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The Vision of the Gifford Youth Activity Center is to promote a foundation whereby the multiple barriers faced by the citizens of the Gifford Community /Indian River County area may be alleviated and/or replaced by goals that promote the ability of adults and youth to live in a productive community whereby maximizing the quality of their lives. We also envision the Gifford Youth Activity Center to foster holistic and balanced living by establishing a mechanism for individual growth and development for all citizens
With God’s guidance, our mission is to establish a partnership among youth, adults and the Gifford/ Indian River Community that develops self esteem, teaches character and encourages each individual to reach for his or her ultimate potential. 
The Gifford Youth Activity Center (GYAC) a 21st Century Learning Center provides a holistic approach to meeting the needs of children and families in the Gifford and adjacent communities of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach and Wabasso and other Indian River County surrounding municipalities. In the Spring of 1996, a group of concerned Indian River County citizens led by Dr. A. Ronald Hudson, Dan K. Richardson and Dr. William Nigh met to discuss the possibility of building a Youth Activity Center in Gifford. They were driven by the awareness that there were many low income children in Gifford and Indian River County that, if given the opportunity, had the potential to succeed and grow into productive, contributing adults.
A survey conducted that same summer indicated a strong interest within the Gifford community, as well as among other citizens in Indian River County, to support such a project. A review of the economic, social, and educational characteristics of the Gifford and Indian River County community also strongly supported the need for a facility that would provide meaningful activities for youth during non- school hours. In February of 1998, the vision became a reality. The Gifford Youth Activity Center, a unique facility providing state-of-the-art programs in education and healthy recreation to children, adults, and families in Indian River County was officially opened. Currently, there are over 26 different programs provided at the Gifford Activity Center, in collaboration with community agencies. A volunteer Board of Directors governs GYAC. They embody the concept that there is nothing more important than ensuring our children are safe and receive a high quality education. The Gifford Youth Activity Center's Board of Directors is comprised of a diverse array of influential and contributive citizens who guide the organization to effectively and successfully achieve its purpose. They are an integral part of the organization’s success as they provide a guiding force and a strong foundation for long-term stability. A 501(c)(3), private non-profit corporation. GYAC officially became a stand-alone corporation on January 1, 2002. GYAC, a nurturing safe haven, is unique in many ways but its ultimate distinctness is in its staff and volunteers. We are in the business of helping children and families build successful lives through education and life enhancing opportunities. GYAC believes that everyone deserves to meet their highest potential and to achieve their greatest dreams. Please come and visit any time to witness up close the amazing miracles that occur each and every day at the Gifford Youth Activity Center, a place where good things are happening! GYAC Board of Directors
Dan K. Richardson
Scott E. Alexander
Elder Donald Brown
Angelia Perry Foundation Board of Trustees
Todd Fennell
Scott Alexander |
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