SERVICE

When Fellows make a commitment to public service, it's not some idle promise for the future. It's a steadfast vow to actively assist Floridians here and now.

While Florida Fellows already are active in their home communities, they also spend time during their program year doing hands-on service in the Tallahassee area.

These service projects allow Fellows to share their interests and strengths while encouraging young people to become involved citizens. Recent service projects led by Gubernatorial Fellows:

 KIDS VOTING:

Members of Class IV adopted two local precincts on Election Day (Nov. 4, 2008), working with Kids Voting Leon County, the local affiliate of Kids Voting USA. It's a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that engages students and families in the voting process.

This unique program combines dynamic classroom civics lessons with an authentic voting experience. Fellows set up Kids Voting booths and assisted students as needed. Jennifer Blalock served as the Precinct Captain.

 HUGH O'BRIAN YOUTH LEADERSHIP:

Several Class IV Fellows were proud to volunteer in 2008 with HOBY, an organization focused on developing young leaders. Jennifer Blalock, Bradley Bodiford, Mellori Lumpkin, and Karen Modzelewski participated in the annual North Florida HOBY Conference.

These Fellows served on a panel and spoke to more than 100 high school rising juniors about leadership and service. Following the panel, the Fellows mentored small groups of students and discussed their own leadership experiences.