Empowering Through Compassionate Care
A Place To Call Home
Discover transformative services at Waccamaw Youth Center for males ages 12-21. Brighter futures built on life changing commitment
With Heartfelt Gratitude
The Waccamaw Youth Center family mourns the loss of our colleague, Francis Shuman.
Though Francis was with us for only a short time, his kindness, compassion, and willingness to serve made a lasting impression on our staff and the youth. We are grateful for the time we shared and for the positive spirit he brought to our organization.
Please join us in keeping Francis's family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
“Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day.”
Rest in peace, Francis. You will be remembered and greatly missed.
Sheila Chaplin
Waccamaw Youth Center Mission and Vision
The Waccamaw Youth Center (WYC) in Conway, South Carolina, is a compassionate nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for young males aged 12 to 21 who have experienced abuse, abandonment, or neglect. As the only low-management group home in Horry County, WYC offers long-term residential care, therapeutic services, and life skills training to help these young men heal and thrive within their community.
Upcoming Events
HOSTED BY
WACCAMAW YOUTH CENTER
An Evening of
ELEGANCE, MYSTERY & PURPOSE
LOCATION:
Blue Water Resort
Address:
Myrtle Beach, SC
DATE:
Saturday,
September 12, 2026
TIME:
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
JOIN US FOR A MAGICAL EVENING FEATURING:
• LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
• LIGHT REFRESHMENTS
• DANCING & SOCIAL HOUR
• FUNDRAISING OPPORTUNITIES TO SUPPORT YOUTH PROGRAMS
Dress Code:
FORMAL ATTIRE + MASQUERADE MASK REQUIRED
ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE YOUTH OF
WACCAMAW YOUTH CENTER
helping create a place they can call home.
FOR TICKETS OR MORE INFORMATION:
843-369-0200
Mark Your Calendar!
Southern Christmas Tour
Date & Time
Saturday, December 5, 20267:00 AM Departure from Coastal Grand MallApproximate Return: 9:00 PM
Tour Stops
• Christmas at Boone Hall Plantation
• Charleston Holiday Market (Marion Square)
• Dinner in Charleston
• Charleston Night Market
• Round-trip motorcoach transportation with professional guide
About This Event
Join us for a festive holiday tour while supporting the Waccamaw Youth Center. Proceeds help provide academic support, vocational training, counseling, life-skills development, and positive mentoring opportunities for local youth.
Registration
Price: $250 per person
Download Registration Form: Download Registration Form
How Waccamaw Youth Center Serves The Community
Waccamaw Youth Center, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering comprehensive residential services for up to 20 youth aged 12-21 who have experienced abuse, abandonment, and severe neglect. As the first and sole low-management group home in Horry County, our focus is on keeping adolescents within the community while offering essential long-term therapeutic support.
Our primary objective is to foster the development of positive self-esteem, academic and vocational skills, and life skills, enabling the youth in our care to become productive, contributing members of society. We are committed to guiding them beyond their traumatic experiences, helping them find happiness and security through healthy, nurturing relationships.
The measure of our success lies in our residents’ ability to build a supportive community network, recognizing that they are not accountable for their own history of abuse and neglect. This realization fosters a sense of belonging and value within the community.
Waccamaw Youth Center aspires to embody a spirit of equality and acceptance, providing high-quality services to children irrespective of their race, creed, or religion.
Community Is Key To Waccamaw Youth Center's Continuing Success
In May 2025, WYC celebrated the opening of a new multipurpose facility designed to support residents transitioning into independent living. This space serves multiple functions, including dining, recreation, and hosting workshops focused on life and career skills. The facility was made possible through a generous $100,000 donation from Charles B. Jordan and a successful fundraising campaign led by Leadership Conway. The building was named in memory of Steve Powell, a dedicated supporter of WYC.
Community Engagement:
WYC actively engages with the local community and has received support from various organizations. For instance, Horry-Georgetown Technical College employees organized a “blue jeans week” fundraiser, raising over $1,175 and collecting essential items for the center during the holiday season. Additionally, WYC hosts fundraisers and events to foster community involvement and support for its mission.
Get Involved:
Individuals interested in supporting WYC can explore volunteer opportunities, donate, or participate in events. The center maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, where they share updates and information about upcoming activities. For more details on how to contribute or get involved, visit their official website at waccamawyouthcenter.org.
Waccamaw Youth Center continues to be a beacon of hope, providing “A Place to Call Home” for young men in need and empowering them to build brighter futures.
Support Our Mission
Your generous donations help us provide essential rehabilitation services and create a nurturing environment for young adults at Waccamaw Youth Center. Every contribution makes a difference in transforming lives and building a brighter future.