The Source receives generous donation to Dignity Village

Ms. Chesser, along with friends and family, joined Anthony Zorbaugh, Executive Director of the Source, along with Source Board Members, to donate a generous donation to Dignity Village through her late husband’s legacy fund.

The Fred Griffin Legacy Fund, overseen by Mr. Griffin’s wife Susanne Chesser, seeks to distribute impactful financial grants to select Christian non-profit ministries who proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Their heart is to serve the needs of others, while using Fred’s legacy of generous giving to share the love of Christ.

Right after the New Year, Ms. Chesser, along with friends and family, joined Anthony Zorbaugh, Executive Director of the Source, along with Source Board Members, to donate a generous donation to Dignity Village through her late husband’s legacy fund.

Dignity Village, the former Pelican Island vacation resort located at 11330 U.S. Highway One in Sebastian, will boast 18 one or two bedroom efficiencies once it opens this year. The individual air-conditioned units are being repainted indoors and outdoors, fully furnished with new furniture and appliances, towels and linens, well- equipped kitchenettes, flat screen TV’s and high speed Wi-Fi. The units have either attached screened-in porches or outside patios, and a newly refurbished on-site laundry center has coin-operated washers and dryers. An air-conditioned multi-purpose Community Room on campus is also being refurbished offering space for resident programs, meetings, income producing jobs and socializing. A storage area on property will be suitably renovated for use as a chapel for the residents and another with coin operated vending machines filled with snacks and beverages. Encouraging a community feel, an outdoor kitchen, as well as an outdoor movie theatre, will be constructed and the entire area will be re-landscaped.

According to Anthony Zorbaugh, “Once we discovered this beautiful parcel of land located minutes away from Sebastian’s Riverfront District (in between U.S. One and Indian River Drive), we knew this was meant to be our long awaited Dignity Village. This is our first foray into affordable housing for those in our community in need of having a roof over their heads. Thanks to the generous donors who support our goals and what we are accomplishing are thanked for helping to make these dreams a reality.”

I am Ministries DBA The Source is a Christian social outreach ministry that has been empowering communities into a lifestyle of service for the homeless since 1995. Founded in Indian River County, the organization, inclusive of all people regardless of race, creed or color, serves its homeless neighbors through core programs that include Dining with Dignity-a culinary employability training program, Dignity Catering and Dignity Food Trucks, Dignity Buses-mobile overnight emergency shelters sleeping nearly 40 nightly, Dignity Village-20 affordable housing units, as well as a myriad of programs and services that instill a sense of community. For more information on The Source, contact Executive Director Anthony Zorbaugh at 772-564-0202, Ext. 204 or visit www.iamthesource.org.

Grant applications for The Fred Griffin Legacy Fund will be accepted that meet minimum criteria and procedures. Grants of $5,000 to $75,000 will be awarded to well-vetted ministries. A ministry must meet the criteria of being a Christian organization. Ministries who receive grants are welcome to apply for another grant after a waiting period of two (2) years. For questions please email [email protected].

Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news email [email protected]

Jan. 26, 2023|

ArtsFest, Feb. 11 & 12 in Gazebo Park, downtown Stuart!

ArtsFest returns to downtown Stuart February 11-12 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. featuring a wide variety of visual artists, musicians, singers, and top area chefs. Tickets can be purchased at the gate for $5 for adults, with children 18 and under free.

Consistently named one of the area’s Top 20 Events by the Southeast Tourism Society, ArtsFest will continue its 36-year history and showcase a diverse selection of arts to be enjoyed by residents and visitors. On the visual artist front, a juried art festival with submissions from across the nation will feature top artists in the categories of painting, drawing, mixed-media, photography, ceramics, glass, wood, sculpture, and jewelry are selected according to workmanship, originality, and artistic conception.

In addition to the juried art show, attendees can watch the popular CHOPPED event showcasing the inventive talents of renowned Treasure Coast chefs and listen to performances by the greatest talent on the Treasure Coast. Creating an added community ‘buzz,’ local agencies and nonprofit organizations will provide ArtsFest patrons with family-fun activities such as complimentary guitar lessons and getting up-close-and- personal with wildlife and nature along with information about a broad variety of supportive and enriching community programs and services

“We always aim to surprise and delight guests who attend Artsfest, and this year will be no different,” said Nancy Turrell, CEO of MartinArts Foundation. “ArtsFest is truly an extension of the expansive arts community we have on the Treasure Coast, and we love this opportunity to highlight their accomplishments.”

