IN THE
NEWS
FIRST QUARTER 2024
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
Soaring to New Heights: FLITE Center's Debut Newsletter Showcases Collective Impact
Christine Frederick, CEO
Esteemed Friends, Supporters, and Advocates,
It is with immense pride and heartfelt gratitude that I welcome you to the inaugural edition of FLITE Center's quarterly newsletter. This milestone marks the beginning of a new journey, one where we will share the triumphs, challenges, and unwavering commitment that define our mission of empowering vulnerable youth.
As we embark on this exciting endeavor, I am humbled by the steadfast support and generosity that have carried us thus far. Your kindness and belief in our cause have been the driving force behind our ability to create a world where every young person has the opportunity to soar.
In this edition, we proudly shine a spotlight on our exceptional partner, Excel Construction of Florida. Their transformative renovation of our West Palm Beach facility has created a nurturing oasis, illuminating the path to healing for the youth and families we serve. Their unwavering dedication and collaborative efforts with subcontractors and vendors serve as a powerful testament to the collective impact we can achieve when we stand united.
You will also be inspired by the remarkable journey of "Emily," a survivor of human trafficking whose resilience and determination found solace within the embrace of FLITE Center. Her story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact our work has on the lives of those who have endured unimaginable adversity.
Our Program Feature delves into the heart of our Anti-Human Trafficking Department, shedding light on the comprehensive network of trauma-responsive care we provide to sex trafficked children and young adults across numerous counties in Florida. From emergency stabilization to ongoing support, our services are tailored to empower survivors and ignite hope in the face of darkness.
As we reflect on the past, we celebrate the overwhelming success of our inaugural FLITE Center Gunther Motor Company Collective Impact Awards. This event, brimming with inspiration and unity, honored the remarkable individuals and organizations who have selflessly dedicated themselves to advancing our mission. Their unwavering commitment has paved the way for transformative change, and we are eternally grateful for their partnership.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to invite you to SCENE: Studio 54 Rewind, the party of the season that promises an unforgettable night of incredible food, flowing libations, pulsating music, and non-stop dancing. Your attendance at this extraordinary event will directly support our life-changing programs and services, ensuring that no youth in our community has to face the journey to independence alone.
Furthermore, I encourage you to explore our Welcome Home Kits Housing Bin Program, which provides essential household items and furnishings to youth transitioning into independent living. Your contributions to this initiative will create a warm, welcoming environment for these remarkable individuals as they embark on their new chapter.
Within these pages, you will find stories of resilience, hope, and the power of collective impact. As we celebrate our achievements, we remain resolute in our commitment to shattering the chains of adversity and empowering the lives of the youth we serve.
Together, we can create a world where every young person has access to the support, resources, and nurturing environments they need to thrive. Join us on this journey, and let us continue to illuminate the path to brighter futures.
With immense gratitude,
Christine Frederick
CEO, FLITE Center
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
A Beacon of Hope: Excel Construction Illuminates Brighter Futures
At FLITE Center, we are privileged to work alongside incredible community partners who share our commitment to empowering and uplifting the lives of vulnerable youth. This quarter, we are honored to spotlight the exceptional work of Excel Construction of Florida, a leading construction firm that has become a true beacon of hope for the survivors we serve.
Excel Construction's unwavering dedication to our mission was brought to life through their recent $50,000 renovation of our West Palm Beach facility. What began as a generous $15,000 grant through their inaugural community initiative blossomed into a transformative project that will forever impact the journeys of healing for the youth and families who seek refuge at FLITE Center.
With a deep understanding of the powerful role that safe, nurturing spaces play in the recovery process, the Excel Construction team poured their expertise into creating an oasis within our walls. They constructed a serene counseling area, a cozy breakroom with a kitchen, and updated the lighting and flooring – all purposefully designed to offer comfort, privacy, and an uplifting environment for our clients and staff.
Eric Wolf, President of Excel Construction, eloquently captured the essence of their work: "This was a very meaningful project for us to be able to significantly transform an emergency landing space for human trafficking survivor youth and their families."
