MYCP - Monroe Youth Challenge Program

Press Releases:

Governor Crist Honors Booker as Point of Light at Mansion Event

TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist presented one of four Point of Light awards to Sunny Booker of Marathon at the governor’s mansion in Tallahassee Wednesday, Feb. 27 in front of a group of more than 200 community leaders, educators and students at the Governor’s Mansion to mark the conclusion of Black History Month.

“During February, we have honored men and women who opened doors to scientific, artistic, economic and social success for future generations,” Governor Crist said. “The achievements of African-Americans are woven into every part of our state’s history, and we are honored to celebrate this heritage during Black History Month and throughout the year.”

MYCP Director Sunny Booker with Governor Charlie Crist at the governor’s mansion. Photo credit: MYCP

Booker was recognized as the director of Monroe Youth Challenge Program for her volunteerism with the program. MYCP was created to combat the rise in violence, substance abuse, suspension rates and teen depression among Monroe County youth. Booker was nominated for the award by her peers because the program addresses the underlying causes of these behaviors through motivational workshops, leadership classes and mentorship.

MYCP’s success drew attention to Booker’s work with parents, educators and community members to positively affect the lives of students in Monroe County. Superintendent Randy Acevedo said, “Sunny’s commitment to youth shows not only in her full-time job as the safe school coordinator but also in her passion and dedication to volunteer as the director of MYCP. She’s been a light in our county since she started working here. I appreciate the governor recognizing her outstanding contribution as a community leader.”

MYCP is a grass-root, non-profit organization whose mission is to foster acceptance, respect, and success in the youth of Monroe County. MYCP is under the 501c3 of the Monroe County Education Foundation and is a sister program to Take Stock in Children. The program has received awards from the Juvenile Justice System, the D.A.R.E. Officers Association and many schools.

The other three Point of Light awards went to: Eddie Felton of Fort Myers who is a retired Naval officer and founder of The Fathers Supporting Education Program at Lee Middle School; Pastor Moses Criswell of Jacksonville who has led various campaigns and programs to improve the quality of life in inner-city Jacksonville; and Warrick Dunn of Tampa who is a professional football player for the Atlanta Falcons and established the Warrick Dunn Foundation to provide opportunities for economically-disadvantaged single parents and their children who have demonstrated a commitment to achieve financial independence and stability.

The Black History Month Celebration was developed by the Governor’s Volunteer Florida Foundation, the Executive Office of the Governor and the Governor’s Mansion Foundation.