Leading up to ArtsFest, Martin County Office of Tourism and MartinArts are partnering again to host the Hidden Turtles scavenger hunt. Glass turtles, made by Palm City based glass artist, Dot Galfond can be found near cultural venues, art in public places venues and other popular spots in Martin County. Find a gold turtle and register it at MartinArts.org to secure two VIP ArtsFest Tickets. All other turtles secure a discount “buy-one-get-one free” ticket offer for ArtsFest.

Annually, ArtsFest draws over 7,500 people and over the past 3 years has generated more than a $1 million dollars to the local economy. For more information, access the website at MartinArts.org or call 772-287-6676. MartinArts is located at 80 SE Ocean Boulevard in the Court House Cultural Center in downtown Stuart.

Jan. 26, 2023|

New outdoor classroom opens at House of Hope’s Golden Gate Center for Enrichment in Stuart

New outdoor classroom opens at House of Hope’s

Golden Gate Center for Enrichment in Stuart

The outdoor classroom at House of Hope’s Golden Gate Center for Enrichment is a welcoming space for a variety of activities. The idea for an outdoor classroom was inspired by the need during Covid to find well-ventilated spaces for group activities.

An outdoor classroom tucked into a wooded area on Dixie Highway in Stuart is the newest addition to House of Hope’s Golden Gate Center for Enrichment.

“The interest in using outdoor spaces for programming during Covid inspired this permanent outdoor classroom,” according to House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri. “It expands our useful space for teaching and learning, makes great use of the park-like garden that we’ve created on the campus, and helps with revitalization efforts for this part of our community.”

The outdoor classroom, a covered space that can be used year-round, was funded by a grant from the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. It complements the classroom spaces inside the Golden Gate Center for Enrichment. “Our programs have proved so popular,” Ranieri said, “that we welcome this additional space.”

House of Hope’s Centers for Enrichment at both Golden Gate in Stuart and in Jensen Beach offer a full calendar of no-cost classes and workshops focusing on education, career readiness, health and nutrition, and arts and culture. Many of these programs are facilitated by partner agencies that are subject matter experts. Others are facilitated by House of Hope staff and volunteers. Services vary at each site and change to reflect the needs of the community. The Enrichment Centers also feature computer labs with access to free printing.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony to welcome the new learning environment will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m. at the Golden Gate Center for Enrichment, 3223 SE Dixie Highway, Stuart, FL. 34997. For more information about House of Hope and its Centers for Enrichment, visit www.hohmartin.org.

About House of Hope

Founded in 1984, House of Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. House of Hope touches the lives of more than 7,000 people each month helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, furniture, financial assistance, as well as longer-term case management services that help build life skills for a more self-sufficient future. The organization has service centers in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, and Jensen Beach, and a Thrift Shop in South Stuart, Hobe Sound and Indiantown. House of Hope’s Enrichment Centers in Stuart and Jensen Beach offer free programs, technology, and workshops designed to enhance life skills, earning potential, health, and overall well-being. House of Hope also operates the Growing Hope Farm in Palm City and several nutrition gardens that provide sustainable sources of fresh produce for clients as well as nutrition education and vocational opportunities to the community. For more information, visit hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673. Updates and announcements can also be found on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Hohmartin, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/houseofhopemc/, and Twitter https://twitter.com/hohmartin.

Jan. 26, 2023|

The Dignity Food Truck now operating at Jaycee Park

Dignity Jonathan with Armando-Russell and Brian in window

The Seaside Grill, currently under construction in Jaycee Park in Vero Beach, has had some setbacks in their schedule to re-open for the public who enjoys being at the beach, in the park or taking their daily walks on the boardwalk.

Thanks to the City of Vero Beach and the current owners of the establishment, the popular Dignity Food Truck, owned and operated by The Source in Vero Beach, is parking their Food Truck in the parking lot behind Seaside Grill for the next several months, offering a menu of food and drink that will fill the gap in time until the restaurant re-opens.

“In an effort to help the residents and visitors of Vero Beach who have missed the opportunity to enjoy food nearby one of the best recreational areas along the beach, we have altered our schedule for one of our two Food Trucks to park there from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week,” according to Anthony Zorbaugh, Executive Director of The Source.

While food trucks are not a new phenomenon, The Dignity Food Truck has been filling the need for those looking for made-to-order food close-to-home for several years…both convenient and tasty. They succeed in that by using a google app (download “I Am The Source” from your App Store) to view a menu and order, schedule a pick-up time, pay online, and ultimately go to the Food Truck and simply retrieve their order.

“We are offering an easy alternative for those getting in their cars and driving for food while they are already spending time on the beach, playing with their children in the park or taking their daily walk. Additionally, our location in the parking lot, right behind Seaside Grill, also allows people to drive there for lunch from the Food Truck and enjoy eating in the park under one of the covered picnic areas located there,”Zorbaugh adds.