But Excel Construction's generosity extended far beyond their own team. They rallied the support of over a dozen subcontractors and vendors, who enthusiastically donated their time, skills, and materials to this vital cause. This collaborative effort not only beautified our space but also reinforced the powerful message that our community stands united in the fight against human trafficking.
Excel Construction's commitment to "Stand for What Counts" is woven into the very fabric of their organization. With a diversified portfolio spanning industrial, commercial, and retail projects throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, they have established a reputation built on respect, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to delivering high-quality results.
Yet, their true excellence lies in their unwavering support for organizations that uplift children, families, education, and the environment. Each year, they allocate funding and countless volunteer hours to initiatives that create positive change, from the Max M. Fisher Boys & Girls Club to the Broward Education Foundation.
In recognition of their exceptional contributions, FLITE Center was proud to honor Excel Construction with our prestigious "Bridge Builder Award." This accolade serves as a testament to their role in constructing bridges of hope, resilience, and opportunity for those we serve.
As we continue our partnership with Excel Construction, we are inspired by their example and motivated to deepen our own commitment to fostering positive change. Together, we can create a world where every individual has access to the support, resources, and nurturing environments they need to thrive.
On behalf of FLITE Center and the countless lives you have touched, thank you, Excel Construction, for being true partners in our mission and for illuminating the path to brighter futures for our community's most vulnerable youth.
YOUTH SUCCESS STORIES
A Journey of Resilience: Finding Safety and Solace at FLITE Center
At FLITE Center, we bear witness to the extraordinary resilience of the youth we serve, each one navigating their own unique path to healing and empowerment. For this inaugural edition of our quarterly newsletter, we are honored to share a story that epitomizes the transformative power of compassion, perseverance, and the unwavering support of our community.
This amazing youth who for the purpose of protecting their privacy we will call Emily, arrived at our doorstep after a harrowing journey that began in Orlando. As a survivor of human trafficking, she found herself without shelter, carrying only the weight of her trauma and the unwavering bond with her emotional support animal, her beloved recently born kitten. It was her advocate in Orlando who helped her search for the nearest refuge, leading her to the YWCA in Lake Worth, Florida.
With trepidation, yet fueled by an unwavering determination to find safety, Emily boarded a Greyhound bus, her feline companion by her side. However, upon arriving at the YWCA, she faced a heartbreaking dilemma – her emotional support animal could not accompany her into the shelter. It was at this pivotal moment that FLITE Center received the call, and without hesitation, we opened our doors, our hearts, and our arms.
Our Anti-Human Trafficking therapist personally transported Emily from the shelter, ensuring her safe passage to our Falcon Ridge Emergency Landing Space in West Palm Beach. As she crossed the threshold, her weary eyes spoke volumes – a mixture of fear, stress, and overwhelming gratitude for finding solace within our walls.
From that moment on, Emily's journey toward healing took flight. Our dedicated staff enveloped her with compassion, providing a nurturing environment where she could begin to process her experiences. She found solace in the company of our Survivor Mentor, a kindred spirit who understood the depths of her pain and the heights of her resilience.
Each day, our team crafted a tapestry of activities tailored to Emily's needs – from therapeutic art projects and games to outdoor excursions in the vibrant heart of downtown West Palm Beach. These moments not only offered respite but also a gentle reminder that the world still held beauty, joy, and the promise of brighter days ahead.
As the days passed, Emily's spirit grew stronger, nurtured by the unconditional support and care she received at FLITE Center. And when the opportunity arose for her to continue her healing journey at a long-term treatment program in Colorado Springs, we knew it was time to spread our wings and let her soar.
Although our hearts were heavy at the thought of her departure, we understood that this was a crucial step in her path to recovery – a chance to receive the specialized care and support she deserved. With the assistance of our partner agencies, arrangements were made for Emily's safe passage to her new destination, a testament to the powerful network of organizations united in their mission to uplift survivors.
As Emily embarked on this next chapter, we held her close in our thoughts and prayers, knowing that the seeds of resilience planted during her time at FLITE Center would continue to blossom. For it is in moments like these that we are reminded of the profound impact our work has, not only on the individuals we serve but on the fabric of our community as a whole.
