Giving Back

15 Boys & Girls Clubs kids surprised with holiday shopping sprees at Academy Sports in Fort Walton Beach

Each child received $150 to shop for apparel, shoes, sporting equipment and more at the Mary Esther Cut Off store.

Jared Williams

Fifteen children from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast checked items off their holiday wish lists Thursday evening courtesy of Academy Sports + Outdoors.

The retailer partnered with the local nonprofit to surprise the kids with a shopping spree at its Fort Walton Beach location on Mary Esther Cut Off. Each child received a $150 gift card—totaling $2,250—to spend on sports equipment, fan gear, apparel, shoes and other items of their choosing.

The Fort Walton Beach event was one of several Academy Sports + Outdoors hosted across its footprint this holiday season as part of the company’s seasonal giving efforts.

PROMOTION

Join the conversation...Cancel reply

Continue reading 👇

Events, Giving Back

Shrimp & Grits Festival returns to Destin Feb. 28 with country headliner Erin Kinsey

Giving Back

250 laptops delivered to Boys & Girls Club families in Okaloosa, Escambia

Giving Back

Destin festival raises $50,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast

Giving Back

‘CARE CREW’: New pilot program teaches Okaloosa teens childcare skills and business practices

Paul Sherwood commented on DeSantis signs state budget; here’s what was funded and vetoed in Okaloosa County

“Fire Services took the most impactful hit in my view.”

Respond

Pete commented on Okaloosa School District earns ‘A’ rating again, continues streak since 2014

“Why are our schools , especially high schools not getting good grades??? It’s very disappointing!!! We need new leadership!”

Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: July 1, 2026

“1:05, 3 attempts. Way lucky on this one!”

Joseph commented on Okaloosa Commissioners approve conceptual plan for new Shalimar Bridge Park

“I bet you're fun at parties.”

Jimmy DuBose commented on DeSantis signs state budget; here’s what was funded and vetoed in Okaloosa County

“Seems like Crestview took the hit in regard to cuts. Why are our projects less important OR are our representatives asleep while others get their funds?????”

Joe P Skelly, M.S., L.M.H.C. commented on Bridgeway Center honors Larry McFarland for 40 years of service

“Larry, hard to believe that 4 decades have passed since you began this journey. As always, your compassion emerges as a beacon for us all.”

Scott Schaeffler commented on WordroW: June 30, 2026

“0.19, 3 attempts. Got lucky!”

W Taylor commented on DeSantis signs state budget; here’s what was funded and vetoed in Okaloosa County

“Think about how much could’ve been done with the $84m the state spent on a few acres of sand on Holiday Isle. What a boondoggle!”

Michael Cobb commented on WordroW: June 30, 2026

“1:32”

John commented on Fort Walton Beach City Council approves Steamboat Landing demolition

“Outrageous! Now tell us the real story, major owners names, listing and selling agents, and who is the purchaser...why was this left out? Which ones are relatives of the mayor...”