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Publishers' Note
It’s all about trust
In these changing times, it can often feel as though the world is moving too fast, that the needs of our communities are growing too great, and that the challenges we face are insurmountable. But when we look closely at the people who have made a true difference – those whose generosity has changed lives and shaped futures – one truth stands clear:
the answer is local.
The greatest impact is not made by distant figures or far-flung organizations, but by those who live here in the neighborhoods and small towns that make up this Bold City of the South. It’s the donors who build trust with the people they serve, who forge relationships grounded in a shared belief that, together, we can make a lasting difference. These local philanthropists know that real change happens when you build connections with the people who need it most and when you invest not just in buildings or programs, but in the hearts and dreams of your community.
The work of selfless individuals – who often go unsung – is a reminder that giving is not about the size of the check, but the depth of the trust you build. It's about knowing that when you invest in the future of your neighbors, in your hometown, and in the bonds that tie you all together, you are creating a ripple effect that can last a lifetime.
In a world where so much can feel uncertain, the power of local relationships is more important than ever.
As we celebrate our 10th Anniversary of Circles Magazine, we are proud to have earned the trust of so many organizations, nonprofits, and generous donors who share our commitment to making Jacksonville a better place for all.
Over the years, we’ve worked alongside those who give, serve, and inspire, and we are honored to be the exclusive conduit for the stories of philanthropy that shape our community. It is through these relationships, built on trust and shared purpose, that we continue to highlight the heart and soul of Jacksonville’s giving spirit. Together, we’re building a brighter future – one act of kindness at a time.
Seth and Pamela Williams Publishers
Olivia Nemours Children’s, Jacksonville ENT patient
BOOK SO IAL Content
MORE THAN A GAME
GIVING BACK to the NORTHEAST
FLORIDA COMMUNITY
continues to be one of our most important responsibilities.
Through our many Gator Bowl Charities initiatives and programs, we are able to give back more than $275,000 every year to the local community and impact over 4,500 local youth.
KEY PROGRAMS
GATOR BOWL CHARITIES works year-round to provide programmatic opportunities for youth and the adults that empower them across the First Coast. Our programs and events focus on EDUCATION, LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE!
LITTLE GATOR BOWL
BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER
4500+
LOCAL YOUTH + FAMILY IMPACTED LAST YEAR
HIGH SCHOOL TAKEOVER
500 high school student-athletes across Florida & Georgia attended the bowl game.
SEND A CHILD TO THE GAME
1,450 kids + families participated in year-round Send a Child to the Game events
BLESSINGS IN A BACKPACK
1,050 bags of non-perishable food packed by TaxSlayer Gator Bowl players in partnership with First Coast Blessings in a Backpack
GROWING THE GAME
Circling Back to LOCAL IMPACT
Lorrie DeFrank Journalist
Neighborhood Economies
Fostering the development of local businesses, workforce training, and community-based economic opportunities, emphasizing selfsufficiency and the reinvestment of resources into the community.
Tarryn Bradford Poling Sales and Marketing
Philanthropy focused on supporting inclusive parenting practices, particularly for parents raising children with special needs or from diverse backgrounds. This can include funding inclusive educational programs, advocating for accessibility in community spaces, or providing resources for parents to navigate cultural, social, or disability-related challenges.
Gildersleeve
Community-led Solutions
Programs or initiatives where the solutions are designed, implemented, and managed by the community members themselves, rather than being imposed from outside.
Matt Culpepper and Dan Harris
Shop Local Initiatives
Campaigns or philanthropic efforts that encourage people to support local businesses, artisans, and vendors. These initiatives aim to keep money circulating within the community, strengthen local economies, and reduce reliance on larger corporate chains, thereby benefiting small-scale, independent businesses.
Julie Kerns Garmendia Journalist
Peggy Harrell Jennings Journalist
Pet Rescue Advocacy
Microgrants
Small-scale, targeted grants given to local organizations, startups, or individuals to address specific needs or challenges. These grants often focus on projects that have a tangible, immediate impact in a local community, such as supporting local arts, education, or social services.
Efforts to promote the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of abandoned or stray cats and dogs. It includes raising awareness, supporting shelters, and working to change laws or policies related to pet overpopulation, neglect, and abandonment.
Micro-philanthropy
Small-scale, localized giving or fundraising, often by individuals or small groups, that directly supports local causes, nonprofits, or initiatives.
Chris
Graphic Designer
Tricia Steele Graphic Designer
Dan Harris Photo Art
Where You Live Giving
Local philanthropy critical to the vitality of the First Coast
by Lorrie DeFrank
Local
The answer is local.
The question, for us all: Where is the best place to donate your money, time and talents to make the biggest impact?
Giving local lets donors connect with the organizations they support, see the benefits of their contributions, help their neighbors and boost the economy where they live.
Plus, it feels good.
“Philanthropists give partly because of that warm glow, the feeling that you’re being altruistic,” said Mari Kuraishi, president of the Jessie Ball duPont Fund. “But many are engaged in systemic change, and your best chance of seeing that beginning to take root is locally. Few things are more rewarding than getting engaged at that level as a philanthropist and doing so locally.”
The charitable foundation issues grants to organizations that received support from the late Jessie Ball duPont from 1960 to 1964 and served communities where she lived, including Jacksonville. The value of the fund’s assets is currently around $380 million, with trustees awarding approximately $14 million in grants each year.
“Place meant a lot to Jessie, and we are dedicated to building communities in places she loved,” Kuraishi said. “That’s why we invested as much as we have in The Jessie. It’s not just an office building for nonprofits; it’s a public place where conversations and celebrations happen.”
The foundation has also invested in LaVilla’s Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park and in the city’s downtown riverfront parks, she added.
“Being engaged locally greatly enhances the quality of your life and your community’s life.”
Connecting with the community
A 2022 report by the Florida Nonprofit Alliance, Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy showed that 87% of Florida households participated in informal philanthropy, with more than half giving directly to people in need who they personally knew.
“Giving locally gives donors the ability to connect with their community and see the impact of their gifts,” Florida Nonprofit Alliance CEO Sabeen Perwaiz said. “And it allows for the next generation of philanthropists in their family to see the importance of generosity.”
KB Home, for example, supports the nonprofit Dreams Come True in this area. “We want to make an impact where we build our communities
and we can make a much more direct impact with our local efforts,” said Cara Kane Wieckowski, senior director of corporate communications with KB Home. “Our employees know it’s someone in their community who has these needs and that is what is important to us.”
For every dollar contributed to a nonprofit, there is a $3 value of return brought into the community, according
to information from GreatNonprofits, an organization based in California that hosts a website where donors, volunteers and clients share their experiences with charitable organizations. In addition to hiring local people, nonprofits help maintain the economy through their general operations.
“The joy of giving local is that you can see it – it’s tangible, and you’re not funding a national organization where funds are going to LA or Boston or Seattle or New York City,” said Isaiah Oliver, president and CEO of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. “We are governed by a local board and managed by a local professional staff, which allows us to steer donors to causes they care about and may not have known about.”
The Community Foundation, which celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024, manages 724 funds that hold more than $650 million in assets, 68% of which are endowed and permanently dedicated to the Northeast Florida region. Oliver said it made $70 million in grants and brought in nearly $90 million in gifts last year to support the growth of the community, all focused on positive impact and perpetuity.
George Lee with PGA Tour legend Fred Couples, First Dream 1984
I am deeply grateful for the hard work that our Northeast Florida nonprofit agencies do every day. They share an unwavering commitment to making our little corner of the world a better place for all. The work they do comes directly from the heart and touches my heart, as well.
– Delores Barr Weaver
“Many local small nonprofits are doing incredible work without a lot of philanthropic resources, Oliver said. “Support from local donors is essential, if not critical, because they are not supported by larger national foundations or donors.
“Beyond the grantmaking, we have to be thoughtful about how to make our community a better place,” he continued. “One of the benefits of a collective impact of individual contributions is coming together to make a big difference.”
‘A community jewel’
In Northeast Florida, Delores Barr Weaver sets an extraordinary example of giving local and being an engaged philanthropist. Since moving here in 1993 with her husband Wayne as owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars, her more than $209 million in grantmaking has supported more than 300 organizations.
The establishment of the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund with a $50 million gift in 2012 began her philanthropic partnership with The Community Foundation. In 2023, she contributed $61 million to her donor-advised fund at the foundation, the largest gift in its history. And her extensive charitable causes range from affordable housing to the LGBTQ community. A co-founder of the Women’s Giving Alliance, she founded the Delores Barr Weaver Policy Center that advocates for girls.
“She is a partner with us in this work, certainly a treasure who gives more than just her resources,” Oliver said. “She spends a lot of time in the office with us in conversations about grantmaking and asking questions. She is not only a model but a jewel in this community.”
Weaver said that giving locally has always been an important part of her philanthropy.
“I am deeply grateful for the hard work that our Northeast Florida nonprofit agencies do every day,” she said. “They share an unwavering commitment to making our little corner of the world a better place for all. The work they do comes directly from the heart and touches my heart, as well.”
As president and CEO of United Way of Northeast Florida, Melanie Patz sees not only the rewards of giving locally, but also the dire need for it.
“Because we know the need is great locally, we think it is so important to give locally,” Patz said, noting that her agency receives 90,000 calls for assistance each year. “We can see the impact more clearly when giving locally. You’re helping people in your own community and helping to grow the community and the local economy.”
Patz said nearly 39% of households in our community struggle to make ends meet, despite having multiple jobs in some cases. According to the United for ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report that came out in May 2024, more than a third of Northeast Florida households are living paycheck to paycheck or in poverty, despite
increasing wages. In 2022, the annual ALICE Household Survival Budget for a family of four was $84,612.
“There is not a too-little amount to give – we get donations from one dollar a paycheck to $200,000 a year, all coming together for a collective impact,” Patz said. “A lot of philanthropists choose to give locally where they will see the impact in the community they call home. When people are reaching their full potential, then everything becomes better for everyone.”
Fulfilling dreams
Dreams Come True fulfills dreams of children up to age 18 who have life-threatening medical conditions and reside in seven counties in Northeast Florida. Since its inception 40 years ago, the organization has granted more than 4,800 dreams. More than 500 dreams are currently in process.
KB Home, a U.S. homebuilding company with multiple local communities, has chosen the nonprofit to receive its fundraising and talents in this area. Its volunteer efforts start at the top with Todd Holder, Jacksonville division president, who serves on the agency’s board and is heavily involved in its philanthropic activities, according Wieckowski, senior director of corporate communications for KB Home.
When the company started as presenting sponsor of the annual Dreams Come True golf tournament in 2017, the event grossed $120,000. Last year it grossed $375,000.
“We bring our vendors and sponsors and get our trade partners involved to make contributions to this great organization,” Kane said. In addition, employees use their trade skills to redecorate bedrooms, paint murals and construct and assemble various projects for “dreamers” and the organization.
Dreams Come True also relies on the community for volunteers to help with events and “special times” while children wait for their dreams, said Anna Valent, executive director. “From the moment they are diagnosed, it may be years until they are ready for a dream,” Valent said, “so we support them along the way … whatever we can do to help brighten their day.”
In-kind donations include school supplies, holiday gifts and tickets to Jaguars games.
Dreams Come True receives no government funding and is 100 percent community supported through individuals, corporations, foundations and civic groups. Specific individuals underwrite operations, Valent said, to ensure that all donations go to services.
And compared to other nation organizations with a similar mission, all the money stays local. “We are not fulfilling dreams in Kansas,” she said. “The dreamers are your neighbors or your kids’ schoolmates. We don’t pay to be part of a chapter of a national organization, so the money goes directly to our mission.”
Valent said many philanthropists prefer contributing to local organizations because their leaders are happy to show them where the money goes. Local nonprofits also have lower operating costs than national organizations, and donors may participate in services – in their case, by meeting dreamers and inviting them to events. To celebrate their 40 years of success, Dreams Come True will host its Royal Ball January 17, 2025.
Safe housing
When the Women’s Giving Alliance, an initiative of The Community Foundation, announced the largest grant pool in its 23-year history in May 2024, Betty Griffin Center was on the list for $50,000 of the $750,000 awarded to 18 nonprofits in Northeast Florida.
“It’s a huge boost, and we are so thankful for all the support they give us,” said Kelly Franklin, CEO of the organization that provides services to victims of domestic and sexual assault in St. Johns County.
Even though the agency receives a lot of government funding, it takes a lot to operate the program that includes a 24-hour shelter and transitional housing, Franklin said. Community support is essential, particularly considering recent federal funding cuts. Its most recent yearly financial summary showed total revenue of $5,133,860 – 45% from federal, state and local grants; 41% from its two thrift shops; 13% from community support and 1% from in-kind donations. Total expenses of $5,240,819 were costs of serving 1,083 survivors, 48 more than the previous fiscal year. Private dollars accounted for the highest percentage of community support, followed by foundations, fundraisers, civic donations and endowments.
Franklin said the Betty Griffin Center Thrift Shoppes at Anastasia Island and Julington Square are vital to funding services for men, women and children impacted by domestic and sexual violence. The agency offers rape care services at UF Health Flagler Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent’s in Fruit Cove and operates a 54-bed emergency shelter and six transitional apartments. It provides counseling, court advocacy and educational services throughout St. Johns County.
Because of confidentiality issues, awareness is a challenge and community fundraisers, particularly its 5K run and fashion show, go a long way toward letting people know about services and need for assistance, she said. Donor Tom Conlan, a former board member and president of Reliant Roofing, said he supports Betty Griffin Center because it helps people who can’t help themselves.
“Many people in our community are stuck in horrible situations and do not know how to escape or climb out of them,” he said. “The Betty Griffin team works tirelessly to provide valuable resources and hope to these people. Their customized approach is truly making a difference one survivor at a time.”
In addition to unrestricted funds that can be used for a variety of things victims need, Betty Griffin Center’s biggest need is housing for survivors and their families, Franklin said.
“It’s important to help in your community because it’s estimated that one in three or four women experience domestic violence,” she said. “Helping people that have experienced domestic violence and sexual assault is investing in your community. I guarantee there is somebody that you know. Investing in that maybe means this doesn’t have to happen to the next person.”
Dreams Come True Golf Tournament participants enjoying a day on the course for charity.
Sadie's Disney Dream
Willie's Orlando Magic Dream 2023
Hope's Swing Set Dream 2022
Jaycee's Puppy Dream 2023
Protecting animals
Jacksonville Animal Care and Protective Services (ACPS,) a division of the City of Jacksonville’s Neighborhoods Department, is a government program that depends on the generosity of the community for its operations. Tasked with enforcing laws and taking in up to 8,000 animals each year in its 840-square-mile service area, ACPS requires significant support.
“We get 30,000 calls for service every year, from strays to distress to cruelty,” said Chief Michael Bricker. “In order to respond, those funds are needed. The more we get, the more lives we are able to save.
“A donation to us goes directly toward animals that comes from Jacksonville,” Bricker continued. “So, there is no greater way to make an impact.”
ACPS usually has about 300 animals in its care every day, sometimes as many as 500. As a municipal animal shelter, ACPS typically doesn’t get grants as do nonprofit animal shelters and humane societies, Bricker said. Plus, ACPS has the animal services role, and caring for injured animals is costly and time-consuming. ACPS partners with local nonprofits, however, on adoption events and some services, and they share a need for community contributions.
