Evans High School Becomes 1st UCF-Certified Community Partnership School
UCF has been helping to build a new model of community school for children in grades K-12 for nearly 10 years. As a result, there are 16 registered Community Partnership Schools in Florida. Of those 16, Evans High School in Orlando recently became the first to be a UCF-Certified Community Partnership School.
Reprint from UCF College of Community Innovation and Education UCF.edu
UCF has been helping to build a new model of community school for children in grades K-12 for nearly 10 years. As a result, there are 16 registered Community Partnership Schools in Florida. Of those 16, Evans High School in Orlando recently became the first to be a UCF-Certified Community Partnership School.
They're Number 1: Faculty and community partners celebrate Evans High School becoming the first UCF-Certified Community Partnership School.
The school recently celebrated this achievement at a community event at which a banner announcing its new status was unveiled.
“Being a UCF-Certified Community Partnership School sets us apart from all others,” says Rolondo Bailey, principal of Evans. “Not only have we been doing the work of empowering students and families, but now we have been rigorously assessed to validate the work.”
C. A. Weis Elementary School in Pensacola also was recently certified.
To ensure consistency of quality programming, strategy and framework fidelity, the UCF Center for Community Schools, along with partners across the state, developed a process of certification that reflects best practices in the field of community schools.
And according to David Bundy ’97, the importance of a certification process was discussed prior to the opening of Evans, the flagship Community Partnership School. Bundy is the president/CEO of the Children’s Home Society of America, and has been involved in the community school initiative since the beginning.
Before the initiative could be funded by the Florida Legislature, Bundy and others had to address concerns that there be quality control over what they had identified as the key elements of a community school model.
“We were proposing to replicate a model developed by the Children’s Aid Society of New York, which has almost 20 years of supporting research,” Bundy says. “The model included core partners, after-school programs, on-site health care, and parent and student engagement that were integral to the success of the model.”
Additionally, Bundy says, “The primary purpose of the certification is to ensure fidelity with a proven model and to protect the use of the Community Partnership School model as one that is consistent and includes a rigorous quality assurance process.”
UCF staff and community members met last year to determine if Evans High School - A Community Partnership School met the criteria to become certified. First row, front to back: Amy Ellis, director of the Center for Community Schools; Sarai Antoine, Student Leadership Council vice chair, Kea Cherfrere, Community Council chair and Evans alumna. Second row, front to back: Lakema Massey, Community Partnerships School director, Sulphur Springs YMCA, Jarrad Plante, programs coordinator for the Center for Community Partnerships, and Pastor Frank Thompson.
UCF provides ongoing technical assistance and training for schools becoming a Community Partnership School, says Amy Ellis, director of the Center for Community Schools. The model requires signed, multi-year commitments from a school district, health care provider, university or college, and a lead nonprofit partner. These partners work together with the school’s leadership, as well as community and student leadership councils.
“All of our partners are deeply committed to our children and their families,” Ellis says. “Why? So they, too, can support families and lift students to new heights of success.” Evans’ other partners include Orange County Public Schools, Children’s Home Society of Florida, and Orange Blossom Family Health.
Since Evans became a Community Partnership School, student test scores and other metrics have significantly increased, Ellis says. Especially notable: Evans’ graduation rate has improved from 64 percent in the 2010-2011 school year (when CPS efforts began) to 87 percent in the 2016-2017 school year. Prior to becoming a Community Partnership School, Evans was labeled a “dropout factory” by Johns Hopkins University.
“There are other ‘community schools’ throughout the nation, but few if any have all the components and commitment of the Community Partnership School model,” Ellis says. “Achieving status as a UCF-Certified Community Partnership School sets Evans apart from other schools, and represents years of intentional, dedicated work to building partnership and aligning resources to ensure student success and well-being.”
Written by Camille Dolan, ’98
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Counselor Education, Community Partnership Schools, Criminal Justice, Health Management and Informatics, Higher Education, International Community Schools, Legal Studies, National Community Schools, Public Administration, Public Affairs, Teacher Education
Kedrine Gayle, Future Leaders United Alumnae President graduates Evans with Honors, now attends USF
Kedrine Gayle, 18, moved to Orlando from Jamaica in 2016 and graduated Evans High School. She said the move was a fresh start for her and credits the school, mentors and community groups for her success.
Kedrine Gayle, 18, moved to Orlando from Jamaica in 2016 and graduated Evans High School. She said the move was a fresh start for her and credits the school, mentors and community groups for her success.
Caribbean teen overcomes depression for academic achievement in Orlando
Kedrine Gayle graduated with honors, now attends USF
By Jerry Askin - Reporter
Posted: 5:30 AM, October 01, 2018 Updated: 5:30 AM, October 01, 2018
Kedrine Gayle, 18, moved to Orlando from Jamaica in 2016 and graduated Evans High School. She said the move was a fresh start for her and credits the school, mentors and community groups for her success.
ORLANDO, Fla. - Kedrine Gayle, 18, said she's living proof that despite their background and upbringing, people can achieve whatever they strive for with the right focus and determination.
Gayle wanted to share her story of how moving to the United States from Jamaica was a second chance for her after years of being what she called "fed up."
Gayle is an Evans High School graduate and now attends the University of South Florida majoring in nursing. She said her plan is to be a nurse practitioner with plans of tackling the health care system and its effects on the underrepresented populations of society. She wants to be focus on making health care more accessible for legal immigrants.
She told News 6 that before immigrating to the U.S. in 2016, she considered herself sad, angry and depressed. She said she thought there was no way out.
"My grades dropped subsequent (due) to the passing of loved ones," Gayle said. "Insecurities consumed my thoughts and the idea of suicide became more of a friend than a visitor."
Gayle said when she moved to the U.S., it was a new start for her and she quickly found her purpose of helping others realize what they were meant to do.
Evans High School set her up for greatness, Gayle said, and helped her see her full potential.
"I came out with straight A’s and was recognized on the principal’s honor roll as well as being the top student in many of my classes," Gayle said. "The students of Evans High School were exposed to many opportunities, opportunities that students in the Caribbean will probably never be recipients of."
In return, she helped her classmates see the full potential in themselves and encouraged them not to let their outside surroundings interfere with their destined greatness.
"I would simply present myself as the one person who would listen to the dreams that they would dare not tell a soul and in turn work with them to figure out ways in which they could make their dreams come true," Gayle said. "The students of Evans, unknowingly, would allow the many negative labels of the outer community to comfortably adhere to their outlook on life."
