More than 417 individuals served in 2025 by nonprofit’s programs, CEO says
Community leaders, partners and supporters gathered recently for the Truly Valued Champions Breakfast, a special event that recognized “outstanding individuals who are strengthening communities and creating opportunities for youth and families” across Sarasota and Manatee counties, the nonprofit Truly Valued has announced.
The event highlighted the organization’s mission, which is “to empower youth, strengthen families, and restore lives,” a news release says.
During the program, Shavonne Johnson, the CEO and founder of Truly Valued, “shared the organization’s 2025 impact, announcing that more than 417 individuals were served across its programs,” the release notes.
“Our work is about transformation,” said Johnson. “Every statistic represents a young person discovering their potential, a parent building stronger relationships, or an individual finding a path forward. None of this is possible without the support and leadership of our community partners,” she pointed out.
“The event recognized five outstanding leaders whose work has had a significant impact on the region,” the release continues:
- Xavier “Omar” Edwards, an educator and mentor, who was recognized for empowering students and launching initiatives such as Resilience Week “to strengthen student confidence and preparedness.”
- Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman, who was honored for his leadership in building partnerships among law enforcement personnel, schools and community organizations, “to improve safety and prevention efforts.”
- Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells, who was “recognized for advancing youth engagement programs, community policing, and initiatives that reduce juvenile crime.”
- Dennis “Hootie” Ford, founder of Mankind Barber Lounge in Sarasota, who was “honored for mentorship and community leadership that uplifts youth and creates opportunity through entrepreneurship.”
- Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche, who was “recognized for more than two decades of public safety leadership and youth engagement initiatives that have reached thousands of at-risk students.”
During her remarks, Johnson “emphasized that community partnerships are essential” to sustaining Truly Valued’s work.
“When we invest in young people, families and second chances, we strengthen the entire community,” she said. “Together, we can continue expanding programs that create lasting change.”
Truly Valued serves communities across Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties, the release points out.
For more information about Truly Valued or to support its programs, visit www.trulyvalued.org.