THE DRAYTON FLORENCE FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT
The Drayton Florence Foundation (DFF) was founded March 2005 by Jacksonville Jaguar Drayton Florence to stimulate the positive development of youth and families through football, academic and other community outreach projects.
Raised in Ocala, FL, Drayton’s primary focus is to develop and fund programs to encourage Ocala area youth to set standards for themselves which will allow them to accomplish greater success in school, sports and life.
2008 PROGRAM CALENDAR
Drayton Florence Celebrity Basketball Shoot-Out Ocala, Friday, June 20th
Originating as an extra-curricular weekend activity, the 4th Annual Celebrity Basketball Shoot-Out will be held Friday evening, June 20th. The event is a five-on-five competition featuring Drayton, and a number of sports and entertainment celebrities. DFF, in partnership with Best Buy and a number of other corporate partners, also provides DVD players, CD players, and “Plug-n-Plays” through contests and raffle to the students and family members in attendance. (click here for event information)
Drayton Florence “Make It Happen” Football Camp Ocala, Saturday June 21st
The Drayton Florence Football Camp will be held it’s fourth year at Vanguard. Up to 250 youth ages 8 – 18 are expected to attend this free, one-day, non-contact co-ed camp. The camp hasa coaching staff of 10 to 12 active NFL players, along with high school and youth league coaches. Football fundamentals, form and technique are emphasized. During lunch, each of the players will share their personal stories about the importance of an education, respect and challenges they’ve met during their life and career. (click here for event information)
Players Party (Tentatively set at Barbazon’s Sports Grill) Ocala, Saturday, June 21st
The 4th Annual Players Party and fundraiser will be open to the general public. The event will feature both Live and Silent Auctions. (click here for event information)
Drayton Florence LABS (Learning and Building Success) Technology Centers......................... Ocala
The purpose of the Drayton Florence LABS (Learning and Building Success) Technology Program, which opened its first center in March of 2007, is to strengthen the educational preparation and motivation of socio-economically disadvantaged youth and young adults in Marion County. To date, two labs have been donated and the third, largest lab is scheduled to be installed Fall 2008.
DFTC plans to provide students with the opportunity to learn and utilize technology in the advancement of their education and career objectives. Through DFTC, the foundation hopes to create a safe environment where it can educate, empower, and foster the knowledge base of youth and young adults in a non-competitive, structured environment.
The first two centers were established at the ED Croskey and Lillian Bryan Recreation Centers and the third designated site will be at the Marion County Boys & Girls Club.
Flo Zone Project (1) Jacksonville, Late July/Early August
The Drayton Florence Flo Zone Project is under development. Plans for the project are to work with the local community and teammates to provide much needed supplies and equipment to Title 1 Duval County Schools experiencing the most significant shortfalls due to state budget cuts.
The Drayton Florence Gift Giving Celebration Jacksonville, November
Drayton hopes to create a little holiday magic for 100 youth this holiday season by hosting the youth at a gift giving celebration. Dedicated to giving back, Drayton hopes to give the youth the special attention that every child deserves during the holidays. The kids will enjoy hot chocolate and treats, a special visit from Santa and a special gift. To remember this special event, Drayton will sign autographs, and each child received a photo of themselves with him and Santa for an extra special keepsake.