During her senior year at Evans High, Gayle became the Student Government Association vice president, president of Future Leaders United and member of the Pine Hills Community Council’s Youth Advisory Board.
Gayle said that she transformed her shyness and depression into to a passion for advocacy.
"I wanted to promote individualism and discovery of purpose, especially among the underrepresented individuals of Evans, all while preserving the true definition of school pride," said Gayle.
Gayle also said mentors played a huge role in encouraging youths to reach their full potential. She also credits the leadership and the mentors from the United Foundation of Central Florida with her success.
"There were times when I lost hope and negative thoughts tried to creep in but the United Foundation of Central Florida, along with their partners and sponsors stood as my advocate in making my dreams come true," Gayle said, adding, "The entire foundation became more of a family to me and with them I was able to truly fulfill purpose. I was able to accomplish many things in just two years, things that I would only dream of."
To read more about the United Foundation of Central Florida or to donate to the cause click here.
Copyright 2018 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.
Kena Francois, Future Leaders United Alumnae Wants to become a Psychiatrist
Kena Francois, 18, Future Leaders United Alumnae completed high school in May of 2018 and now attends Seminole State College. She said her goal is to eventually attend medical school and some day become a psychiatrist.
Evans High graduate works to tackle mental health crisis
Teen plans to become psychiatrist
By Jerry Askin - Reporter
Posted: 5:01 AM, September 10, 2018 Updated: 5:01 AM, September 10, 2018
ORLANDO, Fla. - A recent Evans High School graduate is working to raise awareness about mental health in the black community.
Kena Francois, 17, completed high school in May and now attends Seminole State College. She said her goal is to eventually attend medical school and some day become a psychiatrist.
She believes mental health is a serious issue and said that, oftentimes, it's something people don't talk about, especially in the black community. She said it's real and the effects from it can be tough on children when they get older.
“A child who has experienced a lot of trauma, whether it’s seeing a lot of physical abuse, sexual abuse, mental abuse, or having parents who are drug addicts, or having to go to foster homes, group homes and having, seeing your people go to jail -- you can’t tell me a child won’t feel depressed,” Francois said, not describing her situation, but speaking in general terms.
Francois said she once suffered from depression while growing up because she wasn't always understood by her parents or her peers. She moved to America from Haiti when she was 6 years old and finished her senior year of high school in a single-parent household. Francois said her mother worked three jobs to make ends meet.
Francois told News 6 she's always wanted to help people in the black community see the value of getting a handle on their mental health and know that it's OK to speak up.
She said she's even more encouraged to pursue her passion based on the recent high-profile incidents nationwide in which people suffering from mental health have hurt others and hurt themselves.
Francois credits programs such as the United Foundation of Central Florida, an after-school program, for giving her the motivation to attend college and work to pursue her career.
She told News 6 she wants to encourage everyone, especially minorities, to try to further their education beyond high school.
“In today’s society, especially for minorities, getting an education is the golden ticket to be successful in life," Francois said. "Whether it's the military, trade school, technical school -- do something. Don’t just sit around."
Francois said she's grateful for the motivation she's received from her mentors and her mother, who have always been by her side.
“Made my dreams seem achievable before it became a reality,” Francois said.
She said she's humbled to be the first in her family to finish high school and the first to attend college.
Copyright 2018 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.
MORE NEWS HEADLINES
Once homeless Pine Hills teen is beating the odds (Future Leaders United Alumnus)
Future Leaders United Students Speak Out Over Concerns on Teacher Shortage
Nyala and her sister Nakari attend Evans High School in Orange County and attest that fill-in teachers and staff shortages are not something new.
Nyala and her sister Nakari attend Evans High School in Orange County and attest that fill-in teachers and staff shortages are not something new. (Erin Murray, staff)
Orlando students, parents express concern over teacher shortages across Central Florida
By Erin Murray Orlando August 9, 2018 @5:59 PM
ORLANDO, Fla. -- In the Chamberlain household, Tenille Chamberlain works hard to make sure all bases are covered when raising three teenage girls, but some things are just out of her control.
Orlando teens worry about teacher shortages
The Chamberlains say they want more consistency
RELATED: Back to School 2018
“What are you going to do if you don’t have a teacher?” asked 20-year-old Njani Chamberlain.
“Senior year -- that is going to be a problem,” said 17-year-old Nyala Chamberlain.
Nyala and her sister Nakari attend Evans High School in Orange County and attest that fill-in teachers and staff shortages are not something new.
“It is something I have been going through since freshman year,” Nyala said.
Her mother joins her in this worry.
“I feel like it takes a village to raise children, and I feel like I do my part as a parent, but then I really depend on teachers,” Tenille said.
School shortages and vacancies are across all Central Florida.
In Volusia County, there are 77 unfilled teaching positions, between 40 to 80 in Orange County, 120 in Osceola, and in Brevard, eight.
When compared to overall instructional positions, the vacancies are a small percentage. But even just one unfilled spot has a trickle down affect.
“Every child and it affects the teachers, and everyone in the school, because in some situations they might have to divide classes and make classes larger among the teachers that are there,” said Wendy Doromal, Orange County Classroom Teachers Association President.
All of the school districts assure us even with the vacancies, the classrooms will be manned by substitutes or other current qualified teachers.
But a lack of just one consistent teacher can do damage -- Nyala dealt with a long-term sub last year.
“They kept giving us packets of work. And by the time we had to do the chemistry OC, I felt like I was not prepared,” Nyala said.
With it just days away from the new school year, Tenille is past the point of understanding why these positions can’t be filled.
“We need them, we need them, a lot; we do,” Tenille said.
She just wants the school districts to get it done so her kids can worry less about teachers and focus more on their excitement for the first day of school.
“It’s not fair; I don’t think it is,” Nyala said.
Future Leaders United to participate in 'March for Our Lives' Rally (DC)
A group of about 27 Pine Hills students are in Washington, D.C., on Thursday ahead of Saturday's "March for Our Lives" rally.
The 27 students all attend Evans High School and are in a Pine Hills-based after-school program called Future Leaders United, through the United Foundation of Central Florida.
Orlando students to participate in 'March for Our Lives' rally
Evans High School students fly to Washington ahead of march
By Jerry Askin - Reporter
Posted: 6:11 PM, March 22, 2018Updated: 6:11 PM, March 22, 2018
ORLANDO, Fla. - A group of about 27 Pine Hills students are in Washington, D.C., on Thursday ahead of Saturday's "March for Our Lives" rally.
