- May 4, 2026
The Hosts of Palm Coast Social Club presented their biennial Pacesetter Awards on April 25. The awards recognize everyday citizens for their extraordinary and selfless service to Flagler County.
The hosts of Palm Coast provides space for networking, mentorship, and community service for men of color, focusing on leadership development and community support through various annual events.
This year's Pacesetter award winners were Dr. Kevin M. James Sr., for his 40-plus years of leadership, service and community impact, and Jeanette Wheeler, for a lifetime of service to Flagler County.
James is senior pastor of Palm Coast United Methodist Church. Under his leadership, the church launched Our Father’s Table, a weekly program providing more than 250 meals to individuals and families in need. James has also played a key role in education and community development, serving on the boards of Bethune-Cookman University and other institutions. He currently supports scholarship initiatives through the Janice Wilson Foundation.
In 2024, he led the completion of a $10.2 million church campus designed to serve as both a place of worship and a community hub with expanded educational facilities and event space. James is a respected speaker and author, who continues to mentor and inspire through his commitment to service and vision for the future.
Wheeler is a longtime community advocate. Her decades of service, mentorship and philanthropy have made a lasting impact across Flagler County. At 94, Wheeler continues to exemplify the highest standards of citizenship through her dedication to uplifting others.
She has spent years mentoring young women, guiding them through critical life stages and encouraging personal responsibility and community engagement. Wheeler’s generosity has benefited such organizations as the African American Cultural Society, where her financial contributions have helped fund essential maintenance, facility upgrades and support for members in need.
She has also contributed to her church, the NAACP and the Carver Center. One of her most enduring contributions is the founding of the AACS Youth Black History Program, which has educated local youth for more than 23 years and awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors.
Wheeler remains actively involved in community organizations, continuing to inspire younger generations through her leadership, generosity and commitment to serve.
