Yesterday morning, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts was buzzing with anticipation. More than 600 business and community leaders filled the room for what has become known as the “best hour in Central Florida”—the 11th Annual Victory Cup Initiative Storytelling Breakfast. It’s a morning built around heart, courage, and the power of a well-told story, and 4Roots was honored to stand among nine remarkable nonprofit finalists invited to take the stage.
For the past five months, our Strategic Partnerships Officer, Nicole Euler, and members of our team immersed themselves in a transformative storytelling journey—working alongside local experts, refining not just what we say but how we share the soul of our mission. Every coaching session helped us sharpen our voice, clarify our impact, and prepare to speak on behalf of the farmers, families, and communities we work to serve. All of that preparation led to a single moment yesterday morning, when 4Roots stepped onto the stage and into the spotlight to share our story before a room full of leaders and changemakers. It was more than a presentation for us—it was a milestone.
The morning unfolded in rapid-fire 2½-minute stories, each one powerful in its own way. After live audience voting, three organizations emerged at the top: The Penitent Thief, earning first place for its work supporting individuals returning from incarceration; Grace Counseling, providing accessible therapy to anyone who needs it; and SALT Outreach, delivering mobile services and dignity to the unhoused. But in true Victory Cup fashion, every nonprofit walked away supported, with at least $25,000 in unrestricted funding—resources they can deploy where help is needed most. Since its inception in 2015, Victory Cup has returned more than $4 million directly to Central Florida nonprofits, with 100% of ticket sales going straight back to the organizations on stage.
We were humbled to be included among such an inspiring group of peers: Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida, Florida Wildlife Hospital, One Heart for Women and Children, Grace Counseling, Perform Orlando Arts, Recovery House, SALT Outreach, and The Penitent Thief. Standing beside organizations doing such powerful work across our region reminded us just how strong—and compassionate—this community truly is.
The morning held another moment of pride for our team: Becca Cord, our Philanthropic Operations Director, was awarded the Alicia Culp Coaching Leadership Transition Scholarship. This opportunity will allow Becca to work one-on-one with Alicia Culp as she steps confidently into her next chapter of leadership. Her dedication, heart, and steady presence make this recognition deeply deserved, and we could not be more proud.
Throughout the event, Victory Cup’s founder, Ashley Vann, reminded us why this initiative matters:
“Our nonprofits are transforming lives and we all have the ability to do something… Giving back is one of the greatest experiences of your life, and it could make a huge difference.”
That simple truth resonated across the room.
Walking away from the 2026 Victory Cup, we carried with us more than applause or recognition. We left with new relationships, renewed clarity in our storytelling, and a deeper appreciation for the passionate nonprofits working every day to uplift Central Florida. We are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to share our mission on this stage—and for the encouragement and collaboration that will continue to grow our impact in the months and years ahead.
To our fellow finalists, our partners, our coaches, and the entire Victory Cup team—thank you. This community lifts us, inspires us, and reminds us what’s possible when we come together. And at 4Roots, we’re more energized than ever for what comes next.