Message from our Board Chair
I am honored to serve as Board Chair of Anderson County First Steps. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and every family deserves a community that believes in their potential.
As we look ahead, we celebrate the success of our programs while recognizing the ongoing need to support children and families. Thanks to the dedication of our staff, partners, volunteers, and supporters, we have expanded opportunities, strengthened partnerships, and exceeded many of our goals.
We are proud to be part of an Anderson County community that cares deeply and works together to create brighter futures for all children.
This year, we are building on that momentum through a new Strategic Plan that strengthens our commitment to meeting families where they are. Together, we are creating pathways to early learning, family engagement, and lifelong success. Thank you for your continued support of this important work.
Sheryl McCollum
Board Chair
Anderson County First Steps
107 Broadbent Way
Anderson, SC 29625
Phone: 864-222-0410
email: 1stepsac@bellsouth.net
- Executive Director's Message
On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to partners, staff, community leaders, school districts, and South Carolina First Steps for supporting Anderson County’s youngest learners. Over the past five years, Anderson County First Steps has grown from five to eight programs, expanding services for children ages 0–5 and their families.
In FY26, our programs strengthened parenting, early education, school transition, and family support efforts. Our new Reach Out and Read program supported an estimated 1,375 children and distributed 2,541 books. The HIPPY program served 17 families, met all required outcomes, and is projected to reach 48 families in FY27. Countdown to Kindergarten and Countdown to 4K served a record number of families, reflecting our continued growth and impact.
As we reflect on the past year, we celebrate the families, partners, and staff who made these successes possible. Together, we remain committed to our community.
Paige Wall
Executive Director
Anderson County First Steps
107 Broadbent Way
Anderson, SC 29625
Phone: 864-222-0410
email: 1stepsac@bellsouth.net
Executive Director Paige Wall Honored with United Way Community Impact Grant
Anderson County First Steps is celebrating as Executive Director Paige Wall was awarded with a United Way Community Impact Grant during a reception held on July 28, 2026, at Tri-County Technical College. United Way was excited to grant $250,000. to 22 organizations serving Anderson County.
Paige Wall demonstrates exceptional leadership and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children and families throughout Anderson County. Under her guidance, the organization has continued to expand its reach, strengthen community partnerships, and deliver programs that create lasting, positive change.
“We are incredibly proud of Paige and grateful for her dedication to the children of Anderson County,” the organization shared. “Her passion and leadership continue to inspire our team and the community we serve.”
The organization also extended its appreciation to United Way of Anderson County for its ongoing support and partnership. The Community Impact Grants represent United Way’s continued investment in local initiatives that foster stability, opportunity, and long-term community wellbeing.
For more information about the programs Anderson County First Steps offers, please contact our office at o 864-222-0410 or visit our website https://andersonfirststeps.org.