Camden Special Steps

Non Profit
Written By Camden Chamber

🎙️ Episode Summary – Get ’N Your Business Podcast

In this heartwarming and informative episode, host Alison Shores welcomes Marcia Whitfield, founder of Camden Special Steps, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving adults with exceptional needs in Camden County. Marcia shares the inspiring journey of Special Steps, which started over a decade ago as a simple walking club at the Camden County High School track. In the early days, the program began with just two participants, offering them an opportunity to stay active, socialize, and feel included in our community.

Over the first five years, Special Steps grew steadily, eventually outgrowing the walking track as more special needs adults and their families discovered the value of the program. For many participants, Special Steps became the only consistent weekly activity after aging out of the school system—a critical lifeline for connection, confidence, and purpose.

Marcia discusses the generous community support that helped Special Steps expand. Camden PSA provided the first official home base before the program later transitioned to Evergreen Baptist Church. Today, thanks to the kindness of Dr. Leon Washington, Special Steps has a dedicated space at the Leon Washington Life Center at no cost, allowing more resources to go directly toward enriching activities and support.

Special Steps helps participants grow through weekly outings, arts and crafts, and community involvement. Beyond offering a safe place to gather, the program plays an essential role in raising awareness so the broader community can see, understand, and support their neighbors with exceptional needs.

Summary Highlights:

  • 🌱 Early Start:
    Began as a walking club with 2 special needs adults exercising weekly at the Camden County High School track.

  • 📈 Steady Growth:
    Over time, the program grew to support more than 50 special needs adults from across the county.

  • 🏠 Community Support:

    • Camden PSA served as the first home base.

    • Evergreen Baptist Church and Dr. Leon Washington generously offered the Leon Washington Life Center, which now houses Special Steps free of charge.

  • 🎨 Enrichment & Connection:

    • Weekly crafts, outings, and social activities provide structure and purpose.

    • Participants enjoy trips, creative projects, and fellowship.

  • 🫂 Filling the Gap:
    Special Steps is a lifeline for adults who have aged out of the school system and need a consistent place to belong.

  • 🌟 Community Awareness:
    The program also educates residents to recognize, appreciate, and engage with special needs adults in Camden County.

  • 💬 Marcia’s Perspective:
    Marcia shares heartfelt reflections on how small acts of kindness, volunteer involvement, and community partnerships keep Special Steps thriving.

Contact Information

Marcia Whitfield

Phone: 904-556-7099

Email: specialstepscamden@gmail.com

Address: 1365 Kinlaw Road, Woodbine GA

Camden Chamber
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