I am Ministries DBA The Source is a Christian social outreach ministry that has been empowering communities into a lifestyle of service for the homeless since 1995.Founded in Indian River County, the organization serves its homeless neighbors through core programs that include Dining with Dignity-a culinary employability training program, Dignity Catering and Dignity Food Trucks, Dignity Buses-mobile overnight emergency shelters sleeping nearly 40 nightly, Dignity Village-20 affordable housing units, as well as a myriad of programs and services that instill a sense of community. For more information on The Source please visit www.Iamthesource.org. Interested in more information of wanting to book one of the Dignity Food Trucks at your location or special event, call Executive Director Anthony Zorbaugh, 772-564-0202, Ext. 204.

Jan. 20, 2023|

United Way hosts child abuse and human trafficking discussion at third Powered by Purpose event

United Way of Indian River County’s third Powered by Purpose featured local child abuse and human trafficking experts. Featured speakers were Karissa Bolden, Clinical Manager for Cleveland Clinic’s Behavior Health Outpatient Services, Caryn Toole, Director of Child Welfare for Communities Connected for Kids, and Sarah Marie Henry, Community Development Director for Catch the Wave of Hope.

Hosted at Northern Trust, the event was a chance for concerned citizens and supporters of United Way to learn more about the signs, trends, and impact of child abuse and human trafficking during Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Panelists noted that child abuse affects families of all socioeconomic levels; there were over 200 known cases last year in Indian River County. “United Way invests in local solutions to prevent child abuse through nonprofit agencies with established best practices,” said United Way of Indian River County CEO Meredith Egan. “Programs that United Way funds are helping to improve parenting skills and offer counseling and resources to local families. Efforts to raise awareness and community engagement are small but significant steps to ensure children and families in our community are safe and can thrive.”

Florida ranks third in the U.S. for human trafficking cases behind California and Texas. In 2021, the state had 781 cases, 7.54% of the U.S. total. Human trafficking is a humanitarian crisis that is a form of modern-day slavery. Human trafficking is a multi-dimensional humanitarian crisis that is a form of modern-day slavery. Victims are trafficked for various purposes, such as commercial sex, agricultural work, or other forms of labor. They can be rich, poor, men, women, adults, children, foreign nationals, or U.S. citizens.

To help combat human trafficking cases, the speakers stressed the importance of recognizing the signs and focusing on prevention, education, and bringing awareness to trafficking. In addition, social media is increasingly influential in human trafficking. Since victims are targeted online, recognizing the signs can be challenging, but parents and caregivers must monitor their children's internet activity and relationships.

The problem and its impact are complex. Education, awareness, advocacy, and support resources are vital to combat this issue. Attendees were encouraged to report any suspected acts of child abuse at 1-800-962-2873 or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or call local law enforcement.

The Powered by Purpose series hosted by United Way of Indian River County features community leaders and experts speaking about different topics of interest to help attendees learn more about an issue, community challenges, collaboration, resources, and other ways to get involved.

About United Way of Indian River County

United Way of Indian River County (UWIRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every community member. United Way works with local programs to provide resources to individuals and families in crisis today, while working year-round to improve community conditions and create lasting solutions. We are effectively building a strong foundation and improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about your local United Way, please call (772) 567-8900 or visit our website, http://www.UnitedWayIRC.org.

Jan. 20, 2023|

Innovative employment idea matches a Treasure Coast senior community with non-profit

Innovative employment idea matches a Treasure Coast

senior community with non-profit

For decades, senior citizens have flocked to Florida to retire and enjoy their work-free lives near the ocean, under the shade of palm trees. Currently, more than 4.5 million people over the age of 65, call the Sunshine state home. And that number is steadily rising.

There are senior living communities scattered across the state. And there’s one in particular called Sandhill Cove in Martin County, that sounds like paradise on earth. This resort-style senior living community sits on the St. Lucie River waterfront, near Stuart and Port St. Lucie County. Besides the attractive views, this senior sanctuary offers a maintenance-free lifestyle, with services and amenities designed for healthy, active living.

Finding workers at Sandhill Cove has been challenging following the pandemic, so recently the community signed on to collaborate with the ARC of the Treasure Coast. ARC stands for Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged. It’s a 501 (c) (3) non-profit dedicated to empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential through residential, educational, behavioral, and vocational services.