Emily's story is a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit of survival that resides within each of us. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of circumstances, hope can find a way to shine through, illuminating the path toward a brighter future. And it is a call to action for all of us to continue our unwavering commitment to creating safe havens, fostering healing, and empowering the lives of those who have endured unimaginable adversity.
At FLITE Center, we are honored to play a role in these extraordinary journeys, and we remain steadfast in our dedication to supporting every youth who seeks our guidance, our care, and our belief in their limitless potential.
PROGRAM FEATURE
Shattering Chains, Igniting Hope: FLITE Center's Frontline Against Human Trafficking
In the relentless battle against human trafficking, FLITE Center stands as an unwavering force, dedicated to empowering survivors and igniting hope in the face of unimaginable adversity. Through our Anti-Human Trafficking Department, we are proud to offer a comprehensive network of trauma-responsive care, providing a lifeline to sex trafficked children and young adults across numerous counties in Florida.
Our multidisciplinary team, comprised of Survivor-Mentors, Regional Advocates, Victim Service Coordinators, and Clinicians, works tirelessly to create a safe haven for those who have endured the horrors of trafficking. From emergency stabilization and individualized wellness plans to ongoing support and housing assistance, our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each survivor, aged 10 to 24, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
But our commitment extends far beyond crisis intervention. We understand that the journey to healing is a marathon, not a sprint. That's why we offer a robust continuum of care, including virtual and in-person programs focused on education, employment readiness, and overall health and wellness. Our goal is to empower survivors with the tools and resources they need to reclaim their independence, their self-worth, and their dreams for a brighter future.
The impact of our Anti-Human Trafficking Program is profound and far-reaching. In 2023 alone, we served 85 human trafficking survivors in Broward County and 39 in Palm Beach County – a testament to the urgency of our mission and the unwavering dedication of our team.
The roots of our anti-trafficking efforts can be traced back to January 2021, when FLITE Center was the proud recipient of an Office of the Attorney General grant. This funding enabled us to provide specialized, trauma-informed services to sex trafficked youth and young adults aged 10 to 24 across the Gold Treasure Coast counties of Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie, as well as the Central Region of Seminole, Lake, Osceola, and Orange Counties.
Since then, our mobile services have reached survivors where they are, offering a lifeline of support and compassion. Additionally, our 11,000-square-foot drop-in center in Broward County and our newly opened 1,500-square-foot location in the historic Northwest sector of downtown West Palm Beach have become safe havens, providing immediate access to hands-on services and emergency housing for those in need.
January marked National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, and FLITE Center was at the forefront of raising awareness and driving change. We participated in numerous events, including the Highlighting Broward's Collaborative Model on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, where Judge Stacy Ross, Broward State Attorney Harold Pryor, Prosecutor Danielle Lennox, and representatives from Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz's office spoke about the critical need for collaborative efforts. Representatives from the Nancy J. Cotterman Center Human Trafficking Unit, Coast to Coast Legal Aid, ChildNet, the Department of Children and Families (DCF), the International Rescue Committee (IRC), and the Unaccompanied Children's Resource Center (USCRI) also shared insights on providing life-changing services to survivors. The Broward Human Trafficking Task Force presented, and Aytia Tarpley shared her powerful story, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts.
FLITE Center also played a key role at the Broward Human Trafficking Coalition's Youth Summit on January 13th, engaging young people and their parents in dynamic and interactive sessions to raise awareness about human trafficking.
On January 20th, we participated in the Confronting Human Trafficking community event at Community of Hope Church in West Palm Beach. This conference aimed to inform the community about the realities of human trafficking in Palm Beach County. Following a screening of the thought-provoking documentary "Shattered Dreams," a panel discussion featuring notable advocates. FLITE Center was joined by leaders from organizations such as SpeakLife Community, the Human Trafficking Coalition of the Palm Beaches, Lighthouse Palm Beach County, Rescue Upstream, Catholic Charities Diocese of Palm Beach, Place of Hope, and the Palm Beach County Human Trafficking Task Force took place.
