The Waccamaw Youth Center (WYC) is a nonprofit, long-term residential facility located in Conway, South Carolina. It provides a safe and nurturing home for boys aged 12 to 21 who are in the custody of the South Carolina Department of Social Services. These young residents often come from backgrounds of neglect, abuse, abandonment, or other challenging circumstances. WYC’s mission is to offer stability, healing, and the tools necessary to help these boys transition successfully into adulthood.
History and Establishment
Founded in the early 2000s, WYC was created in response to the lack of long-term residential care for boys in foster care within the Pee Dee and Grand Strand regions of South Carolina. While there were facilities for girls, boys in need of a safe place often had limited options. Recognizing this gap, community leaders, donors, and social service advocates came together to establish WYC as the first and only group home of its kind in the region.
Programs and Services
Residential Care
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Provides 24/7 supervision, safe housing, and a structured environment.
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Residents live in a family-style setting where daily routines emphasize stability and responsibility.
Educational Support
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Boys attend local public schools or alternative programs depending on their needs.
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The center partners with teachers and schools to track progress and provide tutoring or additional academic assistance.
Life Skills and Vocational Training
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Practical training includes cooking, budgeting, job readiness, communication skills, and conflict resolution.
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Vocational workshops prepare boys for future employment opportunities.
Therapeutic Services
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Licensed counselors provide one-on-one and group therapy sessions.
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Trauma-informed care helps residents cope with emotional scars from past experiences.
Recreational and Extracurricular Activities
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Organized sports, art, music, and outdoor activities promote physical health and creativity.
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Field trips, cultural activities, and community service projects broaden horizons and foster social connections.
Facilities and Environment
The WYC campus is designed to create a safe, home-like atmosphere:
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Comfortable living quarters with shared bedrooms, a kitchen, and communal spaces.
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Recreational areas, sports fields, and outdoor spaces for physical activities.
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Counseling rooms and study areas for academic and therapeutic needs.
Community Involvement
The success of WYC is deeply tied to community partnerships. Local businesses, faith-based organizations, volunteers, and civic groups frequently contribute through donations, mentorship programs, and special events. Annual fundraisers and awareness campaigns help sustain the center’s operations and highlight the importance of supporting vulnerable youth.
Impact and Success Stories
The Waccamaw Youth Center has transformed the lives of hundreds of boys since its establishment. Many former residents have gone on to complete high school, pursue higher education, secure employment, and become independent adults. Alumni often return to share their experiences, serving as role models for current residents. The center’s impact extends beyond the boys—it also strengthens families, communities, and the broader foster care system in South Carolina.
Vision and Mission
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Mission: To provide a safe, nurturing environment where boys in foster care can heal, grow, and prepare for independent living.
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Vision: To break the cycle of abuse and neglect by equipping every resident with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need for a successful future.