Some of ARC’s developmentally challenged adults will participate in internships of their choice at Sandhill Cove including food service, housekeeping, laundry services, groundskeeping, property maintenance, customer service, fitness, and leisure activities. This unique opportunity is part of the ARC’s newly launched Project SEARCH Adult program.

The training program is funded through the Florida Developmental Disability Council and awarded through the Florida RESPECT program. The state provides the funding and ARC’s Advanced Employment Services program, AES, provides support, and job coaching so these special folks can improve their skill set, build confidence, and develop independence through an intensive employment training program.

“This is a great opportunity for our community of developmentally and intellectually challenged adults. They get the chance to experience the dignity of work and the pride of self-reliance in a safe and accepting environment of patient and caring senior citizens,” said Keith Muniz, President, and CEO of the ARC of the Treasure Coast. “We are grateful to Sandhill Cove for this new partnership.”

While the ARC folks won’t get paid for their internships, Sandhill Cove can hire them at any time during or after the internship. If they are not hired by Sandhill Cove, then ARC Job Coaches will find employment for them elsewhere.

ARC of the Treasure Coast partners with other companies and organizations including the Florida Department of Transportation, the Florida Department of Education and Vocational Rehabilitation, the Florida Department of Corrections, and other public and private sector businesses to produce workers for jobs that have been difficult to fill in these challenging times. The experience benefits the workers but also the seniors who need these services to maintain a certain quality of life.

This collaboration is designed to produce long-lasting and supportive relationships for everyone involved and successful long-term employment outcomes in the healthcare industry for the individuals in the Project SEARCH Adult program. Innovative ideas that keep Florida on the cutting edge.

For more information, please contact the ARC at www.ARCMC.org.

Keith Muniz is President and CEO of the ARC of The Treasure Coast which was renamed on January 1, 2023, when the ARC of Martin County and the ARC of St. Lucie County merged. The ARC, (Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults with I/DD through residential, vocational, educational, behavioral, and other healthcare services.

Jan. 13, 2023|

ARC of Martin County and ARC of St. Lucie County merge to become ARC of the Treasure Coast – a powerhouse for good

ARC of Martin County and ARC of St. Lucie County merge to become ARC of the Treasure Coast - a powerhouse for good

The ARC of Martin County and ARC of St. Lucie County have merged to become the ARC of the Treasure Coast starting January 2023. The Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged is dedicated to assisting, supporting, and empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential.

ARC has grown steadily over the years since it began in 1956. This merger will bring these two distinguished groups together to form a powerhouse for good. The Treasure Coast division will provide vital services from Vero Beach to Palm Beach Gardens and Okeechobee.

Some of ARC’s exceptional programs include summer camps and After-School programs for children. Residential and supported living services, day training programs, community inclusion services, transportation, intensive behavioral services, and Advanced Employment Services for adults.

Keith Muniz has been President and CEO of the ARC of Martin County and will remain in that role for the ARC of the Treasure Coast.

“The merger allows us to create a stronger unit to help more people who are unserved or underserved along the Treasure Coast. While our name is changing, we will still be providing the same critical services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and behavioral challenges, as well as support for their families,” said Muniz.

ARC has a number of events each year to raise funds and welcomes financial donations from the community. Volunteers are also needed. To find out how you can help, please visit www.arcmc.org.

Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged, is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to assisting and supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential through residential, vocational, behavioral, and other related healthcare services.

Treasure Coast Business is a news service and magazine published in print, via e-newsletter and online at tcbusiness.com by Indian River Media Group. For more information or to report news

Jan. 5, 2023|

19th Annual Walk to Remember Draws Largest Crowd Ever

19^th Annual Walk to Remember Draws Largest Crowd Ever

The 19th Annual Walk To Remember was held on Nov. 12 to benefit the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County. Boasting one of the largest crowds ever with nearly 450 walkers, the Walk allowed participants to meander through Riverside Park, and to stroll through Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary, as well.

Pre-walk festivities included honoring our Veterans, with Moreen Burkhart singing the National Anthem while the Sebastian River High School NJROTC color guard presented the flag, followed by an energizing warm-up led by personal trainer John Sammartano.

Founded in 1982, the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association offers 40 programs to those with memory and movement disorders, and their families, all free of charge. It is not affiliated with any national organization, relying on the generosity of the philanthropic community, grants, and fundraisers. The annual Walk To Remember is the nonprofit’s signature fundraising event, and donations for the Walk are still being accepted

Thank you to these major sponsors of this year’s Walk, whose financial support laid the foundation for this year’s success. Presenting Sponsors were: Walter Borisenok Family Foundation, Este and Charles Brashears, and Coastal Concierge Services. Platinum Sponsors were George E. Warren LLC and Christine Lipski.

