DAYTONA BEACH, Fla – What better way to inspire elementary school children to start thinking about the future and college than introducing them to the college experience firsthand? That’s exactly what happens at the Lemerand Center of Excellence (LCE) at Daytona State College.

The after-school program is unique in providing tutoring and enrichment to select elementary school students. LCE provides structured academic support, enrichment activities, and wraparound services that help students grow and thrive.

On October 7, students proudly gathered outside in blue LCE t-shirts to participate in the Community Foundation and United Way Volusia-Flagler Counties (CF/UWVFC) check presentations.

“It’s an honor to present funds in support of LCE’s student success program,” said CF/UWVFC President/CEO Courtney Edgcomb. “The children are our future. It is important to fund programs like this. We encourage donors to continue giving back to our community with their financial gifts because the funds make a huge difference in the lives of so many in Volusia as well as Flagler counties.”

The funding goes to FBH Community. The Lemerand Center of Excellence received $70,000 over two years from the Community Impact Grant and the Fresh Market program received $3000 from the Food Security Fund.

Lemerand Center for Excellence (LCE) program

This important program supports students in underserved communities by improving reading proficiency and academic success through a comprehensive wraparound service model. The program primarily serves elementary and middle school students who are performing below grade level in reading and who are identified by schools as needing additional academic intervention and support. 

Fresh Market program

The Fresh Market program specifically addresses food insecurity by providing weekly food distributions to low-to-moderate income households in the greater Daytona area, serving hundreds of families while also offering nutrition education and supportive services.

The Lemerand Center of Excellence was established in 2023 as a collaboration between FBH Community, Volusia County Schools, and Daytona State College.