A group of young leaders from the Palatka Housing Authority recently returned from the Global Entrepreneurship Conference, marking a significant milestone in their development. During the Putnam County Board of County Commissioners meeting on July 8, 2025, the youth were celebrated for their participation in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, which aims to inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Commissioner Harvey shared his personal journey, emphasizing the importance of education and perseverance. He encouraged the youth to dream big, stating, "Whatever you dream, you can do," and highlighted his own rise from humble beginnings to becoming a county commissioner. His message resonated with the young attendees, reinforcing the idea that their circumstances do not define their potential.

Oche Bridgeford, the new director of the Palatka Housing Authority, also addressed the meeting, sharing his own story of overcoming adversity. He expressed his commitment to prioritizing people over infrastructure, stating, "We're investing in the lives, in the minds, in the hearts of our residents." Bridgeford's vision includes not only building new facilities but also fostering a supportive community environment.

The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among community partners to support the housing authority's initiatives. The commissioners expressed gratitude for the youth's involvement and the positive impact of the conference on their lives, emphasizing the importance of investing in the community's future leaders.