The 9th annual Scholars breakfast was truly memorable and recognized HANDY scholarship recipients who are graduating from college this year. HANDY recognized three “Champions of Children” whose interest, vision, and generous support have significantly contributed to HANDY’s success: Joseph Farrell, Jr., President/CEO of Resolve Marine Industries, community leaders Marsha and Alan Levy, and Eugene K. Pettis, Esq. of Haliczer Pettis &Schwamm, P.A. and President of the Florida Bar. Host Jessica Koussevitzky was on hand to catch up with some of the staff, supporters, and attendees.
The event is chaired by HANDY Board Member, Suzanne Driscoll, Esq. of Shutts & Bowen, LLP and Jessica López-Acevedo of Florida Atlantic University. This year, there was a first ever silent auction and other opportunities to raise funds for HANDY’s Scholarship Program.
Mission Statement
HANDY’s mission is to embrace, educate, and empower vulnerable youth to become engaged, productive adults.
HANDY annually serves more than 1,300 at-risk children who participate in comprehensive programs that focus on education, youth development, and economic self-sufficiency.
HANDY serves …
Children and youth ages birth to 23 years, who have been removed from their homes due to domestic violence, substance abuse, physical and/or sexual abuse, and abandonment. These children have been placed in Foster Care, in Relative/Non Relative Care under Protective Supervision , or Relative/Non Relative Care in Prevention Care to avoid them from entering the Dependency System.
Older youth who are aging out of the Foster/Relative Care System
Youth who may be homeless or on the verge of homelessness
Displaced Haitian youth living with relative caregivers under protective supervision who were victims of the 2010 earthquake.
Children placed with a Relative/Non Relative Caregiver are not eligible for the services that Foster Care children receive, even though they are facing the same fears, anxieties, and feelings of hopelessness. Most of these caregivers are economically disadvantaged living on fixed incomes. HANDY meets the individual needs of these children and youth ……one child at a time.
HANDY is a constant in their lives. Youth form lasting bonds with caring and dedicated staff and with each other and learn to have healthy relationships that allows them to heal, grow, learn, and transition to adulthood as empowered young adults with the skills and confidence to become successful members of society.
