What a night! Northeast Florida kicked off our annual series of Doing Good Together receptions Thursday, January 30. This is one of our favorite times of year, when we get to connect with and thank our volunteers and supporters and celebrate their impact in the community. Even some of the families we’ve served joined us for the reception at the Timuquana Country Club in Jacksonville.
Together, we laughed and cried with joy. One moving moment was sharing Brittany’s story, a testimony of our why. No parent or child should have to struggle alone. Watch Brittany’s story:
Also at the Doing Good Together reception, we were grateful to recognize several volunteers and supporters with DOie awards — that’s “do” as in the recipients are doing good. The DOies commemorate the contributions of our community to helping families who need support. In the style of a prized baseball card, each award recognizes the recipient’s impact with Better Together and includes a personalized quote.
This year’s recipients of the 2025 Northeast Florida DOies are:
Church Partner of the Year
River Christian Church
“A partner since 2022, River Christian Church has been so supportive of families. Just one example: When Beverly and Dennis hosted for a Clay County family, the church wrapped around them with support and helped the family transition into their new home. Thank you for standing in the gap!”
— Megan Rose, CEO
Community Board Member of the Year
Rachel and Andrew Cardy
“Rachel and Andrew Cardy are amazing supporters and prayer warriors. In addition to board work, they volunteer at job fairs and Parents’ Night Out events, and through Client Focused Media, they lend us space and promote our mission.”
— Megan Rose, CEO
Super Volunteer of the Year
Jackie Evans
“Jackie always has a yes and stays well past when other volunteers have left to make sure all is well. She even brings family members to serve with her. We are so grateful for Jackie and her heart to serve!”
— Megan Rose, CEO
Community Partner of the Year
Ribault Family Resource Center of Full Service Schools
“Mrs. G and the team generously open their doors to Better Together and frequently refer families to our program. Their 2024 referrals kept seven children out of foster care and in safe, loving homes. We are so grateful for your partnership!”
— Megan Rose, CEO
DCF Partner of the Year
Brianna Jacob
“Caring, kind, and vigilant, Brianna Jacob works hard to support families and our volunteers, helping with parents and children in many different ways, from transportation to finding extended family. She has a true heart for families.”
— Megan Rose, CEO
Staff Appreciation Award
Holly Collier, Partnership Manager
“Holly embodies the mission of Better Together and gives her whole heart. She’s a remarkable force as our Northeast Florida partnership manager, incorporating research, resourcefulness and compassion. We are so blessed to have Holly on the team!”
— Megan Rose, CEO
Mentor of the Year Award
Donna Michelle Hargraves
“During one of the most challenging seasons I’ve faced, Michelle stood out as a beacon of positivity and hope. Her unwavering optimism and kind words have lifted my spirits on countless occasions. … Her generosity, thoughtfulness, and genuine care have been a blessing, and I am deeply grateful for her presence in my life.”
— Shevorn, parent
Host Family of the Year Award
Paula and Stephens Baumgardner
“I was so skeptical of anyone taking in my daughter but Paula made me feel confident that my baby was in good hands… There is so much good I can say about Paula and wouldn’t have been able to make our lives better without her. Thank you, Paula.”
— July, parent
Please enjoy these images from this impactful evening:
Moments by Kinfay Moroti / Better Together
Special thanks to our sponsor:
