Testimonials

Testimonials from Youth Scholarship Recipients

Jennifer Reznick, Mother of LibFund Scholarship Recipient

Student Athlete Excels On The Court & In The Classroom

As another sports season comes to an end, Jonathan’s family wanted to share their gratitude.

“We cannot thank LibFund enough for the help. He is able to play sports because of this scholarship and we are grateful!

A little about him- He is very active and loves basketball and track! He was also accepted into the AICE program for High School and continues to grow into a delightful young man.”

Jonathan loves staying active and participates in both basketball and track. His hard work extends beyond athletics, too—he was recently accepted into the Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Diploma program for high school, an accomplishment that reflects his dedication both on and off the court.

Stories like Jonathan’s remind us that scholarships are about so much more than the game. They provide opportunities for children to build confidence, develop discipline, achieve academically, and discover what they’re capable of.

Thank you for investing in young people like Jonathan and helping them build bright futures. 💙

Jonathan Mirabal Libertore Fund Scholarship Recipient Sports Basketball

From the Stage to Self-Confidence: Audrey’s Story

For many children, the arts become a place where confidence begins.

When Audrey received an Arts Scholarship from The Libertore Fund for Children, she was given the opportunity to attend a theater summer camp and pursue a dream that was growing inside her.

That opportunity led to one of her biggest accomplishments yet, performing as Young Fiona in Shrek the Musical Kids.

It was Audrey’s very first solo performance.

Standing alone on stage in front of an audience could be intimidating for anyone, but Audrey embraced the challenge. Through rehearsals, encouragement, and performance experience, she developed not only her acting and singing abilities, but also the confidence to believe in herself.

Her mother shared:

“Audrey had the opportunity to perform as Young Fiona in Shrek the Musical Kids. This was her first experience doing a solo, and she has come a long way with her performance skills. We are so grateful for what this scholarship has provided for her. She has really come out of her shell and her confidence has greatly improved.”

Stories like Audrey’s remind us why arts education matters.

When children are given opportunities to perform, create, and express themselves, they discover strengths that extend far beyond the stage.

Thanks to generous supporters of The Libertore Fund for Children, more young artists like Audrey are finding their voices, building confidence, and pursuing their dreams.

Audrey on stage as Young Fiona, building confidence through theater with support from The Libertore Fund for Children
Audrey performing as Young Fiona in Shrek the Musical Kids during her first solo performance made possible through a Libertore Fund for Children Arts Scholarship

Help the Next Child Find Their Spotlight

Every donation helps provide scholarships that allow children to explore music, theater, dance, and the visual arts, regardless of financial circumstances.

Because every child deserves the opportunity to shine.

Annavictoria Monaco, 12th Grade, Arts Scholarship Recipient

Pre-College Interior Design Program

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Libertore Fund for Children for their generous support. Thanks to this donation, I was able to attend a rigorous program I was selected to participate in in New York City, where I gained invaluable experience and insight into the interior design career I hope to pursue. Throughout the program, I learned advanced design principles, developed new technical skills, and discovered innovative ways to express creativity in functional spaces. This opportunity greatly enhanced my artistic vision, expanded my knowledge, and helped me build a clear plan for my future while reaffirming my passion for this field.

Without your donation, this experience would have been impossible, as my family would not have been able to afford the cost of the program. Your support opened a door that otherwise would have remained closed to me.
The communication and support from the foundation’s staff were exceptional they guided us through every step and made us feel encouraged and supported. I am extremely grateful for this life-changing experience and look forward to the future with confidence and excitement.

Thank you for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to grow.

-Annavictoria & Soledad Castro

soledad castro arts scholarship recipient
soledad castro arts scholarship recipient 2

Beverly, Mother of LibFund Sports Scholarship Recipient

Thank You for Creating A National Champion

I’m writing today with a heart full of gratitude and an update that I couldn’t wait to share.
Thanks to your incredible generosity and belief in Eric, he has officially become a national volleyball champion!
Your $3,000 scholarship didn’t just help pay for tournaments and travel—it opened a door. It gave Eric the chance to train, compete, and grow in ways that have shaped his future. You helped him believe that hard work pays off and that people out there truly care about seeing young athletes succeed.