“Donations help cover the costs of our daily operations,” Bricker said, “like supplies, staff training, community outreach programs and getting animals out in the community to get them adopted.”
Raising awareness of the shelter’s services is key. Bricker invited the public to stop by the shelter at 2020 Forest St. to see the operation, make donations, volunteer and adopt dogs and cats, which are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and treated for heartworm. He said the best way to donate money is through Friends of Jacksonville Animals, a volunteer organization dedicated to the well-being of homeless animals taken in by ACPS.
In addition to volunteers to foster pets for a day or a week, ACPS has a big need for crates to send home with the fosters and to use for events to make the animals feel safe. Other useful items range from blankets to toys.
“All those things help as much as dollars would,” Bricker said. “If we can’t use them, our animal control officers give them out when they are in the community every day.”
Caring for children with cancer
Started by parents and supported by individuals and corporations, Child Cancer Fund in 2024 celebrated 30 years of serving 3,500 children and their families despite the challenges of being a small nonprofit with no government assistance.
“We are hyper local,” said Carla Montgomery, executive director. “Children treated specifically for pediatric cancer are eligible for our programs and services.”
The organization partners with Nemours Children’s Health and Wolfson Children’s Hospital to provide services to children who live in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.
By forming the nonprofit, parents of children who were being treated for cancer in 1994 rallied to save a crucial child life specialist position at Nemours that was to be eliminated because of insurance concerns. They launched a successful campaign to fund the position in perpetuity and have added services that include financial, educational, emotional and mental health support. CCF also sponsors families to attend Camp Boggy Creek, a medically supervised retreat weekend.
Montgomery knows exactly what these families are going through. The head of the nonprofit for 14 years and a board member before that, she turned to CCF in 2000, when her 5-year-old son Graham was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She attributes his recovery to Nemours and community support.
“That is huge for families to know they are not alone,” she said.
Giving local is critical, she added, because no one budgets for a cancer diagnosis.
“Every dollar counts, from gas cards to get families to treatments to companies that give thousands of dollars,” she said. “The financial support to get them through this very dark journey is tremendous.”
In Northeast Florida, about 300 children are being treated for cancer and around 150 new cases are diagnosed every year. When Montgomery started with CCF, administrative expenses were low, with 96 cents of every dollar going to families. As need and expenses grew, that figure is now 86 cents.
Ten years ago, the nonprofit connected with WOKV radio and Cox Media Group and started an annual CARE-A-THON, which has become its major fundraiser and is sponsored by Duval Asphalt.
“They liked that it helps children and the tangible impact they could make,” Montgomery said. “You are helping families in your own community. They can be your child’s classmate or your co-worker. Cancer touches a lot of people.”
Duval Asphalt Director of Marketing and Business Development Jennifer Garrett agreed.
“(CCF’s) heart for the families along with their dedication to fiscal responsibility is admirable and will continue to foster deeper relationships and connections throughout Northeast Florida,” Garrett said. “We are honored to be able to support CCF in their mission to provide caring support for families fighting childhood cancer.”
The first annual CARE-A-THON brought in $120,000 and the last few topped $300,000. It expanded to two days in 2024 to mark the Child Cancer Fund’s 30th Year of Caring.
“The generosity of this community is overwhelming,” Montgomery said.
Charitable Giving
Almost 7 out of 10 households in Florida made charitable donations in 2021. Of those donors, 74% gave the majority of their donated funds to organizations based in Florida
Religious organizations received 29% of all charitable donations, followed by basic needs (14%), education (13%), and health organizations (11%.)
Floridian households in the typical population donated an average of $1,035 in 2021. Among donor households only, the average amount donated was $1,795.
About 65% of the charitable dollars donated by Florida households went to nonprofits based in Florida.
High-net-worth households donated an average of $15,294 (or $18,437 among high-net-worth donor households only).
Compared to general households, high-net-worth households were significantly more likely to give a larger share of their giving to U.S. organizations that were not based in Florida.
Approximately two-fifths (41%) of high-net-worth Florida households had named a charity in their will or living trust, most of which included a Florida organization.
Florida
A senior enjoys crafts and supplies providedby Aging True volunteers, programs.
Todd Holder, Division President for KB Home engages with a Dreamer during the tournament.
Supporting seniors
Even charitable organizations that do receive government funding usually have match requirements that they depend on their community to meet. Although the main source of funding for Aging True, which provides services for seniors in Duval and Clay counties, is state and federal dollars through ElderSource, it must compete for it, with some match commitments as high as 25%.
“We could not do what we do without fundraising,” CEO Terri Barton said. “We can use every dollar we receive to leverage other work we do. We’ve risen to the challenge every year because the community has been generous and supportive. Northeast Florida is a good place to be.”
Grateful for the support, they are still celebrating the 60th anniversary of the organization that has been a stable force in the community since 1962, she said.
“You can get a much better ‘feel good’ from a local donation as opposed to one that you may or may not benefit from what you are wanting them to do,” she said. “You can see the impact of local giving very clearly, and it provides opportunities for donors to be involved with organizations that are meaningful to them.”
Originally operating as Cathedral Foundation of Jacksonville, Inc., its name was changed in 2011 to better reflect its mission of supporting independent, graceful aging through its programs. Aging True operates four senior centers in Clay County and supplies food for those centers and the Jacksonville centers, which are run by the city. It also provides Meals on Wheels in Jacksonville as well as health care, nutrition, home care, recreation and independent senior living services.
“We work closely with other organizations to avoid duplication,” Barton said. “Partnering is how you continue to grow and survive in difficult times.”
To increase support, Aging True is looking more toward planned giving.
“You don’t have to be wealthy,” Barton noted. “If you have an insurance policy or want to specify a bequest, that’s a wonderful way to help.”
Aging True sees donations as the beginning of building a relationship.
“We really want stakeholders,” she said, “people who want to volunteer and support us through their networking.”
Because of the generosity she has seen at Aging True, Barton is optimistic about the community as a whole.
“I honestly think we are ready for a new chapter and can see that happening,” she said. “We are coming out of a difficult period because of the pandemic and our community is excited. We are talking about a new stadium and redevelopment downtown, and we are looking at expanding some of the services we are providing – all opportunities to make our city and other communities in Northeast Florida stronger than they have ever been.”
You can get a much better ‘feel good’ from a local donation as opposed to one that you may or may not benefit from what you are wanting them to do. You can see the impact of local giving very clearly, and it provides opportunities for donors to be involved with organizations that are meaningful to them.
– Terri Barton, CEO Aging True
A volunteer assists with a crafts project at an
Green Cove Springs.
81% of our expenses go directly toward funding our mission to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.
The American Cancer Society is proud to hold top ratings from Charity Navigator, the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance, and Candid. High ratings from these widely recognized and respected charity rating and watchdog groups demonstrate our continuing commitment to accountability, transparency, and ethical practices.
You can give with confidence, knowing that we have been independently evaluated for effectively stewarding donations.
Power of the Purse
by Susanna P. Barton
“Philanthropy is not about the money,” Melinda French Gates, the trailblazing philanthropist, once said. “It’s about using whatever resources you have at your fingertips and applying them to improving the world.”
This belief is more relevant than ever. Today, women are harnessing the power of the purse to spark transformative change – both in Jacksonville and around the world. From powerful grants to hands-on advocacy, they are proving that true philanthropy is not just about wealth, but the will to make a difference.
Melinda French Gates exemplifies this ideal through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where, over the past three decades, she has overseen more than $77.6 billion in grants – funding everything from local education initiatives in Jacksonville to groundbreaking COVID research at the University of North Florida. And she’s not stopping there. In 2024, Gates committed to donating $1 billion over the next two years to support women’s rights and health, continuing her legacy of transformative giving.
Meanwhile, MacKenzie Scott, the philanthropic force and ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has shattered expectations by giving away $12 billion to 1,200 organizations in just five years. Her generosity has had a profound impact in Jacksonville, with the Wounded Warrior Project receiving $15 million and the Boys and Girls Club of Jacksonville benefiting from $6.8 million to further their vital work.
These women are not only rewriting the rules of philanthropy – they are proving that the power to create lasting change is in the hands of those who dare to make it happen.
A co-founder of the Women’s Giving Alliance and creation lead of the Jaguars Foundation, Delores Weaver supports many issues that affect women and girls, including domestic violence shelters, support for women in the military who have been victims of sexual assault, See the and the local nonprofit ReThreaded. But she also gives broadly to numerous other causes in Northeast Florida and around the world.
Carrying the torch
Despite her impact, Weaver said she is just carrying the torch.
“I’m not leading the way but following in the footsteps of Jessie Ball duPont and Lucy Bell Gooding,” Weaver said, noting two of the Jacksonville area’s pioneering female philanthropists.
DuPont and her husband, Alfred I. duPont, built their estate, Epping Forest, in Jacksonville. She led her husband’s business enterprises and became trustee of his estate after his death, funding scholarships for college students and giving to colleges and universities, charities, children’s homes and art museums.
I’ve always had issue with it being a man’s world. Women are just as capable as men. And to quote others, if you want a job done, give it to a woman.
Delores Weaver Philanthropist
Gooding, who came to Jacksonville to work for Independent Life and Accident Company in 1929, established the Lucy Gooding Charitable Foundation Trust in 1988 and made major gifts to the Boys Home Association, Episcopal School of Jacksonville, The Bolles School, Hope Haven, Sulzbacher and Community Hospice of Northeast Florida, among
“Philanthropists are born every day,” Weaver said, “and I believe many women will follow the pathway left to them
There have been many inspiring female philanthropists in Northeast Florida following this pathway through the decades, and most of them are behind the area’s most important resources and community assets. Consider Ellen Cavert – who founded the Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital in 1972 following the death of her infant granddaughter, Abbie – and Betsy Lovett, who blazed similar trails during her life, adding her signature zest and style to countless projects and nonprofit organizations, including the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, the Jacksonville Zoo, Jacksonville Historical Society, St. Vincent’s Medical Center, The Bolles School and many other agencies and institutions. Like Weaver, Lovett pursued philanthropy on her own terms. Mary Virginia Terry, who died in 2022, also gave generously to the community along with her husband, C. Herman. The Terrys are the named donors on countless community resource facilities, including Jacksonville University’s Terry Concert Hall, Terry Heart Institute at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Ascension St. Vincent’s Mary Virginia Terry Cancer Center and the University of Georgia’s C. Herman and Mary Virginia Terry College of Business. The list of inspiring female philanthropists and community changemakers is long, and many names can be found in the annals of the Florida Times-Union’s EVE Awards, an annual recognition program honoring women who have made a difference in the Northeast Florida community. Included on the lists of EVE of the Decade and the EVE Lifetime Achievement Award are such familiar and prominent forces for good as Frances Bartlett Kinne, Ph.D, Pamela Paul, Sister DeSales Wisniewski, Sherry Magill, Dr. Edith Perez, Janet Owen and many more.
A growing trend
Trends in female philanthropy follow general social and cultural trends. More women are working outside the home, traditional roles are shifting, women are making and investing more money, and more transferred wealth is ending up in the hands of women. In short, women are increasingly more empowered and fully loaded to give. Also, women tend to give to missions with which they identify personally and feel connected.
“Research shows how women’s giving has evolved as more women are participating in the workforce and as women are leaning into higher levels of achievement and shifting family roles,” said Isaiah Oliver, CEO of the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. “As a result, in our engagement, households are giving more jointly, and a significant number are giving separately.”
In Northeast Florida, women, along with their partners, are the ones opening their pocketbooks to give their time, talent and treasure to some of our area’s most important missions.
Longtime philanthropist Barbara Harrell demonstrates these findings. She and her husband, William, have given generously to many local nonprofits over the years, including HabiJax, Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, World Affairs Council of Jacksonville, Elevate Jacksonville, All Saints Episcopal Church and others.
Another star philanthropist, Linda Berry Stein, encouraged others to open their pocketbooks for a cause near and dear to her heart. As campaign chair and a major donor, Stein helped raise $14.5 million for the Jacksonville Humane Society and to rebuild the JHS Adoption, Education and Pet Help Center, which was destroyed by fire in 2007. The new building is named for Stein in recognition of her generosity.
Cracking the pocketbook
There’s no question women are making a big difference when it comes to giving and many times women like Weaver and other women philanthropic leaders in our community are making the decisions about what and to whom their gifts should make an impact. According to a 2015 study from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at the University of Indiana’s IUPUI Women’s Philanthropy Institute, women – especially single and older women – are gamechangers for giving. Here are the study’s key findings:
• “Consistent with prior research, single women are more likely than single men to give to charity. Single women donors on average give higher dollar amounts to charity than single men.
• Divorced/separated, never-married and widowed women are more likely to give, and give higher amounts, than their male counterparts.
• As women’s incomes rise, they become more likely to give to charity than their male counterparts. For the top 60% of income earners, women are more likely to give, and give more, to secular causes than their male counterparts.
• Millennial, Boomer and older (Silent/ Greatest Generation) women are more likely to give in general and to secular causes than their male counterparts.
• High net worth single women and single men do not significantly differ in their likelihood or amount of giving – either in total giving or in giving to religious or secular causes.”
Purpose-driven purse
There’s no blocking the path when women unite to stir positive change in Northeast Florida. The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital is, of course, another example of this femme-might. In mid-2024, board leaders announced the organization had raised nearly $1 million
for the hospital from its signature annual events, the 2023 First Coast Design Show and the 2023-24 Florida Forum.
The Pilot Club of Jacksonville, which organizes important fundraising and service projects to this day, is another similar group. Other female-led philanthropic groups include The Women’s Resource Network, Inc., including the Rape Crisis Center, Hubbard House, and the Women’s Center of Jacksonville, began because a group of
local community, The women-led organization headquartered in Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood, celebrated its 100th anniversary in Jacksonville this year with much fanfare and reflection. Its volunteer efforts address unmet needs in the community, including issues related to food insecurity, food deserts and nutrition education.
At one point, we were more of a giving organization not only of time and talent but of money, and over years, that focus shifted into creating a stronger platform for training our members – it’s a prong of our mission that has really blossomed.
– Kimberly Barrett President, Junior League of Jacksonville (2024-25)
women came together to make the important community resource a reality under the leadership of Shirley Webb Similar momentum was created when Ann Baker and Susan Fisher – with the support of other local environmentalists, many of them women – established Greenscape in 1975. Over the years, the local organization has sponsored tens of thousands of tree-plantings across Northeast Florida and successfully provided more green space, shade and healthier air for the community.
And what began a century ago as the Ladies’ Hebrew Sheltering Aid Society is now a formidable organization that raises important funds for the River Garden Hebrew Home for the Aged in its current 40-acre location in Mandarin, serving 180 residents. At its annual fundraising gala in 2023, the River Garden Foundation Gala raised important funds for the River Garden mission.
Rooted in the same female-led energy, The Junior League of Jacksonville continues to be “a force for change in our
The women of the Junior League of Jacksonville have partnered with more than 65 local organizations since its founding and contributed more than 10,000 volunteer hours to the Jacksonville community. Kimberly Barrett, who has been a member of the Junior League since 2015, is the league’s president for its 2024-25 year. She said the league has gotten increasingly interested in preparing its members for philanthropic leadership.
