Believing that children learn better when they are healthy, Providence Hospitals and a group of committed community citizens established Healthy Learners in 1992 to help alleviate health related barriers to learning that face economically disadvantaged children.
Currently, four Healthy Learners programs serve more than 150 schools in 19 school districts across South Carolina.
A ministry of the Sisters of Charity Health System, Healthy Learners’ services include vision care, dental care, hearing evaluations, assistance with prescription medications, clinical counseling and episodic care for other health concerns. Throughout the years, thousands of children have received health care services statewide and thousands of miles have been traveled while transporting children to their health care appointments.
Healthy Learners’ program evaluation outcome measures have documented a significant number of children with health status improvement, increased self-esteem and improved ability to perform academically in school. Not only have Healthy Learners' children improved their academic performance, the immense health disparities that economically disadvantaged children face are narrowing.
Learn more at www.healthylearners.com.
2711 MIDDLEBURG DRIVE
SUITE 304
COLUMBIA, SC 29204
P: 803 454 0350
WWW.HEALTHYLEARNERS.COM
Derek Cromwell
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
HEALTHY LEARNERS
Derek joined Healthy Learners from South Carolina First Steps, where he served as chief partnership officer, managing an annual budget of $28 million and leading a statewide team to support high-quality early childhood programs. With over 25 years of non-profit experience, Derek's previous experience includes leadership roles with AARP Foundation, the Corporation for National and Community Service and Heifer International, where he developed strong expertise in community partnerships, volunteer engagement, and program development. A veteran of the United States Air Force, Derek earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and is a Certified Volunteer Manager.
Recent Blog Posts
October 7, 2025
Healthy Learners hosts annual adult spelling bee fundraiser
Healthy Learners Greenwood recently hosted its annual Adult Spelling Bee, in memory of George Nolan, with adults showing off their spelling skills. Teams of four battled it out, word by word, in a quest for orthographic glory - all to support children in Greenwood, South Carolina, with access to essential health care.
September 3, 2025
Healthy Learners names Derek Cromwell new executive director
Healthy Learners has announced Derek Cromwell as the new executive director of the organization, which is a faith-based non-profit committed to removing health-related barriers to learning for children across South Carolina. Gwen Walker was also appointed as the new community manager for the Lowcountry region.
April 21, 2025
Work of Healthy Learners highlighted in Index-Journal article
The Index-Journal in Greenwood, South Carolina, recently highlighted the work of Healthy Learners as it serves students from K4 through 12th grade across the state, collaborating with school nurses, health care providers and families to assist children who lack adequate access to health care.
November 19, 2024
Healthy Learners highlights how it helps build healthier futures for families in latest newsletter
Healthy Learners, a ministry of the Sisters of Charity Health System, provides holistic services to empower children and families to access necessary healthcare, addressing the logistical and financial hurdles they face. The latest newsletter highlights success stories of helping families go from overwhelmed to empowered.