by Michelle Delaney, South Lake Tablet
The South Lake Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a breakfast meeting focused on the theme of reinvention, highlighting how adaptability and resilience shape both personal and professional success.
Executive Board Member Monica Wofford, CSP, served as moderator of a panel discussion with chamber members Daniel Whitehouse, Amanda Nethero, and Rocky DeStefano serving as panelists. Each panelist shared personal experiences of reinventing themselves, in some cases more than once, as they navigated changing careers, challenges, and opportunities.
We all play numerous roles, and in many of them we’ve all faced moments of reinvention, Wofford said. Noting that it’s not what happens to us that matters most, but how we respond that makes the biggest difference.
Wofford herself exemplifies that philosophy. She has been a professional speaker since delivering her first keynote address at the age of 18 to an audience of more than 9,000 people. Since then, she has served as a lead speaker, trainer, executive coach, and consultant through her leadership training firm, Contagious Companies, which will celebrate its 23rd anniversary in March. She is also the author of eight books and a trusted advisor to clients across numerous industries.
The event’s main sponsor, the Live Well Foundation of South Lake, echoed the theme of reinvention through its ongoing work in the community. Donna Kirtland, representing the foundation, shared how the organization continues to evolve its approach while planning for what lies ahead.
She introduced the new Trust-Based Philanthropy Model and Expanded Grant Opportunities beginning in 2026.
That spirit of innovation has long been central to the Live Well Foundation’s mission. The foundation remains committed to reimagining local philanthropy by supporting innovative programs, empowering nonprofit partners, and investing in the health and wellness of South Lake County in ways that meet people where they are.
Tony Valente, co-sponsor representing the Frankie Valente Scholarship Fund, spoke about the scholarship fundraiser scheduled for January 31 from 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm at The Plantation at Leesburg. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door.
Clermont Fire Chief David Ezell informed attendees that the City of Clermont Public Safety Training Center will host an Open House on Thursday, January 22, from 5 to 7 pm. The event will take place at the training center, located at 400 12th Street in Clermont.
The Open House will feature live demonstrations by Clermont Fire Rescue and the Clermont Police Department, guided site tours, technical rescue displays, connect box training props, and additional hands-on exhibits. Community members are invited to attend and learn more about the city’s public safety operations. Additional information is available at www.ClermontFL.gov.
Chamber Highlights
The Chamber experienced a strong year of growth and engagement. Over the past year, the Chamber hosted events that attracted more than 15,000 attendees, conducted 88 ribbon cuttings, welcomed 222 new members, surpassed a total membership of 1,000, and assumed the role of Clermont City Center rental manager.
All Chamber members were invited to take part in the upcoming Wellness Challenge, an opportunity to focus on health and fitness in the New Year while connecting with fellow members. Weigh-ins are scheduled for February 19 through February 21.
Looking ahead, the Chamber announced its next major gathering, the 31st Annual Chamber Ambassador Breakfast, to be held on February 20 at the Wesley Center. Members may sponsor a table for $100. As the breakfast is free to all attendees, the event offers significant exposure for participating businesses. Sponsored tables will be decorated around the theme, “Imagine What’s Next… in 2026.” Members interested in participating are encouraged to contact Chamber staff for additional information.
Pat Caracciolo of Pat The Dog recently presented the Ray Goodgame Outstanding Student Leader Scholarship, to Carolynn Cute, a senior at Lake Minneola High School. For further details, follow the link to Carolynn Cute
