Children’s Trust invites community to Open House, Building Dedication event
March 17, 2025 —
The Children’s Trust of Alachua County is set to host an Open House and Building Dedication event on March 29 to celebrate its new building location. This Open House is an opportunity for the public to learn more about the Children’s Trust and the programs it funds. This event will be held at the Children’s Trust Office and run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the community to the Children’s Trust! Our Open House and Building Dedication Event is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our connection with the families and community members we serve,” Marsha Kiner, executive director of the Children’s Trust of Alachua County said.
The Children’s Trust was established in 2018 following voter approval of a referendum to create community services and programs that provide children, youth and families with the targeted support they need to thrive. The Children’s Trust has filled in this gap of resources through supporting and funding 80 community programs that advance its mission of thriving youth and families. In 2024 alone, these 80 community programs served a total of 25,583 people, including 21,118 children, 3,958 parents and 606 professionals.
The event will begin with a few words from Children’s Trust leaders: Executive Director Marsha Kiner and Board Chair, Alachua County Commissioner Ken Cornell. Our leaders will share details about the establishment of the Children’s Trust and the purpose of the Open House and Building Dedication. Children’s Trust Program providers and participants will speak on the impact of the Children’s Trust investment on their individual and organizational success.
At noon, our official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Children’s Trust will commence. The ceremony will symbolize our commitment to fostering strong community connections as we support children, empower youth, and strengthen families. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, local faith leaders will lead a building dedication, reflecting our commitment to ensuring Alachua County’s children are healthy, learn what they need to be successful and live in safe communities.
The rest of the afternoon will be filled with free food and fun festivities, such as bounce houses, musical and circus performances, and appearances from Bluey and UF mascot Alberta Gator.
“Everyone is welcome to join us! We’re looking forward to celebrating this milestone with the community and sharing this special moment together,” Kiner said.
What: Open House and Building Dedication Event
When: March 29, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: Children's Trust Office, 4010 NW 25th Place, Gainesville, FL 32606
Cost: Free
###
ABOUT THE CHILDREN’S TRUST OF ALACHUA COUNTY
The Children’s Trust of Alachua County funds and supports a coordinated system of community services that allows all children, youth and their families to thrive. Its funded programs and partnerships address three main goals: that all children and youth are healthy and have nurturing caregivers, can learn what they need to be successful, and live in a safe community.
ChildrensTrustOfAlachuaCounty.us | @ChildrenAlachua