Impact
Raymond James commits $7.5M to student-focused nonprofits
Raymond James, the St. Petersburg-based financial services firm, has launched a philanthropic initiative supporting local students and educational nonprofits.
The company recently announced its inaugural Ready for School program, committing more than $7.5 million to organizations dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in the Tampa Bay area. The Ready for School initiative will distribute $2.5 million annually for three years to 11 organizations:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast
- Friends of the Children
- Hero to a Child
- Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay: 3DE Schools
- LiFT Academy
- Pinellas Education Foundation
- Sing Out and Read
- St. Pete Free Clinic
- Starting Right, Now
- Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA
- Teach for America Central Florida
“Raymond James has always remained guided by our core principles – a commitment to people, our values, and a forward-looking vision,” said Chair and CEO Paul Reilly in a prepared statement. “The Ready for School initiative reflects the core tenets that have been fundamental to our firm for over six decades, supporting future generations and strengthening the remarkable contributions of our advisors and associates in their communities.”
The program targets specific areas of student development. Inside the classroom, it supports organizations exposing students to innovative experiences and backing educators. Outside the classroom, it funds summer learning initiatives, mentorship programs and before- and after-school experiences. Beyond the classroom, the initiative assists community groups providing children and families with access to nutrition, clothing, mental health resources and other basic needs.
Among the beneficiaries is the Pinellas Education Foundation, which will receive funding to support its new “Ready Set Algebra” initiative. This program was created to increase the number of Pinellas County Schools students who are successfully completing Algebra 1 by the end of 9th grade. According to the foundation, mastering algebra by 9th grade sets students on a path toward academic success, critical thinking and readiness for future educational and career opportunities.
“The new Ready for School initiative by Raymond James will assist our students inside the classroom, outside the classroom and beyond, and it will also support our teacher’s professional development,” Kevin Hendrick, Superintendent of Pinellas County Schools, said in a prepared statement.
At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast, VP of Educational Programs Dr. Diana Morello-DeSerio told the Catalyst the investment from Raymond James will help them expand their programs that ensure children and teens in Pinellas County are on track to graduate from high school with a plan, demonstrate good character and citizenship and live a healthy lifestyle.
“Every young person deserves the chance to start the school year with the tools and confidence they need to succeed, and this partnership helps make that a reality,” Morello-DeSerio said. “Raymond James’ generosity will leave a lasting impact on thousands of young lives, and we are so grateful to stand alongside them in this important work.”
“This investment isn’t just a number, but hope, opportunity and a brighter future for so many young people in our community,” added Freddy Williams, President & CEO for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast and Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay. “Raymond James is showing what it means to truly invest in the next generation, and with their support, we can help even more kids and teens start the school year ready to learn, grow and thrive.”
According to St. Pete Free Clinic (SPFC) CEO Jennifer Yeagley, the nonprofit served more than 70,000 households with children in 2024 through its We Help FRESH Pantry. SPFC will use the funding from Raymond James to bolster its food assistance programs for local families.
“In addition to support for the FRESH Pantry, Raymond James’ generosity will allow us to continue outreach to pre-schools through our FRESH Sprouts program, which provides a weekly delivery of fresh produce, age-appropriate educational materials and kid-friendly recipes that encourage family togetherness over a nutritious meal,” Yeagley noted.
The Ready for School initiative not only provides financial support but also encourages ongoing volunteer efforts from Raymond James advisors and associates. Raymond James President Paul Shoukry emphasized the company’s commitment to measurable and impactful community support, noting in a prepared statement, “We are proud to support organizations that create the right conditions for students to explore their talents, overcome challenges and achieve critical milestones essential for long-term success.”
While the initial focus is on the Tampa Bay area, Raymond James has expressed a vision to expand the initiative beyond the region in the coming years.
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