Take Stock Nassau
A Message from Regina Lee, Board Chair
This time of year I have the pleasure of interviewing graduates from our program for our Light Up a Life Gala videos. I am always so inspired to hear from our students who are thriving and have found success in their lives. Hearing their stories of the tremendous challenges they faced growing up reminds me of the importance of our work. 

Over the past 27 years, together we have graduated nearly 800 students from our program, changed their lives and helped them build a better future. As a volunteer-driven organization, our work is only made possible through the dedication of our 135 mentors and through the generousity of local donors. 

We are currently evaluating applications from our next class of TSICN hopefuls. We must purchase a scholarship for each student upon acceptance into our program. If they successfully complete our program, they will receive a full four-year tuition scholarship and will be eligible to apply for a dormitory scholarship.

I hope you will consider making a donation to support our efforts. All scholarship donations are 100 percent matched by the Florida Prepaid Foundation. As the calendar year-end approaches, remember there is a tax advantage to making a charitable donation through your retirement savings account. This is especially helpful for those with a minimum distribution requirement. If you are considering this approach, please discuss it with your accountant or financial advisor.

You can make a donation by going to our website at www.tsicnassau.org or by mailing a donation to TSICN at 516 South 10th Street, suite 119, Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034. Any amount will be appreciated. 

I want to thank all of you who serve as mentors and/or donate to support our mission. Our important work would not be possible without your help, and because of you, we continue to change lives.

Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season and 2024! 
OH THE PLACES THEY'LL GO!
The rain couldn't stop Take Stock Nassau supporters, students and mentors from walking in the annual Callahan Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 2. With the theme, "Oh The Places You'll Go," the group donned Who-ville and Grinch attire, celebrating the works of Dr. Suess. Allison Moser, HMSHS 8th Grade student, won the TSIC Nassau "best dressed" contest with her fabulous representation of Cindy-Lou Who. She was supported by her mentor, Ann Cote, who came decked out in her Grinch wear. All along the route, parade goers could be heard calling out for a photo with "Cindy-Lou."
A ROCKIN' CHRISTMAS!
A small, but mighty group of Take Stock staff, students and mentors made their way to Yulee on Saturday, December 9, for the Yulee Holiday Parade. Zoe Bennett, YHS Freshman, was the recipient of the TSIC Nassau "best dressed." She and her mentor, Brandy Heisler, donned festive glasses, hats and necklaces for the event. Zoe Placzkowski, FBHS Freshman, holding our parade number 29, wore her Take Stock shirt and was on hand to help carry the banner as the group walked the route.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
FBHS sophomore Juan Esteban was recently named Co-Captain of the Junior Varsity Winter Guard. It is his first season of winter guard. Congratulations, Juan!
Yulee sophomore, Destinee Adams,was recently selected as the YHS Athlete of the Week. Destinee is excelling in Girls Weightlifting, as well as being an excellent scholar. Way to go, Destinee!
WNHS sophomore Danyelle Bell, #3, is shown playing for the WNHS Soccer team. Danyelle is also participating in Flag Football and Track.
Kylie Dennis, HMSHS Senior, is busy working two jobs during her final year of high school. She is shown here working at Life Care Center of Hilliard. Kylie is also employed at Callie Kay's in Hilliard. She plans to enter FSCJ's nursing program after high school. Way to go, Kylie!
Pat Campana and Avery Bolt
This month's student-mentor spotlight is on mentor Pat Campana and her mentee, Avery Bolt.
Pat Campana, Mentor
What do you consider to be your hometown? How long have you lived in Fernandina Beach?
I grew up in Philadelphia and lived there until my thirties. After moving to the Atlanta area in the 90’s, we discovered Amelia Island. My husband and I purchased a vacation home in 2007 and we moved permanently to Nassau County in 2015.

What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?
I was looking for a volunteer opportunity and through my friends heard about TSIC. I was impressed with the mission to provide tuition free education for students who may not have the resources. When my daughter was in high school I volunteered in the college and career center and thought TSIC would be a good fit. 
 
How many students have you mentored?
My first experience as a mentor was substituting for a mentor who was taking a 4 month cruise in January 2018. I then mentored a student who graduated from Yulee HS in 2020.

What have you gained from mentoring Avery?
It is amazing watching a student grow as they go through high school. Avery is resilient in managing school, work and activities especially since her high school years were during Covid. She has met challenges and has gained confidence. She will be successful in achieving her goals.

Avery Bolt, Senior
Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?
My older brother was in Take Stock and when I saw the value that he got out of the relationship with his mentor I wanted that for myself. 

What have you learned from your relationship with your mentor, Pat?
It’s nice to have somebody take interest in my future and help to keep me more organized. 

What is your favorite memory from TSIC?
My favorite memory from TSIC was being able to tell my mentor I was accepted into my dream school, UCF. I thoroughly enjoyed the field trip that Take Stock took us on to UCF and that was what originally sparked my interest in the school. 

What are your plans after you graduate high school and TSIC?
My plan after I graduate is to attend the University of Central Florida and major in nursing. 
Be sure to get your Light Up a Life Gala tickets before January 1, 2024 to capitalize on the Early Bird pricing! Click the link for more information about sponsorships and purchasing tickets/table:
MEN'S GOLF ASSOCIATION FUNDRAISER
The Men's Golf Association of the Golf Club of Amelia Island recently selected TSIC Nassau as the recipient of their most recent fundraiser. Board member Carole Fahey, left, and Board Chair Regina Lee, right, were on hand at our information table. Don Klima, center, is an MGA Board member. Thank you MGA of the Golf Club of Amelia Island for your support!
DECEMBER MENTOR LUNCH AND LEARN
Nearly 50 mentors attended our recent mentor workshop that focused on career exploration using My Florida Shines career interest tool. Program Manager, Jacque Banks, led the group through the tool and mentors had the chance to work with other mentors at their tables. All enjoyed a lunch prepared by the culinary students from Nassau County/Florida State College of Jacksonville.
Mentors Gary Farrar and Emily Baumgartner share student stories.
Mentors, including Brigitte Blaudow, listen to the presentation.
Mentors Deborah Jervis and Marta Pardo participate in the new career exploration tools.