Fuller Center proudly celebrated a remarkable 55-year anniversary milestone during its recent Living Our Legacy Celebration at Crazy Uncle Mike’s in Boca Raton. The event marked three significant occasions: Fuller Center’s 55th anniversary, the second anniversary of the Living Our Legacy Society, and the collective accomplishments of the dedicated individuals and organizations who make the Center’s mission possible.
“Living Our Legacy is about more than celebrating the past. It’s about building the future,” said Eric Roby, Chief Executive Officer of Fuller Center. “The generosity of our supporters ensures that children and families continue to have access to the resources, opportunities, and care they need to thrive for generations to come.”
Through their generosity and commitment, Living Our Legacy Society members have helped secure critical funding that advances Fuller Center’s mission of providing affordable, reliable, high-quality childcare. Their support also contributes to the expansion of youth programming, including enhanced opportunities for teens, while strengthening the communities Fuller Center serves.
The evening also recognized several outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership, philanthropy, and service have made a meaningful difference. Honorees included Jordyn and Kyle Kelman for Volunteer of the Year, Jake Schmier for Mentor of the Year, Sophia Undavai for Rising Teen of the Year, Vertical Bridge for Corporate Volunteer, and Donna Manganelli for the Lifetime Achievement Award.
When the awardees were asked about what they learned during their time with Fuller, a variety of answers arose.
“What has stayed with me over the years about Fuller Center is the feeling of family,” said Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Donna Manganelli. “Everybody has something to offer. I have learned so much from everyone around me and have gotten to watch so many of the teachers grow throughout my 20 years with Fuller, whether it was during my time as a resource teacher or as an Early Learning Coach.”
For the teen volunteers and mentors who were honored, Jake Schmier, Mentor of the Year, said “Volunteering at Fuller Center is deeply personal. I came to Fuller Center to provide support and mentor kids the same way I was once mentored, in the hopes of sparking inspiration in a child. Showing up consistently matters more than anything else.”
Volunteers of the Year, Jordyn and Kyle Kelman, shared the same sense of connection and commitment, saying, ”getting to watch [the students] grow over the years, building meaningful relationships, [and being] a small part of what Fuller does has impacted our lives too.”
For Corporate Volunteer Vertical Bridge, their impact is shown every day in the VPK classroom at Fuller Center that they have adopted year after year. “We are proud to have our volunteers spend time in the classroom alongside the students and teachers,” said Kimberlee Mulhare, Vice President of Human Resources for Vertical Bridge. “This partnership reminds us that making a difference is not just about giving; it is about showing up, building connections, and investing in our community.
Fuller Center extends special thanks to Phyllis Furman, chair of the Living Our Legacy Society; Neil and Trisha Saffer, live auctioneers for the event; and Crazy Uncle Mike’s for donating the event space and additional support.
Fuller Center is very grateful to “Danny’s Rose Garden” who sponsored a VPK graduation trip to the waterpark, helping create a memorable experience for young learners as they celebrated an important milestone.
As Fuller Center looks ahead, the organization remains committed to expanding opportunities for children, strengthening families, and fostering a vibrant, connected community.
Those interested in becoming part of Fuller Center’s lasting legacy can learn more about the Living Our Legacy Society or make a contribution by visiting www.fullercenterfl.org/livingourlegacy.
