Impact100 SRQ 2024 Finalists Announced: Key Members of CHS Represented Non-Profit at Meet the Finalists Event
Tampa, Fla. (December 12, 2024)—Children’s Home Society of Florida is proud to announce that we have been selected as one of the ten finalists for the Impact100 SRQ 2024 Giving Year. CHS was represented at the Meet the Finalists event on December 9 by Summer Pfeiffer, Vice President & Executive Director, and Jessie Garcia, CHS Community Partnership School Director at Daughtrey Elementary School for CHS Greater Tampa Bay. This opportunity highlighted the commitment of CHS to transform the lives of children and families across the state and demonstrated the trust placed in us by the communities we serve throughout Florida.
At the Meet the Finalists event, the finalists were publicly announced, and representatives from each attending organization had the opportunity to draw numbers to establish the presentation order for the Annual Celebration on January 22, where the grant recipients will be announced. CHS was eager to engage with fellow finalists and community members while exploring the potential impact of the upcoming grant opportunity.
“Being recognized as a finalist for the Impact100 SRQ 2024 Giving Year was an incredible honor for Children’s Home Society of Florida,” expressed Summer Pfeiffer, Vice President & Executive Director. “We are enthusiastic about the possibilities this funding presents for enhancing our Community Partnership School model aimed at helping children and families in need.”
The Community Partnership Schools (CPS) model, which CHS co-founded with the University of Central Florida (UCF), has proven to improve student behavior, increase academic gains and graduation rates, and enhance parental involvement. This model supports the overarching goal of breaking the cycle of poverty and is based on four pillars: integrated wellness supports, expanded learning time, family and community engagement, and collaborative leadership. By utilizing this approach, CHS aims to provide equitable opportunities and success for all students.
The importance of this recognition is crucial for the success of non-profits such as CHS. The funding provided through Impact100 SRQ represents a vital investment in community-driven solutions that address pressing issues affecting children and families. CHS’s proposed initiative will serve not only students, but also their families and others living in the neighborhoods served by Manatee and Daughtrey Elementary Schools. Based on needs assessments, CHS has identified the need for increased Food Pantry and Parent Resource Center services, directly supporting family stability and reducing food insecurity.
“Being acknowledged as a finalist for the Impact100 SRQ 2024 Giving Year was a tremendous privilege for Daughtrey and Manatee Elementary Schools,” stated Jessie Garcia, CHS Community Partnership School Director. “We are excited about the opportunities this funding can unlock, enabling us to expand our innovative programs dedicated to supporting children and families in our community.”
CHS proposed to enhance the space available for the Parent Resource Center at each school by using portables donated and renovated by Manatee County School District, which will host nutrition and educational classes. A Food Pantry will also be established at Daughtrey with the support of Feeding Tampa Bay, ensuring access to meat, dairy, and fresh produce. This effort aims to increase family involvement in education, thereby having far-reaching positive impacts on educational success.
