As Homecoming Week closes, a VCS Foundation scholarship recipient reminds us that BelieVing in our Wildcats doesn't end at graduation.
Homecoming Week is filled with traditions that remind us what it means to be a Wildcat.
There are parades, football games, reunions, school spirit and memories shared by generations of students and families.
But as the Valdosta City Schools Foundation closes Week 2 of its BelieVe. GiVe. NeVer Quit. Employee Giving Campaign, one former Wildcat is reminding us that the support of the VCS family can reach far beyond graduation.
Meet Jay Ball
Jay Ball graduated from Valdosta High School in 2024 and was a recipient of a VCS Foundation scholarship.
Today, he is pursuing a degree in Finance at Morehouse College.
This summer, Jay had the opportunity to intern with Southern Company, where he gained valuable real-world experience. His work led to his position being extended through the fall semester as he continues building the knowledge and professional experience that will prepare him for a career in finance.
For Jay, that journey includes people back home who chose to invest in his future.
“Someone BelieVed in me, and because of their generosity, I have been able to continue pursuing my goals as a Finance major at Morehouse College. This summer, I had the opportunity to intern with Southern Company, where I gained valuable real-world experience and was fortunate to have my position extended through the fall semester.”
He continued:
“I am most excited about continuing to learn, grow professionally, and build upon the experiences that are preparing me for a successful career in finance. I truly appreciate your support of the Valdosta City Schools Foundation.”
Look How Far a Gift Can Go
Earlier this week, the Foundation shared the story of second graders at W.G. Nunn Elementary School whose Foundation-supported trip to Southern Grace Farms allowed them to experience science firsthand.
Now, we're ending the week with Jay.
One story begins with a second grader planting a sunflower seed. Another continues with a VHS graduate studying at Morehouse College and gaining professional experience with Southern Company.
They may look completely different, but both demonstrate what can happen when someone chooses to invest in a Wildcat.
That's the story behind the giving.
During the 2025–26 school year, the VCS Foundation helped facilitate more than $43,500 in scholarships, including 46 scholarships for graduating seniors, five REACH Georgia Scholarships for middle school students, and scholarships for two VCS employees continuing their own education.
But behind every one of those numbers is a person.
Jay is one of them.
170 Wildcats Have Already Said Yes
As Week 2 comes to a close, 154 VCS employees have signed up for monthly payroll deduction, while another 16 employees have made one-time gifts.
That's 170 Wildcats who have already chosen to BelieVe and Give.
We are incredibly grateful for every employee who has participated, but there is still plenty of ground to cover. Our goal is to grow from 351 monthly employee donors last year to 400 this year. With 154 monthly donors participating so far, we need 246 more Wildcats to help us reach that goal by September 30. If you've been thinking about participating, now is the time. A monthly gift of $5 may seem small by itself.
Together, those gifts can become classroom experiences, resources for teachers, opportunities for students and scholarships that can follow a Wildcat long after graduation.
💛 Monthly Payroll Deduction: Join the campaign with a monthly gift
💛 One-Time Gift: Make a one-time gift
Employees who prefer a traditional paper donation form may request one through the VCS Foundation, and copies can be delivered to their school or department.
All campaign forms and one-time payments must be received by Wednesday, September 30. Employees who contribute at least $5 per month or make a one-time gift of at least $60 will also be entered into the Foundation's employee gift card drawing.
Homecoming reminds us where we came from.
Stories like Jay's remind us why we continue investing in where our Wildcats are going.
Once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat.
BelieVe. GiVe. NeVer Quit.
Four weeks to make an impact that could last a lifetime.