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Impact

Stories That Show What’s Possible

Through Greenville First Steps programs, families across Greenville County are gaining the tools and support they need to thrive. These success stories show the real impact of early childhood investment in our community

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Success Story

"Like public health." Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library helps set up children for success.
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HIPPY Success Story

Back at the table – together. HIPPY program supports parents as their child’s first teacher.
Read Full Story

Our Impact in Fiscal Year 2023–24

How We're Making a Difference

community members
were reached through outreach, public awareness efforts, and engagement activities
parents and caregivers
received direct services, tools, and training to support their role as a child’s first teacher
children
across Greenville County benefited from programs designed to boost early development and school readiness

Why It Matters

%
of Greenville County’s young children live in poverty or low-income households
%
kindergarteners in the county were considered “not ready” for school prior to engaging with early childhood supports

Evidence of Lasting Impact

A 2019 study showed that children enrolled in First Steps local services were:

%
more likely to score at the highest level on the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment
%
less likely to be chronically absent in kindergarten

Fast Facts

  • Community members reached: 16,181
  • Parents and caregivers served: 9,303
  • Children supported: 9,912
  • Early childhood poverty rate in Greenville County: 56%
  • Kindergarten readiness gap: 37% of kindergartners were not ready for school

Continued Growth Ahead

In response to these ongoing needs, Greenville First Steps is committed to expanding our reach and continuing to partner with families, childcare providers, healthcare clinics, and schools—ensuring more children enter kindergarten ready to succeed.

Childcare affordability and access
Expansion of evidence-based home visiting
Fair compensation for early childhood educators
Childcare affordability and access
Expansion of evidence-based home visiting
Fair compensation for early childhood educators

Annual Reports

Greenville First Steps is the county’s leading convener and connector in early childhood development—driving real impact by empowering families, supporting providers, and coordinating systems behind the scenes.

Quick Links

Contact Us

Email

info@greenvillefirststeps.org

Phone

864-248-4757

Address

700 N Pleasantburg Drive Greenville, SC 29607

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