On March 30, 2022, Omar Edwards will receive the 2022 Leadership Spirit Award at the Spirit of Manatee Awards Luncheon, being recognized for his ongoing charitable investment in the community. His spirit of giving encourages and motivates others to give, and their direct philanthropic support has impacted one or more charitable institutions within the community. He was nominated for the award by the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Omar Edwards is a true community advocate, described as a visionary achiever and professional. His dedicated involvement in the success and well-being of others is extensive and varied, inspiring others to serve, to give, and to lead. 

Omar is an amazing advocate for youth.  As an alumnus of Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, he has been a connector, passionate speaker, inspiring role model and genuine leader at the organization.  In recognition for his many years of service to the Clubs, Omar entered their Alumni Hall of Fame in June 2021, one of only six people to be inducted to date.

Omar has led various community initiatives at the Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County, in partnership with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He also served as Polemarch of the Sarasota (FL) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., where he guided the chapter to its first ever “Chapter of the Year Award,” and extensive community service honors. Omar held the torch of scholarship and community giving, as the fraternity continued to impact the community through charitable donations and scholarships.

He currently works at Manatee Technical College where he is the Assistant Director, recruiting students to become certified in programs that help them become employed.

Omar conducts workshop presentations to youth on empowerment, college and career readiness.  He volunteers in annual toy collection and distribution and prostrate screening fairs. Omar’s professional affiliations include the Association for Curriculum Development (ASCD) and Advanced Ed. Accreditation Committee, as a team member in the accreditation process for schools.

Join Manatee Community Foundation–along with business, nonprofit, philanthropic and community leaders–for the special event celebrating Omar and other honorees on March 30. Learn more here.