Lee County First Steps Annual Report 2021-2022

Collaborating with other entities, Lee County First Steps helps South Carolina families and caregivers prepare their children for school success by maximizing public and private resources to ensure that children arrive at school healthy and ready to learn.

1. ENSURE CHILDREN ARE READY FOR KINDERGARTEN

By 2025, the percentage of children who score at the highest level on KRA will increase from to 39% to 47%.

2. REDUCE THE RACIAL/ETHNIC GAP IN KINDERGARTEN READINESS

Every child will thrive and reach his/her greatest potential…

By 2025, the gap in the percentage of children who score at the highest level on the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment between White Kindergartners and Black/Hispanic Kindergartners will reduce by 1% each year to 15%.

1. Parents will be engaged in their child (ren) educational activities.

2. To ensure children arrive at school ready to learn.

3. Ensuring children arrives at school healthy and ready to learn.

4. To build communication and bonding skills for families.

FIRST

IS HERE

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Alexis D. Pipkins, Sr. Executive Director

Lee County First Steps

Lee County First Steps has experienced the opportunity to be even more committed to providing programs, services, and support to the children and families in Lee County by being focused and driven to meet our overarching goal to ensure that children arrive at school healthy and ready to learn. With the vision, commitment, and fortitude of the Lee County First Steps Board Members, I have been committed to ensure that our partnership is focused-driven with developing strong sustainable partnerships that impacts Lee County, our region, state, and nation in a progressive manner. I have been committed to enhancing and strengthening our community ability to meet and reach the goals of our comprehensive plan. In fact, we have been able to expand our Save the Children Early Steps Program with funds from SC First Steps ESSER Parenting Competitive Grant Funds awarded to the agency in FY2023. Also, Lee County First Steps was able to expand the Strengthening Family Program in to two new additional counties-Darlington and Williamsburg, along with Lee, Florence, and Sumter Counties, which we were already providing service. Also, Lee County First Steps was fortunate to receive a major grant award from SC First Steps ESSER-3 Parenting Grant in the amount of $326,000 for 3 years to expand parenting programs and services in Lee County. Also, Save the Children provided Lee County First Steps with a $21,000.00 to host a local Parenting, Family, and Community Summit which provided the opportunity for over 400 children, parents to convene and receive information and services to improve the quality of life as well as to provide a safe haven for the community to come out and interact in positive, safe environment

Our leadership has solidified our long-standing collaboration with SC First Steps, Lee County School District, Children’s Trust of SC, Save the Children, Bishopville-Lee Child Development, Wateree Head Start-Bishopville Site . Also, I want to extend gratitude for the LEE TEAM , our employees, consultants, contractors, and volunteers that has been consistent with their work ethic to help us meet the needs of our children and families in such a dedicated manner. Their work ethic and commitment is intricately weaved throughout this FY 2023 Annual Report I would also like to salute all of the children, parents, grandparents, caregivers, Early Childhood Staff that have been enrolled in our programs and allowed us to be part of their families’ life in such a meaningful manner.

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

Andrew Moses Board Chair Lee County First Steps Board of Trustees

I am excited that Lee County First Steps has continued to provide high quality services for the children in our community and surrounding counties. Our Executive Director and the Staff have really made a positive impact by being a vibrant force to provide quality services and programs that work and improve the quality of life for those we serve. Knowing that we have one of the largest and most active Local Partnership Boards in the state, I believe that in it self speaks to our commitment as a Board to advocate to provide high quality child care, parenting, child care training for child care providers, and to provide core services in Lee County. Also, I want to thank all of our partners for helping us to expand our reach and provide more comprehensive services because truly their investment in Lee County has helped us to be a leader in the region and state to provide expanded services to children and families.

BOARD MEMBERS

Every child will thrive and reach his/her greatest potential…

Delois

I truly appreciate the opportunity that Lee County First Steps offer my great grandson the opportunity to attend child care.

MS. BRENDA HOLLMAN – GREAT-GRANDMA

Early Steps to School Success Cluster

Our trainings are fun, informative very easy to relate to and I can easily gather ideas on ways to make my classroom better from what I learned!!

FRANKIE

MAYES

BRIGHT START LEARNING CENTER, LEXINGTON, SC

I loved taking training classes with Mrs. Ella Mack (Lee County First Steps) she always made it fun and interesting! I always sign up every year for her classes! My name is Sheila Carlander and my daycare is just called Sheila's daycare because I am a home daycare provider in Lexington, SC

SHEILA CARLANDER

Mrs. Ella, I wanted to thank you for letting Doodle Bugs Daycare know about the classes for Lee County. We enjoyed the classes and learned a lot. We definitely get a lot from them. Thank you so much and we look forward to attending more classes.

