CSX Donation Proves Critical for Continuation of Prominent Florida Youth Program

A $5,000 donation by CSX to the Chain of Lakes Achievers (COLA) means the Florida nonprofit that offers free tutoring and leadership training for young people can continue to offer its services - at least in the near term.

"You don't know how much you made our Christmas," Tinsley told CSX representative Bob O'Malley when he presented her with the check at the COLA Center on Avenue C, S.E., next to Denison Stadium.

"It means we can stay in business another couple of months," Tinsley said. "We keep COLA going on faith, and we don't always know how we'll make it. COLA doesn't use any government money, and the only people who are paid in the organization are the certified teachers."

Ron Morrow, CSX representative in Polk County, said COLA consistently stands out as one of the most effective nonprofits in the area.

Other charitable events CSX has sponsored in the Winter Haven area, include a recent joint effort with City Year to improve the Wahneta Elementary School playground and the development of a new fitness trail.

Winter Haven is the future site of an Intermodal Logistics Center (ILC) on 318 acres CSX purchased from the city more than a year ago, with construction slated for the beginning of this year and completion targeted for late 2009 to early 2010.