Community Leaders “Inspired” and “Informed” by JWB Children’s Summit

Feb 19, 2025

On Friday, February 14th, JWB hosted the annual Children’s Summit at St. Petersburg College with the theme “For the Love of Kids.” More than 200 community leaders, key influencers, and child advocates gathered to celebrate JWB’s impact and shared commitment to the children of Pinellas County. 

JWB Board Chair Judge Patrice Moore welcomed attendees, recognized board members, and shared briefly what JWB means to her. CEO Beth Houghton followed with highlights from 2024, noting that JWB-funded programs served nearly 80,000 children and families and partnered with dozens of organizations in initiatives and campaigns. 

Attendees then viewed the FY2024 Annual Report Video showcasing JWB’s investments, including 12 new programs aligned with strategic goals, expanded funding to stabilize the workforce, and increased outreach to families. The video also highlighted JWB’s rapid response to emergent needs, such as funding gaps and hurricane relief, as well as the strength of its partnerships in driving positive outcomes for kids. 

Beth and St. Petersburg College President Dr. Tonjua Williams then led an interactive Kahoot! game, testing attendees on key topics from the video. The top scorers included Jesse Turtle (SPC Foundation), Hunter Parkinson (6th Judicial Court), and JWB Board member PCS Superintendent Kevin Hendrick. 

To conclude, attendees shared words describing their reactions to what they learned from the summit, forming a word cloud that included “informed, educated, inspired, and hopeful.”  

Each guest also received a children’s book to give away in honor of International Give a Book Day, thanks to Brianna Ray and Elicia Hinson, who curated several age-appropriate selections. A Grade Level Reading resource table, set up by Brianna, provided additional books and information. 

JWB extends gratitude to the Pinellas County School Board, government officials, partner agencies, board members, staff, and volunteers who contributed to this successful event. 

To view our 2024 Annual Report Video, click here. 

To view more event photos, click here.