The 27 students all attend Evans High School and are in a Pine Hills-based after-school program called Future Leaders United, through the United Foundation of Central Florida.
The students were already going to Washington, D.C. this weekend for a college tour and now they’ll be taking part of their spring break to protest gun laws.
"We’re all coming together as one. No matter where you’re from, shootings happen to anyone. We are all humans," Evans High School senior Kedrine Gayle said.
Gayle said her goal is to attend Howard University in the fall and someday become a doctor. Now, ahead of Saturday’s rally she now feels more optimistic that her dream can actually become a reality. This weekend, she and her classmates will get to tour Howard University, American University and George Washington University.
"It’s good that we’re exploring these schools because we have big aspirations," Gayle said.
News 6 spoke to Gayle last week when she and her classmates took part the walkout at Evans High School.
"We are going to continue to push for school safety. We are going to push for people to be more aware," Gayle said on March 14.
Similar to the walkout day, Saturday’s rally is also a big political push.
Sandra Fatmi headed up the spring break college tour and trip. She works with the after-school program.
"They’re excited to be here (Washington D.C.) because they want to show their support in taking back their community. They’re in school, they’re the ones being affected right now," Fatmi said.
Gayle’s mother in Orlando is like many parents: simply grateful.
"It’s a united force for them to be making a sacrifice to go to Washington to march and visit these universities. It gives them hope," she said.
The Evans High School seniors will return to Orlando on Sunday morning. They took a charter bus to Washington, D.C. The trip was made possible by donations from many sponsors, community partners, parents and alumni.
If you'd like to assist in this effort, go to www.unitedfoundationcf.org and click "Donate."
Copyright 2018 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.
March For Our Lives: Evans High School students bound for Washington
Central Florida students will spend their break fighting for safety. The students from Future Leaders United After-school program within Evans High School. The after-school program is run by the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
Central Florida students will spend their break fighting for safety. The students from Future Leaders United After-school program within Evans High School. The after-school program is run by the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
Evans High School student group pushes for change in Pine Hills
The sirens heard outside of Evans High School are drowned out inside by young voices who are ready for change.
Students from Future Leaders United at Evans High School attended the Pine Hills community meeting Tuesday and engaged Orange County Tax Collector Scott Randolph on taxes and the budget. (Erin Murray, Staff)
By Erin Murray, Reporter
Last Updated: Wednesday, November 08, 2017, 11:02 AM EST News 13 Article Click Here
ORLANDO --
The sirens heard outside of Evans High School are drowned out inside by young voices who are ready for change.
- Evans High School group gets involved in community
- Future Leaders United attended Pine Hills meeting
- Young people engaged local leaders
"What do you guys want to be?” asked Kedrine Gayle, to another student. “You look like a business man.”
Gayle is a senior at Evans High School and the president of the after school program Future Leaders United (FLU). On Tuesday, she and other club members worked on homework and discussed local government.
“Our goal is to really engage with the community, to really understand where Pine Hills is at,” said Gayle.
The students in FLU understand well the stigmas and issues that surround the area of Pine Hills.
“Pine Hills is known as 'Crime Hills,'” said Gayle. “It’s known as a place with a lot of food deserts and so on, and the incarceration rates are up, as well as we have a lot of unemployment.”
But the students also understand that creating change means getting involved. So after their FLU meeting ended, the same young students attended the Pine Hills community meeting a few hours later.
Tuesday’s main topic on the agenda was the budget for the next year and how it works. Orange County Tax Collector Scott Randolph, Orange County District 6 Commissioner Victoria Siplin, and Orange County Budget Manager Kurt Petersen all took turns fielding questions and sharing information.
Many people in the crowd asked questions, including three FLU students.
“Is there a specific time for that money to be used up or is it automatically go into the next budget year?” asked Gayle. She and her fellow students left inspired and with ideas about how to apply for grants. “I do believe we shouldn’t let finance be an excuse for not achieving our goals, for not achieving our dreams,” said Gayle. “So I do believe this money will be used in a very good way.”
“News 13 Reporter Erin Murray”
Taste of Pine Hills 2017
We would like to officially announce that the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. will be taking over the annual Taste of Pine Hills this event used to be held by the Orange County Government.
November 22nd, 2017
Dear Community Partner/Supporter and Sponsor:
We would like to officially announce that the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. will be taking over the annual Taste of Pine Hills this event used to be held by the Orange County Government. The Orange County Government will remain a sponsor for the event but all rights belong to UFCF. Other sponsors are listed inside the event page for this specific event.
If you want more information on this amazing event please click the link below.
Sincerely,
Sandra Fatmi, President
United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
UFCF First Official Graduating Class Of Future Leaders United
May 24, 2017
The United Foundation of Central Florida is proud to announce that their first official graduating class of Future Leaders United has graduated from Maynard Evans High School today. Out of The 30 Students in this after school program 19 of the participants are Seniors and have all met their graduation requirements and the requirements set forth from UFCF to receive scholarship money that was donated from various sponsors that can be seen here
So here are the numbers for this graduating class: 14 going off to college/Universities, 2 going into the Military, 2 going on to finish their Career and Technical Education Program with Orange Technical College, 1 going on to take certification courses in their selected trade.
Through the support of our partners, sponsors, donors, other contributors, and our board members that we were able to award $10,200 in scholarship funds to the students of the graduating class of the 2017 Future Leaders United.
This class excelled in all that they did many of them have met with Mayors, Commissioners, State Reps., State Attorneys, Congresswomen/Congressman, Police Chief's and Orange County Sheriff, etc.
Consequently, they created the first Youth Advisory Board with Community Action Center the Pine Hills location, having hosted their Third Wednesday Workshop Series featuring topics such as but not limited to Financial Literacy, health and wellness, ACT & SAT Prep, FAFSA, Justice Building (Collab with Sheriffs Office) just to name a few.
To see the graduating class of 2017 click here
Journey Interview With Sandra Fatmi Community Activist
Watch Gigi Moorman uncover the journey of her guest Sandra Fatmi an active Community leader.
Be prepared to Connect, Relate, and Empower.
Thanks for watching I hope this empowered you to take a stand and do something differently for yourself and your community.
UFCF Newsletter for March
Newsletter Link Please Click Here
© 2014-2017 The United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., All rights reserved.
United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., (UFCF) is a 501(c)(3) public foundation focused on early intervention, leading to prevention.
Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 680186, Orlando, FL 32868
www.unitedfoundationcf.org
UFCF Celebrates it's 3 year Anniversary with their Program Students!!!!!!