“At one point, we were more of a giving organization not only of time and talent but of money, and over years, that focus shifted into creating a stronger platform for training our members – it’s a prong of our mission that has really blossomed,” Barrett said. “In so many ways, we’ve always trained our members in any committee they serve on whether it’s fundraising or the amazing women who put on Whale of a Sale during the past 30 years – we’ve always had an amazing tradition of training fundraisers, but now realize there’s more we can do to be pivotal trustees. We’ve evolved in a sense that we now offer a wide variety of training opportunities and have a larger affiliate base to give volunteers.”
Growing stronger together
Also growing in popularity among women philanthropists are giving circles or alliances. According to a report from University of Indiana’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, giving circles in general and for all genders are on the rise.
“The number of giving circles (GCs) in the U.S. has tripled in the last decade,” the report said. “GCs are now located in every state in the U.S., and engage people from a wide variety of racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, gender identities, and age groups. GCs are estimated to have given as much as $1.29 billion to charitable causes since their inception.”
Locally, this trend can be seen through groups like the Women’s Giving Alliance. Founded by Weaver, Helen Lane and other charitable luminaries such as Courtenay Wilson, Ann Baker and Doris Carson, the WGA aimed to recruit 50 members during its inaugural year. It attracted three times that number.
In 2001, this Community Foundation initiative included 163 women. With rising membership, interest and funding, the group is providing opportunities for local women to pool their resources for maximum impact in Northeast Florida. Today, there are more than 470 members, and the group successfully directs endowed funds of $5.9 million.
100 of the 143 (69.9%) eligible applicants had female CEOs and 4,800 of the organizations’ 6,166 staff members (77.8%) were female
Women Shaping Philanthropy in Northeast Florida 2021
Working alongside individual woman philanthropists is a strong cadre of female nonprofit leaders who play a pivotal role in making philanthropic funding decisions.
The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida provided figures about the local nonprofit organizations that applied for its open, competitive grants during the past three years. The majority of applicants during the 2021, 2022 and 2023 period had female CEOs; a high percentage of their staff were also female:
• 2021: 100 of the 143 (69.9%) eligible applicants had female CEOs and 4,800 of the organizations’ 6,166 staff members (77.8%) were female.
2022
107 of the 152 (70.3%) eligible applicants had female CEOs and 3,175 of the organizations’ 4,404 staff members (72%) were female
2023
101 of the 153 (66%) eligible applicants had female CEOs and 4,297 of the organizations’ 6,195 staff members (69.3%) were female
• 2022: 107 of the 152 (70.3%) eligible applicants had female CEOs and 3,175 of the organizations’ 4,404 staff members (72%) were female.
• 2023: 101 of the 153 (66%) eligible applicants had female CEOs and 4,297 of the organizations’ 6,195 staff members (69.3%) were female.
The Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida – which maintains its office in the Jessie Ball duPont Center in downtown Jacksonville and provides services, programs and information resources and advocates for its members – is yet another example of how women are leading and staffing local nonprofit organizations: 100 percent of its five-person staff, including CEO Dawn Lockhart, are women.
“The social sector must sustain a deep bench of women leaders that understand a high quality of life for all is what builds and sustains a great community,” Lockhart said.
The Nonprofit Center commissioned the 2023 Northeast Florida Nonprofit Compensation and Benefits Survey, which included feedback from 86 eligible nonprofit organizations employing more than 6,000 people. Data was compiled on more than 3,000 individual salaries that were categorized into 106 job titles.
One of the findings from that survey shows that 70% of the participating organizations’ executive directors are female, with 30% being male. Still, according to the study, women CEOs of these local nonprofit organizations make less money than their male counterparts.
“In general, male CEOs/executive directors earn higher pay than do females,” the study findings showed. “The median base pay for all CEOs/ executive directors in the sample is $124,200 per year; for men, the median base pay for CEOs/ executive directors is $140,000 per year; for women, the median base pay for CEOs/executive directors is $121,888 per year. A clear majority (70%) of all CEO/executive directors in the sample are women.”
Northeast Florida numbers track well with national statistics on female leadership and staff of nonprofit organizations.
According to the Boston-based American Association of University Women (AAUW), women comprise 75 percent of employees in the nonprofit, education and philanthropic sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows “in 2022, 53.2 percent of workers were men and 46.8 percent were women. About two-thirds of those employed in the private nonprofit sector were women.”
During its 60-year history, the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida has had three CEOs and one of them, Nina Waters, was at the helm for more than 22 years, said current foundation CEO Isaiah Oliver
“History would show women at the community foundation are a powerful voice for philanthropy and that’s increased year over year,” Oliver said. “Women have more seats at the table.” He referenced important leaders and influencers at the foundation, including Cindy Edelman, humanitarian Martha Baker, Deborah Pass Durham and Baker’s mother-inlaw, Ann McDonald Baker.
In 2002 the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida elected Baker its first female board chair, ahead of many other organizations and indicating the importance and leadership strength of women in local philanthropy.
Oliver also pointed to the Women’s Giving Alliance, which has experienced tremendous growth and momentum in giving over the years.
“I think to date, WGA is one of the largest women’s giving circles in the country and they’ve had a record year – that’s a significant growth in women’s giving,” he said.
Women are also leading the giving efforts and holding the purse strings of many civic, corporate and public entities in Jacksonville including the City of Jacksonville, led by Mayor Donna Deegan, the city’s first female mayor. Through its Office of Strategic Partnerships and Nonprofit Gateway website, a publicphilanthropic partnership initiative, the city helps direct assistance to many organizations to support their goals. It has been a model for strategic partnerships to the Florida Philanthropic Network.
Women also continue to helm many corporate giving initiatives and foundations. Whitney Meyer is the senior vice president and chief community impact officer for the Jacksonville Jaguars, which made $2.38 million in cash donations during 2022. Susan Towler is the executive director of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Foundation, which had more than $500 million in total assets managed in 2021. The Baptist Health Foundation and its $275.9 million in assets is managed by Senior Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer Kimberly Jones. And of course, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, which managed $316.2 million in assets during the same year, is led by Mari Kuraishi.
“My experience is that women, perhaps more so than others and this is a personal opinion, first identify what their passions and life experiences are,” said Sheila Collier, immediate past president of WGA. “Those experiences as a woman lend itself to a passion for issues that affect women and girls.”
In its latest grant cycle, the WGA gave to the following local nonprofits, and announced a new area of focus concerning women and girls:
• Volunteers in Medicine Jacksonville: $49,554 (All Northeast Florida counties)
• We Care Jacksonville: $30,000 (Duval County)
“WGA was founded with the critical mission of improving the lives of women and girls across Northeast Florida,” Collier said. “We have grown from a small group of committed individuals into a powerhouse grant maker. Our recent growth in membership directly translates into increased support for women and girls across Northeast Florida.” WGA leaders also announced a new grantmaking and community involvement focus for the 2025-2026 grant year and beyond: “Addressing Violence Against Women and
Girls: Preventing, Surviving, Thriving.” The new focus – selected following rigorous research, discussion with community leaders, and a vote of members – includes violence against women and girls, including child abuse and neglect, harassment and bullying, intimate partner and domestic violence, predatory social media, rape, and sex (human) trafficking.
Women supporting women’s and girls' issues – and issues of social justice and cultural concern – is also a national trend. This is creating an important infusion of support for nonprofit organizations serving women and girls.
According to the Women and Girls Index study from October 2022, “women’s and girls’ organizations received nearly $8 billion in philanthropic support, or less than 2% of overall charitable giving, in 2019.” Other key findings include: “Reproductive health and family planning organizations received the greatest amount of philanthropic support for women’s and girls’ organizations in 2019. Gender equality and employment organizations experienced the largest increase in charitable giving to WGI organizations from 2012 to 2019;” and “Among collectives of women, organizations serving women and girls receive greater philanthropic support – and grew at a much faster rate from 2012 to 2019 – than those serving the general population.”
The future
There is an urgency to ensure women learn about service opportunities and philanthropy early in their education and careers. Youth Leadership Jacksonville offers youth of all genders the knowledge and experience to support their community. An eight-month leadership program, YLJ engages more than 50 high school sophomores from Baker, Clay, Duval and St. Johns counties, preparing them to become thoughtful, ethical leaders committed to active community involvement. The curriculum and activities focus on specific facets of the community such as government, criminal justice, human services, diversity and business. Each day combines a behind-thescenes experience, small group discussions and interactive sessions with community leaders.
Other organizations, such as the Girl Scouts , Girls Inc. and the Junior League of Jacksonville, prepare young women to search their purses for the right resources in similar ways. Through programming, meetings, and hands-on experiences, these organizations are attracting more female philanthropists to the scene.
The Weaver Philanthropic Initiative , meanwhile, is a hands-on program designed to identify, nurture and train the next generation of philanthropists. Of the recent 2024 class of 11 graduates, eight were women.
“Women that embrace their authentic selves are the torch bearers for women following in their footsteps,” the Nonprofit Center ’s Dawn Lockhart said. “We need to continue to empower young women to lead in the areas they personally connect to so we can build the future generation of nonprofit executives, board leaders, and philanthropists.”
My experience is that women, perhaps more so than others and this is a personal opinion, first identify what their passions and life experiences are. Those experiences as a woman lend itself to a passion for issues that affect women and girls.
– Sheila Collier Immediate Past President Women's Giving Alliance
a ordable housing student success disaster relief arts & culture senior services early learning good
through the power of your strategic philanthropy. When you give through The Community Foundation, you join a powerful network of donors making a positive impact in Northeast Florida. Learn how you can help make more possible at jaxcf.org/more
Rising Stars
Jacksonville’s young visionaries lead the way in giving back
By Susanna P. Barton
Jacksonville is seeing a new generation of philanthropists stepping up to make a lasting impact. These young leaders – motivated, compassionate, and driven by purpose – are pushing boundaries and setting new standards for what it means to give back. Whether they're addressing issues of equity, healthcare, environmental preservation, or community engagement, these efforts are building a legacy of care and collaboration.
Their passion and innovation remind us that change is possible when we invest in our local community and in each other. As they continue to inspire through action and service, these young philanthropists are paving the way for a more connected and compassionate Jacksonville, where generosity fuels growth and opportunity for all.
Youth community service and student-led philanthropy efforts are no longer cute quirks organized by a passionate few. Service work is now a pillar of students’ educational experience, inspiring a new body of socially conscious young people determined to be changemakers in our community.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, more than 64% of all public schools in the United States have students participate in community service activities recognized by or arranged through the school. More than half of public schools organize community service activities for their students, while 83% of high schools have students who engage in community service independently and through outreach projects.
Locally, student volunteer and philanthropy efforts continue to be a high priority. At virtually every school in Northeast Florida – from elementary classrooms to local universities – there are students supporting community outreach initiatives of varying scopes and sizes. Schools in Northeast Florida are not just places of learning, but also hubs of community service leadership development. Whether it’s through the Business for Social Good pilot program at the Jacksonville University Davis College of Business or Episcopal School of Jacksonville’s Celebrating Service Day, students across Northeast Florida are learning the importance of effective community service leadership.
“A commitment to service leadership is one of the most important guiding principles we can instill in our young people,” said Bolles President and Head of School Tyler Hodges.
“It’s not only critical in helping them understand they are part of a larger community and world, but it’s also empowering for students to realize they can make a difference, no matter what their age.”
Hodges said Bolles’ youngest students begin by practicing kindness, citizenship and mindfulness. In middle school, they begin volunteering with nonprofits and organizing fundraisers for causes that matter to them.
“I’m consistently amazed,” he said, “by the impact students can make when encouraged to put their compassion into action.”
Participation in community service activities has also become a requirement for some university scholarships and can be a differentiator for other academic pursuits. To be eligible to receive a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship award, for example, students must complete 100 hours of community service (or paid work hours or a combination of both).
Duval County Public Schools’ district website, for example, lists Bright Futures Community Service Guidelines to help students meet these scholarship standards. The document includes instructions for DCPS students on how to fulfill the community service hours they need to achieve the scholarship, including how to select a social issue, create a community service plan and find approved nonprofit organizations with which they can partner. The guidelines articulate what kinds of service hours are acceptable and encourage students to meet with counselors for specific directions. While community service is not a requirement for graduation from a DCPS school, it is imperative
A commitment to service leadership is one of the most important guiding principles we can instill in our young people. It’s not only critical in helping them understand they are part of a larger community and world, but it’s also empowering for students to realize they can make a difference, no matter what their age.
– Tyler Hodges President and Head of School, The Bolles School
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“The accommodations at Gabriel House of Care surpassed our expectations. There are so many places to find a quiet space with impeccably peaceful grounds. “
Youth Leadership Jacksonville
Sydney and his wife, Pauline.
for students looking to qualify for the prestigious state scholarship. St. Johns County School District and Clay County Schools’ Foundation websites all feature the same pages dedicated to Bright Futures Scholarships and how to develop community service initiatives.
An emphasis on developing philanthropic, involved citizens gains even more traction at the college level. Students tapped for a Presidential Service Award at the University of Florida, for example, must have completed 400 hours of community service during their overall time as UF students. Northeast Florida students have shined in this competition
Finding their passion
Helping students find their passion for serving others is much more than allowing them to garner scholarships and meet requirements. For many organizations, it is a measurable lesson in changing the world.
Elementary, middle and high schools across Northeast Florida embrace the same thinking. Many academic institutions provide the programming framework and support to ensure students are making community service and philanthropy a priority in their educational experience.
Episcopal School of Jacksonville’s Celebrating
several foundations and nonprofits, while St. Mark’s Campus lower school students showed gratitude for organizations within walking distance of their school, including the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church and Angels for Allison.
“Each year on Celebrating Service Day, we take the opportunity to remember and put into practice ESJ’s founders’ goal of forming ‘doers of good,’” said ESJ Associate Chaplain Andy Farmer.
At St. Johns Country Day School, administrators incorporate service in all three school divisions, at different levels, according to Director of Communications Regan Minners.
YouthCrisisCenter
Youth Leadership Jacksonville
Green Cove Springs pantry or a bake sale to raise money for Children’s Miracle Network. SJCDS middle schoolers go on service trips to the North Florida School of Special Education and upper school students plan fundraising events, service days and trips through the school’s Interact Club chapter and a slew of other student-led clubs.
The school also incorporates service in its annual “Winterim” event, which takes place in January and provides students in grades 6, 7, and 9 with the opportunity to participate in on- and off-campus service activities. In January, for example, Grade 6 students spent the day at Ronnie Van Zant Park, where they helped park staff with cleaning, maintenance and landscaping.
“Community service has always been an integral part of our program at St. Johns,” said Head of School Valorie Baker. “From student clubs, like Interact, to individuals, our students contribute thousands of hours of committee service each year across Northeast Florida.”
At The Bolles School, students begin learning about community service during their earliest lower school years through classroom and campus-wide community service work for groups like Dreams Come True, MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation, Woodland Acres and many other local organizations. As students develop better management skills and individual service interests in middle school, they discover new opportunities to establish, manage and lead their own initiatives through campus-based clubs and community service work.
Helping students find their passion for serving others is much more than allowing them to garner scholarships and meet requirements. It’s about providing a framework for students to prioritize community service and philanthropy, turning these values into measurable lessons that can truly change the world.
