tcbusiness.com – NON-PROFIT NEWS

Catch The Wave of Hope helps educate area nonprofits

Brandon Battle, Case Manager, Boys & Girls Clubs of MC Indiantown Club; Sarah Henry, Community Development Director of CTWH and Patricia Brown, 21st Century Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of MC Indiantown Club

Catch the Wave of Hope (CTWH), the 501(c)(3) with the mission to prevent the sex trafficking of children through awareness, education, restoration and legislation, was honored by Kiwanis Club of Stuart as its Sept. nonprofit of the month.

Sarah Henry, Community Development Director of CTWH, gave a presentation on “Sex Trafficking 101”. She shared tools on how to identify, report and be aware of this heinous issue in Martin County and how members can safeguard themselves and their children.

Henry also accepted a generous monetary donation from Kiwanis Club of Stuart.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County invited Catch the Wave of Hope to do a “Two-Minute Teach” to parents and families at student pickups. Henry talked about child exploitation and sex trafficking and distributed flyers and cards with a human trafficking hotline number and information on CWTH, its mission, vision, therapy services and how to protect their children.

Henry interacted with more than 100 families at the Hobe Sound, Port Salerno, Palm City and Indiantown Clubs.

Although most people are certain they know the telltale signs of sex trafficking, they’re often shocked when they are introduced to reality. Henry is available to speak to groups of any size and age to share the information and tips that Catch the Wave of Hope has amassed. Contact her at www.catchthewaveofhope.org.

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]

Sep. 30, 2022|

Those who work for the cause, not for applause, honored at House of Hope’s 2022 awards

Fellow House of Hope volunteers and the organization's CEO celebrate Walt Keller, a 2022 Hope Award Honoree. Pictured left to right: Sally Brooks (another 2022 Hope Award Honoree), Pat Bartlett, Diane Harman, Walt Keller, Colette Klisky, and Robert Ranieri (CEO of House of Hope)

House of Hope supporters truly “work for the cause, not for applause,” and they never expect any recognition for their efforts. Once a year, however, House of Hope honors the people, businesses, partner agencies, faith-based organizations and neighborhoods that perform extraordinary work hand-in-hand with House of Hope to empower Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship.

This year’s annual Hope Awards Recognition Breakfast was held on Sept. 14 at Monarch Country Club in Palm City, with HBKS Wealth Advisors as the Presenting Sponsor and Stuart Main Street as the Silver Sponsor.

“Our award recipients this year – and every year – have a significant, positive impact on our community. They contribute their passion, expertise, creativity and resources to help us carry out our mission,” said Rob Ranieri, CEO of House of Hope.

A special moment in the ceremony was the awarding of the Barbara Trimble Legacy Award, named after a long-standing philanthropist of House of Hope and other community nonprofits. For his contributions of time, talent, and treasure to House of Hope over many years of service, the Barbara Trimble Legacy Award was presented to Stephen Schramm, of HBKS in Stuart.

Another heartwarming recognition was in honor of Walt Keller. At 96 years young, Walt was celebrating his nine-year anniversary as a House of Hope volunteer, donating 4,000 hours of his time working in the Stuart Pantry and Thrift Store. Beyond his volunteer time, Walt is especially beloved by House of Hope for bringing delicious, homemade baked goods for staff and volunteers to enjoy - even through COVID and for his heartfelt handmade cards for special occasions.

The Hope Award recipients for 2022 are:

Walt Keller
Dr. Erin and Bryan Arruda
Cleveland Clinic Martin Health
Colab Farms
Copper Key Scholarship Promise – recognizing the team efforts of Nina Haven Scholarships, The Community Foundation Martin St Lucie, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Martin County
David Hafner
EKO North America
Treasure Coast Wings
John Van Cora
Katie Makemson
Keith Cutshall
Kelly Hawkins of Less is More! Treasure Coast
Monarch Women’s Golf Association & Monarch Women’s 9 Hole Golf Association
Premier Realty Group
Sally Brooks
Shoes from Susan through The Community Foundation Martin St Lucie
St. Joseph Catholic Church
UNEW, Inc.
Stephen Schramm – Barbara Trimble Legacy Award

“These award winners have given hope to every client who has benefited from House of Hope programs. From our food and nutrition services to financial assistance, clothes closet, case management, and information and referral, House of Hope keeps our neighbors safe, housed, healthy and secure,” added Ranieri. “We were also very pleased that over 100 guests who were in attendance at this year’s event left with a deeper understanding of the scope and scale of what we do every day at House of Hope.”

