Youth Services

The Midlands Community Development Corporation (MCDC) is convinced that communities should share the responsibility for shaping our youth and providing the best possible resources for them.  Families and our schools cannot do it all but supplemental supports such as those provided through our youth services can help to develop the leaders of the future. 

After School Programs
Several options are available to parents looking for constructive ways to occupy their children's afternoon hours. 

• Kids Café (Billy Jefferson – 803.695.2648)
  Participants in the after school programs also are eligible for free hot meals and snacks as a part of their after school program.  Nutritional education is also offered.  Students may also qualify to receive food items to share with their families.  
• Dream Catchers (Violet Staley – 803.647.0178)
  Elementary and middle school students looking to improve their grades and standardized test score performances are the perfect candidates for this program.  Homework assistance, tutorial services, character education (Total Recovery Network) , Youth Financial Literacy Training (Bank of America) are all a part of the nine-week curriculum.  Income eligibility guidelines apply. 
• CETP (Kris Clark – 803.695.6900)
  High school students with an interest in exploring educational and career options will enjoy this four week course.  Employment readiness is a feature of this program and students learn practical principles on applying for jobs.  An aptitude and interest survey is administered from which an education/career development plan is drafted with the student.  Limited job placement assistance is possible for employment ready students and adults who qualify.  

About Face (Colonel Terrance Staley – 803.776.1418)
Students interested in education enhancement activities as well as work experience are invited to apply for the About Face program.  Thirty students are accepted in each of the 5 terms offered.  Students may participate for multiple terms, each of which lasts eight weeks.

College Information and Referral (Barbara Green – 803.695.4196)
A representative from the University of South Carolina is on hand each week to help interested persons learn more about education and career choices, institutions of higher learning, and financial aid.  Services are available to youth and adults.  For more information.