The Book of Golden Deeds Program honors that someone in our community who consistently volunteers his or her time and energy to help others. That person who works quietly, behind the scenes, who willingly gives his or her talents and skills to make their community a better place to live. The Book of Golden Deeds is designed to recognize an unsung hero who might otherwise never receive the acclaim they deserve.

The A.C.E. (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) Award recognizes a high school student in Alachua County who has overcome adversities to make a dramatic change in their attitude and performance during his or her high school years. Nominations are gained through area schools and education programs with the club selecting a yearly recipient. The Club’s ACE Award recipient then represents the club at the Florida District Convention where a state-level ACE Award recipient is selected. (Need to check on awards for this year)

The American Citizenship Public Speaking Contest is open to area high school students to compose and present a speech on some aspect of American Citizenship. The contest candidates first present their memorized speech before the Gator Exchange Club and a panel of judges. The winner then represents the Gator Exchange Club at the Florida District competition held in conjunction with its annual convention.

So Proudly We Hail. This program gives the club the opportunity to recognize an area business or resident for proudly and consistently flying the American flag. The recipient is recognized at a club program in his or her honor and presented with a plaque, commemorating their achievement.

One Nation Under God. Through this program, Exchangites select a guest speaker to address the club on what that phrase from the Pledge of Allegiance means to them. Past speakers have represented area clergy, military representatives, and teachers – each bringing their unique interpretation to the familiar phrase.

GIVEAKIDAFLGATOWAVE. Gator Exchangites converge on Gainesville’s annual July 3rd Fanfare and Fireworks Celebration to hand out approximately 1500 American flags to the children who come to this popular tradition.

Firefighter of the Year. Each year, the Gator Exchange Club recognizes a member of the Alachua County Fire Department for their dedication to their department and to the citizens of Alachua County. The recipient is selected by the fire chief, who accompanies the recipient to the club program and who participates in the presentation ceremony. Each recipient receives an engraved Exchange Club plaque commemorating their achievements.

Officer of the Year. This program allows the club to recognize a member of the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office or Gainesville Police Department for their valor and dedication to protecting the safety and well-being of those they serve. The sheriff or police chief select the recipient for this award, then participate in the club’s Officer of the Year Program. The club presents each recipient with an Exchange Club plaque to commemorate their achievements.