CHARITY TAYLOR BAMBERG, SOUTH CAROLINA

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The staff at the Lee County First Steps in Bishopville is caring, devoted and extremely concerned about the well-being of the children in the community. They ensure that every child has the resources and support they need to flourish. In my closing, if each one reaches one, there will be no child left behind! Thank you, Lee County First Steps!

Stacey Sanders – Parent

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"I just looked in the activity bag and my heart was touched. I just wanted to thank y’all for just really thinking about me even though the kids received their gift bag at Ms. Samantha house. It means a lot. For me it’s not about the incentives or what I receive afterwards…… I just really want to have a better connection with my children. But I wanted to really thank y’all because (I can’t speak for anyone else)… but this program is really helping me personally with enhancing my parenting skills. I feel like it’s been an outlet for me…and other parents.

I truly believe that this program can change lives for so many people. Especially the ones that maybe don’t have that support or community in place to give them that guidance. Anyway, I can go on and on but I just wanted to tell you guys THANK YOU. If only you all knew in such little time how big of an Impact, you have made on my life. From a young parent who strives to be better!"

CURTELLA WILLIAMS, PARENT

"One of the most important things I appreciated about the strengthening family program is that the program always tells you to care and deeply show your love for each other all the time. Do things for each other and listen to each other. You don't need a lot of money but with whatever you have, make the best of it. Most of all we learn you must communicate. It made Cayden stronger and more honest by telling me his problems, good or bad and we are now talking them out and I'm listening more!!”

JESSIE BENJAMIN AND CAYDEN

“The Strengthening Family Program has improved our communication and relationship as aunt & niece. We play a lot of games with our family members. We really enjoyed being a part of the program.”

SUE BRACEY

CIRCLE OF PARENTS®

Circle of Parents® approaches sessions with the belief that all caregivers have the knowledge, skills and support to raise strong, resilient and happy children in the world. Circle of Parents® provides a friendly, supportive environment facilitated by trained facilitators, but each session is led by parents and other caregivers. It’s a place where anyone in a parenting role can openly discuss the successes and challenges of raising children. Circle of Parents® is a place where parents can find and share support. The Circle of Parents groups were hosted in Lee, Florence, Sumter, and Williamsburg Counties free of charge, and fostered an open exchange of ideas, support, information and resources. Each of the groups serve those parenting children of all ages and families of all types, with the over arching goal of helping parents find support.

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Addressing the needs of young children is a shared endeavor. In addition to providing services to families and support for child care providers, Lee County First Steps mobilizes partners and community members to ensure all children in Lee County begin school ready to succeed. We serve as a:

90community partners

We love the work that Lee County First Steps does in the community and always happy to help as much as we can. We value the partnership and look forward to continue working together.

Angela Simon – Coordinator Chappell Park

Through partnerships and collaborations, as well as financial support from grants and contributions, Lee County First Steps leverages state dollars to enhance and expand services to children and families.

FUNDING SUPPORT

State of South Carolina: $200,994 (through South Carolina First Steps)

Children’s Trust of South Carolina: $442,246.53

Save The Children (ESSS): $454,846.53 Preschool Development Grant Funds $19,908

City of Bishopville $1000.00

Lee County $1000.00

SC First Steps AmeriCorps: $3,248

SC One Fund (Lee County Interagency RL1)

Central Carolina: $33,818.00

2022 Early Childhood Summit Sponsor

Save the Children $21,000.00

IN - KIND SUPPORT

Save the Children SC Department of Social Services $21,000.00

JOIN US

For more information on partnership opportunities, visit our website at leefirststeps.wixsite.com/lcfs

Full - Time Staff:

Elder Alexis D. Pipkins, Sr., Ed.S., Executive Director

Mrs. Gloria M. Burris, Early Childhood Coordinator, ESSS

Ms. Felicia Evans, MA, Early Childhood Coordinator, ESSS

Ms. Anderia Wilson, Early Childhood Coordinator, ESSS

Ms. Sheila Robinson, Early Childhood Coordinator, ESSS

Mr. William E. Robinson, Jr. Early Childhood Coordinator, ESS

Ms. Danielle Boyd, Program Manager

Mrs. Takara Brooks, Program & Fiscal Assistant

Program Consultants:

Ms. Mamie C. Bostic, MBA, Senior Program Manager SFP (6 - 11)

Mrs. Bessie Sanders - Gordon, MSW, MA, Program Manager, SFP (6 - 11)

Ms. Danielle Boyd, Site Coordinator, SFP (6 - 11) Florence County and AmeriCorps Member

Ms. Diana C. Williams, Site Coordinator, SFP (6 - 11) Lee County

Ms. Sharon Hunter - Graham, Site Coordinator, SFP (6 - 11) Sumter County

Ms. M. DeLoris LeGrant , Site Coordinator, SFP (6 - 11) Program Support

Ms. Rudine McLeod, Data and Program Support

Mrs. Rosa Bowman, Fiscal Support

CONTACT US

722 West Church Street; Bishopville, SC 29010 | 803 - 484 - 5110 |

EARLY CHILDHOOD SUMMIT 2022

Lee County First Steps FY 2021 Annual Meeting

LEE COUNTY FIRST STEPS FY 2021 ANNUAL MEETING

LEE COUNTY FIRST STEPS TESTIMONIES FROM OUR PARENTS

First step has helped my family in so many ways from the great books they give, the handouts, activity and home visits from my coordinator Ms. Burris. My children and I have learned a lot from this program. They also have great parent groups and events for the children and adults I'm really enjoying my years with them.