– Andy Farmer Associate Chaplain, Episcopal School of Jacksonville
On the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus, students attend Club Day – where more than 60 student clubs and activity groups are represented – and plan outreach and service events for the rest of the year. Bolles upper school students’ passion for serving others is global and reaches communities in need from Costa Rica to the Florida Keys and beyond. This intentional pursuit of service also manifests in their academic experiences. It concludes with every member of the senior class giving an honorary coin back to the school during commencement. Students also actively support class endowments that stand the test of time.
Moving up
Wanzhu Shi, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science and public administration at the University of North Florida, said this middle and high school philanthropy practice helps students become better global citizens once they reach college and life beyond. These experiences provide a base of fluency in community service that benefits everyone.
“One important lesson is building compassion in our society,” Shi said. “We always say, ‘Don’t judge someone unless you’ve walked in their shoes.’ Community services provide these ‘shoes’ to youths, which may open their eyes.”
Community service also helps students align their personal values with societal issues, Shi added.
“Students may realize that to solve a social issue, it cannot just depend on ‘I am giving,’” he said, “but ‘I and everyone else are giving together.’”
Shi said at the college level, students continue their education in community service by working as volunteers, participating in student organizations, and joining community service programs. Most higher institutions, Shi said, offer programs to encourage students’ community engagement. Faculty and staff are also well-trained to design classes with community engagement opportunities.
At UNF, for example, the students have access to the Office of Community Engagement and Partnership, which offers students opportunities to participate in community service and research opportunities for students to work with faculty to develop projects benefitting the community.
At the college level, students begin to see the broader impact of their community service efforts.
“Student-led philanthropy initiatives can help to identify deeper and unique issues, needs or problems from communities, and advocate these
issues for nonprofit sectors,” Shi said. “In the long term, nonprofit organizations can also benefit from student-led philanthropy. In nonprofit sectors, many capacities, human resources and social capital are developed by networks and relationships. Networks and relationships require time investment. Student-led philanthropy initiatives can train youth with strong leadership, management skills and the ability to work in diverse settings and cultures, all essential skills for nonprofit professionals.”
Jacksonville University’s Business Management students are stirring community good on the First Coast by helping local nonprofits improve and streamline their marketing efforts. Part of Davis College’s pilot program, “Business for Social Good,” the projects are sponsored by JU’s Center for Organizational Research and Executive Education (CORE) in conjunction with the Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida.
The students worked with the UF Health Child Protection Team (CPT), the Literacy Alliance of Northeast Florida, The Tributary, Barnabus and the Marie Barney Boston Scholarship Foundation.
Local nonprofits also provide programming to support and encourage students’ drive to do good. Leadership Jacksonville’s Youth Leadership Jacksonville program attracts 50 students from around the First Coast annually for a year-long initiative that prepares students to become “ethical leaders committed to active community involvement.” Students attend program days and retreats and learn how government, the criminal justice system, human services, diversity and business intersect in community betterment. Organizations such as the Girl Scouts of Gateway Council and the Boy Scouts of America North Florida Council develop the same kind of enthusiasm and dedication to service in youth as they make their way through the program. At the highest levels of honor within these organizations, students must complete major community service projects to achieve Eagle Scout and Gold Award status. Some of these projects are the subject of the student profiles that follow.
Equipping students with the knowledge and experience they need to effect community change has transformative results – both in developing young philanthropists and raising
National Charity League Tea
The Bolles Residential Life Program is the closest thing to what the future in college will be like—but more supervised. Students in our residential community come from all over the world, creating an enhanced and diverse academic setting. Here, they will build personal relationships, experience different cultures and make friends for life.
Explore what Bolles has to offer by visiting www.Bolles.org or calling us at (904) 256-5030.
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The Episcopal experience means learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our graduates Seek Understanding as lifelong learners; Develop a Sense of Self earned through challenge; Live with Honor and Purpose, choosing to lead, do good, and serve others; and Pursue a Life of Faith, in a way meaningful to them while respecting the dignity of every human being. Across our Four Pillars — Academics, Athletics, Fine Arts, and Spiritual Life — Episcopal students find their passions while shaping who, not what, they will become. Visit
Members of the Beaches Rotaract Club volunteer on a Habitat for Humanity home repair project
Beaches Rotaract members are highly motivated individuals. They have a deep commitment to giving back to the community, and they dedicate their time and talents to support local initiatives about which they are passionate.
important funds to support its mission. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society North Florida Region, for example, works with local studentled campaign teams to raise money and awareness. This year, student teams raised more than $230,000 for the organization.
This year, the Jacksonville chapter of the National Charity League (NCL) launched a local program to help young women learn about community service leadership. The NCL Jacksonville chapter is one of 300 active chapters in 32 states of the organization that aims to strengthen mother-daughter relationships through community service. With participating girls from more than 16 area schools, the chapter has held recent events with Angels for Allison and other local nonprofit organizations and is seeking both new charity partners as well
–
Joe Bove Past President, Beaches Rotaract Club
as new members through its website, www. nationalcharityleague.org/chapter/jacksonville/
“For the girls, NCL is about growing their appreciation for people they may not know well for a common cause and developing in them a sense of gratitude that will stay with them as they get older,” said Kimberly Fess, president of the National Charity League’s Jacksonville chapter. “We are advancing the importance of servant leadership at an earlier age and the need to give back.”
Organizations such as Rotaract, meanwhile, provide a way for young adults ages 18-35 to participate in community service while engaging in philanthropy. Jacksonville’s Beaches Rotaract Club, in fact, has been recognized nationally and internationally for engaging young professionals in philanthropic efforts.
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“Our members joins to make a difference while also enjoying the camaraderie and networking opportunities that Rotaract offers,” said Immediate Past President Joe Bove.
In the past two years, Bove said, the group has mounted several successful fundraisers to support local nonprofits that address everything from suicide prevention and prison reentry training programs to developmental disabilities and more.
“Beaches Rotaract members are highly motivated individuals,” Bove said. “They have a deep commitment to giving back to the community, and they dedicate their time and talents to support local initiatives about which they are passionate.”
The Changemakers
Whether it’s through local nonprofit organizations, schools or students themselves, youth philanthropy is a critical piece of the Northeast Florida education ecosystem. The outcome of this focus is a new generation of young people determined to make our community a better place to live.
Here are a few examples of these changemakers and their work.
Nico Flowers
Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida
In September 2024, Nico was named National Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Actor Denzel Washington presented the honor to Flowers, who received a $50,000 college scholarship, a Toyota Corolla and all-expenses paid travel experience for being selected as the organization’s national youth spokesperson in recognition of his efforts overcoming homelessness and other challenges to lead after-school clubs and mentor other teens. He has also started his own nonprofit – Youth Advocates for Racial Equity – to spread awareness to young people about the importance of voting.
Katherine D’Arienzo Mia Saenz and Hattie Todd
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, North Florida Region
Episcopal School of Jacksonville juniors Katherine D’Arienzo, Mia Saenz and Hattie Todd were named the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society North Florida Region’s 2024 Jacksonville Student Visionaries of the Year at the organization’s Visionaries of the Year gala in downtown Jacksonville. The “Talon Team” raised $123,813 during their seven-week fundraising campaign to support the local nonprofit’s mission.
Luke Meyers
Groundwork Jacksonville
As part of his service project to earn the rank of Eagle Scout, Troop 159 Boy Scout Luke Meyers created a handicapped accessible garden. In addition to planning, budgeting and raising funds for the project, Meyers led a group of peers and volunteers to build three raised beds in the Daily Manna Community Garden at 426 Smith St. The 32" tall beds provide accessible gardening for those in wheelchairs or with difficulty gardening in low beds.
for Autism. Her Golf for Autism event, held at The Yards, raised more than $20,000 for the school. Nahar was inspired by her love for her brother and the desire to make a difference for those also affected by autism.
Ar ts education c reates tomorrow’s leaders. It enhances the creative capacity of young people and empowers them to analyze, innovate and create.
Charlotte Peverley Blessings in a Backpack
Ponte Vedra High School Class of 2024 graduate Charlotte Peverley made community service a mainstay of her high school years. In addition to starting the Bakery Book Exchange – which collected 3,000 books for local literacy programs – Peverley created Stop the Summer Slide, a program that supplies summer enrichment workbooks to local school children served by Blessings in a Backpack. For her efforts, Peverley was recognized in 2024 with the Ponte Vedra Beach Rotary Club’s Local Hero Award.
Bridget
Sutter
Mandarin Food Bank
What started as a small summer camp program for children has become an opportunity for Bishop Kenny student Bridget Sutter to support community needs. Each summer, Sutter runs a four-day arts and crafts camp that features a small food drive to support the Mandarin Food Bank. “I ask the parents to bring any extra canned goods they might have,” Sutter explained, “then I use some of the money I get to buy more specific items the food bank needs.”
Katie Rookey
Beaches Go Green
Environmentally minded Katie Rookey, shown here on the right, is an eighth grader making strides to help St. Paul’s Catholic School in Jacksonville Beach go green through the school’s Beaches Go Green Club. Her efforts include spearheading the St. Paul’s Greener Lunches project and was instrumental in St. Paul’s “Fast Fashion Show,” which featured brought upcycled fashion to the runway.
Move Ahead with Adult Ed
The Literacy Alliance’s mission is to improve the self-sufficiency, economic mobility, and quality of life for adults through continuing education and literacy skill building with personalized, flexible, goals-based tutoring and small group instruction. Together with our partners, we create community and neighborhood access to adult literacy and adult education for individuals of all skill levels. Educational opportunities can support adults learning to read, building foundational skills, or working to complete their high-school diploma.
Florida
Literacy Coalition’s
Adult Learner of the Year
As an adult student, this journey has been both challenging and triumphant. If I had been told a few years ago that I would have my GED I wouldn’t have believed it.
I wouldn’t have believed it because my upbringing was so difficult, I didn’t believe in much. At 10 years old, I became an orphan. When my dad died, my mom lost custody while she was in prison. So I lived with my grandmother and great grandmother. It was fine for awhile, but they both got sick and in 8th grade I had to drop out of school to take care them. I cared for them around the clock. Giving them baths, meals and administering meds was a lot of responsibility. It made me grow up fast. This was my entire life. Finally, at 18, my nana passed away and my grandmother moved in with my aunt and uncle. I knew this was my time. It was time to get out of this cycle and let education lead the way.
I heard about Literacy Alliance from my co-worker who was attending classes there. She said it was free and they offered tutoring for adults, so i enrolled. But the transition to being an adult student was hard. It was a commitment to myself and a challenge to my insecurities of not being good enough or smart enough. Elizabeth and my teacher would call and check in with me even when I wasn’t the most consistent. Being an adult learner was hard juggling work and school, but I stayed in my rhythm.
With the encouragement of my teacher and classmates, I was able to get my GED. After, I looked for a job with better opportunities. I saw that Literacy Alliance was looking for AmeriCorps members. They were very excited to accept me into the program. Working with Literacy Alliance and AmeriCorps has made me realize how much I love learning and helping people help themselves, so I’ve decided to get a degree in social work. Last Saturday, I applied for college. I am proud to say, that I will be starting at FSCJ this fall.
Mikeelah Pate
Don't Miss a Beat
During her time with Don’t Miss a Beat, Mikeelah Pate hasn’t let any personal or health challenges impede her from pursuing her passion for theater, singing or working with the youth at DMAB’s summer camp. The Ribault High School senior has earned the nickname “Grandma” from the younger children she’s worked with in her leadership roles with the organization, personifying its mission to enlighten and engage youth through musical theater production. During her tenure with DMAB, she has held a lead role in more than 13 productions. After graduating, she plans to attend FSCJ in fall 2025 on scholarship for its musical theatre program.
Anne Charles Zimmer and Olivia Daniel
Presidential Service Award Winners University of Florida
Jacksonville natives Anne Charles Zimmer and Olivia Daniel both received a 2024 Presidential Service Award at the University of Florida. One of the university’s highest service honors, the award involves a rigorous application process, including an essay and completion of at least 400 hours of community service during their time at UF.
Curtis Jackson
ELEVATE Jacksonville
Ever since he first stood to speak at the Elevate Jacksonville class, Curtis Jackson has found a passion for public speaking and stood out among his peers. The Jean Ribault middle schooler has overcome personal challenges and losses to take on more leadership roles, including student leader of his school’s new positive behavior system, Isibindi House, for which he was hand-selected by the school principal. Through the classes and mentorships offered by ELEVATE Jacksonville, Jackson has honed his public speaking skills and now speaks at his church, following in the footsteps of his late great-grandfather, affectionately known as Paw Paw. Jackson plans to apply to Florida State, University of Florida and Alabama State for a degree in business administration.
Lachlan Lovett
Family Promise of Jacksonville
Answering Family Promise of Jacksonville’s call for aid, Bolles sophomore Lachlan Lovett has raised nearly $100,000 to date for the organization’s annual Cardboard City fundraising event. The campout event challenges participants to build a cardboard structure to be their sleeping quarters for the night to raise awareness of what unhoused families face on a regular basis.
Academic Excellence
Since 1948, Riverside Presbyterian Day School has been dedicated to providing a strong foundation for childhood education, paving the way for a lifetime of learning. Our mission is to educate the mind, nurture the spirit, and support the development of the whole child.
At Riverside, we offer a child-centered learning environment for students in PreK 3 through 6th grade, where imagination and curiosity thrive. We invite you to visit our campus and discover the possibilities awaiting you at Riverside.
for PreK 3 - 6th Grade for the 2025-26 school
www.rpds.com 904.353.3459
Divine, age 4, and Kelly M., RN, Wolfson Children’s Hospital
hope starts here.
When Divine, then 2 years old, ended up in the Wolfson Children’s ER after a fall at home, no one could’ve imagined that diagnostic tests for her minor injury would lead to a diagnosis of bilateral Wilm’s tumor, a rare type of kidney cancer. The brave little girl began a more than two-year journey that included kidney surgery and chemotherapy at Wolfson Children’s Hospital. Thanks to philanthropic support from individuals and our community, children like Divine have hope for the future.
EMERGING LEADERS FELLOWSHIP
Jacksonville’s Preeminent
“Eight years later, this is the reality of the vision we set out to bring to Jacksonville. We now know what is possible, as a result of the relationships forged through the Fellowship. It has inspired us to raise the bar each year of being the preeminent influence organization in Jacksonville.”
—Chris Warren Founder
“We all want to see this city live up to its full potential and raise our children in a place that has the arts, culture, and job opportunities that rival the largest cities. To do that, we need to continue to cultivate the next generation of leaders and this organization does just that.”
—Andrew Kisz Founder
“I continue to be impressed by the talent, maturity, and growth that I’ve seen in our Emerging Leaders. Many are no longer emerging, but growing companies at the highest positions of leadership.”
—Mike Hightower Fellowship Namesake
“While the generosity of time, wisdom, and vulnerability from our featured speakers is also unique to the program, the bonds created amongst class members will continue to be seen for years – in board rooms, at fundraisers, on campaigns, and beyond.”
—Thomas Lee IV Founder
Leadership Development Organization
JAX CHAMBER HIGHTOWER EMERGING LEADERS FELLOWSHIP
The Hightower Emerging Leaders Fellowship brings together a class of talented professionals with prominent and influential Jacksonville leaders. Fellows build relationships and learn from Jacksonville leaders who are giving back to the next generation. These round-table discussions will take place in a setting that allows for candid discussion about how these leaders achieved their career success, as well as their challenge for the next generation inheriting the city.
