Eckerd Connects, 100 N. Starcrest Drive, Clearwater, FL (2026)

06/22/2026

From Crisis to Stability: A Family’s Journey Home

While working full-time and attending nursing school, Client AB faced an unthinkable challenge—homelessness. For a time, she and her two sons, along with their dog, slept in their car. Despite these hardships, she never lost sight of her goal: building a better future for her family.

Through Eckerd Connects’ Family Services, Client AB received the support she needed to move forward. Our team helped her navigate housing resources, find available units, and overcome barriers to securing stable housing. With guidance, advocacy, and hands-on assistance, Client AB and her children moved into a safe, permanent apartment they can call home.

This milestone represents so much more than housing—it means stability, safety, and a renewed sense of hope. It provides the foundation for Client AB to continue her education and career path while giving her children the security every family deserves.
Throughout every challenge, Client AB remained steadfast in her commitment to her family and her goals. Her strength, resilience, and determination are truly inspiring, and we are proud to have walked alongside her on this journey.

Congratulations, Client AB, on this well-deserved achievement. We look forward to all that lies ahead for you and your children and have no doubt your hard work will continue to lead to continued success.

06/21/2026

💙 Happy Father's Day

Today, we celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, and father figures who provide guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Thank you for the lessons you teach, the examples you set, and the impact you make every day. Your influence helps shape brighter futures for generations to come.

From all of us at Eckerd Connects, Happy Father's Day.

06/19/2026

🍎 Teacher Spotlight: Jennifer

For Jennifer, being part of Eckerd Connects' Early Head Start Child Care Partnership at Manifestation East has been more than a job. It has been an opportunity to grow as an educator while making a meaningful difference in the lives of young children.

Through the partnership, Jennifer has received specialized training and resources that help her support children's physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Every day, she has the opportunity to build relationships with her students and help create a strong foundation for their future success.

The partnership has also supported Jennifer's own professional growth. With the encouragement of Felicia Williams and the Early Head Start Child Care Partnership team, she renewed her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential after it expired and went on to complete her Director Credential.

Jennifer's journey reflects the power of investing in both children and educators.

As she often reflects:

"If you are planning for a year, sow rice; if you are planning for a decade, plant trees; if you are planning for a lifetime, educate people."
— Chinese Proverb

06/19/2026

This Juneteenth, we reflect on our nation’s deep history and honor the enduring spirit of resilience and the ongoing pursuit of freedom and equality. At Eckerd Connects, we are committed to empowering individuals and strengthening communities through opportunity and connection. As we mark this important day, we celebrate progress, recognize the work still ahead, and recommit to creating positive change every day. 🌟

06/18/2026

🌟 Heart of the Wheel Spotlight: Dana Gigler Builds Skills, Confidence & Lifelong Careers 💙

At Pittsburgh Job Corps Center, helping students turn potential into meaningful careers is at the heart of Dana Gigler’s work. Please join us in celebrating Dana, our Eckerd Connects’ Q1 Heart of the Wheel Award Winner for the Jobs & Training Category!

As Career Technical Trades Manager, Dana brings experience across both academics and career training—giving her a unique perspective on the full journey of student success. While her career at Job Corps began in academics, helping students strengthen skills in reading, math, and interview preparation, her current role allows her to witness a different kind of transformation.

Known for her steady leadership and deep commitment to students, Dana creates an environment where expectations are high, support is constant, and growth is always the goal. Whether she’s mentoring students, supporting her team, or ensuring programs run effectively, her impact is felt across the entire campus.

Dana shared that she was honored by the recognition and credits her “Cougar Family” team for making the work so meaningful.
💬 “What’s most fulfilling now is seeing students learn the skills they’re going to use for the rest of their lives. When you get to see a student perform their first blood draw, an HVAC student solder their first pipe, or a culinary student proudly ask you to taste what they’ve made—that’s special.”

Nominator Matthew Lage, HR Manager, shared:
🗣️ “Dana is one of the most dedicated staff members on Center. Students know they can rely on her for support and guidance, and colleagues consistently depend on her for leadership. What sets her apart is not only what she does, but how she does it—with compassion, accountability, and a genuine belief in the potential of those around her.”

From major milestones to the smaller wins—like being one of the first people a student tells when they earn their driver’s license—Dana’s work is rooted in connection, consistency, and belief in every individual’s potential.

👏 Dana, your leadership and dedication are helping transform lives—creating pathways to family-sustaining careers and lifelong success.

06/17/2026

🌟 Heart of the Wheel Spotlight: Whitney Hack Ignites Potential, Connection & Confidence 💙

Please join us in celebrating Whitney Hack, our Eckerd Connects’ Q1 Heart of the Wheel Award Winner for the Children & Family Services Category! This award honors team members who are the heartbeat of Eckerd Connects—those who lead with purpose, uplift others, and embody our mission in every action.

As a Special Education and English Teacher at the Boys Residential Academy in Boomer, Whitney creates a structured, engaging, and supportive environment where students grow academically, socially, and personally. By blending literacy with real-world and experiential learning, she helps young people build confidence and discover new possibilities for their future.

With more than seven years at Eckerd Connects, Whitney is passionate about meeting students where they are and helping them see what they’re capable of—even when they can’t yet see it themselves.

💬 “I see something within people who have yet to see it in themselves. I can relate to their struggles because there were times in my own life when I didn’t think I was going to make it. That’s why I feel called to do this work—to be there when they feel like no one else is. When they start achieving things they never thought possible, that’s everything.”