The mission of the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association is “to improve the quality of life for individuals and families in Indian River County who are affected by memory and movement disorders, through support, education and connection.” To learn more about the organization, call 772-563-0505 or visit www.AlzPark.org.

Dec. 29, 2022|

Florida rest stops serviced by adults with disabilities

If you drive in Florida, especially on state roads like I-95, you have seen and probably used one of those rest stops along the highway. It’s where drivers and truckers can take a bathroom break, rest a bit, stretch their legs, and have a snack.

Finding workers to keep them clean and functioning can be a challenge. But thanks to Florida’s innovative thinking and willingness to partner with non-profit groups, we all get to enjoy the benefits.

You see, non-profits around the state provide workers to fill positions we all take for granted. One such partnership has developed between the Florida Department of Transportation and the ARC of Martin County.

Four rest stops Northbound and Southbound on I-95 in Martin and St. Lucie Counties are now being serviced by adults with disabilities from the ARC of Martin County.

The non-profit contracted with FDOT through the RESPECT of Florida program to provide jobs for men and women who are part of the ARC of Martin County’s Advanced Employment Services Program, also known as, AES. RESPECT of Florida is the Central Non-profit Agency for the state of Florida that creates employment opportunities for about 1,000 Floridians who are blind or have disabilities through contractual services and the production of commodities that are sold to government entities. The ARC is able to tap into this program to ensure a pathway to employment for adults with disabilities in the ARC’s AES program.

Business partners help these adults build on their strengths while they explore new employment interests and skills in a variety of industries. The work gives them functional work skills that leads to self-worth, confidence, and independence while filling employment needs across the state.

Currently, 30 adults in ARC of Martin County’s AES Program are working at the four rest stops handling janitorial services as well as taking care of the landscape, picking up trash, and essentially keeping the facilities clean.

The state’s transportation department is managed by Governor Ron DeSantis. Its business practices include organization-wide values such as integrity and respect and a philosophy that individuals with disabilities should be considered for jobs in an environment that gives them the freedom to compete on a fair and level playing field.

ARC of Martin County’s AES program works with organizations like the FDOT practicing inclusive policies that cultivate a diverse workforce. Various businesses train and support adults with disabilities by providing coaching services, resume writing, and interview preparation.

It’s a win-win for everybody!

Dec. 2, 2022|

12 3 4 5 Next

NON-PROFIT NEWS

The Source receives generous donation to Dignity Village

ArtsFest, Feb. 11 & 12 in Gazebo Park, downtown Stuart!

New outdoor classroom opens at House of Hope’s

Golden Gate Center for Enrichment in Stuart

About House of Hope

The Dignity Food Truck now operating at Jaycee Park

United Way hosts child abuse and human trafficking discussion at third Powered by Purpose event

Innovative employment idea matches a Treasure Coast

senior community with non-profit

ARC of Martin County and ARC of St. Lucie County merge to become ARC of the Treasure Coast - a powerhouse for good

19^th Annual Walk to Remember Draws Largest Crowd Ever

Pre-walk festivities included honoring our Veterans, with Moreen Burkhart singing the National Anthem while the Sebastian River High School NJROTC color guard presented the flag, followed by an energizing warm-up led by personal trainer John Sammartano.

Florida rest stops serviced by adults with disabilities

If you drive in Florida, especially on state roads like I-95, you have seen and probably used one of those rest stops along the highway. It’s where drivers and truckers can take a bathroom break, rest a bit, stretch their legs, and have a snack.

Finding workers to keep them clean and functioning can be a challenge. But thanks to Florida’s innovative thinking and willingness to partner with non-profit groups, we all get to enjoy the benefits.

You see, non-profits around the state provide workers to fill positions we all take for granted. One such partnership has developed between the Florida Department of Transportation and the ARC of Martin County.

Four rest stops Northbound and Southbound on I-95 in Martin and St. Lucie Counties are now being serviced by adults with disabilities from the ARC of Martin County.

Business partners help these adults build on their strengths while they explore new employment interests and skills in a variety of industries. The work gives them functional work skills that leads to self-worth, confidence, and independence while filling employment needs across the state.

Currently, 30 adults in ARC of Martin County’s AES Program are working at the four rest stops handling janitorial services as well as taking care of the landscape, picking up trash, and essentially keeping the facilities clean.

ARC of Martin County’s AES program works with organizations like the FDOT practicing inclusive policies that cultivate a diverse workforce. Various businesses train and support adults with disabilities by providing coaching services, resume writing, and interview preparation.

It’s a win-win for everybody!

VSOA offers holiday workshop for students