Additionally, on January 22nd, FLITE Center had the honor of presenting to the Junior League of the Palm Beaches, educating members about our services, human trafficking in Palm Beach County, and ways to support our mission.
Our Central Region team also led powerful initiatives like the Red Sand Project event, using symbolic gestures to raise awareness and inspire action against vulnerabilities that can lead to exploitation. This event uses sidewalk interventions and earthwork installations to create opportunities for people to connect and take action against modern slavery and exploitation, with the filling of cracks representing the vulnerability that exists for people to be trafficked and those who fall through the cracks.
FLITE Center was also invited to present to over 40 members of the Mitzvah Lunch Club, a group of strong women committed to making a difference. Hosted by Marcy Barrick and graciously held at the home of FLITE Center Board Member Jeff Gordon and his wife Gaye, this event fostered meaningful interaction, questions, and answers, further amplifying the message about the realities of human trafficking in our communities.
The statistics surrounding human trafficking are staggering and serve as a constant reminder of the urgency of our mission. Each year, approximately 700,000 men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide, generating a staggering $150 billion in illegal profits. Alarmingly, more than 27 million people are currently enslaved or trapped in bondage – the highest number in human history.
In Florida alone, the Department of Children and Families reported close to 2,300 cases of suspected child trafficking in 2022, with 77 cases occurring in Palm Beach County. These numbers are on a concerning upward trajectory, with cases in the state likely to exceed 2,800 by 2027 if the current rate continues.
At FLITE Center, we are committed to shattering the chains of human trafficking and igniting hope for every survivor who seeks our help. Through our unwavering dedication, compassionate care, and collaborative partnerships, we are creating a future where every individual can reclaim their freedom, their dignity, and their rightful place in a world free from exploitation.
Join us in this vital mission. Together, we can empower survivors, educate our communities, and break the cycle of human trafficking once and for all.
PAST EVENTS
Celebrating Collective Impact: A Night of Inspiration and Unity
At FLITE Center, we are deeply humbled by the overwhelming support and generosity showcased at our recent FLITE Center Gunther Motor Company Collective Impact Awards Presented by South Florida Business & Wealth. This inaugural event, held on February 27th at the stunning Ben Autograph Collection Hotel in downtown West Palm Beach, was a resounding testament to the power of unity and the collective vision that drives our mission forward.
Nearly 150 guests, including esteemed supporters, advocates, and community partners, graced us with their presence, creating an atmosphere brimming with hope and inspiration. We were honored to have CBS12 News Anchor Liz Quirantes, our gracious Mistress of Ceremonies, guiding us through this momentous evening with her warmth and charisma.
The true stars of the night were the remarkable individuals and organizations who have selflessly dedicated themselves to advancing FLITE Center's collective impact for vulnerable youth in our community. We had the privilege of recognizing our 2024 Honorees, whose unwavering commitment has paved the way for transformative change.
The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation received the newly created Dr. Heidi Schaeffer Trailblazer Award, named after FLITE Center's newest board member and longtime advocate. Suzanne Cabrera, CEO of the Housing Leadership Council, and the Junior League of the Palm Beaches were honored with the Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith Ripple Effect Awards. Excel Construction of Florida received the prestigious Bridge Builder Award for their exceptional contributions, while Payne Chapel AME Church and the Palm Beach County Human Trafficking Task Force were recognized with Community Collaborator Awards. Additionally, we paid a special tribute to the late Marian M.E. Bluntson Wingate, a cherished advocate, with an in-memoriam dedication by her sons, Darren and Timothy Wingate.
The evening reached its pinnacle when Palm Beach County Commissioners Sara Baxter, Michael Barnett, Greg Weiss, and Vice Mayor/Commissioner Maria Marino presented FLITE Center with a meaningful proclamation, declaring February 27, 2024, as FLITE Center Palm Beach Day. This recognition not only celebrated our efforts in guiding at-risk youth toward self-sufficiency but also applauded our vital presence in Palm Beach County since 2021 and our role in hosting this inaugural awards celebration, spotlighting the power of collective impact.
