Ryan Taylor, Executive Director of the Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter, spoke to the Optimist Club of St. Andrews-Irmo on November 15. Taylor, pictured with speaker sponsor Steve Odom, received a copy of the Optimist Creed during the meeting.
The Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter, located in Lexington County, provides a safe and nurturing environment for youth aged 12 to 19 who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Inspired by Nancy K. Perry’s mission over 50 years ago, the shelter aims to help these young people rebuild trust in adults and restore stability to their lives.
Taylor explained that the shelter’s age range expanded from 12-18 to 12-19 in response to the educational disruptions caused by COVID-19, with approval from state authorities. The shelter houses seven to ten clients at a time, with no set timeframe for their stay. Clients leave when they feel ready for their next steps, which can include transitioning to foster care. Taylor also audits potential foster homes to ensure compliance with state guidelines.
In addition to offering a home-like environment where clients cook, clean, and attend school, the shelter provides mentoring services for youth aged 16 to 18. A team of five doctors and 20 nurses is available on call for medical needs.
Volunteers play a vital role at the shelter. After completing a background check and interview process, they are matched with tasks that align with their skills. “There is always a way for volunteers to contribute meaningfully,” Taylor noted.
The Optimist Club’s engagement with Taylor’s presentation underscores its commitment to supporting youth in the community. The Nancy K. Perry Children’s Shelter continues to seek volunteers and support to further its mission of providing hope and stability to vulnerable youth.
Pictured are Taylor and speaker sponsor Steve Odom, who presented Taylor with a copy of the Optimist Creed.
