Suncoast Credit Union Foundation Helps Expand Therapeutic Support for Pepin Academies Students

As students across Tampa Bay head back to school, Pepin Academies is celebrating a meaningful investment in the success of students with learning disabilities.

Thanks to a generous $7,500 grant from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, Pepin Academies will continue providing the specialized therapeutic services that help students overcome barriers to learning and reach their full potential.

The funding supports Pepin Academies’ Therapeutic Educational Model, a comprehensive approach that integrates mental health counseling, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavioral support, and skilled nursing directly into the school day. These services are provided at no cost to families and are tailored to each student’s individual needs, ensuring they receive the support necessary to thrive both academically and personally.

For more than 25 years, Pepin Academies has demonstrated the power of this whole-child approach. Across its campuses in Tampa, Riverview, and New Port Richey, the school has achieved a 93% graduation rate while maintaining a 0.8% dropout rate, significantly outperforming state, county, and national averages for students with disabilities. To meet the growing needs of its students, Pepin Academies has expanded its therapeutic services team from 29 to 35 specialists over the past year.

“Behind every diploma is a student who refused to give up, and a team of people committed to helping them succeed,” said Jeff Skowronek, Executive Director of Pepin Academies. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation for believing in our students and helping us continue this important work. Together, we’re giving students the support they need to graduate, pursue meaningful careers, and build independent lives.”

The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation has been investing in Florida’s children and families since 1990, supporting programs that promote education, health, and emotional well-being. Through its unique giving model, every time a Suncoast member uses a Suncoast debit or credit card, the credit union contributes four cents to the Foundation, helping fund nonprofit organizations that create lasting change in local communities. To date, the Foundation has contributed more than $63 million to organizations across Florida.

“At Suncoast Credit Union, we have helped the students in our communities for decades,” said Jeff Kunberger, Executive Director of Suncoast Credit Union Foundation. “We take great pride in knowing our donation will assist students in overcoming barriers to learning and unlock opportunities for success.”

The Pepin Family Foundation is proud to celebrate partners like the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation whose commitment to education helps create brighter futures for students with learning disabilities. Together, we are empowering young people with the tools, confidence, and support they need to graduate, pursue meaningful careers, and live more independent lives.