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 and thrift stores in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, and Jensen Beach. House of Hope’s Enrichment Centers in Golden Gate (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, Instagram Instagram, and Twitter.

Sep. 27, 2022|

Glow in the Dark will benefit EFMC

Jeanine Bushman, 2021 South Fork High School Teacher of the Year

What began as a 2020 fundraiser that could satisfy social distancing needs during the pandemic’s early stages while raising much-needed funds for one of the Treasure Coast’s most esteemed nonprofits has returned.

On Saturday, Oct. 1, Glow in the Dark will take place at Hammock Creek Golf Club in Palm City to benefit Education Foundation of Martin County.

This fun-filled nine-hole golf tournament kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with registration and cocktails. A shotgun start with a scramble format will follow.

Scheduled ending time is 8:30 p.m.

Roaming beverage carts will dot the greens and food stations will be featured throughout the course, allowing players to stop for a bite in between holes.

Entry fee for individual golfers is $250 and premium team foursomes are $1,000. Love a great party but don’t want to golf? Consider purchasing a foursome for your favorite school or district level staff, becoming a sponsor, or registering as an attendee. Hacker attendee entrance is $100 per person and allows you to be part of the festivities as you eat and drink your way around the course in support of Martin County’s students and teachers.

All Martin County School Teachers of the Year will be on hand, sporting around in school spirit-themed carts. A cash grant will be awarded to the cart/team showing the most spirit. Help make it happen by purchasing a $250 cart sponsorship for your favorite school.

The winning foursome will take away a trophy and a complimentary golf foursome at one of our local premier courses. The last place team will also take home a one-of-a-kind prize.

A $10,000 Hole-in-One prize sponsored by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union is up for grabs.

Sponsorship opportunities costing from $250-$3,500 are available. Benefits vary and can include a premium team foursome, decorated golf carts, photo opps, event signage, social media posts, logo inclusion on the EFMC website and email news blasts and more

For information about Glow in the Dark or questions about sponsorships, visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org or contact Lisa Rhodes, Executive Director, at 772-600-8062 or [email protected].

Sep. 19, 2022|

Youth Guidance receives grant from Bank of America to support workforce development programs

Twelve teenagers and young adults received their forklift certification as part of the Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship Program.

To strengthen our community in the Treasure Coast, Bank of America is helping address barriers to basic needs, workforce development, and education by directing grant funding to Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy.

Bank of America recently awarded Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy a grant for $10,000. These funds will enable Youth Guidance to continue its workforce development and pre-apprenticeship programs for youth ages 12-24 living with limited resources in Indian River County.

Youth Guidance serves approximately 250 children, teenagers, and young adults every year. Through Bank of America’s grant and partnership, the grant will be used to provide youth ages 12-24 group mentoring programs that teach various life skills, including: culinary arts, sewing, bicycle repair, boat mechanics, and gardening.

The grant will also support the Youth Guidance Pre-Apprenticeship, the only pre-apprenticeship in Indian River County. Over eight months, youth ages 16-24 will learn five trades, including HVAC, welding, carpentry, electric, and plumbing. Those who complete the entire course will receive six professional certifications that will help them start a career in the trades.

“We are thrilled to partner with Bank of America to help prepare our youth for careers and explore the trades industry,” said Phil Barnes, Executive Director of Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy. “This partnership will play a key role in our efforts to provide local children and young adults with hands-on experience while earning professional certifications.”

Youth Guidance implemented the pre-apprenticeship for the first time from October 2021 to May 2022. Out of the 15 students who participated, 14 received professional certifications. Upon graduation, one student started his career as an apprentice electrician.

The pre-apprenticeship will start again in Fall 2022 in partnership with the Indian River County School District. Youth Guidance anticipates serving 20 students this coming year.

This grant is aligned with the bank’s broader efforts to advance economic opportunity and equity through health, jobs and reskilling, affordable housing, and small business. As part of those efforts, the bank has granted a total of $150,000 to 14 Treasure Coast nonprofits so far this year.

“Investing in this partnership is part of our approach to driving economic opportunity and social progress in Indian River County,” said Susan Rabinowitz, president, Bank of America Treasure Coast. “This grant is just one way we are deploying resources locally to help remove barriers to economic success and build a more sustainable community.”

