Alliance for Independence is saddened by the loss of one of its own. Terry Ayers, 51, passed away on August 7th at home with his family. Terry’s story is one that reinforces what Alliance for Independence strives to do on a daily basis, which is to offer individuals the avenues to gain their own independence.

Terry came to Florida to live with his sister and brother-in-law in the later part of 2007. Shortly after, Terry entered the program at AFI.  Terry’s family was a little unsure of how well he would adjust to this new social environment, but he showed great promise within the first few weeks.  Not long after entering AFI, Terry was elected as Secretary of the Governance Committee by his peers and took an active role in the meetings, taking minutes and attendance.  Terry was also voted Positive Peer of the Week by the AFI Dream Team.  In a few months time, Terry was voted “King of the Annual Spring Dance,” once again by his peers. By this time Terry was very acclimated at AFI, also working in the Contracts Department, and even starring in a Video produced to showcase the many types of Contract work he was involved in and to highlight how important AFI was to him.

Terry made many friends at Alliance for Independence and will be sorely missed.

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Set Sail with Alliance for Independence

Wow! It is hard to believe that almost a year has passed since the 53^rd Annual Community Recognition Dinner.  It seems like just yesterday that Alliance for Independence was announced as the new name for the former Polk County Association for Handicapped Citizens. On September 16, 2008 AFI will celebrate with its supporters and friends the past year of achievements, as well as thank those who helped to make the year great.

We are very proud to be working with the President of Publix Supermarkets, Todd Jones and his wife Suzette, as they will serve as the Honorary Chairs of the Dinner. Mr. Jones was recently on site at AFI, visiting with staff, interacting with the individuals served and learning a little more about the importance of what AFI offers. Needless to say, we are very excited to work with the Joneses.

This year the 54^th Annual Community Recognition Dinner will “Cruise In” to the Lake Mirror Center and welcome everyone to Come Aboard with AFI and will again feature a Silent Auction with all proceeds benefitting the programs offered at AFI. Members of the Sunshine Chorus will also sing an array of songs that are sure to get everyone in the cruisin’ mood. Sound intriguing? If so, stay tuned to the AFI web site for more information regarding this great event or simply contact us at 863.665.3846. We hope to see you there.

Just a few of the Auction Items that you can choose from:

• Charles Barkley autographed items
• Golf packages
• Restaurant Gift certificates
• Electronics
• Autographed Tampa Bay Rays and Lightning items
• Wine and spirits
• Attraction Tickets
• Automotive services

There will also be a raffle that will give away two amazing prizes:

• Country Boy Cookout, by Bill & Donovan Tinsley and sponsored by State Representative Seth McKeel and Senator Paula Dockery
• Two round trip tickets from Southwest Airlines

Thank you to our Empress Sponsor, Publix Super Markets Charities, and our Lido Sponsors, Lester Wishnatzki, Bernie Little Distributors and Saddle Creek Corporation for helping to make this a night to remember.