Our Mission
Our mission is to educate and empower youth in the Pageland, SC area by connecting them with community‑driven experiences, opportunities, and resources that foster their growth and leadership.
Our Vision
We envision a future where the impact we make today empowers young people to thrive forever.
Jamie Miller, Founder
PROJECT F.I.R.S.T, INC (Future. Inspire. Respect. Self-Esteem. Teach) was founded in March 2012 after a dream that kept resurfacing of how to positively impact more children in her hometown community. Many children in the community are subjected to bullying, gang activity and little to no extracurricular activity outlets. Thinking of ways to give back, she thought of ways to contribute, and also eliminate the major issue that lingers in most small areas with the lack of unity. By founding, PROJECT F.I.R.S.T, INC she hopes to continue and spread the motto of Impact Today, Empower Forever through programming, volunteer opportunities, awareness and education!
Jamie Miller is a native of Pageland, SC.
She is a 2007 cum laude graduate from Johnson C. Smith University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. This past May, Jamie received her Non-Profit Management Certification through the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Ashlon Baker, Co-Executive Director
Ashlon Baker is a passionate community leader, Community Health Worker, nonprofit advocate, and rural community builder who believes that some of the greatest possibilities begin when people come together.
With more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit and community service, Ashlon has dedicated her work to connecting people with resources, creating opportunities, supporting families, empowering young people, and helping communities recognize their own potential. Her experience includes healthcare outreach, community engagement, youth development, event planning, and program development.
As a Community Health Worker, Ashlon understands that a healthy community is about more than healthcare. It is about having access to opportunity, education, stable families, meaningful connections, and the resources people need to thrive. Her passion is helping rural communities grow while making sure the people who call those communities home are not left behind.
Ashlon's journey has always been rooted in faith, family, and community. Her faith is a source of strength and reminds her to believe that greater things are possible, even when the path forward is not always clear. She believes that when we have faith, work together, and are willing to serve, we can create possibilities that once seemed out of reach.
Ashlon previously served as an Outreach Specialist and Community Ambassador with Sandhills Medical Outreach, connecting residents with healthcare and community resources. She has also supported local students through the St. Paul Association Summer Tutoring Program.
Now, as Co-Executive Director of Project First, Ashlon is excited to continue doing what she loves most: serving people, building relationships, developing leaders, and helping communities move forward.
She believes every community has a story, every person has purpose, and every generation has the potential to make a difference.
For Ashlon, community isn't just where you live. It's something you build, nurture, and believe in.