In addition to its grant funding, Bank of America’s 243 Treasure Coast teammates pitch in roughly 2,900 volunteer hours yearly. With the constantly changing landscape, charitable grants and fundraising are critical to support the important work of our nonprofit partners.

Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy is dedicated to enriching the lives of Indian River County youth through mentoring relationships that inspire trust, self-esteem, and positive futures. Founded in 1973, Youth Guidance provides daily meals as well as one-on-one and group mentoring programs to children and young adults ages 5-24 with limited resources.

After school, students complete their homework under the supervision of trained Youth Guidance staff. Then they participate in group mentoring programs that include vocational training, life skills, and STEAM (Science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). All programs and meals are provided free of charge thanks to the generosity of the local community.

If you are interested in learning more about Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy or making a donation, please call 772.492.3933, or visit our website at www.youthguidanceprogram.org.

Sep. 2, 2022|

Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation announces appointment of Sara Wilson as new executive director

After an extensive search process, Sara was the optimal candidate bringing executive experience in both business and non-profit environments. In addition to her professional expertise, Sara’s deep love for history and literature align well with the mission of the Foundation which is to preserve Laura (Riding) Jackson’s home, maintain the Florida native plant garden which surrounds it at the Mueller Campus of Indian River State College in Vero Beach, and nurture writers through a series of literary offerings including adult and teen writers groups, summer camps, workshops, and poetry festivals.

Sara's career experience at nonprofits includes the Society for Historians of American Foreign Relations and, most recently, the Humane Society of Greater Jupiter/Tequesta, where she served as Chief Operating Officer. She is a lifelong volunteer, having given her time to local civic organizations, school committees, hospitals, and tutoring groups. In her business career, Sara has participated in the launch and growth of companies from founding through national and international expansion. In between these professional and volunteer endeavors, she has also worked as a freelance writer and historical researcher.

Sara grew up in Connecticut and graduated from Tufts University. She moved to Washington, DC where she earned a Master's Degree in U.S. History at American University and remained in the DC area for the next twenty years before moving to Florida in 2016.

Marie Stiefel, on behalf of the Board, stated, “As President of the Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation, I am delighted to have Sara Wilson join us as Executive Director. Sara brings a rare combination of skills and experiences to the position, having spent time in the world of startups, and as an executive in a nonprofit. In addition, Sara is a life-long writer, and serious student of history. Members of our Board reviewed forty-seven applicants from New York City to Wyoming and interviewed the top four candidates. Sara Wilson is the right person to lead the Foundation into its 30th anniversary year and beyond. I know members of the community will help us make her welcome to Indian River County.”

Aug. 29, 2022|

United Way of Martin County announces board chair, board members and campaign committee

United Way Immediate Past Chair Kherri Anderson (right) passed the gavel to United Way Board Chair Geoff Lieberman (left)

United Way of Martin County benefits from the guidance, leadership and advocacy of a dynamic and dedicated 24-member board of directors. As United Way celebrates its 50^th year in Martin County, the organization welcomes its 2022-2023 executive officers, board members and campaign committee.

Geoff Lieberman, vice president store manager, Macy's Treasure Coast, will serve as chair of the board of directors. Lieberman has been a United Way board member since 2015.

Elliot Paul, Elliot Paul & Company Auctions, will serve as board chair-elect. Amy Bottegal, SouthState, will chair the organization's annual fundraising campaign. She has assembled a campaign committee of volunteer leaders who will work to increase financial support for United Way of Martin County's work in the community.

United Way welcomes four new members to the board of directors: Alessandro Anzalone, Indian River State College; Arati Hammond, Keller Williams Treasure Coast; Richard LoSardo, MD, psychiatrist; and Christopher T. Soska, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health.

All board members are heavily involved with advancing United Way of Martin County's strategic plan and its goal to lift the community through programs that give children the skills to succeed, help residents gain access to care and adopt healthy lifestyles and help adults achieve long-term financial stability so they can support themselves and their families.

"We are fortunate to enjoy the partnership of such an accomplished, passionate group of business leaders who are committed to building a stronger community," said Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, United Way of Martin County president and CEO. "Each plays a role, bringing a different perspective and area of expertise to our work."

