Pace Center for Girls Hernando is proud to announce it has received a $5,000 grant from Suncoast Credit Union to support its STEM Exploration Program. This funding will provide 50 girls in Hernando County with hands-on learning opportunities designed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering, and math — and encourage them to envision futures in these dynamic fields.
“We are deeply grateful to Suncoast Credit Union for investing in the futures of our girls,” said Kimberly Buford, Executive Director of Pace Hernando. “At Pace, we believe every girl deserves the opportunity to explore her interests and discover what’s possible. Exposure to STEM not only opens doors to future careers — it builds confidence, curiosity, and a sense of belonging in spaces where women have been historically underrepresented.”
Pace Hernando opened its doors in 2018, serving girls throughout Hernando County through its Day Program and community-based services. Since its founding, Pace Hernando has worked in partnership with a wide network of local agencies, schools, and service providers to ensure girls have access to the support and resources they need — from academics and counseling to career exploration and life skills development. These partnerships allow Pace to meet the individual needs of each girl, promote healing, and support long-term success.
By providing access to STEM activities in a supportive, girl-centered environment, Pace Hernando aims to create pathways to economic mobility for young women in the community. Suncoast Credit Union’s support reflects a continued commitment to youth empowerment across Florida.
Suncoast Credit Union, Florida’s largest credit union, founded the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to promote the education, health and emotional well-being of children in the community. Each time a Suncoast member uses their debit or credit card, the credit union donates two cents to the Foundation to fund local initiatives. Since its inception in 1990, the Foundation has raised and donated over $45 million.
“We have seen what happens when we support STEM programs for girls and it is impressive, so we are proud to support this program” Says Jeff Kunberger, Executive Director of Suncoast Foundations. “Our mission is to serve the communities where we operate and ensuring that girls have access to STEM education ensures a brighter future for young women and that translates to stronger communities for all of us,” added Kunberger.