The United Foundation of Central Florida would like to thank the individuals who have supported and will support the foundation for the past three years and beyond.
February 18th, 2017
The United Foundation of Central Florida would like to thank the individuals who have supported and will support the foundation for the past three years and beyond.
The day was spent will the students from their after school, a day filled with joy. As everyone students and board members came together to play a few games of bowling Students vs. Adults.
If you are wanting to become a Sponsor for a student or group of students and want more information about how to become a sponsor. Please Click here.
“Dear Family and Friends,
If you’ve had the pleasure of following my post over the last few hours well here is our wind up......and if you haven’t had the pleasure it’s okay. United Foundation Of Central Florida celebrated it’s 3 year Anniversary yesterday with our Future Leaders United After School Program students of Evans High School and United Foundation Of Central Florida board of Directors. With the dream and no idea how We would get there we got started despite the odds. If I can encourage anyone reading this post. Be the change you want to see in your community by following your heart and by surrounding yourself with the right support system. So We left the Eatonville MLK Parade and headed for a battle of the sexes in bowling between the girls and the Guys. As expected you guessed it the girls won. Yees!!!!!!!!! I don’t think I’ve ever heard that much excitement in a bowling Alley for a long time. We ate, celebrated our 3 year Anniversary with a cake and then all 25 headed to see the movie Hidden Figures with popcorn and drinks in hand. As the founder and Executive Director I would like to personally take the time to thank the following friends, partners and sponsors for making yesterday’s celebration with our young people possible. My amazing dedicated, genuine loyal Board Members Gordon Russell, Alex Lewis, Myra Johnson, Dennis Hall and Shirley Edwards who never turned down anything pertaining to our young people. Marcus Alford and Mr. Whitley thank you for reaching out to me to pay for our young ladies of Future Leaders United After School Program to see the Movie Hidden Figures, thank you to my unwavering and dedicated supporters and advisors from the inception who just simply yes to supporting all positive endeavors for our young people Zorida Pritipal, Samuel Roberts and Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Allie Braswell and Shellie-Ann Braswell and Wayne GoldingSr. We thank everyone for all donations and or support in helping our young people realize and achieve their full potential. Roben Dunnings you are a woman of your word. Thanks for coming to meet our group with your donation of bags from Amerigroup for the young people. I advise everyone that has not seen the movie Hidden Figures, please take a young person to energize and empower them that the sky is the limit. In the words of our young people. Today was a great day. We’re ready to do this again. ”
Future Leader United - Community Safety
December 22nd, 2016
There was a Pine Hills Public Safety Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, December 21, 2016. In which the after school program Future Leaders United (FLU) worked extremely hard to prepare for, looking up the statistics in the Pine Hills community. As they are extremely concerned with what is happening to their community they finally said enough is enough and spoke out against what is going on. Representatives President, Julien O'Neil and Senator, Arry Rendel held interviews with a News 13 reporter to discuss their discomfort with what is happening. Also discussing how the after school program they are in has saved their lives.
Below is the Article that News 13 Wrote on these wonderful students
“After a spike in violent crime, members of the Pine Hills community held a town hall meeting Wednesday night.
Members of the Pine Hills community met Wednesday night
Students from Evans High School joined the discussion
Community policing, sending in tips were discussed
Residents packed the room at the Barnett Park Administration Building to discuss solutions to the increasing violence.
Among the crowd were students from Evans High School. They’re part of an after school group called Future Leaders United. Students said they felt they needed to add their insight in order to see change in their community.
The group’s president said he’s lived in Pine Hills his whole life, and he’s seen the crime slowly increase year after year.
“When I grew up here, there wasn’t a lot of that and then all of a sudden it was months in between months, then weeks, and now like days and hours,” said Julien O’Neil. “And, it is very unsettling.”
After school programs were a major part of Wednesday night’s discussion. Members of the Pine Hills community also discussed community policing, sending in tips about crime before it happens, and for people to be willing to come forward if they witness crime.”
Pine Hills Public Safety Town Hall Meeeting 12/21/16
From Left to right, President of UFCF Sandra Fatmi, Taylor Nguyen, Commissioner Victoria Siplin (District 6), Darius Flores, Arry Rendel, Commissioner Bryan Nelson, President of FLU Julien O'Neil, Christelle Suffrena, First VP/Treasure UFCF Dennis Hall.
Central Florida Spotlight: Regina Hill & Sandra Fatmi
WFTV Spotlight Orlando
Published on 5:33 PM
Channel 9 anchor Greg Warmoth spoke with Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill and United Foundation of Central Florida Founder & President Sandra Fatmi.
As both Commissioner Hill and UFCF President Fatmi discuss why it is the community has spiked in crime and what can be done to decrease this crime.
“Channel 9 anchor Greg Warmoth spoke with Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill about her friend, fallen Orlando police Master Sgt. Debra Clayton. He also spoke with Sandra Fatmi, a president of the Pine Hills Community Council, about the crime-plagued neighborhood.
Greg: It’s been another week of tragedy and heartbreak in Orlando. Last Monday two local law enforcement officers were killed in their efforts to bring a murder suspect to justice. Today on Central Florida Spotlight, Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill, a close friend of fallen OPD Sergeant Debra Clayton. Welcome back to this week’s edition of Central Florida Spotlight and another difficult week for our local law enforcement community with the shooting death of OPD Sergeant Debra Clayton and the death of Deputy Norman Lewis who was killed in a motorcycle accident during the response to Clayton’s shooting. Today we have joining us Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill, a friend of Clayton who had served as Hill’s community liaison. Again, thank you for joining us. This has been a very difficult week, one that has been filled with emotion for you. Some of that we’ve watched play out on TV. How are you doing? I know its been difficult.
Regina Hill: Of course, it has been. I tell you, something that ... I can’t believe this is happening, it’s still surreal, but the community’s standing together and we’re pushing forward. Doing better than I was doing Monday.
Greg: Monday we saw you just outside of ORMC when you got the news. Go back through that day for us and how that played out and what was going through your mind.
Regina Hill: Still didn’t want to believe it was Debra Clayton, but eventually after composing myself I knew she would want me to stand and be strong. I accepted the fact that it was and immediately wanted to see where her family was and be with them. I was with her a year ago, almost today, over in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, she was getting married on the beach side there and wanted to find her husband and her son. Of course, her husband was inside. It just was an array of emotions, just was thinking about how could Debra be gunned down. Doing what she wanted to do is crime prevention, especially in the west side of Orlando.
