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30 June 2026 | BeaufortLifestyle.comCHRIS DANTZLERGoing the Extra Milestory by NAKEISHA DAWSON-THOMPSONphotos by CHARLOTTE BERKELEYI n Beaufort County, South Carolina %u2014 where marshland beauty, military tradition, and tight-knit neighborhoods shape the rhythm of everyday life %u2014 there is a quiet movement changing the trajectory of young lives, one conversation, one mentorship session, and one opportunity at a time. The movement is called the Extra Mile Club of the Lowcountry mentoring program. Founded in 2008 by Beaufort native, U.S. Army veteran, entrepreneur, and mentor Chris Dantzler, the nonprofit organization has become far more than an after-school initiative or youth development program. Today, the Extra Mile Club (EMC) stands as one of the region%u2019s most impactful grassroots organizations dedicated to empowering young people through mentorship, leadership development, athletics, academic support, and lifeenriching experiences. For nearly two decades, EMC has operated on a simple but powerful philosophy: Every child deserves exposure, guidance, accountability, and the opportunity to become the best version of themselves. That philosophy has produced extraordinary results. The organization has helped guide dozens of students toward higher education, military service, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. It has provided structure and encouragement for youth who may otherwise lack consistent support systems. And perhaps most importantly, it has created a sense of belonging for young people navigating a world increasingly filled with uncertainty, distractions, and social pressures. As communities nationwide continue searching for sustainable solutions to youth violence, educational disparities, and mental health challenges, the Extra Mile Club has quietly built a model rooted in consistency, relationships, discipline, and genuine care.A CALLING ROOTED IN SERVICE For founder Chris Dantzler, the mission of EMC has never been about recognition. %u201cIt is a passion and a calling,%u201d the organization states. That calling is deeply connected to Dantzler%u2019s own life journey. Chris Dantzler is a 1987 graduate of Beaufort High School. Dantzler served in the United States Army from 1988 to 1994, How One Lowcountry Nonprofit Is Transforming the Future of Beaufort%u2019s Youth