FSCJ Receives $1.5 Million Gift from Anonymous Donors to Support Workforce Development Program

Florida State College at Jacksonville’s (FSCJ) received a $1.5 million donation to support the Stepping Stones program, an innovative education and workforce development initiative. The momentous gift was made by anonymous donors who have been supporters of the program for many years, offering their valuable guidance and insights because they care deeply for the future of young adults in the community. This donation, in addition to many previous gifts, makes them the largest donors in the FSCJ Foundation’s 52-year history.

The donation will ensure continued support for Stepping Stones and the students it serves for the next three years. Funds will provide critical resources, including direct student financial assistance, educational materials, classroom supplies, certification testing fees and required background checks for health care-related fields. It will also cover essentials such as uniforms, books, tools and instructional materials, as well as vital support services that help students overcome personal barriers to education—whether that means access to food, hygiene items, professional attire or other necessities that empower them to succeed.

“Thanks to this significant investment, the program will remain steadfast in its commitment to helping students pursue higher education opportunities, earn industry-recognized certifications and secure meaningful employment,” said College President John Avendano, Ph.D. “We are humbled by the selfless generosity of these benefactors who have a longstanding relationship with FSCJ and Stepping Stones. This gift is their way to ensure this program is efficacious for even more students for years to come.” 

In addition, the gift sustains the dedicated personnel who guide and support students throughout their journey. As the donors have expressed, the mission of Stepping Stones is simple, yet profound: to “help as many kids as we can.”

To learn more about Stepping Stones, visit https://www.fscj.edu/academics/workforce-education/grant-programs/stepping-stones.