JULY 2026 ISSUE

The Legacy of Jack & Ruth Eckerd


Legacy isn't what we inherit. It's what we build.


For nearly 60 years, the vision of Jack and Ruth Eckerd has transformed lives through the power of opportunity, helping children, families, and individuals build brighter futures and stronger communities.


As we celebrate this milestone, we're honored to share a special video that reflects on their remarkable legacy through the voices of family members, longtime leaders and those who continue their mission today. Their story is not simply part of our history—it continues to shape who we are, how we lead, how we innovate, and the future we are building together.


We invite you to watch this special tribute and celebrate the enduring impact of two people whose compassion continues to change lives across generations.




As Eckerd Connects continues to build on its legacy of impact, President & CEO Michael D. Smith reflects on his first year of leadership, the lessons learned, and the opportunities ahead for the organization. Read Michael's one-year reflection on LinkedIn.
Read Reflection



Legacy Moments

“That’s what he would be most proud of. Eckerd Connects is still entrepreneurial. They’re still willing to reach out and try to take on a new program or idea & turn it into a successful way to help children.”


Jim Swann

Son of Jack & Ruth Eckerd


“I think honesty certainly is a value that was taught to us as children. But moreover, what do you do with that honesty? And if you're honest with yourself and others, you realize that there's a bigger plan out there, and it's one in which you help people. And dad taught us that early, mom certainly did. I think there’s an overall presence of two people that were selfless and honest and wanted them (the youth) to succeed. And if everybody unites behind that, there’s nothing you can’t do.”


Nancy Nichols

Daughter of Jack & Ruth Eckerd


“I got to learn first-hand from him. My Dad was just a personable guy, like when we’d go to the camp he would always want to take one or two of the little guys and just take a walk in the woods with them. These are kids that were supposed to be in jail and stuff, but after you go paddle down a river for a couple of days and sleep in tents, I got to know some of them pretty well and they weren’t necessarily bad kids. They just had a bad situation at home or somewhere. It was pretty amazing for me as a kid.”


Rick Eckerd

Son of Jack & Ruth Eckerd



The Legacy Lives On


The legacy of Jack and Ruth Eckerd is measured not only in the lives they touched, but in the lives we continue to transform every day—and in the opportunities we will create for generations to come. Across every Eckerd Connects service line, their vision continues to create opportunities for children, families and individuals to thrive. Today, 95% of clients across all programs are still successful one year after completing services.

Every day, our Children & Families programs strengthen families, protect children and build the foundation for lifelong success.


IMPACT: 

94% of clients experience measurable mental health gains through program involvement.


Our Workforce Development programs continue the founders' belief that meaningful work creates lasting opportunity.


IMPACT: 

More than 600 employer partners help connect participants to careers across 13 states and 18 industries.


Through Job Corps, young adults continue to gain the education, training and confidence to build independent futures.


IMPACT: 

87% of Job Corps graduates are placed in employment after completing the program.



Support the Next Chapter


As we celebrate the legacy of Jack and Ruth Eckerd, we also look ahead to the stories still being written every day.


Thank you to our donors, partners, staff, alumni, volunteers and the Eckerd family for helping carry this mission forward. Because of people like you, Jack and Ruth's vision continues to create family-sustaining opportunities and lasting success for generations to come.

ss al programs are still successful one year after completing services.

“Ultimately, Jack and Ruth Eckerd made the decision to take a significant piece of their resources and do something that was going to do good. They brought their entire family into the effort. We are blessed in a lot of ways at Eckerd Connects. And I think it’s our responsibility as a board, as a leadership team, as an organization, to turn into something even greater than we are today.” 


Ben Hill

Board Chair, Eckerd Connects



Introducing Our New Video Series: The Impact Exchange


Building on the themes explored in our Legacy video, President & CEO Michael D. Smith is launching a new interview series featuring conversations with leaders, innovators, community partners, alumni and changemakers whose stories reflect the mission and future of Eckerd Connects.


The series will explore how opportunity changes lives, the challenges facing the communities we serve, and the ideas shaping the future of workforce development, children and families, and Job Corps.


EPISODE ONE: George Foreman IV on Legacy

In the inaugural conversation, Michael sits down with George Foreman IV, Chair of the National Job Corps Association, to discuss his father's extraordinary journey as the most recognized Job Corps alumnus. Together, they explore the power of opportunity, the meaning of legacy, and how one person's success can inspire generations to come.




Upcoming Events & Activities

Supportive Visitation Open House

SAVE THE DATE: Thursday, August 20


You're invited to the Eckerd Connects Supportive Visitation Open House on Thursday, August 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Daytona Beach, Florida! Explore our program, connect with staff, and learn how we create opportunities for meaningful family engagement in a safe and supportive environment. Come see how we're making a difference for children and families in our community. Please RSVP by August 13 to supportivevisitation@eckerd.org. 



Camp Spirit 5k Race

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, October 24, 2026


E-Nini-Hassee's 5K run and 1 mile walk fundraiser is back at the beautiful Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto, Florida. A virtual option has been added this year! We are looking for sponsors as all of our proceeds go toward helping our girls succeed! Learn more at CampSpirit5k.com.



Laundry of Love

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, October 24, 2026


Laundry of Love returns October 24, from 9am to 12pm at six Brevard County locations. Help us provide clean clothes and hope to local families by becoming a sponsor or donating laundry detergent. Contributions can be made online or at our Rockledge office. To lend a helping hand, reach out to BrevardHousing@eckerd.org.


Upcoming Observances


  • August – Back to School Month
  • August 12 – International Youth Day
  • August 17 – National Non-Profit Day
  • August 20 – Job Corps 62nd Anniversary



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