- May 30, 2026
High school and college students from Volusia and Flagler Counties recently took the stage at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to pitch bold solutions to community challenges — and walked away with real grant funding to make them happen.
The Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties hosted the annual Generation IMPACT Social Innovation Fund Pitch Competition, where students competed individually or in small groups and presented proposals to an audience of donors, mentors, and community supporters regarding issues such as neighborhood beautification, mobile services and elder care, according to a press release. Each proposal was the result of a months-long process that included initial screening, mentor pairing and pitch refinement.
“Obtaining a SIF grant means access to impactful, life-changing opportunities for children in Volusia County. The arts are difficult to access in many low-income communities,” said 2026 SIF Grantee Fernanda Castillo-Enriquez, a Stetson University student. “Ballet for the World aims to expand access to community dance classes for children who cannot afford dance lessons, alongside meaningful mentorship to support kids experiencing hardships, including financial, food, or housing insecurity.”
Also among this year’s winners was Brittney Jabot, an MD candidate at Florida State University, for her Healthy Home Starter Kits Project. In partnership with the Council on Aging of Volusia County, Jabot’s initiative provides essential cleaning and home care supplies to older adults — promoting safer living environments, reducing health risks and supporting independence.
"Participating in the Social Innovation Fund Pitch Competition was a unique and meaningful opportunity,” Jabot said. “This award and the resulting funding represent more than just financial support — they create a tangible opportunity to improve the living conditions of older adults in Volusia County. This project reflects a shared commitment to addressing real-world needs and creating meaningful, community-centered impact.”
Generation IMPACT members served as judges throughout the competition and Project Self Inc. donated $300, while attendees Greg and Becky Bottom contributed $1,200 on the spot, filling the remaining funding gap and ensuring every Social Innovation Fund request was fully met. The event was sponsored by Publix Supermarket Charities and Brown & Brown Insurance.
“Generation IMPACT is honored to grant funds to innovative student impact projects throughout Volusia and Flagler counties, shaping a better future and building up future leaders in our community,” said Heather Prasse, Generation IMPACT Chair. “We cannot wait to see the impact this year’s projects will have on our community in the years to come.”
Generation IMPACT welcomes young professionals ready to lead and give back. Members contribute a modest annual donation to CF/UWVFC's campaign and meet monthly to plan events, fundraise and implement the Social Innovation Fund.
“At the Community Foundation and United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, we believe the next generation of community leaders is already among us — and Generation IMPACT proves it,” said Courtney Edgcomb, President and CEO of CF/UWVFC. “This competition isn’t just about awarding grants — it’s about investing in the vision and drive of students who will shape the future of Volusia and Flagler Counties for years to come.”
