GYAC Cast of Once on This Island, JR. PHOTO BY AMY SAVILLE

Supporters of the Gifford Youth Achievement Center enjoyed a Soulful Soiree at the Oak Harbor Club, highlighted by GYAC student stories, a performance by GYAC Drama Club students, a delicious dinner and Silent Disco Dancing, as a way of “Jazzing up the Night for Academic Excellence.”

“Tonight’s lesson is about celebrating the accomplishments of GYAC students resulting from those programs that many of you donors have helped fund,” said board member Ken Mindt, thanking everyone for their support.

He introduced Justin Woulard, who enrolled in GYAC as a kindergartener and is now a high school senior. He also interned for three summers at Masteller and Moler Engineering through the GYAC Youth Employability Program.

“With all your support you make it possible for students like me to shoot for the stars and do great things,” said Woulard, who expects to graduate in the top five in his class with a 4.75 GPA.
Although he was also accepted into the University of Florida and University of Miami, he will pursue a mechanical engineering degree at Florida State University.

“I’m proud of the other students in my class and in the community and I’m proud of all your support, so thank you,” said Woulard.

Freddie Woolfork, director of public relations and facilities operation, gave a brief history of the nonprofit, which was founded in 1998 to improve graduation rates among students in the Gifford community, adding that the GYAC acronym can also denote Give Youth A Chance.

“I want to thank you tonight for joining us as we celebrate 27 years of changing lives and changing futures. You are truly making a difference,” said Angelia Perry, executive director, before introducing the two next speakers: Lathan Willis, a Vero Beach High School freshman, and Jamar Allston Jr., an eighth grader at Storm Grove Middle School.

“One of the best things about being here is having access to the extra support I need. Whether it’s helping with my homework or having a quiet place for me to study, GYAC has given me the tools to focus on my drive. This program has not only helped me with schoolwork, but it has provided me with incredible opportunities,” said Willis.

“I am incredibly thankful for everything that GYAC has done for me. It’s truly a transformative experience. Thank you,” said Willis.

Allston said his school success – he has been accepted into the National Junior Honor Society – is closely related to his time at GYAC.

“As a student at GYAC, I can participate in many social activities despite having autism. GYAC is inclusive of all students and backgrounds,” said Allston. “GYAC promotes character, leadership and academics.”

Allston said he has participated in everything from communicating with astronauts in the International Space Station to working two summers as an assistant elementary school teacher.

“As I stated before, we’re planting seeds that will bear fruit for generations to come, and we couldn’t do it without you,” said Perry.

Guests were then charmed by GYAC students who performed a wonderful piece from “Once on This Island, JR,” for which the group recently won an award in excellence and ensemble work at the Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta, a judged competition that draws students from around the world.

Kevin Quillinan, Riverside Theatre’s director of theater education, spoke about the unique experience, which imparts self-esteem, confidence and resilience. The children were able to meet theater people from all spectrums and levels of the business, including some with Tony Awards and Oscars.

Before the dancing began, Perry spoke of their upcoming GYAC Giving Day on Feb. 15, established to give back to the community through a Kindness Rally and volunteerism. This year, students, parents and anyone else interested are invited to join them as volunteers at Shining Light Garden.

For more information, visit MyGYAC.org.

Photos by Amy Saville