Lee County First Steps has helped me tremendously. Once I was too far along to work anymore Ms. Gloria supplied me with Diapers, wipes bottles and a lot of essentials that I needed. As My daughter grows she consistently provides me with age appropriate reading materials and books which help in teaching her as she grows. Grateful for this program.

The First Steps program has been such a blessing to me and my family. Everyone has always been very pleasant to work with and showed good professionalism. Mrs. Gloria has been heaven sent! She has always been there when I needed her and just a phone call away. I would highly recommend the program to anyone who needs it. From the abundance of food and supplies I couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you First Steps for touching the lives in our community in a way you can’t imagine and for allowing me and my family to be a part of it.

Lee County First Steps has given me a chance to work with my two children from ages six months to two. I have been working with my Plan and Play activities with Ms. Shelia. She has given me the plans of development and given me tips on how to plan other activities to explore my children learning environment. I look forward to my two monthly visits and my children goody bags that Ms. Shelia brings with her. I truly appreciate the pampers, soap, food boxes, books, sleepwear, baby bottles, balls and other children accessories.

Thank You from Alexis Mickens

Danielle Rouse

Beverly Shirley

Diona Brown

Lee County First Steps has really been a tremendous help to me in introducing literacy to my toddler and getting him ready for school. Resources were provided for me to apply to my toddler growing in his communication, fine and gross motor skills, personal- social skills and problem solving skills. I was grateful for the books, oral hygiene products, sleepwear, and food boxes that were provided to me and my family. Thank you so much Lee County First Steps.

First Steps helps has helped immensely with helping me with childcare, so I can move on with my education/career. I really appreciate Ms. Gloria's genuine care and concern for me and my son. I've very new to the program but and greatly looking forward to participating in future activities. Thank you!

First step is a great program for mothers and children. First step has helped me a lot and for that I’m very thankful. They helped me so much with pampers, books to help my baby learn, and clothing. Thank you so much for all you have done!

Lee County First Steps played a major role in my third month baby love for reading. Ms. Sheila encouraged me to read to her when I was pregnant with her. Now at three months Delaine loves when either her parents or her grandmother reads to her. She tends to get very animated on books she really loves. The more a book has a rhyming scheme or even a colorful picture she's immediately captured by it . She also gets very upset when you stop reading to her. She loves books just as much as listening to music or even playing with her.

Thanks, Ms. Amearia Houston

Valkeyia Wilson

Virginia Ross

Keisha Graham

First let me say a big thank you to the hardworking team of the Bishopville branch. You all stood to the test and made sure you provided us parents with vital information that we needed in building and sustaining the development of our children. I can truly speak of the invaluable benefits of the the First Step Program. The presentations were applicable to the growth of our young ones and they were presented to us parents in an easy to understand manner. The resources that were given were things of importance and things that added value to the upbringing of our children. I do wish that this program will grow from strength to strength and will continue to be of benefit to many more parents.

I am a young mother, and had little to no idea as being a parent, but Lee County First Steps has given me the tools to help my child’s growth. Ms. Shelia has given me the opportunity to learn about myself, as well as the tools with the Plan and Play to help my child with the stages of development. I have learned how my baby can communicate by watching and interacting with her daily. I love singing songs, talking to her, reading stories, and keeping her on a schedule. I have created a photo portfolio to keep track of her development. I am very thankful for the food boxes, liquid soap, books, pajamas and pampers.

Thanks, Nyasia Mickens

The First Steps Program has been there for me and my son since the beginning, every step of the way. They have impacted his life in more ways than one. From the extremely useful, educational materials he has received down to the awesome toys; this program has been a helping hand indeed! From a parent's perspective, I really enjoyed and appreciate the beneficial resources that I have received as well like the hand soaps, gift cards, and the teachable lessons I have learned so that I can be the best parent/teacher that I could be to my child. As he progresses in these early stages of life, I can honestly state that I am more equipped and informed because of First Steps. This has been the most supportive program that I have the pleasure to partake in. Moreover, it has been such a blessing and I appreciate everything about it! So, in closing I would like to genuinely say.. thank you so much.

Monique Clarke

Sharnice Bolden

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