Meet Naya, a graduating senior at Benedict College and a dedicated First Five Intern with SC First Steps! Since November 2024, Naya has worked to improve First Five’s application process, making sure that the language is consistent throughout, the criteria for each organization is correct, and the statistics are up to date. One thing that set her First Steps experience apart? The guidance and support she received, plus the chance to explore her passion for public health and education while getting advice from professionals in the field. “Rachal, my supervisor, truly wants the best for me, just like everyone else in the office. It’s a tight-knit community here. There are so many programs, but they all work together so collaboratively, which is amazing!” she said. After graduating on May 9 with a bachelor’s in biology, Naya plans to take some time to save up before pursuing her nursing degree. She also hopes to stay with First Steps as an AmeriCorps VISTA before heading back to school. We can’t wait to see all that she accomplishes! #GraduateSpotlight #SCFirstSteps #Classof2025 (fb)

Meet Cate Jones, a master’s student in public health at the University of South Carolina and an evaluation student assistant for First Step’s Childcare Scholarship program! Since December 2024, Cate has been connecting with families across the state to hear how First Steps programs have made a real difference—whether by easing financial stress or supporting their everyday lives. “It was so special to hear directly from families about how this program [childcare scholarships] has touched their lives,” she shared. Through her work, Cate has gained valuable skills in communicating with diverse audiences—whether that’s talking with families, presenting her findings to a board for her master’s dissertation, or creating accessible communications materials for local partnerships. What’s next? After graduation on May 10, Cate plans to stay with First Steps through the end of June then continue her passion for child and family health into the nonprofit world. We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next! #GraduateSpotlight #SCFirstSteps #ClassOf2025 (fb)