- April 28, 2026
The Pace Center for Girls Volusia-Flagler in Ormond Beach will cease operations on June 26.
For the past 30 years, Pace has helped girls in the community obtain education while providing counseling, training and advocacy services. The closure was announced in a press release on Tuesday, April 28.
“This decision was incredibly difficult and made only after a thoughtful review of the program’s long-term sustainability, including enrollment trends, staffing, academic outcomes, and financial viability,” said Yessica Cancel, interim CEO of Pace Center for Girls. “We first shared this news directly with the girls and families we serve, our dedicated team members, trusted partners, and loyal donors — those closest to our mission. Their support and understanding have meant a great deal during this transition.”
Pace is partnering with Volusia County Schools and Flagler Schools to help current students enroll in public or charter schools for next school year. The press release states that Pace will also work closely with impacted staff and community partners to connect them with employment opportunities in local schools and other organizations. The girls and their families will be connected to community-based counseling and mental health resources.
Though the center will close, Pace states it plans to launch the new Pace Reach Program in fall 2026. This will be a "therapeutic model designed to meet girls where they are and provide accessible mental health services, early intervention, and individualized support in the community," the press release states. More information on the program will be shared in the future.
“Our priority has always been the girls,” Cancel said. “We are committed to helping each girl continue her educational journey and access the support she needs to thrive. We are also encouraged to continue serving this community through Reach in a new and meaningful way.”
The news of the center's closure comes as Ormond's Pace Center was gearing up for a new campus. Currently located at 208 Central Ave. in the former Rigby Elementary school building, Pace had plans to construct a $6.2 million school at 410 Clyde Morris Blvd. In February 2025, the Volusia County Council approved $3 million in federal disaster recovery dollars to help Pace build its new campus, which was damaged in 2022 during Hurricane Ian.
The local center's closure also follows at least three others within the last year in the state of Florida. The Pace Centers in Fort Pierce, Orange County and Marion County all closed in 2025.