Greg: I’m going to play a clip now. This is, when you say you stood strong, you really did this week. You stood with her son was amazingly strong, amazingly composed at a rally. We’re going to play a clip of that now.
Regina Hill: As commissioner stated, it’s been some terrible times, but it’s a beautiful evening because when I see these young organizers and community leaders, when I see the clergy, the faith-based community standing here in my sisters and myself district where Debra lived and died. She gave it all-
Speaker 3: Yes she did.
Regina Hill: To see transformation. In the streets of Ivey Lane, in the corners of Mercy Drive, up and down North Lane-
Speaker 3: Yes.
Regina Hill: Where she was a servant leader.
Speaker 3: Yes.
Regina Hill: Not just a police officer. She was a servant leader.
Greg: Your reaction to seeing that, you said when I met with you when you came into the building, you didn’t really remember exactly what you said.
Regina Hill: Yeah. Well, it was a testimony about who Officer Clayton was. She was a servant leader, she was ... Often times we think of the police, especially on the west side, me against them. What Officer Clayton was to the west side was, “I’m with you. I have your back. I was you. I grew up in poverty. I grew up next door, maybe to those that were of criminal elements, but I grew the element that I was surrounded by and you can too.” She was an inspiration to all of us, but mostly she really wanted to allow little brown and black girls and boys to know that if they push forward, if they put all their work and efforts into education and also in doing the right thing, that they can aspire to be great. That’s what she did every day she came out into the community.
Greg: Debra Clayton, the loss of her at the hands of this murder suspect who also is from that community, went to Evans High School. Some clearly harbored him, some praised him on his Facebook page for being a cop killer. That must absolutely infuriate you.
Regina Hill: Yeah, I’m very angry. Of course this ... He’s somebody’s son, so I want to be mindful of what I say about him, but he is a cold blooded killer. That he has taken two people that I know. [Sade 00:05:37] Dixon’s mother was my community outreach person when we went door to door during my campaign. I was still there consoling the family as this happened. Now to take our beloved, beloved officer that has been doing the work in the trenches for a very long time wanting to make an impact and just wanting to make a difference. That he’s taken ... It does, it infuriates me. I’m very angry that someone has not turned him in, because what happened on Monday shouldn’t have happened.
Greg: All right. When we come back we will talk more with Commissioner Regina Hill about ways to stem the gun violence we unfortunately have reported on far too often during our newscast and here on Spotlight. We’ll be back with more words from the Commissioner when we come back.
Welcome back to Central Florida Spotlight. Joined here again by Orlando Commissioner Regina Hill. Thanks again for being here. Commissioner, you knew Sade Dixon’s family who was murdered likely at the hands of Markeith Loyd. Of course, we know that you had a close relationship with Debra Clayton as well. You were at her wedding just a year ago. The community of Parramore has been plagued with crime, riddled with gunfire over these last several months. What’s the solution here so that going forward these acts of violence against each other and against others in the community can stop?
Regina Hill: Well, of course I don’t want anyone to think this occurred in Parramore. This did not occur in Parramore, nor did Sade Dixon’s death occur in Parramore. This occurred of course in my district, but on the outskirts of Mercy Drive and College Park. That’s why I say this is a community issue. This isn’t a Parramore issue, this isn’t a Pine Hills issue. This is a community issue. That Princeton sits right there near 5, 6 million dollar homes. We have Lake Orlando that sits right on the side of that John Young, Princeton Parkway. Yes, when we start realizing this isn’t an inner city problem, that this is going to be all of our problem if we don’t have adequate resources in the community. I do believe one of the ways that we can curb this is to offer more job training skillsets, is more mental health ... Clearly this man and many of these murderers have some mental health issues and it just didn’t happen over night.
Greg: If you look at his Facebook page, I mean he takes pictures of himself, seems narcicisstic, talks about praying, talks about God, talks about eating clean, talks about doing the right thing. Then in another post he says that, “I’m going to be famous. You’re going to know me.” Then [crosstalk 00:08:49] talks like a gangster.
Regina Hill: Yeah, yeah. That clearly shows a disturbed individual. Someone that’s almost similar to a Jekyll and Hyde.
Greg: Yeah, because he went to get the sonogram with his now deceased ex-girlfriend and was happy that he was having a baby. Yet, 24 hours later he allegedly shoots and kills her at the doorstep of her home.
Regina Hill: Undiagnosed mental health illnesses. I do believe that if we can identify these things while they’re young, while they’re in preschool, maybe while they’re in elementary school ... That’s one thing I think in the inner city that we don’t focus on much.
Greg: Treat them when they’re young.
Regina Hill: Treat them when they’re young. It’s easier to fix a broken child than to fix a broken adult when they’re far too gone.
Greg: What about gun control, is that an issue here? Would that help here? Are criminals always going to find guns and weapons?
Regina Hill: Well, in America we have more guns than Americans, right? For me, I truly believe that unfortunately people are going to find access to guns. Guns don’t hurt people, hurt people hurt people. If we can fix these hurt people so they won’t resort to picking up a gun and hurting somebody else, picking up a crowbar and hurting someone else, getting behind a car and driving into hurting someone else. If we can fix that person, I think that’s where we begin. It’s cradle to career, it’s cradle to career. We need to invest more resources into our youth, into our young adults.
Greg: You have been there, you’ve had a life where you’ve seen it all. You’ve lived a life on both sides of this. Why does someone result to that? Do they just have desperation, no hope, all of those things? You’ve been there and now look what you’ve done with your life and what a strong member of our community you’ve become.
Regina Hill: Yeah, I do and that’s why I’m saying, “Hurt people hurt people.” Fortunately, when I was hurting, when I had no outlet, when I was hopeless the only person that really hurt was me. I did more damage to me. Many a time I think these kids now have access to high powered ammunition. There wasn’t many guns on the street when I was going through my trials and tribulations. I wasn’t angry at anyone else, but my mother and father. These kids are angry at society now, that’s why we see all these rebellious spirits. Greg, I just really believe that we need to pour more resources into youth programs.
Greg: Did law enforcement do enough to find Markeith Loyd in those days after that December 13th cold blooded murder?
Regina Hill: Yes, I do think law enforcement did enough. We had everyone out there shaking the bushes. We had a lot of resources out there. What I don’t think was done enough is the community. Police was not harboring this cold blooded murderer. It was someone in our community and I’m going to say it, someone in our black community, our black community that has been harboring Markeith Loyd-
Greg: We’ll be right back with Commissioner Regina Hill after this. Welcome back to Central Florida Spotlight. Joined again by Commissioner Regina Hill. Commissioner Hill, this community John Mina says, the Pine Hills community, the Parramore community, there are a lot of very good people, hardworking people that love that community. Yet, they feel they’re under attack, they don’t feel safe, some don’t trust the police. How do we change that?
