There’s a place in Jacksonville where can’ts become can and the impossible becomes possible.
In fact, it’s not just any place it’s actually a castle and it’s filled with opportunities for those in our community who are often overlooked.
At the Pine Castle Center 42-year-old Percy Howliet is one of the hosts of WPCR’s morning radio show.
It’s a live broadcast where one of the star hosts has cerebral palsy.
But when Percy speaks into the mic, he’s just like anyone else who has a dream and a talent.
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“A lot of people said to me that this would be crazy for me to do but look at the champ now baby,” said Percy.
Percy is part of the first radio show in Florida written and produced with the help of adults with developmental disabilities.
“For me to get a chance to do what I’ve always wanted to do it’s a privilege,” said Percy.
A privilege made possible by the Pine Castle organization. Chief development officer, Anthony Sutton, said the center started out as a school in 1952 now it serves adults.
“They come here they learn life skills, they work, they earn a paycheck. We do products for the state of Florida,” said Sutton.
When Percy’s not in the radio booth he’s working to make sure candle sets are carefully packaged.
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At Pine Castle the word ‘disability’ doesn’t exist.
“We want to focus on what our participants can do and not what they can’t do,” said Sutton.
But time can take a toll on even the most fortified castles which is why they’re working on a huge project.
“Our cafeteria is over 37 years old using some of the same equipment,” said Sutton.
They need to raise money to rebuild the castle.
The money will buy new kitchen equipment, upgrade their current courtyard, flooring, cafeteria furniture, a roof replacement and other renovations.
Eventually, the castle has a long-term goal to expand in order to help accommodate a wait list of about 1,600 adults with special needs in our area who are in need of services like the ones offered at Pine Castle.
Percy has been attending Pine Castle for almost a decade. He said he got there, he was quiet and timid.
But now he has a couple nick names that include “the champ” and “the mayor”.
And if you’re wondering why he’s the champ, the answer is simple.
“[If] you’re able to open your mouth and tell God thank you and tell somebody you love them, you know the fact that you’re able to do those things makes you a champ,” said Percy.
The Delores Barr Weaver Fund will match up to $100,000 for renovations at Pine Castle. If you'd like to donate to help upgrade Pine Castle click here.
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