AVA exists to educate, empower and enhance the quality of life for individuals that will promote self-sufficiency, financial stability, and economic development. We provide supervision and guidance to many of the disadvantaged and deprived youth within the local vicinity.

In addition, we aid in eradicating racial and ethnic disparities with a focus on disease prevention, social and environmental factors that affect health and wellness. We are also a business incubator designed to instill a higher degree of education relating to skill-building and employment cross-training; design and implement programs that will empower disadvantaged individuals, organizations and small businesses in order to lead them toward a path of financial stability and self-sufficiency.

In 2016, SCLC chose Toriano Parker and Advantage Village Academy to bring a fresh direction to the historic St. Petersburg event, ensuring it would continue to celebrate the vision of Dr. King with a new generation. On Jan. 16, 2017, Advantage Village Academy (AVA) hosted the rebranded 32nd Annual MLK Dream Big Parade and introduced a brand new route running West along 1st Avenue South starting at 3rd Street – as well as launching the inaugural MLK Dream Big Family Funday Festival at Tropicana Field. Conceived to bring parents, children, caregivers, and youth together with community organizations and presenters, FAMILY FUN DAY expands St. Pete’s celebration of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National holiday through hands-on play, learning, and workshops.