United Way of St. Johns County’s 8th Annual Givers Gala Raises Quarter Million to Support Local Community Programs

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL (January 27, 2025) — On January 24, 2025, United Way of St. Johns County, proudly serving St. Johns and Putnam Counties, hosted its 8th Annual Givers Gala at the Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort, raising close to a quarter million dollars to support local programs that empower individuals and families across St. Johns and Putnam County. The evening, themed “Venetian Masquerade: Unmasking Our Mission So All Can Thrive!”, was an elegant celebration of generosity, community, and leadership, and was expertly hosted by First Coast News anchor Jessica Clark.

The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of The Hutson Companies, our Presenting Sponsor and exclusive event sponsor, and Ring Power CAT, our Platinum Sponsor and exclusive cocktail hour sponsor. Their dedication to the community ensured the success of the gala and helped bring together supporters of United Way’s mission.

The evening commenced with a cocktail hour overlooking a stunning Florida winter sunset, featuring captivating performances by Bill Abbott, a magician, and Tokyo Moreno, a fire artist. Guests, donning Venetian masks, enjoyed the spectacular atmosphere, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

United Way of St. Johns County also had the privilege of recognizing four exceptional individuals for their contributions to the community:

Cyndi Stevenson and Travis Hutson were presented with the Chair’s Award for their unwavering commitment to supporting United Way’s mission and our local community.

Sergeant Michael Clark received the Nancy Burns Trailblazer Award for his innovative leadership in addressing community challenges.

And Tim Forson, Superintendent of Schools for the St. Johns County School District, was honored with the John & Peggy Bailey Community Leadership Award for his lifelong dedication to education and community service.

Cyndi Stevenson & Travis Hutson

Cyndi Stevenson, a dedicated public servant, has been a champion for her community for decades. Elected to the Florida House of Representatives for District 17 in 2015, Cyndi spent 11 years on the St. Johns County Commission before making the transition to the state legislature. She and her husband, Henry, are lifelong residents of St. Johns County and are parents to two sons, Paul and Wes. Beyond her public service, Cyndi and Henry have been steadfast supporters of United Way. Her commitment to improving lives and giving back to the community makes her a deserving recipient of the Chair’s Award.

Travis Hutson, a lifelong advocate for St. Johns County and the state of Florida, has consistently worked to improve the community through his service in the Florida House of Representatives and Florida Senate. His leadership has brought about positive changes in education, community development, and social responsibility. Notably, Travis championed local initiatives benefiting organizations such as St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS) and Alpha Omega Miracle Home, making a lasting impact. He and his wife, Tanya, have four children, and their family business, The Hutson Companies, has been a devoted partner to United Way, including serving as presenting sponsor for this year’s gala. His work continues to inspire others to engage in meaningful service to the community.

Sergeant Michael Clark

Sergeant Michael Clark, the recipient of this year’s Nancy Burns Trailblazer Award, has dedicated his career to public service. Since joining the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office in 2006, he has taken on roles that address some of the community’s most pressing issues, including addiction, mental health, and homelessness. As leader of the Sheriff’s Office Re-Entry/Outreach Program, Sergeant Clark helps individuals incarcerated at the Detention Center reenter society by providing critical resources such as housing, employment, and mental health support. His commitment to addressing homelessness has led him to personally visit homeless camps, offering support and compassion to those living on the margins. His service exemplifies the legacy of Nancy Burns, and we are proud to honor him for his trailblazing work to create positive change in St. Johns County.

Tim Forson

Tim Forson, Superintendent of Schools for the St. Johns County School District, was honored with the John & Peggy Bailey Community Leadership Award. With a career spanning over 40 years in education, Mr. Forson’s impact on the community has been profound. During his time as superintendent, he has led the district through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to enhance school safety following the tragic events at Parkland High School. Under his leadership, the district has seen remarkable growth, with nine new schools added and ten others expanded. His commitment to providing quality education and a safe learning environment for students and families has made an enduring difference. As he prepares for retirement in 2025, Mr. Forson’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.

United Way of St. Johns County extends heartfelt thanks to all the event sponsors and contributors who made the evening possible. All proceeds from the evening’s event will go directly to support United Way of St. Johns County’s work in the areas of healthy communities, youth opportunity, community resiliency, and financial security—ensuring that resources continue to reach those who need them most.

About United Way of St. Johns County

Serving both St. Johns and Putnam Counties, United Way of St. Johns County is the only organization that brings together agencies, businesses, organizations, faith-based groups, government, and individuals to focus on the community problems that matter most. Partners share the vision and have the energy, passion, expertise, and resources to get the work done. For over 65 years, United Way of St. Johns County has improved lives and built a strong, healthy community by strategically investing in quality programs, building partnerships, advocating for better policies, engaging the community, and leveraging resources. Success is measured not by dollars raised, but by lives improved and changed. Visit unitedway-sjc.org, follow @unitedwaysjc on social media, or call 904-829-9721 for more information.

Contact

Anna Crum
Director of Marketing and Communications
904-829-9721 | anna.crum@unitedway-sjc.org