Original Six Foundation’s O6 Afterschool program marks 10 years of impact

Midlands BizAugust 18, 2025

Expands to Reach More South Carolina Students

The Original Six (O6) Foundation proudly celebrates the 10th anniversary of its flagship initiative, the O6 Afterschool program—an effort that has empowered students across South Carolina since its launch in 2016. When O6 Afterschool kicks off for the 2025–2026 academic year today, the program will expand into a new middle school and grow within an existing site.

This year, the O6 Afterschool program will launch at Sims Middle School and add 8th-grade students at Jonesville Elementary School, both located in Union County. These additions further reflect the Foundation’s commitment to supporting rural and high-need communities through targeted educational initiatives.

Beginning with just three schools and 100 students in 2016, the O6 Afterschool program now serves 13 schools across eight counties. Enrollment is expected to surpass 1,000 students this academic year. This milestone reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to closing educational gaps and building lasting impact through high-quality, community-based programming in public schools,“Our mission has always been to lift-up every child in South Carolina– regardless of where they are born and raised,” said Nikki Haley, Founder of the Original Six Foundation and former Governor of South Carolina. “The growth of the O6 Afterschool program over the past decade shows what’s possible when neighbors help neighbors. I’m forever grateful to our supporters—though they may never meet our students, they’ve given them an incredible gift: the support, confidence, and tools to succeed.”

By the end of the 2025–2026 academic year, the Original Six Foundation’s investment in rural and under-resourced communities will surpass $3 million. Original Six programs provide students with qualified teachers who offer homework support in small classroom settings. Programs also include STEAM learning, character-building activities, and workforce development opportunities in a safe, structured afterschool environment.

The 10-year celebration will culminate in a gala on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the Columbia Museum of Art. For more details contact Kara Meador at kmeador@originalsixfoundation.org.

For more information about the O6 Afterschool program and the Original Six Foundation, visit www.originalsixfoundation.org.