Regina Hill: Well, what’s ironic is Officer Clayton had just completed a book. It was going to print this week, it was at copyright, they were checking, fine tuning it, and proof reading it. It was called, Bridging the Gap of the Community and the Police. That was her life work, she had ... Was getting her PhD and had wrote a thesis on it. That’s what it takes, the work that Officer Clayton was doing. It’s getting out of the car, knowing your neighbors, knowing those in the neighborhood. The community trusting those that protect and serve them. You’re right, there’s some great people in Parramore, there’s some great people in Pine Hills, and Rosemont in the west side of Orlando. We know this because it was a community resident that saw him and reported it. She did not let that murderer go by. Met her last evening, she’s having a terrible time right now because she’s feeling somewhat guilty.
Greg: She shouldn’t.
Regina Hill: She should not. She is a hero, just like Officer Clayton died being.
Greg: I can understand her feeling that way. Why is there such fear to call the police or call Crimeline? Do they not trust Crimeline that you would remain anonymous? Is there ... Do we need to do a better job of communicating that you are safe to call this number?
Regina Hill: Barb Bergin, she’s doing a phenomenal job-
Greg: She’s the course a head of Crimeline.
Regina Hill: She’s the executive director of Crimeline and she’s doing a phenomenal job of communicating that especially during this week. Yes, we must do a ... Continue to let folks know anonymous does truly mean anonymous.
Greg: Our hashtag now, I’m certain you’re familiar with it. You’re active on social media-
Regina Hill: Warlando.
Greg: Warlando.
Regina Hill: Indeed. That’s why I say it’s so important to start pouring resources into youth programs and jobs and training, because we might ... We can circumvent this four years from now if we started pouring resources and jobs into this community, into the inner city, into young minorities.
Greg: Fixing Markeith Loyd who has a criminal past that dates back about the same time that Debra Clayton started in law enforcement, went to Maynard Evans High School, was local, was somebody clearly there were a ton of red flags.
Regina Hill: Indeed.
Greg: He was incarcerated in federal prison. That’s what gets me, he was on the radar and there are many stories like that.
Regina Hill: Well, I’m almost certain that before Markeith Loyd aspired to be on America’s Most Wanted, he probably at some point in his life aspired to be a great student in elementary, or junior high school, now middle school, but had some issues maybe in the classroom. We could’ve identified those issues early on and put some preventative measures in place, maybe we wouldn’t have to meet the murderers Markeith Loyd that has taken two significant people in our lives.
Greg: We cannot allow for these two officers to die in vain.
Regina Hill: No, we cannot and we will not. What, as I stated last evening, one of the most impactful things that I saw there was young men and women of color singing, “We’re standing with the police officers, we’re standing with our community. We will not allow terror, and murder, and chaos to control our streets of Orlando. We’re going to be the change that we’re hoping for. We’re going to be the change that we are requesting from City Hall. Now we’re going to pick up this baton and run with it for these two officers.”
Greg: Let’s get rid of the warlando and be Orlando.
Regina Hill: Yeah, one Orlando.
Greg: One Orlando. Thank you very much Commissioner Regina Hill. Again, specials thanks to Commissioner Hill for coming in during this emotional time. Coming up next we’ll be joined by Sandra Fatmi, community leader in Pine Hills. We’ll talk to her about her community’s reaction to the violence and how we can also change impressions about Pine Hills. That and much more when we come back. Welcome back to Central Florida Spotlight. Joined now by Sandra Fatmi, leader with the Pine Hills community council. Thanks for coming on the show today, I know it’s been a difficult not just week, but several weeks-
Sandra Fatmi: Absolutely.
Greg: In the community. Talk about what you are hearing within the community as it relates to this violence. It seems to be never ending.
Sandra Fatmi: It seems to be never ending and as president of the Pine Hills Community Council I have to tell you, I’m numb. I’m numb for several reasons. In talking to the residents in the community, I’ve gone out into the streets, and they’re pretty much scared. You have so many factors that you’re dealing with. You’re dealing with people that are fearing for their safety, you’re dealing with those that are on the street that feel as if, “Hey, this is my way of life. I’ve gone to jail, I can’t get a job, what do you want me to do? That’s the way that I survive. You guys have got to figure it out in this community what it is that you’re going to do to help us.” That’s what I’m hearing.
Greg: Okay, so is there a solution to this? We had Regina Hill on in our earlier segments and it’s something to start young with them, and also once they get that record for that first mistake or second mistake, then they become unemployable and then they become desperate.
Sandra Fatmi: Absolutely. I think we have to talk about job security, we have to talk about skills. Not every one is meant to go to college, so when we notice the behavior, let’s try to get them into trade schools. I think that would help. That’s what I’m hearing from those that are on the streets. Those that are in their 30’s have said to me, “You have to focus on the young ones.” That means trying to get them jobs, trying to get them focused on a different way of life that may work for them.
Greg: Sandra, you as the President of that Pine Hills Association, you’ve heard the moniker, Crime Hills. That has to upset you.
Sandra Fatmi: Yes, it does. How we try to change that, we try to change that because they’re good, law abiding citizens. I would say 95% of our community are upstanding. They’re proud, they’re willing to work, they’re willing to take back their community, but it saddens us. Over the last few weeks we’ve heard different things that have happened in the community that’s actually not Pine Hills. Where Sergeant Master was murdered, that’s College Park. I really want to set that record straight.
Greg: Over these 26 days or whatever its been where Markeith Loyd was a fugitive, people had to have seen him, he was walking amongst us. Yet, obviously no one said something.
Sandra Fatmi: Absolutely. I think for fear, as we talked about, of retribution even from him, possibly. Because there are those that are considering him a hero. That I don’t understand, because lack of trust in our law enforcement, lack of community togetherness, they’re feeling that every one is against them and that’s not the case, definitely not.
Greg: Finally, you’re proud of Pine Hills-
Sandra Fatmi: I am.
Greg: You say that 95% of the people share your beliefs-
Sandra Fatmi: Yes.
Greg: Work hard, love their community-
Sandra Fatmi: Yes.
Greg: It’s the 5% that are ruining it for all of us.
