Pictured: Truly Valued works to empower youth and adults in the community. Photo courtesy of Truly Valued.

Truly Valued is excited to receive support that will go towards life-changing youth and family programs throughout Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto Counties. As an evolving non-profit organization, funds will be allotted for vital staff positions, essential program enhancements, and increase the reach of services and resources for community members who need it most. Truly Valued equips future leaders with the tools they need to make positive behavior changes to achieve their full potential. The organization has made it a priority to understand the significance of converting actions into measurable results that empower youth and adults in the community. Truly Valued’s I AM Academy mentoring program is offered to students on the campuses of Sarasota and Manatee County schools. “With the short period of time that you have worked with our students, they have started to show some changes and we are looking forward to having Truly Valued for the 2023-2024 school year.” Tuttle Elementary School, Home School Liaison/Staff Support. The May 2023 impact report shows that: 95% of students could identify two things they learned from the pillars of building character, confidence, education opportunities, self-esteem, and awareness; 84% of students said that they respect themselves more and are better aware of their surroundings as a result of what they’ve learned; 53% of students reported that they felt the program was inclusive, like a family, topics were relevant, and staff makes Truly Valued different from other mentoring programs; 88% of returning students have not received referrals for correction in the 2022 school year compared to 2021 school year. This expansion is made possible thanks to the support from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation. “This opportunity has been seven years in the making. We wouldn’t have this level of transformation in our youth without the ongoing support of our partners and investors,” says Shavonne Sams, Founder and CEO. “The generosity of the Barancik Foundation is a testament of true collaboration designed for the betterment of our children, families, schools, and community. We are truly grateful and honored.”

Pictured: Truly Valued works to empower youth and adults in the community. Photo courtesy of Truly Valued.

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