ORANGE PARK – PACE Clay marked a significant milestone on Wednesday, March 27, when it hosted its highly anticipated Believing in Girls Luncheon. This event, known as the largest community fundraiser of the year, attracted more than 150 guests, including local professionals, businesses, and community leaders, all converging to show their support for girls in their community, including Sheriff Michelle Cook, former Florida Sen. Rob Bradley, Superintendent David Broskie, Keystone Heights Mayor Nina Rodenroth and School Board Vice-Chair Mary Bolla.

This year’s event was exceptional, with the recognition of 18 seniors, constituting the largest graduating class yet. Their achievements served as a testament to the transformative impact of Pace Clay’s programs.

“This year, Pace Clay focused on three important enhancements to our work: first, community engagement, especially volunteerism; second, career development,” said Genelle Thomas, Pace Executive Director. We now offer onsite ASVAB, PSAT, SAT, and CLT testing, numerous college and trade school tours, job shadowing opportunities, and role modeling from community professionals. We do all this to ensure our girls have a path to success after Pace, allowing them to be employed and self-sufficient. And third, family engagement. We believe our girls are more successful when we partner with their families.

“Therefore, we launched a new Family Night series and have begun to increase family support efforts. This year, our academic outcome measurements show that 100% of girls who transitioned from Pace Clay this year improved academically based on course completions, grades, and standardized testing scores.”

Pace Clay’s commitment to fostering this supportive community was evident in their expanding reach. Currently serving 55 girls in their Day Program on a newly constructed campus and 35 girls through their Reach Program, which provides vital mental health therapy in nine Clay County Schools, the organization continues to make significant strides in its mission.

At the heart of the luncheon was a profound belief in the power of community support. Every girl, it was emphasized, deserves a network of encouragement and empowerment to realize her full potential. This sentiment resonated deeply as speakers and participants alike shared stories of resilience, growth and triumph.

As the luncheon ended, attendees left inspired and motivated, carrying with them a renewed dedication to championing the cause of empowering girls. The event served as a fundraiser and a celebration of progress, unity and hope for the future.