A Legacy of Transformation, Hope, and Community Impact
Program Overview
The Flagler Schools “Students Turn Around Awards Night”, also known as “Turn It Around Night,” is a powerful annual event dedicated to honoring students who have made significant positive changes in their lives.
This initiative recognizes youth who have:
- Improved academically
- Demonstrated positive behavioral change
- Developed stronger attitudes and citizenship
- Overcome personal, family, or social challenges
The focus is not on perfection, but on growth, resilience, and the courage to change direction.
🏛️ Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast Foundation Commitment
Since 2014, the Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast Foundation has faithfully supported this life-changing initiative.
- Initial contribution approved by the Board: $300 (2014)
- Increased annual support: $500
- Current commitment: $1,500 contribution for upcoming events
The Kiwanis Club of Flagler Palm Coast has remained a consistent sponsor and advocate since the very first event.
This project was originally presented to the Board by Dr. Maria Barbosa, whose vision helped establish it as a lasting community program.
🤝 Community and Leadership Involvement
This initiative reflects a strong collaboration between schools, agencies, and community leaders.
Key contributors include:
- Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (Flagler County DJJ Council)
- Flagler Schools
- Youth-focused organizations and intervention programs
Dr. Barbosa served as a member of the DJJ Council for over five years, helping guide and support this initiative.
Additional support was provided by community leaders such as Janet McDonald.
The program was initially coordinated by Katrina Townsend, whose leadership helped establish its structure and impact.
🏫 Participating Schools and Agencies
Students recognized come from across Flagler County, including:
Schools:
- BES, BTES, OKES, RES, WES
- ITMS, BTMS
- FPC High School, MHS
Agencies:
- Boys & Girls Club
- Flagler Youth Center
- T-Club Teens ACCEL
- Road to Success
- Carver Center
- Flagler Teen Court
- DCF/SAMH
- System of Care
- Bays Florida
- Flagler DJJ
🎉 Event Experience
The event has been hosted at locations such as the Bistro Restaurant at Flagler Palm Coast High School, creating a meaningful and celebratory environment.
During the evening:
- Students are honored in front of families, educators, and community leaders
- Awards and certificates are presented
- Personal success stories are shared
- Guest speakers inspire continued growth
💡 Why This Event Matters
The “Turn It Around” event is more than a ceremony-it is a transformational experience. It:
- Encourages students to believe in themselves
- Reinforces that change is possible
- Recognizes effort rather than perfection
- Inspires others to pursue positive change
- Builds confidence, identity, and purpose
Many honorees are students who may never have been recognized before—making this moment deeply impactful.
❤️ The Deeper Impact
From a leadership and coaching perspective, this initiative reflects:
- Transformation over performance
- Grace over judgment
- Growth over past mistakes
- Restoration of self-worth and identity
It is a living example of a powerful truth:
When youth are supported, guided, and believed in, they can truly turn their lives around.
