For Fort Walton Beach-based Bit-Wizards, community service isn’t a once-a-year initiative—it’s a part of their DNA and what they like to call Be the Magic.
As National Volunteer Awareness Week kicks off, Bit-Wizards is highlighting the people and programs behind its ongoing commitment to service, with the hope that their efforts inspire others to do the same across the Emerald Coast.
Volunteering and serving my community have always been a meaningful part of my life. When I transitioned to full-time work, I was concerned about whether I’d still have the time to give back, but I’ve been able to stay deeply involved, and that’s something I’m really proud of.
—Sarah Reuille, morale coordinator at Bit-Wizards
Reuille has helped organize large-scale initiatives, including school supply drives that reached more than 100 families, coordinated outreach with local nonprofits, and led programs designed to bring families together.
Like Reuille, many Wizards actively pursue volunteer opportunities on their own time or through the Be the Magic Foundation, supporting causes that are personally meaningful while collectively strengthening the region.
For client success manager LXS Fregger, that commitment is evident in her service on boards and in volunteer work with organizations such as Fresh Start for Children and Families, Repeat Street Thrift Store, and the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge.
Similarly, solution consultant Vandy Vela contributes through leadership roles with organizations including the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, Bring Hope Now, and the Destin Fishermen’s Foundation.
Volunteerism also extends into education and the workforce structure. For software test engineer Angie Smith, she recently facilitated an interactive computer lab session focused on artificial intelligence for the Okaloosa Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.’s Delta Gems Academy, a monthly program serving middle and high school girls.
“What stood out most was seeing the girls think critically about technology and imagining how they could use it to create something meaningful,” Smith said. “It’s important to create opportunities for girls to explore tech and know they belong in these spaces.”
For one Wizard, after learning about Sleep in Heavenly Peace—a nonprofit dedicated to building beds for children in need—he felt compelled to get involved.
When I was told about the mission, it was eye-opening to hear how many children don’t have a bed of their own. It’s something many of us take for granted. There was no question in my mind that I wanted to be a part of what they were doing to help. Building beds for families in need is a simple way to make such a meaningful difference.
—Jeff Andrejcik, lead public relations specialist at Bit-Wizards
Instead of expecting community members to find support on their own, Bit-Wizards emphasizes proactive engagement and partnership, an approach the company says mirrors how it serves clients, by meeting people where they are and offering the help they need.
“Bit-Wizards has created an environment where giving back is encouraged and supported,” Reuille said. “It makes it easier to stay involved and reminds you that even small efforts can have a lasting impact.”
Learn more about Bit-Wizards or how to become a Wizard.