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As we continue to celebrate 30 years of scholarships, mentors, and hope throughout the state, we want to draw attention to Florida’s panhandle in Escambia County, home of Mrs. Sally Lee, our longest serving network staff member and dedicated mentor. 

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Sally to explore her incredible 25-year journey with the Take Stock in Children of Escambia County program operated by Escambia County Public Schools Foundation. Sally shares how she first became involved in local mentoring efforts and reflects on the early days of the program, which has since grown into a vital support system for countless students. Through her eyes, we hear moving success stories of young scholars who have overcome challenges and achieved college dreams, thanks to the guidance and encouragement of dedicated mentors.

Sally also discusses the transformative power of building students’ confidence and how mentorship plays a critical role in shaping their futures. She shares personal mentoring experiences, stories of other devoted mentors, and the impressive outcomes achieved by program graduates over the years. Plus, she offers insight into how she actively recruits new mentors and donors to keep the mission alive and thriving in Escambia County.

It’s with great honor that we welcome Sally Lee to the Mentors & Milestones Podcast! Congratulations, Sally Lee, on leaving a legacy of impact on the countless lives you’ve supported for 25 years!

Learn how you can become a Take Stock mentor in your local county here
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Our 2025 Take Stock in Children Mentor of the Year, Cheryl Blakeney, has always been interested in mathematics and helping others. Both passions exponentially grew when Cheryl, also known as "Mrs. B," joined the Take Stock in Children of Seminole County program in 2001. For nearly 24 years, Cheryl has been a committed volunteer mentor, helping students and parents alike.

We had the opportunity to learn from Cheryl's experiences at Take Stock back then, and now she looks forward to inspiring a new class of student mentees on their journey to a better future.

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Topics covered in this episode:

·         Cheryl Blakeney’s Journey to Becoming the 2025 Mentor of the Year

·         How Cheryl Became Involved with Take Stock in Children of Seminole County

·         24 Years of Volunteering: Cheryl’s Commitment to Take Stock in Children

·         Leveraging Financial Literacy: How Cheryl Helps Mentees and Their Families

·         Cheryl Blakeney’s Most Memorable Moments as a Take Stock Mentor

·         Challenges Facing Today’s Students: A Comparison to 24 Years Ago

·         Defining Success: Cheryl Shares Her Mentorship Lessons with Students

·         Who Inspired Cheryl Blakeney to Become the Mentor She Is Today?

·         Why You Should Become a Take Stock in Children Mentor in Your Local Community

·         The Personal Impact of Take Stock in Children on Cheryl Blakeney’s Life

·         Cheryl Blakeney’s Vision for the Next 30 Years of Take Stock in Children

Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

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Many of our Take Stock alumni can pinpoint that one person in their lives who inspires what they do today. For Mike Mills, a 2006 alum from the Take Stock in Children program in Marion County, it was his mentor, Kevin Christian.

Kevin’s care and investment in Mike’s success in academics and life skills helped the student achieve many professional and personal accolades, including the honor of Take Stock Alumni of the Year in 2023. 

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

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By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2025, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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Michelle Campbell, an alum from Take Stock’s first class in our Take Stock Duval program (2001), said this about her life-changing experience: “Because of Take Stock in Children, I have successfully earned my degree and embarked on a fulfilling career. Being one of the first recipients of the scholarship in 1995 has had a lasting impact on my life, and I am forever grateful for that early intervention.”

We’re thrilled to share Michelle’s story and gratitude for Take Stock in Children as she reflects on those early years in the program to hopes for the future. 

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

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By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2025, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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Dr. Doug Durand carries many titles at Take Stock. Dr. Durand is a former Take Stock mentor, former Take Stock Board Chair, and current Board Member. He is a father and father figure to many Take Stock students.

On the Mentors & Milestones Podcast, Dr. Durand shared one memorable moment of his time as a Take Stock Sarasota mentor. It speaks to the power of a caring mentor in a student's life, and that we can never take that for granted.

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

Notice

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2025, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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We’re honored to have John F. Davis, Secretary of the Florida Lottery, join us on the Mentors & Milestones Podcast to discuss the Bright Futures Scholarship program!

We discussed the importance of scholarships and mentoring in the lives of Florida students, much like Secretary Davis at one point. Parents and mentors—don’t miss this episode on how to support your students in their pursuit of a brighter future.

Learn more about the Bright Futures Scholarship program here

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

Notice

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2024, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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Our latest episode features Marissa Brown, a Take Stock Marion alum who has returned to give back as a mentor. Marissa’s journey highlights the incredible impact of the Take Stock in Children program on students and their ability to make a difference in the community.

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Learn more about Take Stock in Children here
Share your Take Stock Story with us! Get started here

Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

Notice

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2024, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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For foster care students, the odds of graduating high school, enrolling in college, and obtaining a 4-year degree are steep. With the college enrollment rate at an average 20% compared to the 66% national average, it is vital that at Take Stock we help Florida foster care students break the cycle of poverty through education.

One of our many success stories in this effort comes from Take Stock Okaloosa alum Angela Alford (2011) in this latest episode of the Mentors and Milestones Podcast.

In this episode, we hear from Angela’s perspective on how the foster care youth and program grad received life-changing support and care, encouraging the Take Stock Leaders 4 Life fellow to go forth and earn an education and thrive in a fulfilling career helping others. 

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

Notice

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2024, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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With the new school year comes many new stressors for the students in our lives. From navigating new school environments to overcoming anxiety, bullying, and more, there are ways that parents and mentors alike can support their students’ mental well-being and resilience throughout the school year.

In this episode of the Mentors & Milestones Podcasts, we learn from Sarah Livingstone, MSW and CEO & Founder of Are U Motivated, on practical ways we can help our students manage stress for a successful school year!

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

Notice

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2024, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1 

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We're kicking off the school year with an important reminder about completing the FAFSA (Federal Application for Federal Student Aid).

We spoke with Melissa Rosa-Alvarez, Project Manager of TRIO Connections for Central Florida, about the importance and benefits of filling out the FAFSA form. Melissa also answered common questions for parents and mentors to encourage their students to take advantage of this financial opportunity for college!

Tag fellow parents of the Class of 2025 and tune into this episode!

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Disclaimer

The views, opinions, statements, representations, recommendations, advice, or other content (collectively, the “Content”) presented in this podcast are solely those of the individual(s) expressing them, who are solely responsible for same.  Such Content does not express the opinions, views or statements of TSIC and TSIC does not confirm, endorse, sponsor, support or recommend any such Content or the presenters of the Content.  The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk.  This podcast should not be considered professional advice.  TSIC makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any such Content or that this podcast is free of viruses or other malicious code.  TSIC EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY USE OF, REFERENCE TO, RELIANCE ON, OR INABILITY TO USE, THIS PODCAST OR THE CONTENT PRESENTED IN THIS PODCAST.  By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to the foregoing terms and release and agree to hold TSIC harmless from and against any claim or liability related to or arising from this podcast or the Content provided therein.

Notice

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the podcast is a copyrighted work owned or used with permission by TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children (“TSIC”).  Copyright 2024, TSIC, Inc. d/b/a Take Stock in Children or its licensors.  All rights reserved.  Reproduction, retransmission or other dissemination or use of the podcast without the prior written permission of TSIC or its licensors is strictly prohibited.  ADMIN 63385503v1