NOC Learning Center Managers gathered to discuss creative and innovative ways to help children and families from underserved neighborhoods in Beaufort County.

2020 was a difficult year, especially for children who had little support at home when schools closed down in March 2020 due to the spread of COVID. Many of these children did not fully participate in virtual learning and have fallen behind in math, reading, and language arts. Over the past four months these children have worked hard to regain some of what they lost academically, but they need more help.

NOC is committed to intensifying its efforts through its after school learning program to help children excel in school. NOC will also work with families and partner agencies to implement adult classes and community events beginning in 2022.

We are optimistic about a productive 2022.

Working with its partners – Beaufort Memorial Hospital and DHEC – NOC sponsored a Corona-19 vaccination clinic on Wednesday, July 21, 2021. In this successful Vaccination Project, 66 individuals, including adults and children over 12 years old, received Pfizer or J&J vaccines over a two-hour period. These individuals recognized that by receiving the vaccine, they are protecting themselves, their families, neighbors, and community. Each participant received a $25 gift card to celebrate the day.

NOC’s project began with visits to working families in non-gated neighborhoods on HHI, stressing the importance of vaccination. NOC believes that at least 80% of the population in HHI should be vaccinated to safeguard the health of the larger community and to protect the local economy from slow-down or stagnation.

NOC THANKS ITS PARTNERS, FRIENDS, VOLUNTEERS, STAFF, AND BOARD MEMBERS WHO SUPPORTED THIS  OUTREACH EFFORT.

NOC is holding one of its Bluffton summer learning programs at the Lowcountry Presbyterian Church on Simmonsville Road. The happy faces of these children and NOC’s field team show the success of this 4-week program that combines academic and enrichment activities. The children are having fun, while augmenting their skills in reading, math, and language arts. Social networking also serves these children positively.

NOC extends a special thanks to the Lowcountry Presbyterian Church for their generosity and partnership in meeting the learning needs of these children.

Daysha and Michael, students at NOC’s Marsh Pointe  Learning Center, recently submitted entries in Beaufort Housing Authority’s poster and essay competition. Students were asked to express “What Home Means to Me.” Dayshe’s poster focused on “Community,” while Michael’s poster illustrated the importance of “Family.” NOC wishes Daysha and Michael GOOD LUCK!! in the competition.

The contest is held each year for children residing in affordable housing communities.