Join us on February 15th for a 5K race benefitting the Mike Freeland Foundation, we invite you to bring your whole family. Finishers will receive a T-shirt and a medal.
You will also be helping young people right here in our community.
The Legacy of Mike Freeland
The mission of Mike’s life began when he became employed by the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department as a Firefighter. He made this career decision after observing the dedication of his uncle, fireman George Freeland IV. Above all, Mike was dedicated to helping others in and around his community. This profession gave him the rights of passage to be a modern-day hero, as would show true through his unwavering courage and commitment to serve.
The purpose of Mike’s time on earth was shown to his community and to the world as he sacrificed his own life for the lives of others. On November 11, 2021 while in the line of duty, Engineer Michael Lee Freeland went home to be with the Lord.
The Mike Freeland Foundation was founded by Mike’s mother, Mrs. Terona Feacher, after his passing. Terona gave birth to Mike when she was 15 and his father was 17. There were not many parenting classes or programs to support teens when Mike was born. Fortunately, there was support from family and family friends through Terona’s pregnancy and throughout his upbringing.
Today, there are several programs in Duval County for teen parents and for “at risk” youth while in middle and high school. Our mission tackles what happens to these young people beyond the programs. Our Foundation will assist to encourage these young people to stay on track and become positive contributors, with discipline, to our society.
With the financial support from our community, through this race and other fundraising to come, The Mike Freeland Foundation will provide mentoring, mental health counseling, other interactive programming. Most of all, scholarships will be provided to teen parents and at risk youth who desire to matriculate through firefighter school and/or other vocational and educational programs.
Help us as we strive to eradicate the issue of teen pregnancy and give our at risk youth a chance for an abundant life.
Your support is gratefully appreciated!
