Happy Birthday…to Us!
Communities In Schools of Jacksonville is celebrating a major milestone—35 years of empowering Duval County students and families. In January 2025, we’ll mark three and a half decades of providing critical support to more than 111,000 students, adapting to the evolving needs of our community, and driving change.
Communities In Schools of Jacksonville CEO, Leon Baxton, has been with the organization 33 out of the 35 years. "It’s heartwarming to see the students who once participated in our programs now thriving as adults—some working alongside us, others becoming teachers, and excelling in countless other professions. It doesn’t get any better than this,” he said.
Join Us for Our 35th Anniversary Gala
To commemorate this achievement, we’re hosting a special event that’s as much about looking back as it is about looking forward. On January 31st, 2025, we invite you to celebrate with us at Deerwood Castle, a stunning venue steeped in history. Formerly the headquarters for Lamborghini North America, Deerwood Castle offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for this momentous occasion. As an exciting bonus, during the reception, guests will have the chance to admire a selection of luxury cars on display.
Our Gala Theme: Walk In Their Shoes
Our theme, “Walk In Their Shoes,” invites you to step into the lives of the students, parents, educators, and community members we serve. It’s an opportunity to understand their challenges, their triumphs, and the transformative power of support, from their perspective.
In the spirit of this theme, we encourage guests to wear sneakers—comfortable, fun, and symbolic of the journey we’ve walked together.
Three Ways You Can Get Involved
We want you to be a part of this exciting moment. Here are three ways you can contribute to our gala:
- Attend the Gala
The more people who join us, the greater our collective impact. This is your chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about investing in Jacksonville’s future. Together, we’ll ensure that Communities In Schools can continue to support students for years to come. Purchase your ticket(s) here. - Become a Sponsor
We offer seven sponsorship levels, each with exclusive perks (and for some, VIP access). Your sponsorship not only shows your commitment to local students, but it also amplifies our ability to reach even more students and families in need. Learn more about the various sponsorship opportunities here. - Donate to the Silent Auction or Wine Pull
Our silent auction and wine pull will be key fundraising activities for the evening. We are seeking donations from local businesses and individuals, ranging from exciting experiences (like zip-lining or concert tickets) to gift certificates for local restaurants. If you have a bottle of wine to donate, it will be a fantastic addition to our wine pull, where guests can “pick” a bottle for a fixed donation amount.
What to Expect at the Gala
Guests will enjoy a memorable evening, starting with a reception hour where you can mingle, enjoy bar service, admire luxury cars, and view the silent auction. VIP guests will have exclusive access to a special lounge area during this time with hors d’ouerves, special entertainment, and more.
Then, we’ll move to the ballroom for an elegant dinner, visionary entertainment, and powerful impact testimonials. The night will be both a celebration of the past 35 years and a call to action as we look toward the future of our work in Jacksonville. It’s the perfect opportunity to come together and strategize how we can continue to make a difference for students in Duval County for the next 35 years.
Need More Information?
If you have any questions about tickets, sponsorships, auction items, or event details, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at communications@cisjax.org. We can’t wait to Walk In Their Shoes with you!
