06/12/2024
Our latest edition features two beloved Newberrians...
Meet Eddie and Cindy Long, a lovely family whose journey to being approachable, kind, compassionate business owners embodies the essence of making a difference in our local community.
Their story began on the stage of the Ritz Theater in 2005, where they portrayed a married couple in the play "You Can't Take it with You." Little did they know that their on-stage roles would manifest into a real-life partnership. Cindy states, “God was probably laughing and saying…little do you know...you will be married soon! And sure enough, our acting role became our real-life role 1 year and 2 months after those first words were spoken. We married May 13, 2006 so are celebrating 18 years together.” Today, their pursuit of each other is unmatched. A rare bond beautifully woven together.
With backgrounds in media arts and business administration, Eddie and Cindy seamlessly blended their skills and passions, embarking on a journey of service together. From their early years working in the ministry of Young Life to their pivotal encounter with the End It Movement, which opened their eyes to the prevalence of modern-day slavery, the Longs have been on a mission to make a difference. “After learning that many of the products we consume on a daily basis actually contribute to modern-day slavery, we felt called to do more to “End It.” God began teaching us about Fair Trade, a system that seeks to ensure there is no slave labor in supply chains while paying fair wages to farmers and reinvesting in their communities and the environment,” continued Eddie, “along with some friends, we began dreaming about a fair trade business that educates our community about modern-day slavery and enables them to combat it with their purchases. In 2018 we opened up our first business together in downtown Newberry entitled Genesis Hub.” Now in 2024, Genesis is planning to open a second location in Whitmire!
For leisure, one of their favorite activities is going to the beach with an umbrella and a good book. They relax by reading most of the day and then playing some Bocce on the beach. Eddie enjoys playing Disc Golf with friends and has been playing for over 20 years. Eddie mountain bikes in Lynches Woods!
Highly educated as you’d expect, Cindy Graduated from Newberry College with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and Eddie Graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor in Media Arts. Through Genesis Hub, they not only educate their community about the realities of modern-day slavery but also empower individuals to combat it through conscious consumerism.
Their commitment to fair trade principles ensures that every purchase made supports ethical practices, fair wages, and community development. “It's been awesome to see God use this business to educate people and use this little town to make a big global impact,” said Eddie.
Beyond their business endeavors, Eddie and Cindy are deeply involved in the community. Whether it's participating in local events like Oktoberfest and Community Movie Nights or supporting initiatives for public service workers and veterans, the Longs exemplify the spirit of giving back.
Their family extends beyond human connections to their cherished fur babies, Sophie and Sadie, who bring joy and laughter into their lives.
Sophie is 9 years old and is a Maltese and Westie White Terrier Mix. She was adopted from Canine Rescue at 8 weeks old (rescued from a puppy mill) in North Augusta.
As a true Southerner, Sophie has a couple of different names. Cindy calls her “Sophie Sue,” and Eddie gave her the name “Sophie the Warrior Princess.” They laugh and say she must have misunderstood and thought it was Sophie the Worrier Princess - because she worries and is afraid of so many things. “If you change something in a room, for example - turn on a projector light, she worries. Thunder, lighting, children, other dogs (besides her sister), and beeping noises make her very nervous. But then, things she should be scared of, like moving cars - she is not afraid! Sophie is a Daddy's girl,” explained Cindy.
Sadie is 8 years old and is a Maltese. She was also adopted as a puppy from Canine Rescue in North Augusta. Cindy calls her “Sadie Mae,” and Eddie gave her the name “Sadie the Spirit Warrior.” Sadie is a Mommy's girl and is the opposite of Sophie when it comes to worrying over changes or something new. Sadie is more relaxed and wants to have fun and play with her squeaky toys - no matter if it's thundering outside or not.... (as long as her Mommy is around, that is… Sadie also communicates with her eyes, letting you know (and staring you down) until you understand what she is trying to say.
They are very passionate about their faith. They agree, “Social media and news media often portray America as very divided and politically polarized. We don't have to follow that trajectory. Jesus shows us how to love our neighbor well, and he defines our neighbor as EVERYONE, even our enemies. We live in a small town that outsiders find very friendly and inviting. Keep loving each other in that radical way as we move into a divisive political season. We can be a city on a hill that brings light and love to all who visit!”
As they navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and community engagement, Eddie and Cindy find solace in simple pleasures like walking their dogs, playing games, and spending quality time with family.
Where kindness and compassion are invaluable currencies, Eddie and Cindy Long constantly push for better, reminding us all that kindness, generosity, and ethical living can truly change the world, one community at a time.
