WINTER HAVEN, Fla.—Today, First Lady Casey DeSantis awarded $1,000 bonus checks to all Hope Navigators through the Hope Florida Fund. Additionally, six Navigators received $2,500 bonus checks for their outstanding performance in assisting people in need. The total amount awarded exceeded $175,000.
“Hope Navigators unite good people in need of help with good people in the community who are willing to help,” said First Lady Casey DeSantis. “Thanks to the Hope Florida program, Hope Navigators are in a unique position to make the connection between Floridians in need and local charities, non-profits, faith-based institutions, and private sector partners ready and willing to assist. Hope Navigators are the reason Hope Florida has been extremely successful—it was an honor to award them much deserved bonuses.”
Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harris added: “First Lady Casey DeSantis often refers to the Hope Navigators as the secret sauce of the program and she is correct. They are making such a difference in the lives of individuals seeking help through the program by activating local resources but also helping participants dream bigger dreams for their future. It was so inspiring to watch the First Lady celebrate and reward the hard work of the Navigators at today’s meeting.”
The six peer-nominated recipients of $2,500 checks were:
Jacqueline Walker Bell
Known as “Miss Jackie,” Jacqueline has been part of Hope Florida since its inception. She is recognized for her willingness to help others and her high number of face-to-face participants each month. One graduate credits her with helping him transition from homelessness to employment.
Aaron Pelone
A Navigator at the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, Aaron assisted nearly 100 veterans during Hurricane Idalia by clearing trees and debris from their properties. He recently helped a United States Air Force veteran struggling with mental health issues connect with effective treatment.
Sandra Pinkey
With 43 years at the Department of Juvenile Justice, Sandra has taken on various roles including that of a Hope Navigator. Her efforts have made significant differences for many families before they become involved with juvenile justice.
Kirsten Lovett
Kirsten works with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities since 2010 and recently assisted a mother-daughter duo by connecting them with food support from City Church among other services.
Yolanda Rowling
Yolanda joined Hope Florida in June 2023 and is known for her background in serving people with developmental disabilities. She has helped a young participant access therapy and develop entrepreneurial skills.
Dawn Murray
As Director of Partnerships and Prevention at the Office of Economic Self-Sufficiency within DCF since June 1994, Dawn played a key role in creating what developed into Hope Florida—A Pathway to Prosperity.
About Hope Florida:
Hope Florida guides Floridians on an individualized path to prosperity by fostering collaboration between private sectors, faith-based communities, nonprofits, and government entities.
Floridians needing support can visit www.HopeFlorida.com or call (850-300-HOPE).
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