Clarendon County First Steps is a local nonprofit that works collaboratively to ensure that all children start school ready to reach their highest potential. We achieve this goal by engaging families, caregivers, and community partners in high-quality programs and services that improve early childhood development, from before birth through age five. We also serve as a connector and convener of all early childhood stakeholders in Clarendon County.
Clarendon County First Steps is a local partnership of South Carolina First Steps, the state’s dedicated early childhood initiative. As with each local partnership, we operate as an independent nonprofit with a local board and staff. Because our community has unique needs and resources, we tailor our offerings to best meet the needs of local families.
Darla Lee, Board Chair
Countdown to Kindergarten supports transitions into kindergarten by connecting incoming students, their families, and their teachers in a series of one-on-one sessions during the summer.
Home visitation and group support for families, before birth and through age five.
Certified and registered training hours for the early childhood workforce
Intensive support to child care centers, Head Start and preschool classrooms to improve quality
Eligible children receive tuition-free enrollment at quality child care centers
Translation services are available.