SJC Board of County Commissioners Supports St. Augustine Youth Services Independent Living Village

• 4 February 2026
• Category: SJC News District 1
• Tags: 2026

Commissioner Whitehurst attended the groundbreaking event.

St. Augustine Youth Services (SAYS) proudly celebrated a major milestone on January 28, 2026 with the official groundbreaking of the Independent Living Village, a project more than 30 years in the making. Community members, donors, partners, board members, and supporters gathered to mark the beginning of construction on a supportive housing community designed to serve young adults aging out of foster care.

The ceremony featured meaningful remarks from Pastor Carl Murphy of Riverdale Community Methodist Church, Dennis Maneja, COO of SAYS, Chris Shee, whose generosity and commitment have played a significant role in helping bring this vision to life, and Schuyler Siefker, CEO of SAYS.  They were honored to have Christian Whitehurst, St. Johns County District 1 Commissioner, in attendance, along with members of the SAYS Board of Directors (BOD).

The Independent Living Village will provide safe, stable housing paired with life-skills coaching, mental health support, and education and workforce guidance for young adults transitioning out of foster care or residential programs. This village will offer youth the structure, stability, and support they need as they step into independence.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony, guests gathered in the Recreation Building for light refreshments and cake. Many attendees also had the opportunity to tour the SAYS campus, gaining a deeper understanding of the programs and services that support youth and families throughout our community.

This milestone reflects the power of collaboration, compassion, and long-standing commitment to our mission. Together, SAYS is building more than housing — we are building futures.

Pictured left to right: Chuck Hooper (BOD), Mike Davis (AD Construction), Chris Shee (Shee Family Foundation), Letti Bozard (BOD), Teresa Mercurio (BOD), Michele Hollister (BOD), Robin Burchfield (BOD President), Michael Salvato (BOD), Schuyler Siefker (CEO), Commissioner Christian Whitehurst (District 1).