Sandra Fatmi: The 5% that’s ruining it. We have to take back our community, we cannot allow that to happen. There’s more of good than evil, and that needs to be shown. I will encourage everyone to work together, not separately, but to work together to get this done, because there’s more that can be done with numbers. I’m very hopeful, I’m very proud of our community. There’s going to be great things that’s going to continue coming out of our community. We have 17 kids in our afterschool program that’s getting ready to graduate, some going off to Morehouse, and there’s great things that are happening. I want to spread that word. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about it, but I also feel that more can be done with working together.
Greg: We will invite you back hopefully with more pleasant stories-
Sandra Fatmi: Sure.
Greg: Than the ones we’ve been dealing with. Thank you for your hard work on behalf of the community.
Sandra Fatmi: Absolutely. Thank you so much, thank you for having me.
Greg: You’re welcome, thank you. That will wrap up this week’s show. I want to thank Sandra Fatmi and my earlier guest, Commissioner Regina Hill for being on this show during this very emotional time. We’ll be back next week with another edition of Central Florida Spotlight. Until then, have a great remainder of your weekend and take care.
”
UFCF After School Program President Julien O'Neil on Community change
January 03, 2017
From the Pine Hills Community Council Open House and oath of Office Ceremony. 1/3/2017 Just the Small segment with me.
For future purposes, Pine Hills Community Council Meetings take place the first Tuesday of every month.
As I spoke, I spoke as a concerned citizen and youth of the Pine Hills, Orlando Area, a member of both the Pine Hills Community Council and the United Foundation of Central Florida. My stance has always been, in order to change the community directly, you must take what it is you do and bring it to the youth. This then making its way into the homes of many ultimately changing the minds of other youth and the adults around them. A child's influence is greater than what most think.
My prime focus is how to reach these students, through after school prprograms that is why I work with this foundation. As a concerned citizen and catalyst of change, I ask you to support nonprofit organizations that focus on youth mentoring, tutoring, and after- school programs. When choosing who to support go to those who have the proven their approach works.
For example
Check out the United Foundation of Central Florida, the school of impact is Maynard Evans high School we are currently working on expanding to additional schools, and we cannot do that without your support.
Best,
Julien Serrano-O’Neil, FLU President 2016-2017
Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/unitedfounda...
Website: http://www.unitedfoundationcf.org/
UFCF Sandra Fatmi and Dennis Hall In some neighborhoods, fear of talking to police
With the tragic events that have taken place on Monday January 9th, 2017. United Foundation of Central Florida /Pine Hills Community Council Presidents Sandra Fatmi and Treasure of United Foundation of Central Florida Dennis Hall, spoke to the Orlando Sentinel to discuss what is happening and how Community involvement could decrease the amount of Crimes in the Pine Hills and Orlando Area. As well as to what can be done to insure the Safety of the Community.
Please check it out! This is one of the first steps to turning the community around in a good way!!!
“Somebody knew something about where Markeith Loyd was hiding.
But in the nearly four weeks since Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings first said he was looking for him after Loyd’s 24-year-old pregnant ex-girlfriend was shot dead, nobody spoke up.
”Today brought another surge in our bellies, you know why?” asked Sandra Fatmi, president of the Pine Hills Community Council, on Monday afternoon as a large-scale manhunt was underway for Loyd. “Look at what happened today as a result of people not talking.”
She was referring, of course, to the killing of Sgt. Debra Clayton, who police said was gunned down by Loyd on Monday morning at the Wal-Mart on Princeton Street near College Park. A second law enforcement officer, Deputy Norman Lewis, died in a motorcycle crash while responding to the shooting.
Neither the killing of Clayton or Sade Dixon, Loyd’s ex-girlfriend, took place within the technical boundaries of Pine Hills, an unincorporated neighborhood of more than 60,000 people generally west of Pine Hills Road and east of Apopka Vineland Road.But Pine Hills saw a surge in homicides last year and, as a result, is at the center of an effort by the sheriff’s office to take guns and drugs off the streets.
Shortly after Clayton was killed, police said Loyd shot at a another deputy, but missed, and carjacked another vehicle at a Pine Hills apartment complex near Pine Hills Road and North Lane.
He ditched the vehicle in the nearby Rosemont neighborhood.
Fatmi and Dennis Hall, another activist in the neighborhood, said a culture change must take place so that people in the neighborhoods aren’t afraid to talk to law enforcement.
”These bad guys, they eat, they sleep, they take showers,” said Hall, who was recently recognized for his work in the area by the Pine Hills Neighborhood Improvement District. “Somebody knows who they are and where they are.”
Still, he said, he’s not unsympathetic to the hesitancy to come forward.
There is widespread fear of retribution.
Last month, when five people were shot outside of a Pine Hills convenience store, one witness told the Sentinel he didn’t want to be named out of concern he would “be the next one shot.”
Police often have trouble convincing witnesses to come forward.
Some in the community don’t trust the police or fear they won’t be kept anonymous by the Crimeline tips line (1-800-423-TIPS), though the service promises anonymity and callers are sometimes eligible for a reward.
During a press conference on Monday morning, Demings noted his frustration with what he suspects are some in the community who are staying quiet and aiding Loyd.
”We have been looking for him and have not been able to locate him,” the sheriff said. “That indicates to me that he’s been receiving help from someone.”
There are other intractable problems tied to street violence.
Fatmi, who also runs an after-school program at Evans High School, said gangs have too much power over too many teens.
”They’re recruiting our young people,” she said. “Offering them money because of their ages, because of their economic status. It’s a business.”
In addition to the increase in law enforcement patrols that came in response to the higher rate of homicides last year, she said there is a need for funding more early education and mentor programs.
And she would like to see more people involved in the community, which was formed as one of Orlando’s first suburbs back in the early days of Martin Marietta, now Lockheed Martin.
Typically, she said, about 80 to 100 people turn out at the Pine Hills Community Council, a nonprofit group that meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the neighborhood community center.
”I want it bigger,” Fatmi said. “I want to outgrow the center.”
One of the purposes of the council: to help people who live in the area build a relationship with law enforcement.
And persuade more people to stop staying quiet and start talking.”
UFCF After School Program FLU Witnesses History Aramis Ayala Oath of Office Ceremony
January 6th, 2017
Students of Future Leaders United wanted to go watch history be made. As United Foundation of Central Florida continues to put their students in better environments exposing them to the positive events that take place in the Pine hills and Orlando areas.
We witness history today as the first African America and female State Attorney took her oath of office. Congratulations State Attorney Aramis Donell Ayala. Our prayers and support are with you!
