Play It Forward: LSP Class of 2025 Transforms School Grounds at IPLA
On a mission to make a meaningful impact in our community, the Leadership St. Pete (LSP) Class of 2025 proudly completed its Community Project, Play It Forward, at Infinite Potential Learning Academy (IPLA) in South St. Petersburg. IPLA, a private school serving students from age two through fifth grade, now boasts a reimagined outdoor space where students can play, learn, and grow—thanks to the hard work and generosity of many.
Project Work Day: Sweat, Smiles, and Service
The LSP Class of 2025 brought passion, purpose, and teamwork to Community Project Day. Despite the Florida heat, class members rolled up their sleeves and transformed IPLA’s outdoor grounds. The upgrades included a brand-new basketball court, a vibrant playground, a peaceful workout and meditation area, and a multi-purpose field ready for sports and recreation.
What made the day special wasn’t just the physical transformation—it was the spirit of collaboration and dedication that powered every paint stroke, fence post, and wheelbarrow of mulch. The energy and heart poured into this project by the class left a visible mark on the space and an emotional impact on everyone involved.
A Celebration to Remember: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The transformation came full circle during a joyous ribbon cutting celebration. Mayor Ken Welch, St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Chris Steinocher, and members of the community joined the Class of 2025 to commemorate the project’s completion. Attendees witnessed firsthand how Play It Forward turned IPLA’s outdoor space into a place of imagination, movement, and wellness.
The ceremony also highlighted the powerful legacy of the Leadership St. Pete Class of 2025. With more than $50,000 raised, the class’s vision became a reality—a place where IPLA students can thrive for years to come.
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible local artists—Miss Crit, Zulu Painter, and Daniel "R5" Barojas—whose creative contributions added color, vibrancy, and meaning to the space.
Gratitude to Our Generous Donors
This project would not have been possible without the support of our incredible donors. Thank you for believing in the LSP Class of 2025’s mission and helping bring Play It Forward to life:
- Margaret and David Perry Foundation
- VMG Construction, Inc.
- Kaplan Early Learning Company
- 100 Women Who Care
- Miss Crit
- Smith Fence
- The Francis & Gertrude Levett Foundation
- FNGLA
- City of St. Petersburg - Police Department
- Power Design
- Red Apple Group / Residence at 400 central
- Kimmins Contracting,Corp
- Duke Energy
- St. Anthony's Hospital - BayCare Health System
- The Hub
- Jay Miller / J2 Development
- Tampa Bay Rays
- Suncoast PBA
- Jay and Jan Miller Family - TOP Jewish Foundation
- Maverick Constructors
- Christopher Hackney
- R.R. Simmons Construction
- Rogue Home Interiors
- Sophie Natalie Photography
- Friends and Family Donation - IPLA
- Regina Thomas
- Mastry's Brewing / USF Brewing Arts Program
- Bayboro Brewing
- Claire Gallo
- Jason Levey
- Mark Myers
- Michelle Detweiler
- Mia Conza
- Kelly Abanda
- Walker Willis
- Jamie McClendon
- City of St. Pete