A Fleming Island family of six earned July's Hometown Heroes Award for volunteer work with Rising Stars: Guitars for Kids. The Clay County nonprofit has given more than 500 instruments to children across the Southeast.

Family of Six Recognized for Years of Volunteer Work

Katrina Fennelly, her husband Brian Moore and their four children were recognized for helping the organization since its founding about six years ago. Juliana, Aaron, Mollie and Emma Moore have all volunteered alongside their parents, Clay Today reported Thursday.

Monthly Award Honors Clay County Volunteers

The monthly award, sponsored by IKO Clay Hill and Clay Today, honors Clay County residents who volunteer in their community. Winners receive a $100 gift card and a certificate of recognition.

"I'm just a person that helps out. I try to raise my kids to do that, to not think about yourself and just help wherever you can," Fennelly told Clay Today.

Nonprofit Provides Instruments to Children Across the Southeast

The nonprofit was founded by Paul and Lisa Wane. It gives guitars, drums, keyboards and bass guitars to children and those with special needs, with a focus on Northeast Florida. Each recipient is named a "Rising Star" and invited to perform at the group's events.

All four children have received instruments through the program.

Family Pitches In at Two Major Annual Events

The family volunteers at two major annual events: the Jumpin' and Jivin' Juneboree and Rockin' for Stockins. Their work includes stuffing swag bags, shopping for supplies, decorating and running event stations. Fennelly said the family arrives two to three hours before each event and stays an hour or two after to clean up.

Juneboree Drew Crowds and Complimentary Swag Bags

The most recent Juneboree took place June 20 at Boogerville Hideout Bar in Green Cove Springs. More than two dozen Rising Stars performed on stage. The first 250 guests received complimentary swag bags that included a ukulele and harmonica, according to a Clay County Chamber of Commerce listing.

Moore's Motorcycle Accident Followed Recent Event

Shortly after the June 20 event, Moore was in a motorcycle accident. He suffered more than five brain bleeds and broken bones in his nose, neck and forehead, spending more than a month in the ICU, according to Clay Today. As of Thursday, Fennelly said Moore's brain was recovering and he was getting stronger each day.

IKO Clay Hill Manager Praises Family's Involvement

Dan Lindahl, plant manager at IKO Clay Hill, said the family's involvement stood out because the children participate alongside their parents. He called it "especially meaningful to see the children involved."

Paul and Lisa Wane nominated the family for the award. Fennelly accepted the certificate on the family's behalf.

What's Next for the Nonprofit

The organization's next major event, Rockin' for Stockins, has not announced a 2026 date.