Ocala Metro CEP Foundation Receives $5,000 Grant from Papa John’s Foundation to Support Leadership Ocala Marion Youth Program
Ocala, FL – December 9, 2024 – The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership Foundation is excited to announce that it has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Papa John’s Foundation’s Building Community Fund. This funding will directly support the CEP’s Leadership Ocala Marion Youth (LOMY) program, helping to keep participation costs affordable while also providing scholarships to ensure access for all students.
LOMY is a county-wide program that brings together a diverse group of students from both public and private high schools in Marion County. Through a series of hands-on activities, leadership workshops, and community service projects, the program helps students build critical skills that will serve them throughout their lives. It also encourages participants to develop a shared commitment to the growth and advancement of their community.
“Thanks to the generous support from the Papa John’s Foundation, we can offer more students the opportunity to participate in LOMY and develop crucial leadership skills,” said Kevin Sheilley, President and CEO of Ocala CEP. “This funding will ensure the program remains accessible, especially those from underserved communities, have access to the tools and experiences they need to succeed as leaders.”
The LOMY program targets high school students entering their junior year in Ocala and Marion County. This demographic represents a critical period in their academic and personal development, making it an ideal time for leadership and career exploration. With approximately 45% of students in the county qualifying for free or reduced lunch, the need for programs like LOMY is particularly urgent. Many students face significant financial challenges that limit their ability to participate in extracurricular activities or explore potential career pathways. Although LOMY is not free, the grant will help reduce fees and provide scholarships, addressing financial barriers that may otherwise limit participation.
The support from the Papa John’s Foundation’s Building Community Fund will make a significant impact on the future of Marion County’s youth, empowering them to become leaders who will contribute to the long-term success and growth of the community.
For more information about the Papa John’s Foundation and its commitment to community development, visit Papa John’s Foundation.
About the Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership
The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP) was created to be a one-stop hub for the community’s business attraction, creation and retention efforts. The CEP’s mission is to be THE catalyst for a prosperous community. The 2020 ACCE National Chamber of the Year, the CEP has directly impacted the announced creation of more than 13,000 new jobs and more than $2.3 billion in capital investment over the last decade.
For more information, visit: OcalaCEP.com.