August 17, 2024, wasn’t just another scorching Saturday in sunny Southwest Florida, but a day when a remarkable group of volunteers came together to create something truly special for the children of Stars Academy, our new childcare center in Port Charlotte. The Gulf Coast Partnership and Stars Academy team had been working tirelessly to find volunteers to help assemble new playground equipment for the center, but despite our best efforts, we were hitting roadblocks. That’s when Kelly Hunter, our Director of Development & Marketing, reached out to Commissioner Bill Truex for guidance. What happened next was a testament to the power of the Charlotte County Community.
Commissioner Truex didn’t just offer suggestions—he said he would take care of it and that’s exactly what he did! With his leadership and the collaboration of the CDBIA, an exceptional team came together to assemble the playground equipment. Thanks to their commitment to our community, the children of Stars Academy now have a vibrant new space to play and learn. Special thanks go to Commissioner Truex and the Charlotte DeSoto Building Industry Association (CDBIA) team, especially Alaina and Kate, for playing a crucial role and showing that when a community unites, incredible things happen.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who braved the heat to bring this project to life:
Commissioner Bill Truex – Truex Preferred Construction
Kathy & Mark Kemeny – Just Counters & Other Stuff
Dori Holtvoigt – Big Shot Marketing & Design
Kylee McGlovin – City of Punta Gorda
Matt Dumas, Craig Underwood & Walter – Apex CIPP
Kate O'Brien – CDBIA
Dori Holtvoigt captured the essence of the day perfectly in her Facebook post: “Not sure how I get myself involved in these things but I’m sure glad I do! I was able to work alongside some awesome people today to build a playground! CDBIA Next Gen and Bill Truex with Truex Preferred Construction partnered up to sponsor this fantastic new addition for Stars Academy. Just Counters & Other Stuff, APEX CIPP Solutions, Big Shot Marketing & Design, and Kylee McGlovin with the City of Punta Gorda showed up in full force to make it happen! It was hot but it was worth it!”
This project exemplifies the saying, "It takes a village." Without the generosity, time, and hard work of everyone involved, this playground would still be a dream. Instead, it’s now a reality—a place where children can play, explore, and grow, thanks to a community that cares deeply about its future.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who made this possible. Your dedication and community spirit are what make Charlotte County a wonderful place to live, work, and grow.