This season brought unforgettable memories, huge personal growth, and a gold medal. None of this would have been possible without your support.

From the bottom of our hearts—thank you for investing in Eric’s potential. Your kindness made a lifelong impact on our family, and we’ll carry this gratitude with us forever.
With so much love and appreciation,

Beverly (on behalf of Eric and our whole family)

Eric, Jacksonville Skyline Volleyball Player & National Champion

national champion fueled by your generosity eric volleyball player and sports scholarship recipient

Niko, 12 years old, LibFund Scholarship Recipient

Gabriella

Arts: Theater | Organization: Not Listed

Gabriella and I spoke last night about how much of a blessing you are to her. She said “Because of you and your organization, she is able to be a part of things her friends do and how much confidence she has gained because of the help you have given her”, I simply would not be able to do for her. We just wanted to say thank you so much!!
You Rock! … Gabby’s words!

-Melinda Hitt

Michaela, 13 years old, LibFund Scholarship Recipient

Click Here to Watch on Facebook

Isaiah, 9th grade

Sports: Soccer | Larry Libertore Youth Sports Scholarship Recipient

The biggest downfall in the system of sports for anyone who is a low-income family is the limits it can place on an athlete. It can cause an unfair advantage as families that are able to pay can afford sometimes better coaching and competitive play. Even though some clubs may offer some sort of scholarship, it may not cover a lot, especially when the sport becomes more and more competitive. It is hard when you see the talent in your child, but they are limited due to financial statuses. I understand that there are expenses from field rentals, equipment and salaries but the average cost for the season is about $3000, and that doesn’t include the travel, hotels, etc.

I cannot express the gratitude that I have for the Libertore Fund because it helps to put a balance on the disadvantage by giving an opportunity to a family like mine to be able to have my son play competitive soccer. It has been such an impact on his soccer career, and to see the growth that he has had over the years, I can’t help but be eternally grateful because if it weren’t for the scholarship he wouldn’t have the opportunity that he has to play. He plays on a high-level team and through it all he is the most humble person I know. I don’t say it to “toot my horn” he is genuine in his answers when his friends say “oh, you play for an elite club” His response is always the same and he expresses that “even though my mom works hard, it would not be possible without the scholarships”. He isn’t afraid to say it, he is proud of it and he is probably more grateful than I am because he is playing a sport he truly loves. His plans to play semi pro feel a lot more reachable with the “level playing field” when it comes to being able to receive this scholarship. He works hard not only on his health and his workouts, but he is a straight “A” student and realizes the sacrifices needed in order to be successful. Without the Libertore Fund, it would be virtually impossible for me to afford to support his dreams and receiving this scholarship helps with so much. The worse feeling in the world is having to tell your child you can’t especially when you see the love in their eyes and they have the work ethic to match, but with this scholarship…..we can!!
Thank you to everyone involved from donors, volunteers, this organization in helping make my kids dream of playing possible!! Your support matters more than you will ever know.

–Marjorie Smith

Gavin, 9th Grade

Sport: Volleyball | Team: Jacksonville Skyline Volleyball

I am pleased to give an update on Gavin Angka, a happy recipient of the scholarship. He has been playing well with his club team, Skyline of Jacksonville. However, this week he is beyond excited! He made the varsity boys high school team at Bartram Trail high school in St. Johns County.

Gavin is the only freshman who made the team. This would not have been possible without the scholarship that you provided to him. Since he was able to participate in club ball and continue working on his skills, he is one of the 12 boys on the volleyball team!

