Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
March 4, 2020
At their March 3, 2020 Regular Meeting, the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) officially recognized Take Stock in Children of Nassau County, Inc. for providing unique educational opportunities for deserving, academically talented, low-income students to escape the cycle of poverty and proclaimed the month of March 2020, as, “Take Stock in Children Month.”
Former Mayor Robin C. Lentz and members of the Take Stock in Children of Nassau County, Inc. Board of Directors were in attendance to accept the Proclamation delivered by Mayor John Miller.
Miller noted that Take Stock in Children is celebrating its 23rd year of service in Nassau County. Their mission, “Keep the Promise,” has delivered mentoring and complimentary college scholarships to more than 611 Nassau County students. This innovative and transformative program is a life-changing opportunity for students who would likely not graduate High School and go to higher education.
Take Stock in Children participants are actively engaged in a rigorous education program which maintains high expectations and accountability among all participants. Each student must sign a contract committing to abide by the program’s fundamental rules: stay in school, maintain good grades, attend weekly mentor meetings, remain drug and crime free, and exhibit good citizenship.
Within eight area Nassau County schools, Take Stock in Children volunteers aggressively promote 100% high school graduation rates, offer invaluable scholastic guidance and expert college success preparation. Presently, the organization is mentoring 114 Nassau County students in pre- college and 97% of Nassau County program participants enroll in college with tuition paid entirely by Take Stock in Children of Nassau County, Inc.
In accepting the Proclamation, Lentz expressed her appreciation to the City and all the volunteers who continue to make Take Stock In Children a success for local children. She put out a call for volunteers who might be willing to mentor children in the program. She also invited the public to attend the annual “Light up a Life Gala and Silent Auction” event on March 27, 2020, at the Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island.
For more information about the program and opportunities to get involved, click here
Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.