When we think of childhood, what we often visualize is images of riding bikes, family events and birthday parties. But there are too many kids in our community that see none of these things – only years filled with pain and loneliness. This is where St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS) steps in, provides therapeutic care and love, and changes lives every day.

Founded in 1989 by Carl Simone, SAYS is a private, not-for-profit agency that provides three therapeutic residential homes for First Coast area boys ages six to 18 who have suffered from physical or sexual abuse, or extreme neglect. “Our goal is to build self-esteem in these boys and young men to help them lead positive, meaningful lives,” said Executive Director Schuyler Siefker, who was honored as 2014 Administrator of the Year by the Florida Coalition for Children.