–Jennifer Baracz

Kennedy, 12th Grade

Arts: Vocal | Organization: Harrison School of The Arts, NATS National (TN) & Schmidt Competition

Amount Received: $1250

It is a great honor to receive the Lib fund Scholarship for children, that has helped fund the expenses of my daughter’s trip to Tennesse and West Palm Beach Florida to compete vocally. Representing Harrison School of the Arts in Lakeland Florida. I am most grateful for your belief and support, and I would like to thank you for choosing my daughter, Kennedy Davenport.

I am a single mother, due to the untimely passing of Kennedy‘s Father. Receiving this scholarship has allowed me to continue to encourage my daughter Kennedy to chase her dreams. Your earnest investment in my daughters’ future goals will not be forgotten. Thank you again for your generous and thoughtful gift.

The Lib Fund has definitely had an effect in our lives in a very positive way.

–Qiana Davenport

Bella & Emma, 11th Grade

Sport: Volleyball | Team: Jacksonville Skyline Volleyball

Hi, Everyone. We are the twins, Bella and Emma. We were each awarded a scholarship to attend a summer college camp at Skyline Volleyball in Jacksonville Florida. This camp brings coaches in from around the state of Florida to help improve the skills of the players grades 9-12. We will be in 9 th grade in August. We are eager to improve our skills in volleyball and would not have this opportunity at all without the Liberatore Fund For Children. Thanks so much for all you do for us!!!!!

-Bella & Emma

Cam'ron, 9th Grade

Sport: Basketball | Team: Filling The Lane

I wanted to personally thank you for investing in my son. This will help a great deal with his basketball skills and most importantly his education. We’re blessed to have such a generous foundation that’s willing to invest their hard earned funds to children in bettering their future. We weren’t expected much or even anything but we are thankful and grateful for your generosity. Thank you so much.

-Betty Brown

8 Arts Students

Arts: String Music | Organization: New Life Village Inc.

Amount Received: $15,000

Libertore Fund for Children graciously supported the New Life Village String Music Program with a $15,000 grant in 2024. This grant made it possible for 8 children impacted by foster care to participate in violin and cello music lessons for 8 months! These sessions have created a space for these children to foster safe and healthy connections with other children their age, grow in self-esteem, and gain a skill set which aids them in emotional regulation. Many of these students have also realized a passion for music and have had opportunities to perform in the community through the New Life Village String Music Program. Thank you, Libertore Fund for Children, for making these opportunities possible!

-Natalie Gomez

Dawn McMurtray
Mother of Emmory (11th grade) and Riley (9th grade), Volleyball, $5,000 Scholarship Received

To Everyone at the Libertore Foundation,

Last year our girls wanted to play Club Volleyball to enhance their skills with hopes of being able to play for a college after graduation. Despite being told that our oldest daughter “started late” she has improved so much through this year and has made several contacts with different colleges. While she is not signed YET we believe that she has a good chance at a smaller school which is what she prefers. This year she is a senior and it was difficult to find a club for 18 year olds but we did find one. I am very thankful she gets to play her final year in high school.

I say this to let you know what has been possible due to your amazing generosity. There is no way we could have covered fees for them to play last year without your help. It was such a blessing to not have that high bill hanging over us. From the bottom of our hearts we want to thank you.

Qiana Davenport
Mother of Kennedy, a high school student at Harrison School of the arts
Received $750 for the NATS Competition (Tennessee ) and $500 for the Schmidt Competition

It is a great honor to receive the Lib fund Scholarship for children, that has helped fund the expenses of my daughter’s trip to Tennesse and West Palm Beach Florida to compete vocally. Representing Harrison School of the Arts in Lakeland Florida. I am most grateful for your belief and support, and I would like to thank you for choosing my daughter, Kennedy Davenport.

I am a single mother, due to the untimely passing of Kennedy’s Father. Receiving this scholarship has allowed me to continue to encourage my daughter Kennedy to chase her dreams. Your earnest investment in my daughters’ future goals will not be forgotten. Thank you again for your generous and thoughtful gift.

The Lib Fund has definitely had an effect in our lives in a very positive way.

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