*All applicants must be members of JAX Chamber upon acceptance into the Fellowship and between the ages of 26 and 40 years old. If you are employed on the staff of a company with active membership in JAX Chamber, you are a member.
Association of Fundraising Professionals FL, First Coast Chapter Awards
Inspiring Change, Elevating Communities
Recognizing the heroes who personify philanthropy
In a world where visionaries drive transformative change, we take a moment to celebrate the excellence that inspires us all. The Association of Fundraising Professionals Florida First Coast Chapter honors Northeast Florida’s philanthropy champions – those who elevate our community through their advocacy and generosity. We salute the individuals and organizations who are making a significant impact, filling crucial gaps and redefining the meaning of community giving.
Lifetime Achievement
Paul Bosland
NOMINATED BY: BAPTIST HEALTH AND WOLFSON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
Paul C. Bosland is a beloved community volunteer who has been actively involved in philanthropy and leadership of numerous organizations for more than 30 years. The former board chair of Wolfson Children’s Hospital and Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Paul previously was a driving force for New Jersey-based Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation, providing the lead gift for their first campaign. Paul has supported Wolfson Children’s and Baptist Health for more than 33 years, providing nearly $2 million to support initiatives such as the Wolfson Children’s Challenge, the Baptist Nassau Capital Campaign, Wolfson Children’s expansion programs, the Baptist Health Clinical School for team members, the Baptist Jacksonville structural heart program and the Borowy Family Children’s Critical Care Tower for critically ill and injured children. In 2016, he also established a named endowment to support community health and wellness activities for Baptist Medical Center Nassau.
Outstanding Champion of Diversity
Adam Chaskin
NOMINATED BY: JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
Jewish Community Alliance (JCA) CEO Adam Chaskin often says that while “Jewish” may be the first name of the agency, its middle name is “Community.” This belief drives his work, especially when the community faces challenges. In 2022, after antisemitic messages were projected in several locations across Jacksonville, Adam partnered with other Jewish agencies to push for legislation making it illegal to project images onto privately owned buildings. Thanks to their efforts, this legislation was passed in January 2023.
Adam also joined First Coast YMCA CEO Eric Mann to launch “Together Against Hate: Promoting Unity in Our Community.” Designed to combat all forms of hate and bias, the program organized six events throughout the city, culminating in the first-ever Racing Against Hate 5K Run/Walk.
Under Adam’s guidance, the JCA has embarked on a capital campaign, raising over $13.9 million to renovate and expand the JCA campus. His unwavering dedication ensures that the JCA remains a premier institution serving the community.
Ace Hardware has built a strong legacy of community service and commitment through its partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The Jacksonville Ace Group (JAG) has consistently supported UF Health Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital, raising substantial funds through year-round efforts.
JAG takes its commitment further by organizing local events, including a vendor dinner with auction proceeds benefiting CMN Hospitals. These efforts have resulted in over $2.7 million raised since 1991, with members leading additional fundraising activities like the Ace Fore Kids Golf Tournament. This dedication has had a profound impact on pediatric healthcare in Northeast Florida.
JAG’s contributions in 2023 alone totaled over $408,000, making it the highest fundraising group in the Southeast. Its donations have directly funded essential equipment and advanced care initiatives, improving the lives of countless children. Ace Hardware’s culture of helping extends beyond their stores, making them a trusted partner in enhancing healthcare for the community.
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
Lauren Baker
NOMINATED BY: UNF MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART JACKSONVILLE
Following in the footsteps of the civic-minded women who founded MOCA 100 years ago, Lauren Baker is paving the way for the next generation of philanthropists.
As a MOCA trustee, Lauren has devoted countless hours to improving quality of life in our community. Lauren transformed the museum’s fundraising efforts. Most notably, she chaired MOCA’s Centennial Gala: A Walk on the Wild Side, encouraging others to participate in philanthropic community service and assembling committees to plan and promote the Gala.
Lauren currently serves on the First Coast YMCA Metro Board of Directors and has previously served on the Christ Episcopal Church Preschool Board and the PVPV Rawlings Elementary School PTO Board. Lauren is the kind of philanthropist who inspires others to give back and helps to make Jacksonville the kind of place where people want to work, live and play.
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty (BHHSFNR) exemplifies corporate philanthropy through its enduring partnership with Dreams Come True (DCT), Northeast Florida’s nonprofit that brings hope to children battling life-threatening illnesses. Since 2013, BHHSFNR has raised over $258,000, sponsoring dreams for 44 children. Its involvement extends beyond fundraising, with employees actively participating in dream parties, special celebrations, and events like DCT’s annual Walk, Run, and Roll 5K, raising an additional $90,000.
Beyond DCT, BHHSFNR has contributed to various community initiatives. The company’s annual Backpack Challenge has donated over 10,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, and their Holiday Luminarias with Pine Castle event supports adults with intellectual and developmental differences. BHHSFNR’s dedication to local causes is reflected in its engagement with over 50 nonprofit organizations, making a lasting impact on the community through financial contributions, volunteerism, and leadership.
Mayo Clinic
NOMINATED BY: SULZBACHER
Mayo Clinic is a pillar of philanthropy in Jacksonville, Florida, contributing nearly $6 million to support close to 100 organizations in 2023 alone. Notably, Mayo Clinic donated $5 million to Sulzbacher’s Enterprise Village, a comprehensive facility addressing homelessness through housing, healthcare, and job training. This contribution underscores Mayo Clinic’s commitment to improving healthcare access in underserved communities.
Mayo Clinic’s philanthropic efforts extend to various causes, including mental health, senior care, and reentry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals. Its leadership in community health initiatives, such as the Blue Zones Project and the Community Health Collaborative, highlights its dedication to fostering a healthier Northeast Florida. Mayo Clinic also encourages volunteerism, with over 400 employees contributing nearly 2,500 hours of service in 2023, reflecting their deep-rooted commitment to giving back to the community.
Ryan Smith
NOMINATED BY: JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY
Ryan is a shining example of dedication and making a positive impact on others. A recent graduate of Jacksonville University, he served as treasurer of Sigma Chi Fraternity and participated in multiple community outreach projects.
His professional endeavors, such as establishing Winward Strategies in 2022, are a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to driving economic growth in the region.
Ryan shows his dedication to philanthropic causes through engagement with organizations such as the Child Cancer Fund, Huntsman Cancer Foundation and K9s for warriors. In 2022, Ryan committed to a multi-year gift to support both the School of Aviation and Aviation students at JU. He not only serves on the aviation advisory board, but also as a mentor to his scholarship students. In 2023, Ryan received the Scott Amos Alumnus of Distinction Award.
Ryan’s contributions and dedication to philanthropy, community service and mentorship exemplify what it is to be an inspiring example for the next generation of civic leaders.
Betty Berkman
NOMINATED BY: BARNABAS CENTER, INC., NASSAU COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING, AND BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF NASSAU COUNTY
Betty Berkman is a true example of love of community through her family gifts and championing of organizations in Amelia Island. Betty recently provided $1 million for the Council on Aging’s Berkman Pavilion and Memorial Garden as well as a gift to the Boys and Girls Club to build a new teen center in Nassau County. Betty was recently awarded the 2024 Boys & Girls Club of Nassau County’s Champion of Youth Award, acknowledging her contributions to the betterment of youth.
Betty’s support is also evident at the Barnabas Center, where she helped create the David Berkman and Dr. Ken Owens Fund for Professional Excellence, helping the Barnabas Center recruit, train and maintain top talent.
Betty has touched many in the community with her support of Baptist Medical Center Nassau, Story and Song Center for Arts & Culture, the YMCA, Fernandina Beach playground and many more. She exemplifies what it means to be an Outstanding Community Philanthropist.
Samantha
“ “
Nonprofits are critical to our Northeast Florida community, and I’m so thankful to live in a city that values philanthropy.
Our AFP Florida First Coast Chapter’s role is to elevate ethical fundraising standards, ensuring that our fundraising professionals have the resources they need so our nonprofits can serve those who depend on us each day.
AFP is an invaluable resource for our nonprofit community. Whenever we can bring together our members to collaborate, provide education and resources we are able to lift up our sector and advance philanthropy on the First Coast.
For more than 60 years, AFP has been the standard for professionalism in fundraising. AFP represents more than 40,000 members in 230 chapters across the world by working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs.
You can help support the advancement of philanthropy on the First Coast by making a gift today to the Be the Cause Campaign for the AFP Foundation. With your participation, the Foundation can continue providing the education, training and resources members need to enhance nonprofit organizations around the world and on the First Coast. In addition, each gift you make will take the First Coast Chapter one step closer to reaching its dollar goal and qualifying for the Chapter Partnership Grant. With your help, we can make the goal! Please consider making a gift today at afpglobal.org/donate.
www.community.afpnet.org/afpflfirstcoastchapter
Meet the AFP Board Members
Sara McMillan, CFRE President
Sam D'Agostino, MBA President-Elect
Chaz Runfola, MPA Immediate Past President
Jan Kary, CFRE CFRE & Mentor Program
Nikki Sabol Vice President, Communications
Brigette Todd Communications Co-Chair
Megan Ortega Methven Vice President, Education
Josh Hirsch
Florida Caucus Representative
Gabe Grass
Foundation Development Chair
Lovely Greer IDEA Chair
Kyajuana Gilbert Membership Chair
Brittany Upchurch, MBA
National Philanthropy Day Chair
Olivia Smith
National Philanthropy Day Co-Chair
Dave Cognetta, CFRE Scholarships Chair
KT Boling Socials Chair
Kacie Smyth, MHA
Socials Co-Chair
Lacey Rumberger
Treasurer/Secretary
Morgan Hutchison Collegiate Chapters Chair
Lisa Maldonado
Chapter Administrator
Sara McMillan, CFRE
Chapter President
2024 AFP Florida, First Coast
D’Agostino, MBA
President-Elect
AFP Florida, First Coast
$4 MILLION
OCTOBER 3-5, 2025 OCTOBER 3-5, 2025 Join
R GISTER CHA ITY
A Safe Haven for Veterans in Crisis
Five Star Veterans Center provides transitional housing for veterans in crisis. Our 40-bedroom facility offers safety and support for those veterans dealing with the hidden scars of battle like PTSD, TBIs, and other mental and emotional health traumas. In addition to housing, we provide all the wrap-around services for our vets to successfully transition back to independent living without worry. Free services such as cooked meals, laundry, internet and satellite TV, a gym with a cardio room, rec room, and most importantly a complete mental wellness program provided by licensed counselors. We also work with local groups to place our veterans into quality employment, housing, enrollment into college, VA benefits, drug interdiction programs, and more.
Our veterans in crisis need your help. Donate to Five Star Veterans Center at www.5svc.org.
MUSEUM OF
JACKSONVILLE
Celebrating 100 Years of Art, Artists and Ideas!
In 2024, the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), a Cultural Institute of the University of North Florida, celebrated its 100th anniversary, making it the oldest visual arts organization in the area, one of the first art museums in Florida and one of the oldest museums of modern and contemporary art in the country.
The museum was founded in 1924 by four local women artists with a vision for the rich, vital and dynamic city they wanted to live in and be a part of. At the core of this vision was a strong foundation of arts, culture and education. They believed that beauty is important to society, that it is a democratic value and that art and culture should be accessible to everyone. A century later, these very same goals remain at the core of MOCA’s mission to promote the discovery, knowledge and advancement of the art, artists and ideas of our time.
MOCA celebrated its centennial year with both reflection and intention – looking to the past to recognize the legacy of the visionary leaders and important milestones that have brought it to this point. The museum marked this pivotal moment with extraordinary exhibitions and programs that not only elevated MOCA, but also provided a stimulus to create an energized destination for our Downtown to build upon. At the same time, MOCA imagined our great city’s future, nourishing our community through art and culture for the next 100 years.
MOCA has celebrated this amazing milestone and a 100-year legacy of impact on Northeast Florida through groundbreaking exhibitions, engaging public programs and special events, all of which bring attention to Jacksonville as a world-class cultural destination. These events also highlighted the incredible engagement of our local community and the power of the arts to unite people.
MOCA thanks the community for all of its support during the museum’s centennial.
Understanding the Charity Register
Each listing is populated based on information provided from the charity or foundation. Public charities are listed in TURQUOISE. They provide direct services with broad public purposes, and can accept donations from the general public. Private foundations are listed in ROSE. They distribute money primarily through grants to public charities or individuals, and do not solicit funds from the public.
Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these listings. If your nonprofit's information needs to be changed, or you would like your charity and events listed in the 2026 Circles – Charity Register and Social Datebook, please email us at circlesmagjax@gmail.com.
Mission: To provide displaced military veterans the safe housing and the supportive services they need to successfully transition to living independently in a place they call home.
Mission: To build flourishing communities where everyone has a home. Our Vision: A society where housing is a right, not a privilege, and all individuals have safe, affordable housing in vibrant communities.
ACKERMAN CANCER FOUNDATION
10881 San Jose Blvd., 32223 | (904) 880-5522 ackermancancerfoundation.org | info@ackermancancerfoundation.org; gigi@ackermancancercenter.com
Mission: The Ackerman Cancer Foundation was established to improve the quality of life for those touched by cancer. Our mission is to provide a wide variety of patient support services including financial assistance, educational programs and counseling to patients in need during their cancer treatments.
Mission: Aging True Community Senior Services is a non-profit organization providing essential and innovative services and care for individuals, families and communities throughout Northeast Florida to prepare for and support graceful aging since 1962.
Mission: The Aidyn Mae Hope Fund has partnered with Believe in A Cure, a nonprofit founded by a fellow FOXG1 parent. This nonprofit is leading intensive research efforts into a Gene Replacement Therapy (GRT) for FOXG1 syndrome, focusing on providing a new copy of the FOXG1 gene to control the production of the protein and improve the symptoms that take place due to the deficiency.
ALFRED I. DUPONT CHARITABLE TRUST
510 Alfred duPont Pl., 32202 | (904) 394-9800 alfrediduponttrust.org
Chief Operating Officer: Kara P. Riley
Mission: As stewards of the vision of Mr. Alfred I. duPont’s will, we preserve the Nemours Estate® for the benefit of the public and we provide resources to Nemours Children’s Health in order to make the greatest impact on the health and lives of children globally.
Mission: AFJax’s mission is to encourage and develop knowledge of the French language and French and Francophone cultures and to foster cultural, intellectual and artistic exchanges between the United States, France and French-speaking countries.
Success Story
The Power of Compassion: A Family’s Journey Comes Full-Circle
The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS) helped Kala and Paul Carlson turn a lifelong dream into reality: adopting Kiara, a foster child who has found a permanent home with them. Inspired by Paul’s own adoption story, the Carlsons began their journey as foster parents in 2020. Since then, their family has grown in love and purpose, embracing both the rewards and challenges of fostering.
Kala found a profound joy in being a foster mother alongside raising the couple’s two sons, Liam and Sawyer. Paul, a Navy veteran, was adopted from Korea at three months old, and this experience inspired his and Kala’s shared commitment to providing a safe, loving home for children in need. Strong advocates for reunification, they celebrate each child’s return to their birth family while acknowledging the bittersweet emotions that go along with the transitions. Many of these children remain a cherished part of their lives, forming an extended family network.
