Dear Partners and Friends,
This past quarter has been filled with meaningful opportunities to highlight the impact of service and preparedness across Florida. From recognizing outstanding volunteers and community leaders to participating in events that strengthen our state’s readiness, I have been continually inspired by the dedication and compassion of those who serve.
As we look ahead, Volunteer Florida remains steadfast in our mission to #ServeFL—supporting those who serve, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that together, we continue to uplift communities across Florida through service.
Volunteer Florida’s Champion of Service Award Presentation
This quarter, I had the distinct honor of presenting Volunteer Florida’s Champion of Service Award to Danette “Dani” Hernandez, a shining example of lifelong service and dedication. A proud U.S. Navy veteran and former State Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Dani has devoted her life to serving others—from advocating for veterans and mentoring justice-involved individuals to protecting vulnerable youth and supporting families in need.
Dani continues to lead and inspire through her many roles, including Chairwoman of the Duval County Veterans Council, Secretary of the Rotary Club of North Jacksonville, and Veterans Service Officer for Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1080. She also volunteers at the Jacksonville International Airport Military Lounge and the Jacksonville National Cemetery, among many other efforts that uplift her community.
Her unwavering commitment to “Service Above Self” embodies the very spirit of volunteerism that strengthens Florida’s communities. Dani is not only a true Champion of Service but also a powerful reminder of how one individual’s dedication can make a lasting impact across our state.
Disaster Preparedness in Action
As Floridians, we know the importance of being prepared before disaster strikes. This quarter, I had the opportunity to participate in two events that demonstrated the impact of working together to build stronger, more resilient communities.
First, I joined Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, United Way of Central Florida, and the GiveWell Community Foundation to support survivors of Hurricane Milton. Together, we assembled more than 100 disaster preparedness buckets for local residents—each filled with essential supplies to help families stay ready and safe.
I also had the pleasure of addressing attendees at the Flagler County Hurricane Preparedness Breakfast, held at the Flagler County Community Center. There, I presented Volunteer Florida’s Excellence in Volunteerism Award to Suzy Gamblain, Executive Director of Flagler Volunteer Services, whose leadership exemplifies Florida’s strong spirit of service and readiness.
Both events were meaningful reminders that preparedness begins with people—those who step up, work together, and ensure their communities are ready to face any challenge.
Volunteer Florida Staff Gives Back to Leon High School
As part of our ongoing commitment to host quarterly staff service projects, Volunteer Florida staff participated in a service project at Leon High School in Tallahassee. Our team came together to support campus beautification efforts, assisting with projects that enhanced the school’s environment and created a more welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walks through the doors.
Throughout the day, our staff worked together dusting library shelves, polishing display cabinets, and lending a hand with additional cleaning and organizational projects across the school. The project was a wonderful opportunity for our team to demonstrate the power of service in action—reminding us that every act of volunteerism contributes to stronger communities.
We are grateful to Leon High School for welcoming us and for the opportunity to give back to one of Tallahassee’s most historic and cherished schools.
Consortium of Education Foundations ConnectED Conference
I had the privilege of attending the Consortium of Education Foundations ConnectED Annual Conference in Orlando, where I presented Volunteer Florida’s Excellence in Volunteerism Award to Gus Guadagnino, a true champion of education and community service.
Gus has long been a driving force for positive change across Florida, dedicating his time, leadership, and resources to supporting students, educators, and local communities. His steadfast commitment to empowering others and expanding educational opportunities reflects the very heart of Volunteer Florida’s mission—to strengthen Florida’s communities through service.
It was an honor to recognize Gus for his outstanding contributions and to join so many dedicated education leaders who are working every day to make a lasting impact in the lives of Florida’s students.
CEO TAMAYO’S LEADERSHIP TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
PHOTO: CEO Tamayo joined Feeding Northeast Florida at Chet’s Creek Church in Jacksonville to help distribute fresh produce, chicken, eggs, and dry goods to more than 200 families in need.
PHOTO: CEO Tamayo visited First Coast No More Homeless Pets (FCNMHP) at the Norwood Community Center in Jacksonville. FCNMHP is one of our certified Service Enterprise organizations.
PHOTO: CEO Tamayo met with Broward College President and CEO Torey Alston— home to one of Volunteer Florida’s proud AmeriCorps grantees.
PHOTO: CEO Tamayo attended the America’s Service Commissions (ASC) Summit in Washington, D.C., where she participated in the Innovation & Leadership Awards ceremony alongside former Volunteer Florida CEO, Chester Spellman.
PHOTO: CEO Tamayo attended the 21st Annual Viva Miami Hispanic Heritage Business Expo & Lunch Conference in Coral Gables, alongside VF Commissioner Ivan Chavez and VF Foundation Director Cathy Aguirre.
Thank you for your continued support of Volunteer Florida and our mission to #ServeFL. If there is anything we can do for you, or your organization, please reach out to me or my team.
Yours in Service,
Josefina Tamayo Chief Executive OfficerVolunteer Florida