A father’s journey: How First Steps helped Jordan thrive - SC First Steps

A Night to Celebrate Community - Tickets on sale now!

A father’s journey: How First Steps helped Jordan thrive

Jordan, a single father of two young children, James and Emily, faced the daunting task of raising his kids alone when they were just 3 and 14 months old. Understanding the importance of being the best parent possible, Jordan sought help and turned to his local First Steps in Laurens, South Carolina.

Laurens County First Steps recognized the urgency of Jordan’s situation and made room for him in the Parents as Teachers program, even though it was at capacity. This program provided Jordan and his children with regular personal visits from a certified parent educator, participation in group sessions, and access to vital resources. These tools and resources equipped Jordan with the knowledge and confidence he needed to thrive as a parent.

Today, Jordan is both a graduate of the program and an ongoing and active participant in group meetings. He is dedicated to continuous learning and supports other parents on their journeys. He says, "I wouldn't be the parent I am today without First Steps."

Support families like Jordan's

When you give to First Steps, you provide dads like Jordan with the tools and resources they need to maximize their strengths and ensuring that children like James and Emily have the best possible start in life.

Donate now to support First Steps and help fathers like Jordan build brighter futures for their families.

Topics: Local Partnerships, Parenting


More Blog Post Posts

National Home Visiting Week 2025

Read More

This National Home Visiting Week, we're highlighting the individuals who directly serve the families of their communities, building relationships and creating impact that lasts. Read what being a home visitor means to them and how their passion drives their work.

First Steps 4K Leader Spotlight: Janice Ironside, MEGA Child Development Center

Read More

Discover the inspiring journey of Janice. From her start as a licensed home care provider in Hawaii, she brought her passion to South Carolina 24 years ago to establish MEGA Child Development Center. Dedication and support from SCDSS and First Steps 4K fueled her pursuit of advanced degrees and a lifelong commitment to young learners. Get to know more about Janice, this month’s Leader Spotlight!

When We Come Together, Children Thrive

Read More

Last year, something beautiful happened in church basements, community centers, and school cafeterias across South Carolina. Parents arrived—nervous and exhausted but carrying hope: to be the best parents possible for their children. What they found was First Steps. And that hope starts with A Night to Celebrate Community. The funds raised from this event are distributed equally among all 46 counties, providing critical support that other funding sources can’t cover.