Meet Our Board of Directors
At Truly Valued, our Board of Directors is more than a governing body — they are champions of our mission, vision, and values. Each member brings a unique blend of professional expertise, lived experience, and heartfelt dedication to empowering youth and strengthening our community.
From breaking barriers in law enforcement to advocating for behavioral health, from inspiring the next generation to amplifying unheard voices, our Board members lead with courage, compassion, and a commitment to creating lasting change.
Explore their stories below and discover the passion, purpose, and personal journeys that guide Truly Valued forward.
Charles Whitfield, M.Ed., CLC
Vice President, Community Care – Centerstone (SWFL); Board Member, Truly Valued
Charles Whitfield leads Centerstone’s Community Care programs across Southwest Florida, overseeing mental health, crisis, addiction, and school-based services. With a master’s in education and certification in life coaching, he combines strategy with heart to expand access and build trust in underserved communities.
A Dare to Lead alum and behavioral health advocate, Charles is known for his thoughtful leadership, relational approach, and commitment to courageous, community-centered care.
Standout Quote:
“It’s helped me understand the power of vulnerability, especially in public speaking. I’ve learned to embrace discomfort and lead with curiosity.”
Melissa Laboy Griffin
Board Member, Truly Valued
Melissa Laboy Griffin brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare, education, and community service to the Truly Valued Board. A U.S. Army veteran and current Master of Social Work candidate, Melissa is deeply committed to youth empowerment, equity, and long-term community well-being.
Her work with students at Horizon Academy and her volunteer leadership with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, and the Food Bank of Manatee reflect a lifelong mission to uplift others and open doors to brighter futures.
Amy Holmes
Board Member, Truly Valued; Deputy Sheriff, Manatee County
Amy Holmes made history as the first female member of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team. She brings frontline experience in high-pressure leadership and community safety, alongside an unwavering drive to open doors for others.
Amy’s dedication to training, resilience, and teamwork uplifts both her law enforcement colleagues and the young people she supports.
Standout Quote:
“Females are not inferior. They are fierce.”
Sharon Preston-Folta
Board Member, Truly Valued
Sharon Preston-Folta brings a lifetime of storytelling, cultural advocacy, and lived experience to the Truly Valued Board of Directors. A longtime Sarasota resident, she spent over 30 years in radio advertising before retiring from WUSF Public Media as Senior Account Executive.
She is the Executive Producer and Narrator of the Emmy Award–winning documentary Little Satchmo, based on her memoir Little Satchmo: Living in the Shadow of My Father, Louis Armstrong, which chronicles her journey as the daughter of jazz legend Louis Armstrong. Her passion for equity, creative expression, and community representation aligns deeply with Truly Valued’s mission to ensure every voice is heard and every young person is seen.
Standout Quote:
“It was empowering… I just felt it was the right thing to do.”