Carol Davis made a difference.
That was the overwhelming consensus of the more than 100 attending Davis’s retirement reception Friday at the Manteca Veterans Center as she has stepped down after 16 years at the CEO of the community-based Give Every Child a Chance tutoring program.
The non-profit helps more than 2,000 students annually in Manteca, Lathrop, Ripon, Weston Ranch, French Camp, and Banta.
Davis was adamant that it was the staff and volunteers that made Give Every Child a Chance what it has become today.
Manteca Mayor Steve DeBrum recognized Davis not only for her GECAC work but also as a member of the Sunrise Kiwanis Club and her commitment, dedication and honor.  
Lathrop City Councilman Steve Dresser lauded her efforts that helped many children in Lathrop saying it was her determination and strong dedication that made the program work so well.
Chuck Crutchfield, director of community outreach, noted that under her direction some 100 employees have left the tutoring program to go to work in the Manteca Unified School District,
Crutchfield called Davis up to the microphone noting he knew she didn’t like to speak.  Her board members and office staff then filed in behind her as she couldn’t help breaking down in tears and needed a couple tissues.  
Christina Keefhaver, who has served as vice president of the non-profit and director of human resources, has taken over as the chief operating officer (CEO) in Davis’ place.  Volunteer Traci Holzer, HR director at Doctors Hospital, is the chairman-elect of the some 20 member GECAC Board of Directors.
There are roughly 2,000 children now being helped by the tutoring program and 250 currently on the waiting list.  This includes 380 in the one-on-one tutoring and some 1,500 in the after school programs.
Davis’ last day was Dec. 31. She is scheduling herself to volunteer at her grandson’s River Island Technology School and she is also in the process of organizing a student run Key Club through the B-Tech at the MUSD District Office with the help of the Sunrise Kiwanis Club. 
Davis is planning to play golf with her brother, sister and son. 
She added was thrilled to hear that 30 more new volunteers had just signed up for the program.

To contact Glenn Kahl, email gkahl@mantecabulletin.com.