30th Anniversary Celebration

On Saturday, September 14th, St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS) celebrated their 30th Anniversary at Tringali Barn.

More than two hundred of SAYS’ supporters gathered to celebrate the organization’s achievements and honor those who have made a significant impact over the years. SAYS’ CEO, Schuyler Siefker provided an overview of the organizations growth; citing how SAYS began as a therapeutic group home in 1989, but has since expanded to serve hundreds of boys and girls in NE FL through their community programs such as the Mobile Crisis Response Team and Transitional Life Coaches program. A true example of SAYS’ impact was featured as one of their first residents, Carl Matthews, took to the podium to share his story of growing up at SAYS and aging-out of the foster care system.

SAYS’ Development Director, Chelsea Reppin, spoke to the importance of supporting the 24,000 youth who age-out of the foster care system each year in the United States. Reppin shared startling statistics for aged-out youth, demonstrating the need for SAYS‘ new Independent Living Village (IL Village) capital campaign. The IL Village will provide transitional housing and mental health resources on SAYS’ Hutson Family Campus for youth aged-out of the foster care system.

SAYS’ COO, Dennis Maneja, honored a number of attendees for their long-time dedication to SAYS’ mission, including the many SAYS’ staff members who have given more than 25 years to the organization. The cherry on top of a heartfelt event was the song performed by SAYS’ residential kids titled ‘Don’t Give Up On Me’, which was met with a standing ovation.

To learn more about SAYS’ Independent Living Village campaign contact Chelsea Reppin (ChelseaR@sayskids.org) or call 904-829-1770