We are a non-profit organization with a small staff and a few volunteers. We rely on the support of our community and various organizations including the United Way, community volunteers, local churches and businesses, to help us provide an array of services to our local community.
In the year 2000, the Cedar Branch Missionary Baptist Church donated land in which to have a Children’s Center constructed. Upon completion of the facility SOS began operations of an After School Program for four years. In August of 2005, the church’s pastor led the congregation to take up the challenge of operating the After School Program. With emphases on education, the Center currently has approximately 45 children in attendance five days a week for academic tutoring and homework assistance. Both paid and volunteer workers continue to provide a safe and outstanding nurturing environment that has proven to manifest increased academic improvements in the attendees school performance. In addition, summer programs of reading, mathematics and arts & crafts provide an environment of re-enforced learning with fun.
With special thanks to United Way, SharedCare and Wake Stone Corporation, resources were made available to assist with the Center’s daily operations, healthcare services and the creation of a state-of-the-art computer lab. In 2006, the opportunity to take part in The First Tee of Myrtle Beach was introduced and gladly accepted. Currently, eighteen to twenty-five eagerly excited children and teens share in this great opportunity of exposure which is hosted at the community’s neighbouring golf course of Crown Park. In 2008 the center continues to climb the ladder of opportunities with the implementation of community healthcare services initiative sponsored by Johnson & Johnson and SharedCare and housed at the Community Center. In conclusion, Wake Stone Corporation donated approximately $10,000 worth of Dell desktops and laptops towards the enhancement of the Center’s technology lab. The purpose of the lab is to provide adequate computer and Internet access to children to enhance their academic achievements and offer computer usage classes for all members of the community.
The history of the Cedar Branch Community Empowerment Center has yet to be written nor witnessed. Come be a part of something great!!!