My name is Shaun Blake and I am honored to be selected for this interview. I am the CEO of The MB6 Foundation, a local non-profit that works with the local recreation departments to help underprivileged youth. I have lived in the Golden Strip area almost 35 years. I met my wife of nearly 25 years here in the Golden Strip. We have raised three daughters and a son here and plan to remain in the community for the foreseeable future. I enjoy spending time with my family and golfing when I get the opportunity.
Q: Tell us about yourself, including a little bit about where you grew up, your education, your family, interests, passions, and career?
I lived in south Florida until 8th grade when my family moved to the upstate. I graduated from Mauldin High School in 1993, and recently went back to college to get my AS in Business Management. I am married to my lovely wife, Joan, and we have three daughters. My son, Michael, passed away in 2014, which led to the eventual start of The MB6 Foundation, which has become my passion.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in The Golden Strip?
I have lived in the Golden Strip area for almost 35 years, most of my life.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I was recently appointed to the Greenville Tech Charter High School Board of Directors.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in The Golden Strip?
I have had the opportunity to meet many interesting people through my work with The MB6 Foundation but one of my favorites would be meeting Emanual Sullivan.
Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about The Golden Strip?
I would say Golden Park. I spent a lot of time there, back when they had the batting cages, driving range, and mini-golf.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about The Golden Strip?
The feeling of community throughout the whole of the Golden Strip.
Q: With so much growth in our area, there are always new places popping up. Tell us about the a “new to you” place that you recently tried.
We recently dined at the new Papa’s and Beer in Mauldin and had an enjoyable meal. We were glad to see the new location had finally opened.
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
Three words or phrases I think of when considering Home or Neighbor are Community, Helpfulness, and Welcoming.
Q: If you had friends or family visiting you from out of town, what is the one place that you must take them to?
We would definitely try to get them out to one of the area Farmers Markets. It is always fun to see what the local vendors have made to sell.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
If I had a day with no plans, I would likely be found on a golf course.
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
If I had to choose a known star, I would pick Keanu Reeves.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
One of the items on my bucket list is to see The MB6 Foundation grow to serve the entire Upstate of SC.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, the worst response you can get is no.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
I would like to nominate Chris Cates of Wingnut’z Bar and Grill for this project.