When Kiara was just four days old, JFCS placed her in the Carlsons’ care after her mother faced significant challenges, including homelessness and mental health issues. JFCS case managers supported the Carlsons every step of the way, and on Sept. 12, 2024, at nine months old, Kiara was officially adopted into the Carlson family, with Liam, 12, and Sawyer, 10, joyfully embracing their new role as big brothers.
Families are not only built by blood but also by love and unwavering support. Through its tireless work, JFCS exemplifies what is possible when dedicated professionals and a caring community come together.
To learn more about The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services, or to donate to help the families it serves, visit JFCSJax.org
ALLISON BRUNDICK HARAMIS FOUNDATION - ANGELS FOR ALLISON 2905 Corinthian Ave., Ste. 2, 32210 | (904) 329-1453 angelsforallison.org | angelsforallison@gmail.com
Mission: Our mission is to discover treatments and a cure for ALS, and to serve, advocate for, and empower people affected by ALS to live their lives to the fullest.
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION - CENTRAL AND NORTH FLORIDA CHAPTER
Chapter Headquarters: 2170 W. State Road 434, Longwood,32779 | (407) 951-7992 alz.org/cnfl | jhmarshall@alz.org
FB: AlzCNFL | IG: alzassociation
Executive Director: Jessica Marshall
Mission: The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.
Mission: The American Civility Association works to reverse the rising tide of anger, rude behaviors and bullying by educating individuals and families about the dangers of incivility and to equip them with heart tools to live safer and happier lives.
Mission: The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
ANGELWOOD
5600 Spring Park Road, 32216 | (904) 288-7259 angelwoodjax.org | abeaty@angelwoodjax.org; dtuttle@angelwoodjax.org
FB: AngelwoodJax | IG: angelwoodjax
Chief Executive Officer: Diane Tuttle
Mission: Proudly providing unparalleled services to children, adults and families living with disabilities.
Mission: Jacksonville’s ACPS provides animal control to the citizens in Jacksonville by fair enforcement and community education. It also enhances the quality of life in our neighborhoods by offering quality pets for adoption at a reasonable cost.
Mission: An advocacy group determined to advance projects for the City of Jacksonville that will provide greater prosperity, growth, and revenues to benefit all citizens. The goal of AquaJax is to build a world-class aquarium on the riverfront in downtown Jacksonville.
THE ARC JACKSONVILLE
1050 North Davis St., 32209 | (904) 355-0155 arcjacksonville.org | development@arcjacksonville.org; kbates@arcjacksonville.org
FB: TheArcJacksonville | IG: thearcjacksonville
President/CEO: Kari Bates
Mission: The Arc Jacksonville serves and advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental differences to achieve their full poten tial and to participate in community life.
Mission: Our purpose is to operate a wildlife rehabilitation/research facility. Specifically, wildlife which is endangered, injured or orphaned with a sanctuary for impaired or non-releasable wildlife.
ARK WILDLIFE RESCUE & REHABILITATION
700 W. Pope Rd., #1-65, St. Augustine, 32080 | (904) 679-1533 thearkrescue.org | thearkwildliferescue@gmail.com
Mission: Arlington Community Services is a food bank and crisis center. Our mission is to support our community and serve our fellow man. We work to ensure that all are cared for and loved.
Mission: The Arthritis Foundation helps to conquer everyday battles through life-changing information and resources, access to optimal care, advancements in science and community connections.
ARTHUR VINING DAVIS FOUNDATIONS
814 N. Hwy. A1A, Ste. 300, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32082 | (904) 359-0670 avdf.org | office@avdf.org
President: Michael Murray
Mission: The organization serves to strengthen America through philanthropy to religious, charitable, scientific, literary and educational purposes within the United States and its territories.
Mission: Art With a Heart in Healthcare (AWAHIH) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing fine art experiences in healthcare settings, both at the bedside and in group settings, to enhance the healing process for patients and their families.
ASCENSION ST. VINCENT’S FOUNDATION
1 Shircliff Way, 32204 | (904) 308-7306
givestvincents.org | thefoundation@ascension.org
FB: GiveStVincents | IG: stvhsfoundation
President: Patrick N. Henry II
Mission: Rooted in the loving ministry of Jesus as healer, we commit ourselves to serving all persons, with special attention to those who are poor and vulnerable. Our Catholic health ministry is dedicated to spiritually centered holistic care, which sustains and improves the health of individuals and communities. We are advocates for a compassionate and just society through our actions and our words.
AYLA’S ACRES NO KILL ANIMAL RESCUE, INC.
413 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 32080 | (904) 484-8792
aylasacres.org
FB: AylasAcresAnimalRescue | IG: aylasacres
Mission: We support adoption, spay and neuter, and responsible care of animals. Along with education, outreach, and adoption and fostering programs, Ayla’s Acres also maintains a 45-acre sanctuary where “unadoptable” animals may live out heir lives with peace, love and dignity.
Serving Up Success: Al’s Pizza, NFSSE Partnership Empowers Students
The partnership between Al’s Pizza and North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE) has become a remarkable story of community collaboration, vocational training and empowerment for young adults with intellectual and developmental differences. This innovative partnership provides NFSSE students with real-world experience through the school’s culinary arts and vocational training programs, preparing them for meaningful employment in the food service industry.
At the heart of the partnership is the operation of two Al’s Pizza locations within EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars. For every home game, NFSSE students, with guidance from vocational job coaches, prepare and serve food to fans, contributing to a dynamic and highpressure environment that mirrors the demands of commercial kitchens.
The partnership’s impact is profound. Students earn paychecks for their work – a tangible affirmation of their abilities and efforts. The opportunity to be compensated for their labor not only boosts their self-esteem but also emphasizes the value of their contributions to the workforce. Many students have expressed newfound confidence in their ability to work in the community, an essential step toward greater independence.
Looking ahead, NFSSE hopes to expand this partnership by building more relationships with businesses in the restaurant and hospitality industries, providing a broader range of employment opportunities for students. The success of this collaboration has proven that when businesses and educational institutions come together with a shared mission, they can create lasting change in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental differences, while also strengthening the community as a whole.
Ultimately, the partnership between NFSSE and Al’s Pizza is a shining example of how vocational training programs can unlock potential, foster independence and transform lives – one pizza at a time.
Success Story
KIPP JACKSONVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
KIPP Keeps Its Promise
Mahiya Lawson is a math teacher at KIPP Impact Academy, though her journey with KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools started in 2009 as a 5th grader at KIPP Impact Academy. Mahiya had never been to a school with such high procedural structure or academic rigor, but over time she acclimated to the new procedures and routines. When Mahiya recounted her years as a KIPPster, she spoke passionately about the college and high school tours that started in the 8th grade. KIPP hadn’t yet expanded to high school instruction, so finding the right high school environment to continue her journey was a priority. One of those high school tours led Mahiya to the Bolles School of Jacksonville. With the help of KIPP, she was accepted into Bolles with an academic scholarship.
Adjusting to Bolles also took some time but KIPP had prepared Mahiya for any future environment, including a prestigious private school. The college tours Mahiya attended during her time at KIPP were also formative experiences. After touring Howard University and recognizing its prestige, Mahiya decided to apply. The KIPP Forward program supported her through the application process, connecting her with a Howard University alum who provided Mahiya with insights and advice for this important decision. Eventually, Mahiya was accepted into Howard University. After college, Mahiya came back to Jacksonville where she served as an AmeriCorps Member with City Year Jacksonville. Through that experience, she fell in love with K-12 education, and returned to KIPP - this time as an educator. She is now a 7th grade Math Teacher and Grade Level Chair. Her full-circle experience with KIPP represents what’s possible for students.
KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools, also known as KIPP Jax, was founded in 2010 by visionary philanthropists, dedicated education advocates, and families seeking another option for their children. Almost 15 years later, KIPP Jax operates 4 schools with over 3,100 students. With a mission to create joyful, academically excellent schools, KIPP Jacksonville is honored to continue to serve the north and west sides of this city.
THE BAIRFIND FOUNDATION - THE MISSING CHILD PROJECT
8777 San Jose Blvd., Ste. 803, 32217 | (412) 926-7456
BaptistJax.com and WolfsonChildrens.com | Foundation@bmcjax.com
President and CEO: Michael A. Mayo, DHA, FACHE
Mission: Baptist Health is the area’s only locally governed, faith-based, mission-driven, not-forprofit health system in Northeast Florida comprised of over 200 points of care and six hospitals, including Wolfson Children’s Hospital – the region’s only children’s hospital.
Mission: Our mission is to provide help and hope to individuals and families in need throughout Nassau County, Florida, to improve their stability, health and well-being.
Mission: BASCA’s mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental differences in Northeast Florida
Success Story
BEACHES COUNCIL ON AGING
3410 3rd St. S., Jacksonville Beach, 32250 | (904) 246-1477, ext. 1 beachescoa.org | info@beachesdialaride.org; LAnderson@beachesdialaride.org
FB: Beachescoa | IG: Beachescoa
Executive Director: Lori Anderson
Mission: The Beaches Council on Aging improves the quality of life for senior residents of the Beaches by connecting them, to people, services and places, with care.
BEACHES GO GREEN
320 1st St. N, Ste. 701, Jacksonville Beach, 32250 | (904) 575-1175 beachesgogreen.org | annemarie@beachesgogreen.org
FB: Beachesgogreen | IG: Beachesgogreen
Founder/Executive Director: Anne Marie Moquin
Mission: Beaches Go Green, a Northeast Florida environmental education nonprofit, aims to create awareness & education around the waste that we produce and how it impacts our health and the health of the planet.
Mission: Beaches Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry dedicated to eliminating substandard housing in Jacksonville’s Beaches. In addition to building and rehabilitating quality, affordable homes for qualified families in need at no profit, the nonprofit guides its partner families through home ownership and provides educational opportunities.
Mission: Our mission is to provide emergency assistance and a path to economic stability.
BEN’S PLACE SERVICES, INC.
4530-15 St. Johns Ave., Unit 325, 32210 | (904) 418-2299 bensplacecof.org | info@bensplacecof.org
FB: bensplacecof | IG: bensplace2004
Executive Director: Anne M. Yarbrough
Mission: The nonprofit serves individuals with developmental or acquired disabilities filling aneed for them to have a place to socialize. It provides a great environment for individuals to interact and learn life skills, including personal communication skills, art, and music appreciation. Supported employment and respite care services are available.
BEST BUDDIES INTERNATIONAL
4600 Touchton Rd. E, Deerwood Park N, Ste. 150 32246 | (904) 296-0510 bestbuddies.org/florida | jacksonville@bestbuddies.org; sarahjeter@bestbuddies.org
FB: bestbuddiesfl | IG: bestbuddiesfl
Deputy Director, Development: Sarah Jeter
Mission: Offering One-to-One Friendship, Integrated Employment, Leadership Development and Inclusive Living programs for individuals with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Florida.
Mission: Better Together is a nonprofit that builds strong families and communities by empowering parents and job seekers with meaningful connections, work opportunities, mentoring and short-term care for children.
SAFETY SHELTER OF ST. JOHNS COUNTY, INC. DBA BETTY GRIFFIN
CENTER
2450 Old Moultrie Rd., Ste. 202, St. Augustine, 32086 | (904) 808-8544 bettygriffincenter.org | info@bettygriffincenter.org; kellyf@bettygriffincenter.org
FB: BettyGriffinCenter | IG: bettygriffincenter
Chief Executive Officer: Kelly Franklin
Mission: To help survivors of domestic and sexual violence navigate through their life-changing traumas to live fulfilling lives on their terms.
FB: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida | IG: bbbsnefl
CEO: Sara Alford
Mission: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida’s mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
Mission: To support children with intellectual and developmental challenges in their pursuit of full, independent lives and provide support to first responders, with the goal of improving their ability to safely carry out their vital lifesaving work
BLESSINGS IN A BACKPACK FIRST COAST CHAPTER
4300 Lakeside Dr. Unit 8, 32210 | (904) 237-9340 firstcoast.blessingsinabackpack.org
FB: FirstCoastBlessings | IG: blessingsfirstcoast
Mission: Blessings in a Backpack mobilizes communities, individuals, and resources to provide food on the weekends for elementary school children across America who might otherwise go hungry. First Coast Chapter partners with 46 schools to close the nutritional gap that weekends bring to more than 5500 children that depend on their school for food.
Mission: BCO creates cutting-edge opera by producing works in innovative and revolutionary ways, cultivating and educating new audiences while enriching our cultural landscape. We aspire to build community by forging a vision of opera that is universally accessible, inclusive of underrepresented voices, and which showcases regional and emerging artists.
“It took me losing everything to be restored and healthy”
An only child, Sheila was raised by a single mom who abused alcohol and suffered a string of broken marriages. “There were a lot of people in and out of my life, and a lot of things happened,” Sheila said. Bad things no child should be exposed to or endure.
As a result, she had to grow up fast and provide for herself at a very young age.
Her mother’s neglect made Sheila angry. As her resentment grew, she began acting out, eventually adopting the self-destructive habits of the only role model she had. But when she became pregnant at age 25, it changed the trajectory of her life.
“I surrendered to Christ and began a different walk,” she said. For the next 20 years, “I served my family, my community, my church. My husband and I started a business. We were living the American dream. I put all my energy into doing things right.”
When her marriage fell apart, Sheila did, too. After losing two loved ones in a short span of time, her grief drove her further downhill. She reconnected with old friends, rekindled old habits and the trajectory of her life changed again. When her financial means dried up, she became homeless, and her health deteriorated. She then contracted an infection that nearly ended her life and was hospitalized. As she regained her strength and thought about her future, “I was lost,” she said. “I didn’t know what I was going to do.”
Then she received a text from a friend she had met when she first met Christ: “You have a problem. You need help. God told me to tell you to call City Rescue Mission.”
Sheila knew nothing about the Mission, so she was skeptical at first. But she opened her heart to the divine relationship she’d abandoned long ago. “I believed in God enough to know that maybe this was Him. So, I decided, ‘OK, I’ll try it.’”
In CRM’s faith-based LifeBuilders Program, Sheila found professionals with knowledge and training to help her overcome her challenges. Most importantly, they offered counseling for the trauma she experienced as a child. “It was so valid and accurate – I believe the team of people were put together by God just for me. It was an amazing thing!”
Sheila also embraced the Mission’s holistic curriculum, which addresses the long-term emotional, spiritual, medical, social, educational and economic needs of those in its care.
Today, as a graduate and alumna of the program, Sheila’s life once again has taken a new trajectory. She’s more than two years sober, works in a catering business she enjoys and her relationship with God and her children are her highest priorities. Looking back, she says her time at the Mission was the richest experience she’s ever had.
“It took me losing everything – hurting my family and almost dying,” she said. “But now I’m restored and healthy. I’m loved and I’m alive. And my life is filled with hope.”
Mission: Since 2016, Bouquets of Kindness has been repurposing donated flowers and floral arrangements, delivering them to senior care facilities for residents to create their own floral arrangements. This creative activity brings renewed independence to the seniors in our area. We also deliver Kits of Kindness to Jacksonville seniors who are on fixed incomes.
Mission: To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as responsible, caring and productive citizens.
Mission: The Boy Scouts of America helps to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices in their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scouts’ Oath and Law.
