022226 FeedTheLambs NorahKodis 002 — PHOTO BY NORAH KODIS

The annual gala to benefit the Feed the Lambs Enrichment Program utilized its goal as its theme this year, “Empowering the youth of today to become the leaders of tomorrow.”

Between the courses of a beautiful dinner at the Vero Beach Yacht Club, one mother spoke of her own experiences with the nonprofit. She stated that her children have flourished within the program and, with assistance from Feed the Lambs, feels relieved of considerable burdens.

“I would just like to say how thankful I am that my children had a safe, caring and positive place to go over the summer. I am especially grateful for all the programs offered free of charge, which made such a huge difference for me and my kids,” she said.

Through its high-quality programs, she said they learned about financial literacy, music and personal hygiene, among other things.

“Not having to worry about the added stress of whether I could afford field trips every week took such a weight off my shoulders,” she added.

Feed the Lambs CEO and executive director John May shared that if it weren’t for the late J. Ralph Lundy, his own life would have gone in a different direction.

Lundy founded the nonprofit to assist children dealing with difficult challenges, such as May.

“I was just coming out of the county jail from using drugs and getting caught stealing,” said May, who credits his involvement and his faith for 30 years of sobriety.

“Nobody knows what it is to struggle or hit the bottom and not know which way you’re going to turn, what you’re going to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. That was one thing Mr. Lundy taught me. He said, ‘Whatever you do, John, make sure them kids eat.’ And we do. We make sure they eat physically and spiritually,” said May.

“I want to be able to help every child that I can, so that they can go down the right road and not get lost like I did in my time. Got lost and didn’t know if I was coming back,” continued May.

Through their programs, children in Gifford, Wabasso and South County have improved their academic performance, developed better attitudes toward school, improved attendance rates, narrowed the achievement gap among low-income students, reduced risky behaviors, and developed teamwork, communication and collaboration skills.

His wife and program director, Kenya May, said having a strong foundation and love is what makes a difference in these children’s lives.

“We’re a family, not just a tutoring and afterschool program. After 5 o’clock, we’re still being a family to some of the kids. We have parents call us with their problems,” she added.

Afterward, the booming voice of Grammy Award-nominated gospel artist Wintley Phipps filled the club, treating guests to a selection of songs from his recently released “A Symphonic Tribute to the Songs of Bill & Gloria Gaither.”

“Generosity is the test God gives before He gives you wealth,” said Phipps, before encouraging guests to give generously toward the nonprofit’s plans to build its own facility off Oslo Road. The new building will feature a soccer field, playground and dedicated space for their programs.

For more information, visit FeedTheLambsEP.com.