Dyer Difference Award Goes to Polk State Lake Wales

Going back to school in August is as intimidating for some students as it is exciting for others. Polk State College understands the challenges faced by many families in our area and the trepidation so many young students and their families feel, and they've come up with a way to help.

On July 29, 2023, Polk State College will be hosting an event called "Start Right." The goal of this program is to reduce bullying, enhance students' success rates in the classrooms, and increase self-esteem.

Because so many families struggle meeting their own basic needs, extras for the start of the school year like haircuts, school supplies, and proper clothing often fall by the wayside, leaving students depressed and vulnerable to bullying once school begins. Start Right was created to remove those barriers for low socio-economic groups.

This year's event will help distribute 700 backpacks full of school supplies, offer free haircuts for students, and a massive food pantry the length of two parking lots dedicated to ensuring no families miss a meal.

Helping students start off on the right foot and with all the tools they need to achieve success is important to all of us, and this month's Dyer Difference Award recognizes and applauds the efforts of Polk State College to address this important need in our community.

Each month, members of the Dyer family and Dyer Kia and Dyer Chevrolet team meet to review the applications which have been submitted and select one non-profit organization to receive that month's recognition and $3,000 award. For the members of the Dyer team, it's all about helping to make a positive difference in the community. For the recipients, it's an acknowledgement of their tireless efforts to do the same and a much-needed financial boost to help further their missions.

If you would like to nominate a non-profit organization from Polk County for the Dyer Difference Award, please visit www.dyerdifference.org.