2022-23 United Way Executive Committee

Chair: Geoff Lieberman, Macy's Treasure Coast

Chair-elect: Elliot Paul, Elliot Paul and Company Auctions

Treasurer: Mark Roberts, HBK CPAs and Consultants

Secretary: Tamara Matthew, Bank of America

Immediate Past Chair: Kherri Anderson, Martin County Supervisor of Elections

Board Members

Kathryn (Muffin) Adamiak, Tocqueville Society Chair

Alessandro Anzalone, Ph.D., Indian River State College

Michael Borlaug, Capstone IT

Amy Bottegal, SouthState

Tom Campenni, retired

Mary Anne Cannon, Pratt & Whitney

Blake Davis, Publix Supermarkets

Bryan Garner, NextEra Energy Resources

Chuck Geary, Lesser, Lesser, Landy & Smith

Arati Hammond, Keller Williams Treasure Coast

Richard LoSardo, MD, Psychiatrist

John Millay, Ph.D., Martin County School District

Ruth Pietruszewski, Martin County Tax Collector

Jennifer Salas, Martin County Library System

Chuck Shaffer, Seacoast Bank

Christopher T. Soska, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health

Joseph Tumminelli, City of Stuart Police Department

Dave Wishart, Sikorsky

Gene Zweben, Zweben Law Group

Campaign Committee

Angela Aulisio, Cleveland Clinic Martin Health

Sarah Baker, First Citizens Bank

Nick Blount, volunteer

Amy Bottegal, SouthState

Deputy Chief John Budensiek, Jr., Martin County Sheriff's Office

Patty McAuley, Seacoast Bank

Randy Pennington, SouthState

Lisa Satur, SouthState

Leslie Warren, Seacoast Bank

Sue Whittington, Morgan Stanley

Tom Whittington, Manatee Pocket Yacht Sales

About United Way

United Way of Martin County's mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. Since 1972, the United Way has been working to create long-term social change by investing in programs that strive to improve Martin County residents' education, health and financial stability.

Aug. 25, 2022|

“Entrees for Education” – a yummy way to support EFMC

Kaitlyn Rhodes, 4th grade teacher at Jensen Beach Elementary; Valerie Baldwin, Media Specialist at Felix A. Williams Elementary; Nick Darley, Vice President, Conchy Joe’s Restaurant, Inc; Carly Ayers Frolich, Digital Media Marketing Manager at Conchy Joe’s Restaurants, Inc. and Leigh Anne Pike, Media Specialist at MCHS

Conchy Joe’s, Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House and Stringers are offering their “Entrees for Education” program for the fifth year, partnering with The Education Foundation of Martin County (EFMC) to adopt hard working teachers throughout the county.

EFMC’s Adopt-A-Class Program offers $100 adoptions that ensure teachers will not have to reach into their own pockets to fulfill their classroom needs.

The St. Lucie County Education Foundation also participates in the initiative.

Here’s how it works:

Between August 1-September 1, visit any of the three restaurants and purchase an entrée. You will receive a raffle ticket, upon which you write the name of a teacher, class or school to nominate them for a $100 “adoption.”

Every Friday morning during the nominating period, each of the restaurants will post the names of five winning entrants on its specific Facebook page. Each will receive $100, meaning that between, Conchy Joe’s, Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House, and Stringers, a total of $7,500 in local class adoptions will be provided.

Carly Ayres Frohlich, Digital Media Marketing Manager and Graphic Designer for Conchy Joe's Restaurant, Inc. explains how “Entrees for Education” came to be. “We knew we wanted to use our position as long-established restaurants in the community to attempt a new, fun and unique way to give back. Local residents come into our restaurants regularly, so why not use that privilege to get them involved and let them choose who receives the donation? Charity feels good, but sharing the joy and excitement of it with your whole community feels even better.”

“We are so fortunate that Conchy Joe’s and the Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House have been longtime supporters of the EFMC and teachers in Martin County. Adding Stringers to the “Entrees for Education” program this year will provide teachers even more opportunities to receive classroom adoptions in support of local students. If you are looking for great meal and a way to give back, please consider visiting one of these local establishments to nominate your favorite teacher,” shares Lisa Rhodes, executive director of EFMC.

To learn more about Education Foundation of Martin County’s Adopt-A-Class program, visit www.educationfoundationmc.org.

