Beginnings SC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting South Carolina families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Since 2012, we’ve provided education, guidance, and hope, helping families understand hearing loss, navigate early intervention and school services, and advocate with confidence.
We take pride in who we are as an organization—bringing curiosity, humor, and a love of learning to every interaction. With decades of combined experience, our team is committed to shining a light on the impacts of hearing loss and making the invisible visible for families across the state.
Our Mission
Beginnings SC provides expert knowledge and individualized planning strategies for parents, professionals, & communities to promote successful outcomes for children who are deaf or hard of hearing in South Carolina.
Our Vision
We believe every SC child who is deaf or hard of hearing can & will reach their fullest potential.
Our Story
Beginnings SC was founded in 2012 to fill a critical gap for families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing in South Carolina: access to clear, compassionate, and unbiased education during a time filled with questions and uncertainty. What started as two professionals recognizing how deeply families needed support has grown into a statewide organization dedicated to empowering parents, connecting them with knowledgeable guidance, and helping children thrive.
In the early years, Beginnings SC set out to bring the model of family-centered education and support—long established across the border in North Carolina—to families here at home. Through determination, countless community conversations, and a shared belief that families deserve more than scattered resources and overwhelming information, Beginnings SC officially opened its doors in January 2012.
Since then, our organization has evolved significantly. With more than 450 families referred over the years, Beginnings SC is now led by a dedicated four-member team with expertise in early childhood development, family systems, education, and hearing health. Together, we support families, train professionals, strengthen childcare systems, and advocate for early identification and access to quality services.
Today, Beginnings SC continues to build on the vision that launched us—ensuring that every family, no matter their location or circumstances, has the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to help their child succeed. We’re grateful you’re here to learn more about our work, and we hope you’ll stay connected as Beginnings SC grows, collaborates, and continues serving South Carolina’s children and families.
Our Programs and Services
Our programs are designed to meet the needs of families, childcare providers, and professionals across the state:
Parent Education and Family Support: Personalized guidance for families navigating hearing loss, including advocacy coaching, peer support, and help accessing early intervention and educational services.
Hearing Screening Program: Free hearing screenings for children ages 0–5 in licensed childcare centers, with follow-up guidance and referrals to early intervention programs or audiologists as needed.
Assistive Technology Lending Program: Loans of remote microphone systems to childcare centers, along with training on how to use them effectively.
Professional Training and Education: Workshops for childcare providers, teachers, and healthcare professionals on supporting children with hearing loss, communication strategies, and classroom accommodations.
Community Resources and Advocacy: Connection to statewide and national resources, guidance on funding opportunities, and support for families navigating services.
