to serve, protect befriend&

By Sean Trapani

It’s a typical school-day afternoon in Ocala. A group of students has gathered to study. But one ambitious youth is having an especially tough time of it. He sits in his chair and stares down upon his inscrutable vocabulary homework with an unmistakable expression of exasperation.

Fortunately, a homework rescue operation is already underway—led in part by Lt. Victor Jones of the Marion County Sherri ’s O ce.

You see, this gathering of students and mentors is a common scenario for Lt. Jones. He is helping children with their homework as part of the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County’s Power Hour, a mentoring session the organization hosts every Monday through Thursday from 4-5pm.

But helping kids with their homework is only one example of the support that Lt. Jones has donated over the years, and it’s why the Silver Springs Shores community recently awarded him with the “Key to the Shores” and a certificate of appreciation from the Boys and Girls Club of Marion County (BGCMC).

Since 2008, Lt. Jones—the district commander for the Marion County Sherri ’s Department’s Silver Springs Shores area—has been a beloved fixture with the BGCMC, volunteering countless hours to community outreach e orts such as the Power Hour. Jones’ contributions have been numerous and profound—and all guided by his strong commitment to the safety and well-being of youth in Marion County.

“It’s an open opportunity to change lives,” says Lt. Jones. “The most rewarding aspect of my time with the organization is to watch the positive youths coming through the program.” hope and positivity into the children of the community he served.

JONES’ CONTRIBUTIONS have been numerous and profound—and all guided by his strong commitment to the safety and well-being of youth in Marion County.

Jones has always been an enthusiastic contributor to many fundraising e orts for the organization. In fact, Jones, along with Phyllis Kelly and Lew Kenburg, was a key player in bringing the Boys and Girls Club to the Silver Springs Shores community. As a board member, Jones has helped with pancake events, golf tournaments, United Way events and a number of other outreach programs, each designed to instill

“Lt. Victor Jones has devoted years of service to our community [and has been a] lifetime supporter of Boys & Girls Clubs of Marion County,” said TeShaw Jackson, clubhouse director for Silver Springs Shores. “He has displayed a wealth of humanity with a positive impact on our local community.”

Congratulations to Lt. Jones on his recognition, and many thanks for his years of service to the youth of Marion County.