Testimonials

 

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From Scholarship Recipients

JN - Life has always had it challenges but I can and will always fight to overcome them. From being raised by four single mothers in a household of 16 children, to catching a felony charge.  I have not made the wisest decisions, but I have always done everything I could to provide for my siblings.  I have opened my eyes, ears, and mind, and heard and learned that I am more potent with my education rather than with a gun.  My past makes me who I am but doesn’t define me more my future. I want to show my younger brother and sister that they are capable of anything with knowledge.  Make a choice to take a chance to make a change.

CG - I have thought long and hard about the mistakes that I have made, but I am more that the number of my mistakes. Over the past 8 months I have realized how many people have invested in me. They helped me to learn to focus and to listen. The teachers and staff believed in me and worked with me until I was able to believe in myself.  They saw a future for me even when I believed it was too late for me. I am on track to attend college and have a job to pay of my court fees and restitution.  I have learned the value of having caring and supportive people around you to hold you up and teach you how to stand on your own.  I owe thanks to the Department of Juvenile Justice and will be moving on a better life.
 

From Board Members

By fostering strong partnerships in our communities, families and businesses, we not only make our kids healthier, but our communities stronger and safer. I support the Florida Youth Foundations because they I believe every single child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential... -- Christy Daly Brodeur

So many people talk about how they made it out of ... or through ... circumstances where one or a few decisions could have led to an alternative and less desirable life. I recognize and relate to that story. I also recognize the "everybody makes mistakes" story. What I am focused on within my community service is the rest of that second story. Because everyone makes mistakes, those who were blessed to stay on or to have been put back on track toward the life they wanted, should support those who have fallen off the track toward previous dreams and goals. This support should occur early and if there are persons/organizations that can help others navigate the decisions that must be made before falling off track, that's even better. The Florida Youth Foundation (FYF) is one of those organizations that can play a role in providing the complete set of services and opportunities needed to help people reach their potential. I am just happy that my talent and experience as an educator with a familiarity of less desirable circumstance can be a leveraged toward someone's solution. -- Jarrett Terry

I participate as a board member with the Florida Youth Foundation to make a positive impact on the next generation of leaders. As a member of the board, I have the opportunity to contribute my expertise, experience and strategy towards creating and enhancing programs that support and empower young people. Through my role on the board, I am able to work alongside fellow board members and staff to identify and implement initiatives that develop and strengthen the skills and abilities of youth in Florida. Ultimately, by investing in our young people, we are building a stronger future for our communities and for the next generation of leaders. It is an honor to be a part of an organization that is committed to such a powerful cause, and I am proud to serve as a board member of the Florida Youth Foundation. -- Tadar Muhammad

From Providers

The Florida Youth Foundation has helped so many of the Youth I have worked with over the years and continues to do so. They have assisted in covering costs for things like driver’s licenses, permits, schoolbooks, GED fee’s, clothes and more. I know I can always reach out to them for help. These kids need all the assistance they can get, and Mr. Baker is always there for them. I am thankful for programs like this who assist Youth in reaching their goals

Lead Transition Specialist Ashley Ward

From Employees

Warmest thanks to the Florida Youth Foundation for the YSP funds provided to assist youth on my DJJ caseload. I’ve used the funds over the years, and it has remained a tremendous help for our youth who need clothing, shoes, undergarments and toiletries. The youth and parents are always very thankful, and I feel it gives our youth hope and confidence to know someone cares.

Senior Juvenile Probation Officer Susan Coufman

On behalf of Dr. Rita Smith and the Office of Health Services, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Florida Youth Foundation for your generous support during our 10th Year Anniversary Celebration Summit. Your contribution made it possible to include team-building activities and workshops that greatly enriched our program and strengthened our mission.

Every moment of the Summit became a teaching opportunity, as the OHS team drew upon their talents, strengths, abilities, and—most importantly—critical thinking to achieve meaningful outcomes. The partnership between the Foundation’s support and the creativity of our team members and collaborators resulted in an unforgettable experience. Once again, we sincerely thank Mr. Baker and the Florida Youth Foundation for helping make this milestone celebration a success.

Annette M. Bradley

The Florida Youth Foundation has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting youth and strengthening our community. Their continued dedication to support the Office of Prevention Services has made a meaningful impact, especially through their generous contributions to our annual Youth Summit and G.A.A.P. Academy. Their willingness to step in and support Prevention efforts reflects a genuine investment in the success and well-being of the next generation. We are grateful for the Florida Youth
 Foundation’s partnership and ongoing support!

Mia Heard

The Florida Youth Foundation has made so many things possible for DJJ Prevention Services. They make it possible for so many of our initiatives to thrive such as the G.A.A.P. Academy, Demonstrating Excellence in Reading, and the Annual Youth Summit. We are truly grateful for all they do!

Sabrina Williams-Winfield