For five years, VanDyke Barbershop has invested in youth confidence, dignity, and opportunity—providing free haircuts, hosting community events, and supporting Filling The Lane’s mission year after year.

Rev. Joe Nathan Halman Jr. has dedicated his life to public safety, ministry, and mentorship—proving that true leadership begins with faith and is demonstrated through service.

For more than a decade, Polk State College has opened doors for Filling The Lane students—providing scholarships, access, and opportunity that turn aspirations into achievement.

From athletic dreams to business leadership, Jarrett Gordon Ford exemplifies resilience, mentorship, and long-term investment in youth—making it a proud recipient of the 2026 Community Business Award.

With more than five decades of dedicated service to Polk County, Sheriff Grady Judd exemplifies leadership, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to community impact. As a trusted partner of Filling The Lane, his work continues to guide and uplift young people toward accountability, education, and growth, making him a deserving recipient of the 2026 Community Individual Award.

Service is at the heart of Dr. Massimiliano Forni’s work. From his dental practice to his long-standing partnership with Filling The Lane, his dedication to community uplift and access to care has changed lives — one smile at a time.

Filling The Lane proudly welcomes Trena Wilson and Troy C. Smith to its leadership team. Bringing complementary strengths in operational excellence and people-centered leadership, both leaders will help guide the organization’s continued growth and impact across the community.

Filling The Lane announces new board leadership for 2026–2027, appointing Markeishia Smith as Board Chair and welcoming Jennifer Thornton as an ex officio board member. Together, their leadership and community experience will support FTL’s continued growth and mission to empower youth and families.

A new door just opened. 🎓🏀 Filling The Lane partners with Warner University to create a scholarship and development pathway for a student-athlete ready to take the next step. Read how this partnership is changing futures.

Filling The Lane is proud to announce a new partnership with Christian Preparatory Athletics! 🦅 Together, we’re creating opportunities for students to grow academically, athletically, and personally - offering mentorship, structure, and a supportive community for those who need a fresh start.

We’re proud to celebrate one of our own, Jean, a Filling The Lane member who’s now part of the new Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program at Haines City High School! Under the guidance of Ms. Blocker, Jean and his classmates are already serving the community through the school’s Blood Drive, showing what it means to “Step N2 Your Lane” with compassion and purpose.

Filling The Lane is thrilled to announce that we have been awarded a $10,000 grant from the City of Winter Haven! This funding will help us expand programs that empower youth through sports, mentorship, and community service, providing tools for personal growth, academic success, and stronger community connections. We sincerely thank the City of Winter Haven for believing in our mission to make a lasting impact.

Celebrating the first semester of 2025–2026, our Filling The Lane (FTL) student-athletes have shown excellence both in the classroom and on the court. With an average GPA of 3.42 and many earning Honor Roll or Principal’s List status, these students exemplify discipline, focus, and leadership. At FTL, we invest in the whole student, supporting growth in academics, athletics, and life.

Winter Haven, Florida – October 4, 2025 – Filling The Lane is proud to announce it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Cornelia T....

From $25 deposits to a doctorate, Dr. Kelley Curtis Dekle’s journey shows the power of mentorship, consistency, and belief. As one of the first Filling The Lane students, Kelley’s success reflects how small investments can grow into lifelong impact. His words—“You were the inspiration, Dr. Miller”—remind us why we build, mentor, and dream with the next generation.

Filling The Lane and Van Dyke Barbershop came together to host our Back-to-School Bash 2025—bringing free haircuts, shoes, food, and fun to kids in Winter Haven. More than an event, it was a celebration of community, service, and leadership.