Florida Sheriffs Break Ground on $24M Youth Learning Center in Tallahassee

Florida Sheriffs Break Ground on $24M Youth Learning Center in Tallahassee

On July 11, 2025, the atmosphere at the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) headquarters in Tallahassee was decidedly festive as dozens of county sheriffs gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new youth center. This ambitious project aims to forge deeper connections between young people and law enforcement, all while making public service exciting and accessible. As the shovels hit the ground, memories were shared, and the camaraderie among the sheriffs felt much like a family reunion.

In attendance were not just sheriffs but also key figures such as former Rep. Paul Renner and Sen. Corey Simon. The groundbreaking ceremony brought forth a vision; a banner displayed a rendering of the youth center’s future, and outside, the sun shone brightly as attendees shared stories and laughs. From the Deputy Executive Director of Operations for FSA, Logan Lewkow, came the heart of the event: the belief that it’s vital to inform youth about the diverse roles they can play in law enforcement and public service.

Investing in the Future

The planned youth center, budgeted at $24 million, is a state-funded, two-story establishment. It promises a wealth of amenities designed to captivate and educate children about law enforcement. Among those features is a theater room with 67 seats, embodying each county sheriff’s office in Florida, and interactive exhibits like driving simulators and other hands-on activities that mimic real-life situations in law enforcement.

Matt Dunagan, Executive Director of FSA, views the center as a worthy investment in the future of not just the state but also the profession of law enforcement itself. “We want to inspire future generations to pursue careers in public safety,” he stated, reflecting the sentiments echoed by other speakers such as Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. Staly led the FSA Building Committee’s charge and underscored the center’s purpose: to inspire, educate, and draw in young people who might one day protect their communities.

Historical Significance and Educational Opportunities

With over 22,000 square feet to explore, the center aims to be more than just a building; it is a place to celebrate over 200 years of the Office of Sheriff in Florida. As part of the educational hub, a 2,100-square-foot library aims to preserve the history of the Florida Sheriff’s Association, showcasing over 70 years of publication and artifacts related to local law enforcement.

The first floor will feature a dedicated space for interactive experiences where young visitors can learn about various positions within sheriff’s offices, including roles like law enforcement officer, correctional deputy, and dispatcher. This hands-on approach is crucial, especially as 70% of Florida’s local and state law enforcement agencies report challenges in officer recruitment, as highlighted by a recent Lexipol survey. As part of the solution, Florida has even introduced a one-time $5,000 bonus for new officers, a decision aimed at boosting new hires.

Community Engagement

The groundbreaking event wrapped up with a hearty lunch of fried catfish and shrimp, and a group photo capturing the joy and excitement of the day. As community leaders and sheriffs mingled under clear blue skies, it was clear that everyone involved saw this initiative as a project worth championing.

The Florida Sheriffs Association, which has been a pillar of support for law enforcement since its founding in 1893, now looks towards the future with renewed ambition. FSA President Bill Prummell’s vision for this youth center sums it up: to build a legacy that honors the past while preparing today’s youth for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in public safety careers. For those interested in learning more about this initiative, more details can be found at www.flsheriffs.org/youth.