Funding to aid work of I AM Academy and RISE Academy
The nonprofit Sarasota organization Truly Valued has received a grant from The Henson Fund of Sarasota that will make it possible for Truly Valued “to support two of the organization’s cornerstone programs: I AM Academy and RISE Academy,” Truly Valued has announced.
“This investment will expand access to critical mentorship, education, and restorative services for youth and adults across the community,” a news release says.
The I AM Academy serves youth ages 10 to 18, “with a focus on mentorship, social-emotional skill development, academic engagement, leadership development, and community involvement,” the release continues. “Through structured programming” and the help of positive role models, “I AM Academy empowers young people to build confidence, strengthen decision-making skills, and develop a strong sense of purpose,” the release adds.
The RISE Academy serves adults, “primarily incarcerated fathers, by providing restorative justice programming, life skills training, career readiness, wellness sessions, and comprehensive reentry support,” the release points out. “The program is designed to promote accountability, personal growth, and successful reintegration into families and the broader community,” it adds.
“Support from The Henson Fund allows Truly Valued to deepen our impact at two critical points across the lifespan,” said Shavonne Johnson, CEO of Truly Valued, in the release. “By investing in both prevention and restoration, we are strengthening families, improving outcomes, and creating safer, healthier communities,” Johnson added in the release.
“Truly Valued’s work deeply aligns with the mission and vision of The Henson Fund,” said Dr. Bianca Harris, director of programs for The Henson Fund, in the release. “We are honored to support I AM Academy and RISE Academy because they address both prevention and restoration by investing in young people early while also walking alongside adults as they rebuild their lives and families,” Harris continued. “This two-generational approach to strengthening individuals, families, and communities strongly resonates with our founders, Mary Kay and Joe Henson, who believe in dignity, restoration, and the power of second chances.”