Success Stories

Take Stock in Children is committed to the success of each and every student. Local program partners across the state work side by side with mentors, school officials, and parents to ensure that each student receives the highest quality of service throughout their middle and high school career. Take Stock in Children students excel academically and become leaders amongst their peers and in their communities.

Our Students

India White

India White’s path has led her from living in a homeless shelter to becoming a leader, motivator and mentor. Born the 9th of ten children to an alcohol addicted mother, India faced physical and emotional abuse at home and the daily uncertainty of living in poverty. India left her home while in high school and moved to a homeless shelter. India continued to persist in her high school endeavors, graduated, attended the University of Florida and, against all odds, received her college degree. She now teaches algebra and geometry in Alachua County. “Without my mentor and Take Stock in Children, I would probably be on welfare for the rest of my life. I would have become a statistic,” said India. “I went from being homeless to being a teacher. There is just no way to say thank you for all that the Take Stock in Children program has done for me.”

Jared Torres

In the 6th grade, Jared Torres participated in the Annual Rally in Tally, an annual student event in Tallahassee. Traveling with other students from Broward County, Jared toured the State Capitol and met with Government leaders. It was during these meetings that Jared developed his interest in working in State Government and serving the public. Being awarded a Take Stock in Children scholarship gave him the resources he needed to go to college and make this dream a reality. He was paired with his mentor, Judy Jacobson, a long-time volunteer and leader with the Broward county program. Judy helped Jared develop the skills necessary to get good grades, succeed in college and begin a career path in Government. Jared excelled in high school serving as a student body president. He attended Florida Atlantic University where he became active in Student Government and was the president of his fraternity. He received his bachelors in pre-law and now works in the Governor’s office.

Chris Perez

When Christopher first moved to Fernandina Beach from Miami in 1996, he was the only Hispanic student in his 5th grade class. Even though this transition was difficult, Christopher managed to overcome the cultural barriers and worked hard at school where his efforts were recognized by his middle school guidance counselor. Christopher was recommended for the Take Stock in Children Program and entered the program in 7th grade. After graduating from high school in 2004, he attended Florida Community College in Jacksonville where he received his A.A. with honors and was on the president’s list. He is a recent graduate of The University of North Florida and is pursuing a graduate degree while making time to be a volunteer alumnus speaker on behalf of Take Stock in Children.

Jeannette Hernandez

Jeanette Hernandez is a Cuban-American who was educated in Monroe County Schools. She was offered the Take Stock in Children scholarship opportunity as a 9th grader while attending Key West High School. She successfully completed the mentoring program and graduated from high school. Upon graduation, Jeanette attended Florida Keys Community College and earned her A.A. degree. She continued her education at the University of South Florida in Tampa, and earned her bachelors degree in finance. Jeanette has returned to her hometown of Key West and is employed as an Assistant Branch Manager for First State Bank. She recently joined the Take Stock in Children program as a mentor for a 7th grader, fully completing the cycle of her success.