Empowering Potential: The Transformative Power of Eckerd Connects’ Success Awards
As professionals, it’s easy to take for granted the careers we’ve built, the opportunities we’ve seized, and the connections we’ve nurtured. But for many, these milestones feel out of reach without the right support. At Eckerd Connects, we know that with encouragement, resources, and opportunity, individuals can overcome extraordinary challenges and rewrite their futures.
Founded over 50 years ago by Jack and Ruth Eckerd, Eckerd Connects offers a broad array of services to empower children, youth, adults, and families. From residential programs for at-risk youth to workforce development initiatives and Job Corps campuses across the country, our holistic approach addresses immediate needs while creating long-term solutions.
Last year alone, Eckerd Connects provided direct services to more than 23,500 individuals. These programs help people build brighter futures by offering trauma-informed care, educational opportunities, career training, and community connections. Our mission is simple: to empower potential and build meaningful careers.
A key example of this impact is our Success Awards, which provide mini scholarships to help individuals take critical steps toward self-sufficiency. These awards are often the final push someone needs to overcome barriers and pursue a better future.
Special Thanks to Suncoast Credit Union and Our Partners
We are especially grateful to Suncoast Credit Union for their generous $15,000 gift to support our Success Awards program. Through this funding, up to 10 Success Awards will help participants overcome barriers such as transportation, certification, housing, and tuition costs as they transition to careers and independence.
“Suncoast Credit Union’s commitment to education and community empowerment exemplifies the impact that partnerships can have on individuals striving for a better future,” said Richard Semancik, Chief Operating Officer at Eckerd Connects. “This funding for Success Awards will enable us to provide essential resources to those who need them most, ensuring that young people and families can break cycles of poverty and build brighter futures.”
“At Suncoast Credit Union, we recognize that true community impact is driven by equipping individuals with the tools they need to thrive,” said Bob Hyde, Vice President of Community Impact, Suncoast Credit Union. “The Success Awards program by Eckerd Connects is a powerful example of how targeted support can break down barriers and create pathways to opportunity. By helping individuals overcome financial obstacles, education and career training, we are not just supporting their immediate goals but fostering long-term growth and sustainability within our communities.”
Kennedy: Finding Solace in Passion
At just 16, Kennedy has already faced immense challenges, including childhood trauma and instability. Through Eckerd Connects’ Wraparound Services in Trout, Louisiana, Kennedy found not just support, but also a way to channel her energy and focus — horseback riding and barrel racing.
When her family couldn’t afford a proper saddle, Kennedy turned to her therapist, who encouraged her to apply for a Success Award. With the new saddle, Kennedy’s dream of competing in rodeos is now a reality.
“This award shows me someone believes in my dreams,” she says.
Kennedy’s story highlights how Eckerd Connects’ programs nurture both mental health and personal passions, creating pathways to healing and achievement.
Maurice: A New Chapter of Hope
For Maurice, a 14-year-old enrolled in Eckerd Connects’ Boys Residential Academy, life hasn’t been easy. Struggling with academics and emotions, he found stability and purpose through our program, which serves youth in the juvenile justice system.
Maurice’s Success Award supplied him with shoes, clothing, and a laptop — tools he now uses to thrive academically and contribute to his family.
“This award helps me and my mom so much,” he shares.
The Boys Residential Academy is just one of Eckerd Connects’ many programs that provide second chances to young people in need of structure, mentorship, and opportunity.
Healthcare Dreams Realized: Jameisha and Sherina
Eckerd Connects’ Job Corps campuses across the country provide tuition-free education and career training to young people, preparing them for high-demand fields.
In Jacksonville, Florida, Jameisha turned her passion for healthcare into a reality by completing her Clinical Medical Assistant training and earning a 4.0 GPA in college. Her Success Award is helping her finish her final semester in nursing school and secure housing as she transitions into her career.
“This scholarship has relieved so much financial pressure,” Jameisha says.
Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Sherina earned her high school diploma, completed her Certified Medical Assistant training, and secured a position at AHN Primary Care Northside. A Success Award provided her with essentials like scrubs and a stethoscope, helping her succeed in her new role.
“This award is truly life-changing,” she reflects.
Malakai: Building a Future in Technology
At 19, Malakai is already a college sophomore majoring in Computer Science while volunteering in his Lafayette, Louisiana, community. Eckerd Connects’ Workforce Development Youth Program supported him every step of the way, and a Success Award provided the updated technology he needed to pursue his goal of becoming a video game developer.
“This award is an investment in my dreams,” Malakai says.
His journey showcases how Eckerd Connects’ workforce programs prepare young adults for careers in growing industries.
Jerika: Overcoming Barriers for Her Family
As a single mother of three, Jerika faced immense challenges in her pursuit to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Through Eckerd Connects’ Workforce Development Acadiana program, she received counseling and a grant to complete her training. When her car’s failing engine threatened to derail her state board exam, a Success Award provided the repairs she needed to stay on track.
“This award has transformed my life and my children’s future,” Jerika shares.
Creating Lasting Impact
At Eckerd Connects, we provide more than services. Our mission is to transform lives. Our programs and initiatives empower individuals to build lives filled with opportunities, purpose and resilience.
The Success Awards serve as a catalyst for change, equipping people with the tools they need to be set for success in any of our programs. That success has a ripple effect that flows beyond individuals to strengthen families and communities.
Want to learn more about Eckerd Connects’ Success Awards and how you can support them?
Watch an overview video. Or, want to hear how Success Awards helped those most in need:
This holiday season, you can help create more success stories by giving to our holiday campaign. Visit www.eckerd.org/holiday to learn how you can support future recipients. Together, we can empower potential, one story at a time.