Celebrating Champions of Education at Blue Jacket Society Ceremony

Fletch's Perspective

May To our seasonal residents readying to return north before the weather heats up, the notion of a jacketing ceremony this time of year anywhere in the south—save The , Masters, maybe—might seem odd.

But at our AmeriCorps program’s recent Blue Jacket society, the only things warmed were the hearts of all in attendance.

That’s because this annual tradition—held by participating Boys & Girls Clubs AmeriCorps programs across the nation—incorporates a moving surprise element. And our most recent ceremony was the most touching I’ve ever had the privilege of participating in.

For a modest stipend, our AmeriCorps members devote long hours to, among other community service projects, helping children at Martin County elementary and middle schools improve their reading, math, and science. Upon initiation into the corps, they receive a Blue Jacket. At our April event, AmeriCorps members Pascual Francisco and Vashti Jones and program directors Kyle Arnold and Samantha Anderson spoke about how the chance to serve transforms lives, including their own.

Next, local leaders of distinction were awarded Blue Jackets. Then those recipients were asked to share—without the benefit of foreknowledge to prepare—more about someone who’s inspired them to achieve excellence.

Our recipients included Tony Anderson and Marsha Powers, both school board members, Dr. Alessandro Anzalone, president of Indian River State College’s Chastain Campus, Eula Clarke, Stuart commissioner, David Heaton, executive director of Children’s Services Council of Martin County, Bonney Johnston of the William & Helen Thomas Charitable Trust, and Dr. Tracey Miller, Martin County School District’s assistant superintendent of academics.

Although caught a bit off-guard, each one offered heartfelt recollections of the people who always remained in their corner, requesting—sometimes demanding—but always expecting the best of them. The stories reflected their diverse life experiences. Struggle. Want. Immigration. Language and cultural challenges. Setbacks. Detours. The opportunity to accept a helping hand. The responsibility to lend a helping hand.