Laurens County First Steps Survey and Listening Session to Guide Early Childhood Programs

August 16, 2025

Laurens County First Steps is launching a comprehensive Needs Assessment to understand better the strengths, challenges, and priorities related to early childhood development in Laurens County. The results will directly shape the organization’s strategic plan for Fiscal Years 2027–2030, ensuring programs and resources are aligned with the needs of Laurens County children and families.

As part of this process, Laurens County First Steps invites community members to participate in the Laurens County Community Survey and attend the upcoming Community Listening Session.

Laurens County Community Survey
Help Laurens County First Steps understand the needs of families with young children from birth to five in our community. Your feedback will assist us in planning programs and services that best support young children and their families.

This short survey will take about 5–10 minutes to complete.
Your feedback is anonymous and confidential.
Results will be aggregated with other responses to inform Laurens County First Steps’ programs and services from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029.
Complete the survey online at: https://scfirststeps.surveymonkey.com/r/VHJYZ9R

Community Listening Session
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Lunch will be provided to those who RSVPhttps://forms.gle/fk8RQkmGdpyHHwNY8

Location: Piedmont Technical College – Laurens Campus

Overview:
Laurens County First Steps is conducting its FY27–FY30 Needs Assessment and Strategic Planning processto strengthen early childhood development and education efforts in our community. This interactive session will bring together parents, caregivers, educators, service providers, and local leaders to share insights and collaborate on solutions that will give every child in Laurens County the best possible start in life.

“Our mission is to find and empower parents and caregivers to effectively serve as their child’s first teacher, increasing their potential to succeed in school and beyond,” said Toni Able, Executive Director of Laurens County First Steps. “To do that effectively, we need to hear directly from the people who live, work, and care for young children in Laurens County. Every voice matters.”

The Needs Assessment will focus on areas such as:

Access to quality early learning opportunities
Health and developmental services for children ages 0–5
Family support and engagement resources
Barriers to school readiness

About Laurens County First Steps  
Laurens County First Steps has been serving the community for over 25 years by providing vital programs that include parenting education and support, developmental screenings, training for child care providers, early education scholarships, and pediatric literacy initiatives. Through these evidence-based services, LCFS works to ensure that every child in Laurens County enters school healthy, safe, and ready to succeed.

LCFS partners with families, caregivers, and community organizations to provide high-quality early childhood programs and serves as a connector for all early childhood stakeholders in Laurens County. Our mission is to prepare every child for a lifetime of learning and success.

For more information, call 864-984-8130