We are deeply grateful to our generous sponsors and partners, whose support made this event possible. Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Gunther Motor Company; Presenting Sponsor, South Florida Business & Wealth; Defender Sponsor, Goldlaw; Guardian Sponsors, DEX Imaging and Vegso Family Foundation; Named Award Category Sponsor, Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith; Advocate Sponsors, ChildNet and Reicherter Foundation; Media Partner, Goodman PR; and In-kind Sponsors, The Ben Autograph Collection Hotel, Waterstone Hotel & Marina, Promo Girl, Oceans 234, Don Ramon Restaurant Cubano, Heidi Schaeffer, M.D., Silvia P. Isaacs & Family, and Samantha Ramnarine.
Most importantly, we extend our deepest gratitude to you, our irreplaceable supporters and allies. Your presence and passionate support provide the vulnerable youth we serve with hope, compassion, and empowering services when they have no one else to turn to. It is through our shared vision and collective impact that we can ensure no youth in and out of Palm Beach County has to journey the road to adulthood alone.
If you were unable to attend but wish to change a life, we warmly invite you to contribute to our mission by making a donation. Your generosity will directly support our life-changing programs and services, enabling us to continue guiding these remarkable young individuals toward a future filled with independence, confidence, and limitless potential.
Once again, thank you for your unwavering commitment to FLITE Center and the youth we serve. Together, we can create a world where every young person has the opportunity to soar.
UPCOMING EVENTS
SCENE: Studio 54 Rewind - The Party of the Season Returns!
Get ready South Florida, because the party of the season is back and bigger than ever! FLITE Center is thrilled to announce the return of the FLITE Center Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Studio 54 Rewind. Prepare to be transported back in time to one of the most iconic nightclub experiences of all time, and get ready for a night you'll never forget!
On Saturday, May 18th, from 6-10pm, the incomparable DAER Nightclub at the breathtaking Hard Rock Guitar Hotel will become the epicenter of a Studio 54 Rewind extravaganza. Imagine an evening filled with incredible food, flowing libations, pulsating music, and non-stop dancing – all in support of FLITE Center's mission to empower youth aging out of foster care, human trafficking survivors, LGBTQ+ youth, and other vulnerable young individuals.
Last year's inaugural event was an overwhelming success, but this year, we're taking it to the next level. In addition to the legendary Cher, we'll be joined by the one and only queen of disco herself, Donna Summer, ensuring an unforgettable night of high-energy performances and non-stop excitement.
Don't miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary event! Individual VIP seating, individual open seating tickets, and VIP booths for 6 or 12 party guests are available now and SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES are also still available!
But act fast – last year's event sold out quickly, and with the Hard Rock making room for even more revelers this year, tickets are sure to disappear rapidly.
Once our event ends, the party doesn't have to stop! Your wristband will grant you access to continue the celebration at DAER Nightclub for as long as you desire. Or, if you're feeling lucky, you can try your hand at the casino, grab a delicious meal, and return to the club later – your wristband is your ticket to an unforgettable night.
But that's not all! Prepare to tempt fate with our exciting Balloon Pop, where a $20 or $50 investment could land you an incredible prize, from restaurant gift certificates to signed guitars or even a luxurious hotel room night. And don't forget about the Premier Raffle, where a $100 ticket could win you packages valued at over $1,000 each!
Remember, the ATM convenience fee at DAER is $50, so come prepared with cash in hand. Every dollar raised at this event will go directly toward supporting FLITE Center's life-changing programs and services, ensuring that no youth in our community has to face the journey to independence alone.
Your attendance at SCENE: Studio 54 Rewind will make a profound difference in the lives of the remarkable young individuals we serve. Join us on May 18th and be a part of an unforgettable night that will create lasting memories while supporting a cause that truly matters.
Don't wait – get your tickets today at flitecenter.org/Rewind54 and experience the party of the season that everyone will be talking about!
For more information, contact DeAnn Hazey at DeAnn@FLITECenter.org or 440-223-4759