Interim Executive Director
Katie Goforth, a dedicated and devoted early childhood and family services professional for families and children, is from York County, South Carolina. Motivated by her mother’s parenting challenges, she champions the importance of family support. After working in academia, Katie transitioned to parenting education (Parents As Teachers) to empower parents as their child’s first teacher. With an Early Childhood Education degree as well as a degree in Early Childhood and Family Services Management, she focuses on helps families build strong foundation for their children’s successes. As board director for the Clover LEAF Foundation, Katie collaborates to provide vital support to families in need within the local area. Working in childcare, schools, and the parent education field reflects her commitment to building stronger family units. Her journey exemplifies her passion for making a positive impact through kindness and support for families.
Katie’s family, including her supportive husband, James, and four her children (Zoe, Autumn, Ian, and Alison), inspires her daily mission to uplift others. She lives by a simple mantra she learned from one of her favorite teachers, Mrs. Merilyn Cain. “Even a small pebble can create a large ripple. Be the pebble create in the ripple.” Katie strives to help families go forth and beyond!
Parent Educator
Laura is originally from Alabama but after 35 years in South Carolina she is happy to call it home. Laura attended Winthrop University where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. Laura has two daughters, Madison and Lyndsie. Laura is very involved with her church where she serves as a teacher in the children’s church program. She also volunteers as a foster for her local animal shelter.
Laura is currently a Parent Educator for the York County First Steps’ Connected Families program in which she conducts home visits with families in York County, referred by DSS, to assist parents/caregivers in working toward family preservation and reunification.