The inaugural golf tournament will bring together leaders, golfers, and supporters dedicated to community impact.
A historic school that once served African American children during the era of segregation in rural South Carolina is being given a second chance thanks to the vision and determination of entrepreneur and community advocate CoRetta Dingle.
Dingle, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Operations, purchased the former Jordan Elementary School in August 2025 through the nonprofit Jordan Community Center. The school, located off Highway 260 on King Road near Manning, South Carolina, was originally built in 1950 as part of South Carolina’s Equalization School program and served Black students until its closure during school integration around 1970.
Now, after sitting vacant for more than five decades, the historic building is poised for a remarkable transformation into a community center dedicated to education, wellness, recreation, workforce development, and intergenerational programming. For Dingle, the project is deeply personal.
“My mother went there, her twin sister, her siblings, cousins — so many family members,” Dingle said. “Even my grandparents attended night school there.”
The emotional connection extends beyond her own family. “My passion for the Jordan Elementary School rehabilitation project runs deep,” Dingle said. “More than 100 Jordan Elementary School alumni—many now between the ages of 65 and 85—including my mother, and community members wholeheartedly support this effort and are counting on me to help bring new life to their beloved school.” Their memories of the school remain vivid, and many hope to witness its rebirth.
“Our goal is to create a place where education, recreation, mentorship, and community engagement come together under one roof,” Dingle said. “We want Jordan Elementary School to once again become a place that enriches lives and brings people together.”
Dingle’s fascination with the building began during childhood visits to Clarendon County. Even as nature reclaimed the abandoned structure, she never stopped seeing its potential.
“I didn’t understand why I was so fascinated with it, but that fascination stayed with me,” Dingle said. “I could see more than an old school. I saw a community center.”
That vision eventually became reality when Dingle noticed the property was for sale in 2021. After years of planning and preparation, the nonprofit finalized the purchase in 2025, preserving a significant piece of local African American history while creating opportunities for future generations.
According to the Jordan Community Center’s mission, the renovated facility will serve as a hub for educational enrichment, youth mentorship, health and wellness initiatives, senior engagement, cultural programming, and workforce development. Because the property has remained inactive since its closure more than five decades ago, Clarendon County has not yet assigned an official street address. An official address is expected to be established as rehabilitation efforts move forward.
Dingle hopes to partner with local government agencies, community organizations, foundations, and private donors to subsidize operating expenses. Such support would allow programs and services to be offered at no cost to underserved residents, particularly children and senior citizens.
The restoration effort represents more than a construction project. It is an opportunity to preserve an important chapter of South Carolina history while addressing present-day community needs.
“Seeing the school restored and transformed for future generations would be incredibly meaningful to them,” she said. “It would be especially rewarding for these longtime supporters to witness—and play a significant role in—the groundbreaking and grand opening ceremonies, celebrating the revival of a place that has held a special place in their hearts for decades,” said Dingle.
As rehabilitation plans move forward, Dingle remains committed to ensuring that the former Jordan Elementary School once again becomes a place where lives are transformed. For the alumni who walked its halls decades ago and for the generations who will benefit from its future programs, the project stands as a powerful reminder that historic landmarks can continue serving their communities long after their original purpose has ended.
As planning and fundraising efforts continue, Jordan Elementary School stands poised to begin a new chapter—one that preserves its historic legacy while serving as a resource for education, community engagement, and opportunity for years to come.
As part of the fundraising initiative, the public is invited to a day of golf and giving on August 7, 2026 at The Players Course at Wyboo in Manning, SC. in support of the Jordan Community Center. This inaugural tournament will bring together community leaders, golf enthusiasts, and supporters who share a commitment to strengthening our community.
The Jordan Community Center is actively seeking volunteers, sponsors, donors, and community partners to help bring the vision to life and ensure that this treasured landmark remains a source of pride and opportunity for generations to come. For more information, to support, sponsor, make a donation, or register for the golf tournament, contact CoRetta Dingle, Owner, Jordan Community Center at [email protected], visit the website https://jordancommunity.com, or call (240) 978-2851. Donations are accepted at https://jordancommunity.com/#.