Whitney shared she was “absolutely shocked” and “blown away” by the recognition, adding that it feels amazing to be acknowledged for work she cares so deeply about.

Nominator Christopher Bauernfeind, Education Administrator, shared:
🗣️ “Whitney is an exceptional educator whose passion for student success is evident in every aspect of her work. Her ability to create an engaging, supportive environment while going above and beyond for students and staff truly sets her apart.”

One student connection says it all—Whitney once promised to rap her responses in a shared notebook to engage a reluctant writer who was having trouble at home. When she followed through, his face lit up—opening the door to trust, expression, and growth.

👏 Whitney, your work is a powerful reminder that the heart of our mission lives in seeing potential—and helping others believe in it too.

06/17/2026

💙 It’s the people behind our mission who keep the wheel turning.

We’re proud to celebrate our Q1 2026 Heart of the Wheel Award winners—four incredible team members whose leadership, compassion, and dedication are creating real impact across Eckerd Connects.

From behind-the-scenes problem-solving to life-changing moments with those we serve, their stories remind us what it truly means to lead with heart.

👉 Read more and meet our honorees: https://brnw.ch/21x3qbO

06/16/2026

Building a Bright Future Through Determination and Support

Since enrolling in Eckerd Connects’ NCWorks NextGen program in June 2025, Karen has demonstrated what perseverance—with the right support—can truly achieve.

As a parent balancing family responsibilities and a demanding academic schedule, Karen initially had concerns about how she would manage it all while working toward her long-term goal of becoming a Medical Sonographer. But with guidance, encouragement, and resources from Eckerd Connects, she never had to walk that path alone.

With the support of the NextGen program, Karen graduated from the Phlebotomy program at Shades of Purple Health Training Institute in December 2025—an incredible milestone that reflects both her determination and the power of having the right team behind you. Along the way, she overcame challenges by utilizing study resources, navigating transportation barriers, and working closely with her professor and Career Coach to secure essential items like uniforms and books.

Even during moments of feeling overwhelmed, Karen stayed committed—trusting in her abilities and leaning into the support around her. That combination of resilience and partnership helped her complete her training, pass her exam, and prove to herself and her family that her goals are within reach.

Today, Karen is continuing her journey at Wake Tech Community College in the Sonography program, taking the next step toward a rewarding career in healthcare. And the future she’s building is a strong one—entry-level sonographers in North Carolina typically earn between $60,000 and $69,000 annually, with highly experienced professionals earning more than $110,000. This career path offers not just purpose, but a true family-sustaining future.

Karen’s success is exactly what Eckerd Connects’ NextGen program is designed to do—remove barriers, create access, and turn ambition into achievement.

Keep shining, Karen. You’re not just building a career—you’re building a legacy for your family. 👏

General photo courtesy of Wake Tech Community College’s Sonography Program.

06/16/2026

🌟 Heart of the Wheel Spotlight: La’Verne Wood Leads with Purpose, Partnership & Impact 💙

At South Carolina Works Charleston, strong leadership and genuine care come together in the work of La’Verne Wood, creating an environment where both people and possibilities thrive. Please join us in celebrating La’Verne as our Eckerd Connects’ Q1 Heart of the Wheel Award Winner for the Workforce Development Category!

As Center Manager, La’Verne has cultivated a culture of excellence, innovation, and connection. Known for her ability to bring people together, she has strengthened relationships with staff, partners, and the community—creating new opportunities and elevating the level of service provided across the center.

Through forward-thinking leadership and a deep commitment to people, La’Verne ensures that every individual—whether staff member, partner, or client—feels valued, supported, and empowered. Her ability to turn challenges into opportunities, while maintaining a welcoming and professional environment, has made a lasting impact on both her team and the community she serves.

La’Verne shared that she was surprised and deeply honored to receive this recognition, viewing it as a reflection of the team’s collective efforts and the meaningful work they do every day.

💬 “What fulfills me most is helping people recognize their strengths and connect to opportunities that improve their lives. I’m passionate about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported—because that’s when people truly thrive and can move toward brighter futures.”

Nominator Jamilia Holmes - Workforce Operations Assistant shared:
🗣️ “La’Verne has created a culture of excellence, innovation, and connection at SC Works Charleston. She leads with integrity, compassion, and professionalism, always ensuring that people feel heard, respected, and supported. Her leadership has truly transformed our center and strengthened the way we serve our community.”

La’Verne, your servant leadership, vision, and dedication to empowering others embody the very best of Eckerd Connects. Your work is creating pathways to opportunity and lasting change.

👏 La’Verne, your impact is a powerful reminder that when we lead with heart, we strengthen not only our teams—but entire communities.

06/15/2026

🔥 Hands-On Learning. Real Career Potential. ❄️

At Potomac Job Corps, our HVAC students are doing more than just learning—they’re building careers. After a full morning of checking and charging AC systems, students took time with their instructor to break down the process and strengthen their understanding. These moments—tools down, minds open—are where real confidence takes shape.

HVAC isn’t just a skill—it’s a high-demand career path. Skilled technicians are essential in every community, keeping homes and businesses comfortable year-round. With opportunities to specialize, advance, or even start a business, the possibilities are wide open.

And the earning potential is strong—many HVAC technicians can earn solid starting wages with the opportunity to grow into higher-paying roles as they gain experience and certifications.

Proud of our students for putting in the work today to build a stable, rewarding future tomorrow!

Eckerd Connects

06/22/2026

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