Charlotte Couples’ Startup Tackles Loneliness with Community Events
In the vibrant city of Charlotte, a local couple is on a mission to transform apartment living from a place of solitude into a thriving community atmosphere. David and Monica Hickman, the co-founders of SocialHub, have developed a unique solution to combat the feelings of loneliness that affect so many residents living in apartment complexes. With more than 100 properties already benefiting from their services across the Carolinas, their story is one worth sharing!
The Catalyst: A Void in Community Engagement
It all started back in 2021 when the Hickmans were living in an apartment complex themselves. They noticed a significant lack of social activities and opportunities for residents to mingle, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. “We realized that many people, especially those living in apartments, were experiencing high levels of isolation,” David explained. “The epidemic of loneliness was seriously affecting community connections, and we wanted to change that.” Their solution? Build a platform that fosters a sense of community through exciting resident events.
What SocialHub Brings to the Table
SocialHub specializes in organizing fun and engaging events that cater to apartment residents’ social needs. Imagine cocktail soirées, themed parties, and cozy movie nights, all perfectly planned! The Hickmans understand the demands of property management, which is why their company acts as a third-party service provider that takes the pressure off leasing teams.
“Leasing agents and community managers often find themselves overwhelmed with their daily tasks,” shared David. “By partnering with us, they can focus on what really matters—leasing, rent collection, and property maintenance.”
A Menu of Experiences
Each month, the properties working with SocialHub can select between one to three different events from a tantalizing list curated by the Hickmans and their team. They work alongside various vendors to provide everything from catering and mixologists to beautiful decorations and setup assistance, ensuring no detail is overlooked. And once the fun is over, they even create recap videos and photos to help communities showcase their events online!
A Growing Success
Since its inception, SocialHub has made remarkable strides, generating over $1 million in annual revenue in just three years. As of now, they employ around 21 full-time and part-time staff, all dedicated to enhancing community living. “We’ve built something truly special,” David proudly stated, highlighting the importance of community engagement not just for residents, but also for property owners and operators who see added value in fostering a vibrant living environment.
Expanding Horizons
Looking ahead, SocialHub isn’t slowing down. The Hickmans have plans to branch out to Jacksonville, Florida, early next year, and by 2026, they hope to expand their footprint across the Southeast with potential franchise opportunities. “We believe everyone deserves a chance to enjoy a sense of belonging, and we are working tirelessly to make that happen,” Monica shared, her excitement palpable.
Community and Connection
Through their commitment, David and Monica are not just enhancing apartment living—they are changing lives. By bringing people together and encouraging connections, they are tackling one of the most pressing issues in modern society head-on. So, if you live in an apartment in the Carolinas and crave a little more community spirit in your life, keep an eye out for SocialHub—they might just be the key to unlocking a more joyful living experience for you and your neighbors!