BRASS (BEACHES & NORTHEAST FLORIDA RESIDENTS ACTIVELY SUPPORTING THE SYMPHONY)
Mission: BRASS (Beaches and Northeast Florida Residents Actively Supporting the Symphony) an IRS 501(C)3 organization bringing together residents who believe a professional symphony orchestra is an important asset to the community. Our mission is to support the Jacksonville Symphony through financial contributions, corporate sponsorships, events promoting Symphony attendance and music education.
Mission: To provide free, individualized navigation to help patients and loved ones manage a primary brain tumor diagnosis, overcome treatment obstacles, and facilitate access to quality healthcare.
BREAKTHROUGH T1D (FORMERLY JDRF) NORTHERN FLORIDA
1850 Lee Rd., Ste. 132, Winter Park, 32789 | (407) 774-2166
Mission: As we drive toward curing type 1 diabetes, we help make everyday life better for the people who face it. Founded by parents determined to find a cure for their children with T1D, Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) expanded through grassroots fundraising and advocacy efforts to become a powerhouse in the scientific community.
Mission: Our mission is to provide youth and young adults opportunities to explore and develop their talents, while gaining critical skills for leadership, education, health, work and beyond. Our vision is to cultivate young minds for excellence and success by providing opportunities, skills, experience, exposure and positive challenges for children, teens and young adults in Florida & Georgia to improve their quality of life.
Mission: Established to support the mission of Brooks Rehabilitation, the Brooks Foundation supports community activities that meet the needs of our patients and their families through research and education, charity care and community programs that enhance the quality of life for those living with differing abilities.
From surviving...to thriving
Leslie and her son, Joseph, came to Trinity Rescue Mission’s Women and Children’s Center seeking stability and refuge from the hardships of life.
Throughout her life, Leslie has struggled with addiction, which landed her in and out of prison. In turn, this put a strain on both her relationships and her ability to gain financial headway.
Shouldering the emotional, spiritual and physical pressure that comes with these struggles, Leslie walked through the door of Trinity Rescue Mission. She quickly moved from the Emergency Shelter Services to the Transitional Program and became deeply engaged in the program. She was able to view and manage her struggles from a biblical perspective and received addiction-related cultivation through the KIRR (Kingdom Influence Recovery Reform) program that is offered within the Women and Children’s Center.
Leslie successfully completed the Transitional Program’s Lifeline material and graduated KIRR’s Recovery Program, putting in the internal work that was needed to better prepare herself for employment opportunities. She obtained and maintained employment during her stay at TRM, which allowed her to gain financial stability and freedom from barriers such as a previous eviction.
Throughout her time at TRM, Leslie modeled the importance of a personal commitment to faith, patience and hard work, which was visible not only to the staff and residents at the shelter, but more importantly to her son. She helped instill these values in Joseph and used her time at TRM to exemplify the continued presence and provision of God in her life and circumstances.
Leslie is now working a second job and Joseph is excelling in school and extracurricular activities. Leslie also recently got baptized and continues to receive counsel and discipleship through KIRR, which is an option for program graduates who desire the ongoing support and cultivation that was offered to them during their stay and engagement in TRM’s programs.
Recently, Leslie and her son were able to move into a non-subsidized apartment of their own, with a healthy savings of over $15,000 to help them begin the next chapter of their lives.
Success Story
CAF & CNL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT
315 South Hampton Club Way, St. Augustine, 32092 | (904) 545-2771
jhouston@dwagolf.com
Founder: Jim Houston
Mission: To raise funds for Challenged Athletes Foundation and Camp No Limits, which provide opportunities and support to people with physical disabilities.
Mission: Canine Companions enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained service dogs and ongoing support to ensure quality partnerships.
Mission: The Carpenter’s Shop is a faith based organization providing programs and services that empower and educate under-served children, youth and families so they can lead responsible, productive lives.
CATHEDRAL ARTS PROJECT (CAP)
207 N. Laura St., Ste. 300, 32202 | (904) 281-5599 capkids.org | khyatt@capkids.org
FB: CathedralArts | IG: cathedralartsproject
President & CEO: Rev. Kimberly L. Hyatt
Mission: The Cathedral Arts Project is a nationally recognized nonprofit provider of arts education and therapeutic programs for children and young adults in Northeast Florida. CAP’s mission is to empower every child’s creative spirit, elevate arts educators in their field and advocate for access and equity in arts education.
CATHOLIC FOUNDATION, DIOCESE OF ST. AUGUSTINE
11625 Old St. Augustine Rd., 32258 | (904) 262-3200
cf.dosafl.com | diocese@dosafl.com
FB: DOSACatholics | IG: dosacatholics
President: Bishop Erik T. Pohlmeier
Mission: The Catholic Foundation builds a Christ-centered future for the good works of the Church in North Florida through inspired charitable giving. The vision of the Catholic Foundation is a Church generously endowed to fully support the development and charity of our faith community.
Mission: The nonprofit seeks to promote the power of people and possibilities for individuals living with disabilities, so they become enterprising members of their community.
Mission: Serves as the lead agency for HUD’s Continuum of Care Grant, providing training and fostering communications between 40 member agencies that provide direct service to those in the local area who are in need of housing and related resources.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE
6 East Bay Street, Suite 301, 32202 | (904) 354-4846 CCBJax.org | info@ccbjax.org; eseuter@ccbjax.org
FB: CatholicCharitiesJacksonville | IG: CCBJax
Regional Director: Eileen Seuter
Mission: Catholic Charities puts faith into action to serve the most vulnerable in our community, advocating for justice, human dignity and quality of life, while reflecting the compassion of God in Christ.
CHEMO NOIR
P.O. Box 551486, 32255 | (904) 714-5855
chemonoir.com | kat@chemonoir.com
FB: chemonoir | IG: chemonoir
Founder and Chairman: Katrin Casey
Mission: The philanthropic mission of Chemo Noir is to host and inspire wine-centric events that raise money to provide financial support to the families, friends and fighters in their battle with cancer.
Changing lives, achieving excellence
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) is the nation’s oldest and largest mentoring program, serving nearly 2 million children in the past decade. For 110 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida (BBBSNEFL) has transformed the lives of thousands, locally, through impactful one-to-one mentoring relationships. We are committed to serving any youth in need of a mentor, empowering them to reach their full potential through meaningful, life-changing connections.
BBBSNEFL has been recognized as a Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) Growth Award Winner for program excellence in 2023-2024. Every year, BBBS agencies are recognized by BBBSA Nationwide Leadership Council, made up of local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency leaders and board members, for excellence in the organization’s signature one-to-one youth mentoring program. Out of more than 230 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the country, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida is one of 100 organizations to receive this top honor.
The Growth Award recognizes agencies that have demonstrated growth in the number of mentors (“Bigs”) and youth (“Littles”) who are matched through the program, year over year. In the past year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida has served youth and grown its local services by 14 percent.
“I am so proud of our board and staff for making quality programming a priority for our local children,” said Sara Alford, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida “Their hard work equates to more mentorship in Northeast Florida and a brighter future for area youth.”
Since its inception, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been dedicated to advancing equity, impact and growth across the organization, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Today, the organization creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships, helping build self-confidence and emotional wellbeing and empowering young people on a path to graduate with a plan for their futures and a mentor whose impact can last a lifetime.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida’s commitment to creating and fostering positive mentoring relationships is a testament to the individuals within the organization. Through a shared dedication to meeting the needs of youth in their communities, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida continues to empower young people to reach their full potential. The organization is proud to be recognized for its excellence in building brighter futures and championing new possibilities.
Success Story
Daniel’s Commitment to Children in Crisis
For 140 years, Daniel has been a lifeline for countless children and families in desperate need. The nonprofit was a life-changing resource for 14-year-old Christopher,* who was in foster care due to parental neglect and abandonment.
Growing up in an abusive household, Christopher faced many challenges – and some continued even after he was adopted by a caring family. He was diagnosed with ODD, ADHD and depression. Christopher also developed an addiction to electronics, which often led to conflicts within his new family. These issues, along with severe anxiety and guilt, made it difficult for him to maintain social boundaries.
Fortunately, Christopher’s parents connected him with Daniel’s Residential Treatment Center, an in-patient treatment center for children aged 5-17 with severe mental and behavioral issues. Daniel’s professional team utilized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) techniques to help Christopher learn to regulate his emotions and apply coping skills when stressed or triggered.
“After several months, our son came home with a different outlook,” said Christopher’s mom. “While he still struggles with becoming easily frustrated, our son was able to learn new techniques and skills for handling his feelings in healthier ways.”
In addition to working with Christopher individually, Daniel provided therapy to the entire family so they could best support his progress.
“We felt that they truly cared about their patients and genuinely wanted our son to have a positive and healthy life,” his mom said.
This program is just one of the many ways Daniel supports children and families in the community. Daniel connects hundreds of children with foster and adoptive homes. They help homeless teens find places to live and learn independent living skills. The agency also plays a crucial role in preventing child abuse by strengthening at-risk families.
“Daniel helps an average of 5,000 children and families each year in a wide variety of ways,” said Lesley Wells, CEO and president of Daniel. “Thanks to the generosity of our donors and partners, we have long been a vital resource for this community and will be here to offer continued help for many years to come.”
For more information about how you can help the children and families Daniel serves through donations or corporate sponsorships, please visit danielkids.org or call 904-296-1055 ext. 1033.
Mission: Founded in 1994, the Child Cancer Fund provides Northeast Florida families with practical, financial, educational, emotional and psychosocial services during a childhood cancer diagnosis. We address needs beyond medical care to help improve overall outcomes, ease anxieties and provide a supportive environment through this difficult time.
Mission: To invest in our community by providing comprehensive, state-of-the-art mental health and collaborative support services to assist children and their families, and to provide training to promote professional growth and improved treatment outcomes.
THE CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY
OF FLORIDA
3027 San Diego Rd., 32207 | (904) 493-7744
chsfl.org | andry.sweet@chsfl.org
FB: HelpFLKids | IG: helpflkids
President/CEO: Andry Sweet
Mission: Building bridges to success for children. A world where children realize their full potential. We believe in the potential of every child and family. We believe children and families are stronger than the odds stacked against them - and, together, we can create opportunities that bring brighter futures.
Success Story
CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS OF JACKSONVILLE
Mission: Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals is dedicated to improving the health and welfare of all children by raising funds and awareness for the pediatric programs of UF Health Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital.
CHILDREN’S TUMOR FOUNDATION
697 Third Ave., Ste. 418, New York, NY, 10017 | (212) 747-0004
ctf.org
FB: childrenstumor | IG: childrenstumor
President: Annette Bakker
Mission: With a global mission to end neurofibromatosis, Children’s Tumor Foundation raises funds to improve treatments, care and lives for those living with NF.
Mission: Our mission is to be a visible presence of Jesus’ desire to heal in the world today by: Providing healing prayer for the sick; Training for those who want to learn to pray; Lending leadership support to pastors, churches and seminaries; Offering a bookstore and resource center for ministry and training materials; and Expanding the role of healing prayer in medical professions. Our vision is to make Christian healing prayer a way of life in families, churches, and medical professions.
CHRIST’S STARFISH FOUNDATION
6800 E. Hwy. 326, Silver Springs, 34488 | (904) 612-8522
christstarfish.org | christstarfish@aol.com
FB: christstarfish
President: Carldon Lahey
Mission: To share the love of Jesus Christ by providing assistance to children’s hospitals through child life specialists and by assisting families of non-cancer patients who are experiencing financial hardships due to medical expenses.
CIL JACKSONVILLE
2709 Art Museum Dr., 32207 | (904) 399-8484 CILJacksonville.org | info@ciljacksonville.org; tmorris@ciljacksonville.org
FB: CILJacksonville | IG: ciljacksonville
Executive Director: Tyler Morris
Mission: At CIL Jacksonville we empower all people with any disability to achieve their independent living goals by providing community-based programs and self-directed services.
Mission: CISV International helps participants develop skills to become informed, responsible and active global citizens to make a difference in our community and the world.
Mission: To transform lives from human suffering to human florishing and align City Rescue Mission’s resources to strengthen our community in areas of economics, health, housing, relationships and social enterprise.
CITY YEAR JACKSONVILLE
6 E. Bay St., Fl 2, 32202 | (904) 423-2100 cityyear.org/Jacksonville
FB: cityyear | IG: cityyearjax
Executive Director: Allishia Bauman
Mission: To empower young idealistic leaders through a year of service in Jacksonville to help reveal the limitless potential that exists inside all students.
Mission: Our mission is to create symphonic music for everyone. Our vision is to create an extraordinary music experience that realizes the potential of our musicians and illuminates the power of collective effort.
C.J. ACRES ANIMAL RESCUE FARM
5728 Jones Creek Rd., Keystone Heights, 32656 | (904) 600-7676 cjacres.org | info@cjacres.org
Mission: CJ Acres Animal Rescue Farm is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that exists to reduce animal suffering by rescuing, rehabilitating and reintroducing in-need farmed animals, while promoting compassionate consumption and responsible animal stewardship.
Mission: The Clara White Mission works in partnership with the community to prevent and reduce homelessness through advocacy, housing, job training, and employment.
Mission: To be a resource that provides mental health and substance abuse counseling and treatment to adults, teens, children and families in Clay County.
CLAY COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES
3984 State Road 16 W., Green Cove Springs, 32043 | (904) 269-6342 claycountygov.com/ community/animal-services | animalcontrol@claycountygov.com
FB: ClayCtyAnimals | IG: claycountyanimals
Director: Ernest Hagan
Mission: Providing adoption, fostering, animal enforcement, rehoming and other animal-related services in Clay County.
CLAY COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
2230 Filmore St. Orange Park, 32065 | (904) 276-7729
clayhumane.org
FB: ClayHumane | IG: clayhumane
Sr. Staff Veterinarian: Dr. Christian Broadhurst
Mission: Our mission is the prevention of cruelty to animals, the relief of suffering among animals, and the extension of humane education.
Mission: Our mission is to improve the quality of life for patients and families and be the compassionate guide for end-of-life hospice care in our community. Since 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care has become a trusted leader in compassionate hospice care and palliative care for patients and families throughout Northeast and North Central Florida.
Mission: The Community Rehabilitation Center envisions a future where everyone experiences a holistically better quality of life and has access to effective treatment and support essential for living, working, learning and fully participating in the community. CRC promotes the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of individuals and families in Northeast Florida by providing easily accessible, culturally competent, quality competent, and quality-based clinical services.
COMPASSIONATE HEARTS FOR KIDS, INC. DBA THE CADEN PROJECT
731 Duval Station Rd., Ste. 107-126, 32218 bearsthatcare.org | christina@thecadenproject.org
FB: TheCadenProject | IG: thecadenproject
Founders: Christina and Richard Wood
Mission: Showing compassion and love to sick children going through medical issues by providing our “Caden” bears to them. Our son Caden received a bear while in the hospital going through a bone marrow transplant and now we are paying it forward and providing this same comfort to other sick kids to give them a friend during their difficult journey.
From Program Participant to Lead Coach
Success Story
Meet Kiya, a Sanctuary on 8th Street alumna whose journey reflects the program’s deep impact on the community. Kiya started attending the Sanctuary when she was 6 years old and attended all the way up until the 9th grade. During this time, she was unaware of how much the Sanctuary would shape her life. To her, it was just a safe space to play and learn. Looking back, she realizes it was more than that. The Sanctuary on 8th Street is where she found confidence, leadership skills and the support that helped her grow.