Kaitlyn Rhodes, 4th grade teacher at Jensen Beach Elementary; Leigh Anne Pike, Media Specialist at MCHS; Nick Darley, Vice President, Conchy Joe’s Restaurant, Inc; and Carly Ayers Frolich, Digital Media Marketing Manager at Conchy Joe’s Restaurants, Inc.

Aug. 2, 2022|

Sawbones vs. Jawbones softball tournament raises funds for United Way

From Left to Right: Jawbones (red) - Robert Nall, Michael Zito, Dane Ullian, James Harpring, Jason Odom, Barry Segal, Eva Lauer, Jesse Larsen, Andrew Metcalf, Justin Barenborg, Raul Perez. Sawbones (blue) - Miguel Rivera MD, Marc McCain MD, Jason Stack MD, Alan Friedenstab MD, Geoff Wolf MD, Amber Dunn MD, Brett Haake MD, Clay Greeson MD, Jeff Livingston MD, Tom Baudo MD, Santos Ruiz Cordero MD, Pamela Kirwin MD, Sri Yerneni MD

Local professionals give back to their community at the annual Sawbones VS. Jawbones softball tournament presented by Cleveland Clinic Indian River. The doctors vs. lawyers rivalry continued for the 11th year at the newly renovated Holman Stadium at Jackie Robinson Training Complex, raising nearly $8,000.

“It's a tremendous contribution to United Way and our community that all the physicians and attorneys do this each year,” said Meredith Egan.

Despite the game ending a few innings short due to rain, the lawyers on Team Jawbones took home the win.

Special thanks to the generous sponsors and supporters:

Home Run Sponsors: Gould Cooksey Fennell, Mazzola Mediation, and Vero ENT Associates

Double Sponsors: Kimberle Beckett, Florida Eye Institute, Grove Place Surgery Center, Legler Orthodontics, MN Worldwide, and Zayas & Ruiz Immigration Attorneys

Single Sponsors: Dill Evans Rhodebeck, Barry Segal, P.A., Vero Beach Neurology

Thank you to the lawyers on Team Jawbones: Justin Barenborg, James Harpring, Jesse Larsen, Eva Lauer, Andrew Metcalf, Bob Nall, Ashley Novander, Jason Odom, Raul Perez, Barry Segal, Dane Ullian, Rebecca White, and Michael Zito. Additionally, thank you to the doctors on Team Sawbones: Tom Baudo, Amber Dunn, Alan Friedenstab, Clay Greeson, Brett Haake, Pamela Kilwin, Jeff Livingston, Michael Mazziota, Marc McCain, Miguel Rivera, Santos Ruiz, Jason Stack, Luis Velazco, Geoff Wolf, and Sri Yerneni.

Little League took the field for the first annual Vero Beach Little League United Way Cup game following the softball tournament. All proceeds from the game benefit the United Way and support the significant work of advancing the common good in the impact areas of Health, Education, and Financial Stability.

For more information about getting involved in next year’s tournament, please get in touch with Meredith Egan at [email protected] or (772) 567-8900.

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, UnitedWayIRC.org.

Jul. 26, 2022|

Salvation Army welcomes new officers

Captains Deanne and Nathan Jones

The Salvation Army of Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee Counties welcomed new leaders this month, Captains Nathan and Deanne Jones. The couple, who have served in the Army for 13 years, relocated with their three children to Jensen Beach from their previous appointment in Dothan, Alabama.

“It is exciting to get to meet the people of the Treasure Coast and to discover the many opportunities for ministry, said Captain Deanne. “We look forward to meeting the needs of the community and 'Doing the Most Good' alongside the staff, volunteers, and supporters of The Salvation Army.”

It is the custom of the Salvation Army to move their officers to new locations every two to five years to keep the ministry fresh and to adjust to changing community needs. The Jones previously led corps offices in Knoxville and Chattanooga in Tennessee and in Owensboro, Kentucky.

The Salvation Army operates service centers in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee Counties, providing food, clothing and emergency financial assistance to people in need. It operates Compassion House, a shelter for homeless women and children, and offers a weekly soup kitchen, children’s programs, Sunday church services and weekly bible studies. For more information, visit salvationarmymartin.org or call 772-288-1471.

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in London in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for more than 130 years in the United States. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through a broad array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. 82 cents of every dollar The Salvation Army spends is used to support those services in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmyusa.org

Jul. 13, 2022|

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