The Oath of Office was administered by Justice Peggy Quince Florida (Supreme Court), Guest speakers Justice James E.C. Perry (Florida Supreme Court), Chief Judge Frederick J. Louten (Ninth Judicial Circuit, Mistress of Ceremony Monica May ( News & Communication Affairs Director, STAR 94.5)
FLU President Julien O'Neil, Secretary Daftne Sanchez, Delegates Arry Rendel, Darius Flores, Theveline Corriolant, Michelle Gourdet,
UFCF President Sandra Fatmi
Aramis Ayala Taking Oath of Office
2016 Fundraising Christmas/Holiday Event
Sandra Fatmi and United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., Continues to Make a Difference in Pine Hills with their Upcoming Fundraising Christmas/Holiday Event on Friday, December 9th 2016 to benefit Evans High School Students.
United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., (UFCF) is a non-profit public foundation formed February 14th 2014 to fulfill the educational, mentoring, health, and financial literacy needs of our children in the Pine Hills area, utilizing a holistic approach. When we started in 2014 we focused on early intervention, leading to prevention. Along our Journey of feeder schools which included, elementary, middle and high we met with change in leadership at both the elementary and middle schools in our area. As a result, we continued our mission at Evans and we are proud to report 2 ½ years later that we have grown more than we could ever imagine. We have provided support as a partner in and outside of the school, we have supported over 60 events over the past few years, we have feed the homeless, provided clothes and personal hygiene to our children and families, we fed the pre-game meals for the football team for the entire season, 4 seniors have graduated and gone on to College from our afterschool program, the graduation rate increased from 48% to almost 90% and our freshman mentees are doing really well. Thanks to our founding members, amazing board of directors and community partners we have been able to reach this far and realize our mission to partner with local community organizations to positively transform our children and families utilizing our education through mentoring program, to leave this world better than we saw it.
So, as 2016 comes to a close we need your help to raise $25,000.00 to continue our Freshman Success mentoring of our 9th graders, our partnership with the school, our Team mentoring of approximately 20 kids throughout the school, our Future Leaders afterschool program of 23 kids, not to mention offer our 17 seniors graduating in May 2017 scholarships. Our Spectacular Fundraising Christmas/Holiday Event is slated for Friday, December 9th 2016 from 7:30 pm to 12:30 am at the hidden jewel of Orlando – The Crystal Ballroom at Veranda, located at 7065 Westpointe Blvd., Suite 140, Orlando, FL 32835. Attire is Semi-Formal. Tickets can be purchased on the foundation website. Which is www.unitedfoundationcf.org Donations for the event are $80.00 per person. To sponsor one of our students for the event is $60.00, a table sponsor for a table of 10 is $1,000.00, and a table sponsor for a table of 12 is $1,400.00. Other sponsorship levels are available on the website. As we look forward to the future, we are proud to announce that several other local schools have reached out to our Foundation to bring the same programs to their institutions and that will start in 2017. We are asking for your help in the form of supporting the event, making a donation, sponsoring a child for this memorable event, and or sponsor a table just to name a few. Please come out and meet our young people and help us empower communities’ one family at a time. We can be reached at 407-900-8137 for more information. Stay tuned for more information on Facebook, by email and updated press releases about our speakers, sponsors and supporters.
Thank you for supporting our Fundraising Event
Dear Sponsors, Board of Directors, Friends and Supporters:
Happy Friday!! After Saturday's Fundraising Event, I took a few days to relax and reflect, but wouldn't let today pass without reaching out to the entire community. On behalf of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. I would like to personally extend a warm thank you to the following: Our Sponsors - Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill, Soiree Event and Conference Center, Caribbean American Passport News Magazine, VITAS, Golding Law Group, PLC, Caribbean Sunshine Bakery and Restaurant, DJ Phayz of Vibrant Soundz and Rosen Plaza Hotel. Our Board of Directors (thanks for your hard work, financial support and belief in me), Our Silent Auction Donors (Your contribution will help to raise funds for the foundation - please visit our site for items still available). Our Table hosts - Trinidad Association, Caribbean Supercenter, Tim Haberkamp from Hardees Restaurant and the Pine Hills Community Council. Our Officials running for District 2 and 6, namely Virginia Whittington, Roberta Walton and Alvin Moore. Our Media Sponsors - WOKB - 1680 AM Tropical Experience Radio Show, Jammins Radio Show and Caribbean Vibes (Thanks for keeping our community informed, educated and entertained). Our Volunteers (a mixture of young people and adults, your time spent with us was priceless). Our Supporters who purchased tickets for the event. Thank you for taking the time to support this initiative to help make an awareness of United Foundation's intension to focus on early childhood education leading to prevention. Thanks for believing in us and being supportive of our first event.
When the Board and myself put this event together, one of the main focus was to help bring about hands on solutions that addressed the needs of a selected area in the Pine Hills community. The community however, had questions about how the Tangelo Park Program worked. Thanks to Harris Rosen, the leaders in attendance involved with the Program, and the graduates from the program for clarifying lots of misconceptions. One of the most important question being, the helped received in Tangelo Park was a handout, Mr. Rosen made it very clear that it was the complete opposite, and instead it was an investment in the future of our children.
This was just the beginning of making an awareness of the Foundation's intentions, as we ask the Pine Hills community to come together. The evening was informative, and everything we promised it would be. We could not end this Thank You acknowledgement without thanking our Gracious MC for the evening the one and only Vanessa Echols, The sultry voice of Sisuandra Lewis (In our opinion Orlando's winner of the voice , Our newly adopted artist and singer Lee C. Lizandro, (who came all the way from Puerto Rico), The Fearing family from Tampa, who started the night off with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. Tony Blair and the 506 Crew, DJ Phayz of Vibrant Soundz (once again outdoing themselves as usual). Kathryn Mullings you are a class act all the way. Since the event I've received phone calls from community leaders looking forward to the next step. I am tremendously excited about what the future holds, but more importantly happy that most in attendance left with hope and inspiration.
In closing I ask everyone reading this Community Thank you Message to continue supporting our Sponsors listed above as well as Silent Auction donors who went above and beyond to support this first event, they believed in our cause, and didn't hesitate to do their part. You supporting their business means continued Unity and community growth!
Facebook family and friends we have started the plans for next years Fundraising Gala and we will keep you posted as we move forward with our Pine Hills Program. In the months to come, please follow us on our website www.unitedfoundationcf.org for more updates. Always remember that it's better to give than receive.
Continued Blessing always!
Sandra Fatmi - President, United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc.
Thanks for your support at our Red Carpet Fundraising GALA on July 26th 2014