Epworth

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day! This year, we join the global call for stronger support systems for individuals with Down syndrome. Epworth’s Early Intervention Center (EEIC), founded in 1980, has been at the forefront of providing essential support to children and families. Forty-five years later, we continue to offer high-quality services through our preschool on the Millwood Campus and Home-Based Early Intervention Services across Richland and Lexington County. Our dedicated, compassionate team is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of South Carolina’s children and families. To learn more about our Early Intervention Center, visit: https://lnkd.in/dmCj53si #WorldDownSyndromeDay #EarlyIntervention #EpworthEEIC

We were delighted to welcome South Carolina’s United Women in Faith organization to our campus today for their first in-person annual meeting and Legislative Advocacy Day since COVID. The group focuses on helping and advocating for South Carolina's women, children, and teens. About 140 women, representing United Methodist churches across the state, attended the event. They heard from inspiring guest speakers, including Epworth’s President and CEO, Beth Williams, and Jermaine Johnson, the District 52 member of the S.C. House of Representatives, about what they can do to help children, teens, and families in need. They enjoyed fellowship over a delicious lunch before spending the afternoon at the S.C. Statehouse. Here are a few photos from the day. https://lnkd.in/eGsJgTMZ

Did you know that we have a Foster Village on our Millwood Avenue Campus? Some Epworth foster parents wish to care for multiple children and keep siblings together, but may not have the current space to do so. Our Foster Village provides both the space and support they need to make a difference in the lives of children. As part of our campus community, children placed with these foster parents have access to our on-campus resources, and families have the perfect proximity to take part in campus events. To learn more, please contact Kendra Faile: 803-832-2285.

Yesterday, Dr. Sommer Garrett, our Epworth Center for Counseling Midlands Director, led a wonderful session for staff on self-care and compassion fatigue. Conversations on this subject are very important so that we can continue to do the work we do and do it well.

On Saturday, we had the privilege to be present at Mitchell Road Presbyterian Church to hear Jason Johnson speak. During this Night of Encouragement, Jason shared that as those of us considering fostering ponder if we have what it takes, we can rest assured in the fact that God does. And while there is no perfect time to foster, if we’re being obedient to God, we know He is working things together for good. “God is more pleased by our willingness to be faithful than He is concerned about our ability to produce a certain set of outcomes.” To learn more about becoming a foster parent with Epworth, visit MaybeMe.org or use the link below to register for our next Virtual Information session on Tuesday, April 1st from 6-7pm. We’d be honored to support you on this journey. https://lnkd.in/eXFQ4RsP

Today and every day, we are thankful for our incredible team members! We value the work you do in serving children and families both in Columbia and across the state. As we continue to grow, we’re excited to add more talented individuals to our Epworth team. Explore our job openings here and join us in our mission. https://lnkd.in/g2mCdip #EmployeeAppreciationDay

?? #WorkWithUs Wednesday Spotlight! ?? We’re excited to highlight our Home-Based Early Intervention Program and the opportunity to join our growing team! As we expand to serve more children and families in Richland County, we’re looking for a passionate Early Intervention Specialist to make a difference. In this role, you’ll work directly with children and families in their natural environments (like the home) to provide personalized, meaningful services. If you have a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and experience working with children from birth to age five with developmental delays, diagnoses, or disabilities, we’d love to connect with you! The job description and 3 minute application can be found here: https://lnkd.in/euQFy4EZ

According to the American Psychological Association, Gen Z is currently facing the most significant mental health challenges of any generation, yet 94% of this group acknowledges the importance of seeking help when needed. At our Epworth Center for Counseling in Columbia and Anderson, we are here to help you navigate life’s challenges. Give us a call today: Epworth Center for Counseling – Midlands 1154 Sunnyside Drive, Columbia, SC 29204 803-667-4697 Epworth Center for Counseling – Upstate 108 Anderson Avenue, Anderson, SC 29625 864-642-6555 If experiencing a crisis, dial 988. https://lnkd.in/eewzxAJ7 #MentalHealthMonday

Rev. Rebekah Carpenter kept telling herself, “I’m single, I’m not wealthy, I don’t know how to be a parent.” She said, “The truth is, I was scared to do it.” After her ordination in 2018, however, Rebekah took a friend’s wise advice to heart. “My friend said if you can give a child love and stability, that’s it, you can do it, you’ll figure the rest out.” Rebekah strongly encourages anyone who might be drawn to fostering to go ahead, take the leap, and grant themselves the grace to follow that holy calling. “Fostering isn’t something you do that makes a difference only in the moment.” she said. “It has eternal ramifications. A foster parent affects the lives of children, and of any children those foster children may have one day. Foster parents make a positive difference in the world, forever.” Read Rev. Rebekah Carpenter’s story and join us for our Foster Care Virtual Information Session next Tuesday, March 4th from 6-7pm to learn how you can make a difference. Story: https://lnkd.in/e6x4_Z9b Link to register & join Info Session: https://lnkd.in/e4MEcVcd

On #NationalCaregiverDay we’d like to recognize the kinship caregivers and foster parents we serve. Your love and dedication make a difference, and we are glad to be able to come alongside you!