The Edgefield County Youth Empowerment Center (ECYEC) is a nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of youth and families in rural Edgefield County, South Carolina. Founded by Marcella Edwards, ECYEC creates safe spaces, meaningful opportunities, and life-changing programs that empower young people to lead, learn, and thrive.
Our History
The roots of ECYEC date back to 2007, when Former Sheriff Adell Dobey launched the Carolina Youth Combat System, a martial arts and after-school program designed to address rising dropout rates and youth challenges in the communities. While the program closed in 2009, its mission lived on.
In 2012, Adell Dobey transferred the organization’s 501(c)(3) status to Marcella Edwards, who officially established ECYEC with a renewed vision. Starting with a single after-school program, she expanded the organization within two years to include STEM, job readiness, and leadership development programs. By 2018, ECYEC had grown to six year-round programs.
What We Offer
Today, ECYEC serves hundreds of students and families annually through high-impact, year-round programs focused on academic success, workforce readiness, leadership, and family support:
- After-School Enrichment
Academic tutoring, homework help, and social-emotional learning in a safe, nurturing environment.
- STEM & NASA Astro STEAM Camp
Robotics, coding, rocketry, and space science designed to spark curiosity and innovation.
- Leadership & Life Skills
Empowering programs like Girl’s Circle and L.E.A.D. Me that build confidence, character, and teamwork.
- Workforce Development
Financial literacy, career mentoring, and job readiness training to prepare youth for future success.
- Parenting Resource Center
Equipping parents and caregivers with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to raise thriving children and build strong families.
Expanded Vision: The Place of Purpose
In 2024, ECYEC achieved a transformative milestone with the purchase of a former grocery store—now being reimagined as the Place of Purpose. This vibrant youth and family center represents more than a building; it is a symbol of hope, progress, and opportunity for the entire community.
Designed to inspire and uplift, the Place of Purpose will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, technology labs, creative learning spaces, recreational areas, and multi-use meeting rooms. It will serve as a central hub where young people can explore their potential, families can access vital resources, and the community can come together in a safe and welcoming environment.
The Place of Purpose is not just a physical space it's the heart of ECYEC’s expanded vision to provide equitable access to education, innovation, and empowerment for rural youth and families across Edgefield County.
Recognized. Trusted. Transformative.
From after-school care to disaster relief efforts, ECYEC has become a trusted pillar of support for families across Edgefield County. In 2024, our NASA Astro STEAM Camp was featured on Channel 6 News in Augusta, Georgia, celebrating its success in inspiring a new generation of STEM leaders.
