The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation (MWYF) celebrated 30 years of hope in action at its 30th Anniversary Sherman Family Champion for Children’s Gala on Thursday, October 15, 2026, bringing together supporters, alumni, students, families, and community leaders to honor three decades of impact in Jacksonville. The signature fundraising event celebrated the foundation’s legacy while raising $335,000 in critical funds to support youth programs that create opportunities for academic achievement, leadership development, positive life skills, and personal growth.
Held from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Florida Blue Conference Center in Jacksonville, the gala featured remarks from MWYF founder MaliVai Washington, along with inspiring stories and speeches from student leaders, scholarship recipients, alumni, and community speakers. The evening highlighted the lives impacted by MWYF’s programs and recognized the families, partners, and supporters who have helped advance the foundation’s mission over the past 30 years. Through the celebration and fundraising efforts, MWYF reaffirmed its commitment to creating opportunities for young people to grow, achieve, and become champions in their communities.
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About the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation
The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation (MWYF) has spent 30 years creating opportunities for Jacksonville’s youth through academic achievement, tennis, and positive life skills. MWYF’s mission is to develop champions in classrooms, on tennis courts, and throughout communities. Our vision is the young people in our programs will be provided with the resources they need to rise to their full potential and become contributing members of society.