22 | VIPPensacola.com
What have been some obstacles you’ve
faced as an organization and some of
your triumphs so far?
We have been fortunate that a lot of
our obstacles have turned into triumphs.
Originally, we only served children age 0-12,
but we saw that as an opportunity and worked
with the multidisciplinary team at GCKH to
grow that age to 0-18. I think we face the same
obstacles as many area not-for-profits in that
we operate on a lean budget, where every dollar
that can go to Programs does. Funding is a
never ending obstacle, but we have a dedicated
Board of Directors committed to turning that
into a triumph every year!
What is the biggest moment that has
stood out in the last year?
I think our biggest moment
programmatically is that in January 2017,
we became the contract holders for the
Child Protection Team (CPT) in the Region
(Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton
Counties). CPT program is a medically
directed, multidisciplinary program that works
with local Sheriff’s offices and the Department
of Children and Family Services in cases
of child abuse and neglect to supplement
investigation activities. We have worked with
this team for years and it’s exciting to be able
to contribute directly to their growth and
development.
Is Gulf Coast Kid’s House involved in
any upcoming events?
We just hosted our 2nd annual Brunch and
Bubbles at Portofino Island Resort and it was
a huge success! We are going to enjoy a small
fundraising lull this summer before we turn
our attention toward the Northeast Sertoma
Dragonboat Races. They will happen at
Bayview Park on September 9 this year and it is
always a great day at the park and on the water!
What plans does Gulf Coast Kid’s
House have for the future?
We had a big growth year in our operations.
Our future focus is on child abuse prevention.
The numbers keep getting bigger – so we know
our prevention efforts are working…we are
getting more reports. We want to educate every
child in our community about staying safe and
we want to educate the adults about keeping
kids safe and knowing how to report abuse if its
suspected.
Describe a situation working with the
organization that really stood out and
touched you.
Every year we do a Breaking the Silence
luncheon, which features one of our families
who has been through Gulf Coast Kid’s House.
Working with these families is the most
touching part of my job each year. I am always
astounded at their willingness to share such a
painful part of their history. They all say the
same thing – that they are proud to share their
story and that the hope it helps others. It is the
truest form of renewal that I’ve seen.
Interview with Stacey Kostevicki
Executive Director
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6/26/17 2:41 PM