The National Lieutenant Governors Association donates 100 STEM toys to the YMCA of Coastal Carolina

The National Lieutenant Governors Association donates 100 STEM toys to the YMCA of Coastal Carolina

Originally published April 25, 2024 by the YMCA of Coastal Carolina

The YMCA of Coastal Carolina was the proud recipient of the NLGA STEM Service Project donations at the National Lieutenant Governors Association Spring Meeting.  

David Byrd, Chief Executive Officer for the YMCA of Coastal Carolina thanked the NLGA participants and said, “STEM is a big part of our future. Our YMCAs across the United States and particularly here in South Carolina, focus heavily on STEM. I see it everyday with our kids and our families. We are honored today to receive this gift of 100 STEM toys.” 

Sponsored by BMW Manufacturing Co, NLGA Members wrapped and donated 100 STEM-related toys to the YMCA of Coastal Carolina to give to kids in our programs.  As of April 1, 2024, more than 450 youth in six states or territories have STEM opportunity as a direct result of NLGA Members meeting and working together.

“Getting our kids involved and engaged with STEM is so important to developing the workforce of tomorrow” said Lt. Governor Pamela Evette. “We are thankful to BMW for their support and the YMCA of Coastal Carolina for providing hands-on learning experiences throughout the school year and during the summers — allowing parents to get to work and helping our kids to thrive.”

YMCA Afterschool and Summer Camp programs incorporate STEM, literacy, academic support, and physical activity into the daily schedules. Evidence shows that providing out-of-school time (OST) learning directly impacts what is possible to learn inside classrooms — just as what happens in classrooms impacts OST learning.

Hatton Gravely, Chief Development Officer for the YMCA of Coastal Carolina, adds, “Kids learn through play, and these STEM toys will enhance what the kids are learning in school and at the Y in programs. We are so grateful to be selected by the NLGA for this wonderful gift!”

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette supports expansion of home visit programs for SC moms, babies

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette supports expansion of home visit programs for SC moms, babies

By Dejon Johnson | Originally posted by ABC 15 News on Wed, Feb. 2024

RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. (WACH) — On Wednesday, Legislative leaders held a press conference supporting home visit programs that serve South Carolina mothers and babies.

The press conference was held at 11:30 am at the South Carolina State House.

Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette reaffirmed the states commitment to maternal health and early childhood development.

Lt. Gov. Evette was joined by Senator Katrina Shealy, other legislative leaders, Chidren’s Trust CEO Sue Williams and a mom who benefitted from the home visiting programs.

“I have seen first-hand the invaluable work being done by Children’s Trust home visiting programs in our state,” said Lt. Governor Evette. “By offering guidance and support directly within the families’ homes, these programs empower parents and caregivers with the tools and resources they need to provide the best possible start in life for their children.”

Less than 10 percent of eligible families in South Carolina receive voluntary home visiting services. 

South Carolina will be able to serve more families through a state financial investment that would get matched 3-to-1 by the federal Maternal Infant and Early Childhood Home Visiting grant. 

“Investing in early childhood development is one of the most effective ways to build a brighter future for our state,” said Williams. “By supporting home visiting programs, we are investing in the well-being of our children and the strength of our communities,” said Sue Williams.

For more information about home visiting programs in South Carolina, visit scChildren.org.