The Education Foundation of Alachua County has established a new endowment fund with the Community Foundation of North Central Florida, aimed at supporting the Take Stock in Children program. 

The new Nancy V. Perry Take Stock Legacy Fund is named for longtime supporter Nancy Perry, to provide sustainable funding to Take Stock in Children, an initiative to help low-income, at-risk students pursue higher education through scholarships, mentoring and career-readiness opportunities. 

Take Stock, housed by the Education Foundation of Alachua County, pairs students with trained mentors and offers academic guidance, scholarships and life skills training. Since its creation in 1995, the program has impacted more than 40,000 students across Florida, including 1,300 in Alachua County. 

Currently, Take Stock in Children has 262 middle and high school students in Alachua County. The program has a 97% high school graduation rate, and 92% of its students proceed to post-secondary education. 

“We are thrilled to establish this endowment fund and secure the future of the Take Stock in Children program for generations to come,” Barzella Papa, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of North Central Florida, said in a release. “By investing in the education of these students, we are directly contributing to their success and to the future well-being of our community.” 

Individuals and organizations can make contributions to the endowment online or by contacting office@cfncf.org. The Foundation also offers opportunities for legacy gifts through RMD, bequests or living trusts. 

“This endowment’s goal of $2.5 million represents a commitment to the future of our students and the belief that education can break the cycle of poverty,” said Tatila Brock-Paul, Executive Director of The Education Foundation of Alachua County, in the release. “With this long-term support, we can continue to mentor and guide students, offering them not just a scholarship but a path to success. We are grateful for the Community Foundation’s leadership and for the generosity of those who contribute.”