PALM COAST, Fla. – The third annual Day of Celebration, a warm and welcoming event honoring individuals and organizations across the region who have made lasting impacts on their communities, was a powerful reminder of the significance of Black History Month. This day was not only about recognizing the past but also celebrating those who continue to shape and uplift communities today. Howard Holley, co-host of the event, expressed the essence of this gathering by saying, “The purpose of these days is to acknowledge, bring attention to, and honor those who are doing great work in our community that often go overlooked.”
Honoring Unsung Heroes: Seeking Insights for Solutions (SIS)
One of the most inspiring moments of the evening was the recognition of Seeking Insights for Solutions (SIS), an organization that has quietly transformed Flagler County. Co-host Mark Dwyer spoke with admiration about SIS, emphasizing the group’s commitment to meeting people where they are, creating access to resources, and strengthening the community through collaboration and care.
“Their impact is not just measured in programs, but it’s felt in people’s lives,” Dwyer said.
Dr. Barbara Holley, co-president of SIS, along with her co-president Trish Lenet, expressed deep gratitude for the honor, acknowledging their work’s impact on the community. They highlighted their current projects, including the “Where Colors Meet” anthology, available on Amazon and Audible, which shares stories of unity and understanding. The pair also spoke of their recent donation of $30,000 to create a scholarship at Bethune-Cookman University, one that will support students for generations to come.
“We strive for a society empowered by racial equality, social justice, and mutual respect,” Dr. Holley said, capturing the essence of SIS’s mission.
Recognizing Community Leaders: The “Mayor of West Augustine”
Another deeply moving tribute was paid to Greg White, affectionately known as the “Mayor of West Augustine,” for his unwavering dedication to improving his community. St. Johns County Commissioner Christian Whitehurst delivered an emotional tribute to White, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the growth and development of West Augustine. Whitehurst shared that the many positive changes seen in the community today—such as the newly opened health clinic named after White—can be traced back to his tireless work and advocacy.
“Everything good that’s happening currently, everything good that’s going to happen, will be traced back to this man,” Whitehurst remarked.
Greg White, visibly moved by the recognition, humbly accepted the award. In his speech, he expressed gratitude for the support of his family and community, and he also emphasized the importance of uplifting the younger generation. “We have our young folks, and I want to see them rise, like my great grandson, my son,” White said, underscoring his commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Honoring Dr. Jim Guines: A Legacy of Mentorship
The event also paid tribute to the late Dr. Jim Guines, a former Flagler County School Board member who was a tireless advocate for disadvantaged youth, particularly African American students. Dr. Guines, who passed away last year, was remembered for his leadership and dedication to mentoring students and empowering them to achieve academic success.
John Winston, President Emeritus of the African American Mentoring Program, shared a heartfelt story about his first encounter with Dr. Guines. Winston recounted how Dr. Guines, after meeting him at a local supermarket, passionately invited him to join his mission to help disadvantaged students. Together, they co-founded the African American Mentoring Program, which has since impacted hundreds of students, helping them succeed in school and life.
Winston fondly recalled Dr. Guines’ commitment to the program’s guiding principle: “Every dime, not one penny left, every dime, go directly to supporting the students.” He also shared the program’s growth from a humble beginning to a vital initiative, with graduates now serving in the military, running successful businesses, and becoming pillars of their communities.
A Call to Support the Florida Museum of Black History
A key theme of the Day of Celebration was the call for greater recognition of Black history and its contributions to Florida’s rich cultural fabric. Holley underscored the importance of the upcoming Florida Museum of Black History, a state project that will serve as a vital institution for honoring Black contributions to Florida’s history.
Holley, a former member of the Florida Museum of Black History Task Force, emphasized the importance of this museum for both historical preservation and as an economic driver for the West Augustine community.
“We need your support to make this vision a reality,” Holley urged, highlighting the role the museum will play in uplifting the community and educating future generations.
Celebrating Living History
More than just an awards ceremony, the third annual Day of Celebration was a call to action, showcasing the contributions of Florida’s Black history makers. The individuals and organizations recognized at the event, held at the Palm Coast United Methodist Church, embody the true spirit of Black History Month—celebrating those who continue to shape a more inclusive and empowered future for all.
As co-host Mark Dwyer eloquently put it, “This is what community should look like.” With the red, yellow, black, and white of the gathered crowd, it was clear that the celebration was about much more than history—it was about community, collaboration, and a collective vision for a brighter tomorrow, rooted in respect, unity, and progress.
