations and community initiatives. Her heart for service reflects her belief that no one is ever overlooked in God’s eyes, and that every person deserves the chance to shine.

Amy Holbert, CEO of Family Connection of South Carolina says: “We are honored to have Ashley Abbott join us in this leadership role on our board of directors. She will be joining a dedicated team of volunteer leaders committed to the providing strategic guidance to our organization.” 

Also serving on the Family Connection of South Carolina Board of Directors: Alfonso Franco, Community Impact Director for the American Heart Association of the Midlands, and Board President; Karen Crider, State Treasurer’s Office; Cara O’Neill, M.D., Chief Science Officer and Co-Founder of Cure Sanfilippo Foundation and Board Secretary; John Roberts, CLO, JJE Capital Holdings; Jenny Anderson, COO, IntelliKid Systems: Monty Robertson, Director, Alliance for a Healthier SC; Cathy Stevens, Director of the White-Riley-Peterson Afterschool Policy Fellowship at Furman University; Mitchell L. Yell, Ph.D., Fred and Francis Lester Palmetto Chair in Teacher Education and a Professor in Special Education at the University of South Carolina.