Success stories take center stage as Florida marks Youth Success Day

Elected officials, agency leaders and community partners gathered at the state capitol Tuesday to recognize the achievements of at-risk youth across the state as Gov. Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation declaring Feb. 3 Youth Success Day in Florida.

The recognition highlights the work of the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, Florida Juvenile Justice Association (FJJA) and Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) focused on keeping youth out of the justice system and focused on a path toward long-term success.

“I’d like to thank Governor Ron DeSantis for declaring today Youth Success Day in Florida. This is a significant day, particularly for the youth that we are honoring here tonight who have overcome significant obstacles to be resilient and successful,” said DJJ Secretary Matt Walsh.

“I want all of the youth here tonight to look around and recognize your power. All of the people here are here to celebrate you, to celebrate that you have overcome the odds and have not let the difficult situations you have faced define you,” said Stacy Gromatski, President and CEO of the Florida Network.

Youth Success Day is intended to highlight Florida’s prevention-focused approach to juvenile justice: one that prioritizes early intervention, family stability and community-based services to keep young people out of deeper system involvement.

The reception celebrated the success stories of five of the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Youth Ambassadors. One particularly touching tribute came from Tamarion, a 2025 Ambassador supported by Florida’s youth support services.

Tamarion, with the support of his staff member at a Lutheran Services Florida center, a FNYFS member agency, turned years of homelessness and a five-year gap in education to a GED degree and full-time employment. He credited his perseverance and drive to his little sister, saying that “without someone looking up to you, you don’t have the adrenaline in your body and the push to keep going.”

The ceremony also included awards for key team members who were honored for their exemplary contributions to Florida’s youth and families. Julie Carpenter from Youth & Family Advocates, Inc., another Florida Network member agency, was recognized for her service. The partners also awarded the first annual Lifetime Achievement Award to longtime Florida Network board member and former Chair Dominic Calabro.

“His commitment to children, families and community is rooted in love — love of God, love of service and love of seeing people reach their full potential, which is why it is especially fitting to honor him on Youth Success Day. Dominic has spent his life fighting for every Floridian — especially our youngest — to have the chance to dream, achieve and thrive,” Gromatski said.

The partners have worked with community members, law enforcement and service agencies to reduce juvenile crime and strengthen public safety. Recent data shows those efforts are delivering results.

State leaders emphasized that investing in prevention and early intervention not only improves outcomes for youth, but strengthens public safety and reduces the burden on the taxpayer by reducing recidivism and limiting the need for more costly justice system involvement later.

A 2024 independent research study found that Florida Network Children and Families in Need of Services (CINS/FINS) programs save taxpayers $9.19 for every dollar invested, generating $410 million in total savings.

CINS/FINS programs serve youth and families experiencing conflict, instability or behavioral challenges, offering counseling, case management and support services designed to prevent further involvement in the justice system. One of the Youth Ambassadors honored at the reception directly attributed their success to CINS/FINS services.

With partners operating in all 67 Florida counties, the collaborative effort continues to expand access to services that support youth, strengthen families and position Florida’s next generation for long-term success.