COUNCIL ON AGING ST. JOHNS COUNTY
180 Marine St., St. Augustine, 32084 | (904) 209-3700 coasjc.com
FB: coasjc | IG: coasjc.fl
Executive Director: Becky Yanni
Mission: The Council On Aging St. Johns County provides leadership and advocacy for the dignity, independence, health and community involvement of older St. Johns County residents.
CROHN’S & COLITIS FOUNDATION OF AMERICA - JACKSONVILLE CHAPTER
Mission: Our mission is to identify and support local organizations that directly impact those in true need, providing acts of kindness and bringing smiles to our community.
Mission: The mission of the Cultural Council is to enrich life in Northeast Florida by investing in arts and culture. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Cultural Council is the official Local Arts Agency for the City of Jacksonville. The organization serves as the regranting agency for arts and cultural funding and administers Jacksonville’s Art in Public Places Program.
Mission: The Cummer Museum works to engage and inspire through the arts, gardens, and education.
CYSTIC FIBROSIS FOUNDATION
Today, Kiya is the lead coach at the Sanctuary, working with kids just like her younger self. Seeing the change she now brings to their lives, Kiya fully understands how much the Sanctuary gave her. “I didn’t realize it as a kid, but the Sanctuary changed my life. Now I get to do that for the kids I work with.”
From a quiet child to a blossoming leader, Kiya’s story is a testament to the Sanctuary’s lasting impact on those who walk through its doors.
12627 San Jose Blvd. Ste. 504, 32223 | (904) 733-3560 cff.org/north-central-florida | north-central-florida@cff.org; cwarmouth@cff.org
Mission: The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to cure cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care.
Mission: DARE views its mission as increasing public awareness through education against animal cruelty, related issues and overpopulation while rescuing and re-homing displaced and unwanted dachshunds and dachshund mixes.
Mission: We advance the rights of girls* and elevate justice reform, gender equity, and system accountability through research based community solutions, and bold policy – all with a girl-centered approach. We envision communities where girls* are safe, respected, valued, and equal partners in their experiences and future.
Mission: DePaul is committed to understanding and educating students with dyslexia and related specific learning differences such as visual and auditory processing and attention deficits. We maintain a commitment to excellence in core academics while nurturing a student’s confidence and development.
Success Story
DEVELOPING ARTISTS FOUNDATION
2445 San Diego Rd., 32207 | (904) 208-0962 dcps.duvalschools.org/Anderson
FB: DouglasAndersonSOTA | IG: dandersonarts
Executive Director: Jacqueline Cornelius
Gratitude for 17 Years of
Care:
How DLC Became Our Family
For the past 17 years, Daniel has been blessed to be part of the DLC family. From Daniel’s earliest days, the caregivers at DLC have been instrumental in his growth and development. Without their kindness, patience, and incredible skill, he would not be where he is today.
We have come to depend on DLC, not just for after-school care and summer camp, but also for the multiple therapies he needs to thrive. Every staff member, from the caregivers to the administrators, has Daniel’s best interests at heart. They have gone above and beyond to ensure he is nurtured, supported and loved.
We are forever grateful to DLC for the love and care Daniel has received throughout his life. They are not just a care facility—they are a true family, and we could not imagine Daniel’s journey without them
Mission: The Developing Artists Foundation (DA Foundation) is committed to supporting local programs that provide quality arts education and opportunities for the youth of Duval County, Florida and Northeast Florida.
Mission: The Developmental Learning Center (DLC) is a faith-based special needs learning and childcare center nonprofit, where each child is taught at their own pace.
FB: DESCJax | IG: descjax
Executive Director: David Clark
Mission: DESC seeks to proclaim the love of Jesus Christ by meeting the needs of people in emergency situations or experiencing poverty.
Mission: Our mission is to provide hope, support, and financial relief to those living with breast cancer, creating a world where breast cancer patients are freed from any barriers to their successful treatment.
Mission: To educate, equip and empower individuals in identifying their purpose and to maximize their potential, serving the hearts, souls and minds of families in Northeast Florida.
Mission: The mission of DMAB is to blend music, art, academic achievement, and civic engagement to inspire and enlighten children and teens in the Riverside, Brooklyn and Woodstock communities.
Mission: We envision a community where all people with Down syndrome are actively included, given opportunities to participate and contribute as valued citizens, and have the choices to create their own paths to fulfillment and success.
Mission: Dreams Come True is dedicated to using the power of a dream to bring hope and joy to local children battling life-threatening medical conditions.
DUCKS UNLIMITED - JACKSONVILLE CHAPTER
National Headquarters - One Waterfowl Way, Memphis, TN , 38120 | (352) 246-7463
Mission: Ducks Unlimited is the world’s leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation.
Local Dentist shares his community-driven mission to help others
Community Health Outreach (CHO) has a mission: Glorify God and display the love of Jesus Christ by feeding the hungry, healing the sick and clothing the needy. That statement alone would have been enough to have Dr. Erik Hekkert join the organization. He had been searching for a place to give of his “time, treasures and talents” to give back to the community and help those in need.
Dr. Hekkert moved to Jacksonville area in 2022 after 20 years of practicing dentistry in Colorado.
“My wife and I decided to come to Jacksonville after a weekend visit,” he said. “We love the area, the water and, most of all, the weather.”
Dr. Hekkert now practices at Ortega Boulevard Dental. The practice is modern, with high-tech equipment and stateof-the-art dental treatment options. Dr. Hekkert understands not everyone can afford these services and he soon started to look for a way to volunteer his time.
Another task was to quickly find the right church join. The Church of Eleven22 soon filled that need. Dr. Hekkert has always believed in supporting the community and the church reinforced this calling.
One day, Dr. Hekkert was flipping through Circles It lists all sorts of nonprofit organizations. He was looking for options that included dentistry and he soon found CHO. It was an added bonus that it was located close to home.
Since joining CHO, Dr. Hekkert has treated multiple patients by providing care to those who cannot afford it. He soon asked to have his hours extended to help more patients. Several of these patients have returned for continued care and specifically ask for him. He receives hugs from appreciative patients just about every day he is there.
“I do not do this for the recognition,” he said. “I want to do as I’m asked by the Lord and do what I can for those in need. The days I work at CHO are when I realize how much I love my profession and how important it is to everyone. The amazing people that run the organization make it possible for me to assist multiple people get out of pain, improve their health and generally feel better about themselves.”
Dr. Hekkert has made a great connection with Dr. Rob Thomas, CEO of Community Health Outreach.
“Dr. Hekkert makes it all very easy,” Dr. Thomas said. “He is ready to help and always has a yes to additional requests. It’s great to have him here and we would love to have more doctors with his level of care volunteer with us.”
CHO has been around for 36 years and their programs reach those in need of medical care, dental care, baby supplies and weekly food assistance.
To volunteer or learn more about CHO’s mission and its three programs: The Healing Hands Medical/Dental Clinic, The Lord’s Pantry and the Baby Luv Center, please visit: bit.ly/m/Community-Health-Outreach- Please join CHO in creating a healthier Jacksonville. www.CHOJAX.org
DUVAL
AUDUBON SOCIETY
P.O. Box 16304, 32245
duvalaudubon.org | duvalaudubon@gmail.com
FB: DuvalAudubonSociety | IG: duvalaudubon
Acting President: Pete Johnson
Mission: Connecting people with nature, conserving and restoring natural ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife.
Mission: Our mission is to lead and support the early learning community in building the best foundation for children birth to five. Our vision is that we are Jacksonville’s first stop for early learning through collaborative leadership that ensures: All children receive high-quality care and learning, all families have the support they need for their children to succeed, and all children are ready for their academic and lifelong success.
ELDERSOURCE
10688 Old St. Augustine Rd., 32257 | (904) 391-6600 MyElderSource.org | Info@MyElderSource.org; Linda.Levin@MyElderSource.org
FB: ElderSource | IG: eldersourcejax
CEO: Linda Levin
Mission: The ElderSource mission is to empower people to live and age with independence and dignity in their homes and community.
Mission: Growing Parenting Choices, a ministry of Ascension St. Vincent’s, empowers women to make informed decisions regarding pregnancy, saves lives, counsels and mentors teens and women through pregnancy.
Mission: Empowerment Resources works to make children and families stronger and empowers them to be successful leaders in the community today, for a better tomorrow.
Mission: Through camaraderie and a shared spirit of service, Exchange Club is a group of men and women who come together, working to make Jacksonville a better place to live through four pillars of service: Americanism, child abuse prevention, community service and youth programs.
Mission: To help parents learn to provide safe, healthy and nurturing home environments in which their children may thrive. We focus our efforts on prevention and treatment through a voluntary in-home program entitled Exchange Parent Aide.
Mission: Family Promise is an interfaith hospitality network providing temporary assistance, hospitality and case management for families with children experiencing homelessness.
Mission: Our mission is to be the leader in providing safety, stability, and quality of life for all children by working with the community to strengthen the family unit. Our vision is that children grow up connected to their own families, supported by families and embraced by the community; that children have the opportunity to achieve in school and to learn to be productive citizens; and that citizens of Duval and Nassau counties, organizations and agencies recognize that child protection is a community responsibility and represents the best interests of all county residents.
FAWN’S SMALL DOG RESCUE
P. O. Box 2607, Orange Park, 32067 | (904) 773-3553 fawnssmalldogrescue.org | fawnsfamilysmalldogrescue@gmail.com
FB: fawnssmalldogrescue
President: Kim Baldridge
Mission: We are dedicated to saving the lives of dogs in overcrowded kill shelters. We rescue and improve the quality of life for stray, abused and forgotten dogs in Florida. All dogs receive complete care, socialization, compassion, guidance, nourishment and rehabilitation until we find them a qualified, permanent, loving home.
Mission: Feeding Northeast Florida is the largest, most efficient food bank serving Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam and St. Johns counties. We’re on a mission to solve hunger in Northeast Florida. Currently, we feed over 85,000 people each day, and it is only through the generosity of our community, the hard work of our partner agencies, and the dedication from our volunteers that it is possible.
FIREHOUSE SUBS PUBLIC SAFETY FOUNDATION
12735 Gran Bay Pkwy., Ste. 150, 32258 | (904) 606-5148
Mission: First Coast Cultural Center brings the arts into the life of the community through arts education, exhibitions and outreach, and by honoring a donor-driven philosophy.
A Legacy of Allison’s Shining Light
The story of Allison’s legacy began with the devastating and unimaginable loss of a 15-year-old girl. Allison Brundick Haramis was a vivacious girl who passed away in a car accident in April of 2009. In her short life, Allison encouraged many and left a mark on her community, which will forever remember her contagious enthusiasm and creative energy. She was an accomplished dancer with a magnetic presence both on and off the stage. She expressed her love of fashion with bright colors and a whimsical sense of style.
Parents Drew and Lee Haramis and brother Lee Haramis, Jr. were fortunate to be able to celebrate Allison’s life with a beautiful service and celebration. They could not imagine being unable to celebrate their daughter’s life with a memorial service. Unfortunately, this is not the case for many families in their darkest hour. Because of this reality, the mission of the The Allison Brundick Haramis Foundation was created in 2010: To honor the legacy of Allison’s joyous spirit by alleviating the financial burden of funeral costs associated with the loss of a child.
The Haramis family’s story is one of ultimate resiliency. Drew Haramis reflects, “It is hard to believe we have been without Allison for as many years as she lived on this earth. We were blessed to have our daughter for 15 years, and to build her legacy for another 15 years. I have been humbled and in awe by the kindness of people.
“No family expects a tragedy like ours,” Drew says, “and through the kindness of our community, I believe we were able to create the mission of Angels for Allison, to continue our daughter’s shining light and to help others in need. With the work of Angels for Allison, we honor our daughter’s legacy, and we also remember and honor the 1,200 Angel families the foundation has touched.”
Since its inception, the foundation has supported over 1,200 families in Northeast Florida and funded over $1 million in funeral grants. Families in need are identified through referring partners, and funds for necessary funeral expenses are paid directly to the funeral home selected by the family. Since 2010, Angels for Allison has never turned a qualified family away.
To learn more or support Angels for Allison, please visit angelsforallison.org
Mission: First Coast No More Homeless Pets’s mission is to make veterinary care affordable and accessible to all as we save lives by keeping dogs and cats in homes and out of shelters, provide low-cost spay/neuter services with emphasis on feral/community cats, and deliver a broad range of related programs and services.
Mission: Our mission is to help teenagers from seventh through twelfth grade establish strong character, learn life skills, and develop physically and emotionally through the sport of rowing.
FIRST TEE - NORTH FLORIDA
101 E. Town Pl., Ste. 100, St. Augustine, 32092 | (904) 810-2231 firstteenorthflorida.org | amber@firstteenorthflorida.org; jeff@firstteenorthflorida.org
Mission: First Tee - North Florida works to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.
Mission: The mission of The Florida Ballet is to enrich and inspire the cultural landscape of our community through the education and art of classical ballet.
Mission: Florida Blue Foundation enables healthy communities by making grants, building coalitions and embracing solutions that create a meaningful impact in our communities. Florida Blue Foundation is committed to improve health equity by impacting food security, advancing mental well-being, growing healthy communities, and addressing health disparities.
Mission: The Florida Nonprofit Alliance informs, promotes, and strengthens the nonprofit sector in order to create more vibrant communities across the state.
FLORIDA PANCREAS CANCER COALITION
2166 Terra Mar Ct., 32224 | (904) 434-3089 | flpcc.org | anna.flpcc@gmail.com
FB: flpcc.org | IG: fl_pcc
President: Anna Murphy
Mission: The goal of FLPCC is to invest in local, world class, pancreas cancer research, where our neighbors are part of the team and can see the value of their contributions and know where they are being spent. We are guided by this principle: Local money for local, world class pancreas cancer research.
FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE FOUNDATION
501 W. State St., Ste. 104, 32202 | (904) 632-3237 fscjfoundation.org | foundation@fscj.edu
FB: fscjalumni
Executive Director: Cleve Warren
Mission: Florida State College Foundation strives to secure financial resources for Florida State College at Jacksonville to provide students in need access to an affordable, quality education and to enhance the lives and the economic development of Northeast Florida.
Mission: As a nonprofit organization, our mission is to enhance the North Florida community’s quality of life by providing diverse and memorable arts and entertainment experiences and preserving a unique historic Jacksonville landmark.
Mission: Florida Urgent Rescue is assisting with disaster relief for animals impacted by natural disasters. Our mission is to rescue animals in kill shelters and other urgent situations.
Mission: Footprints of Angels supports women impacted by recurring pregnancy loss and infertility. The organization was established to help women through their grief and shame and to help them heal.
Celebrating Viva!
Meet Viva, a woman with deep faith, love and kindness who lives a life of routine and remembers dates like they happened yesterday.
Born in Jacksonville in 1967, Viva graduated from Alden Road High School and moved to L’Arche Jacksonville in 1990. Her parents, especially her mother, were instrumental advocates working toward Viva’s independence.
Thanks to her mother, Viva had opportunities to socialize and grow from a young age. Her mother, in fact, started the first Girl Scout troop for girls with disabilities, creating an inclusive environment where young girls received badges based on their abilities and gifts.
Viva was also involved in developmental dance therapy and thrived in tumbling, tap and ballet classes. She was chosen to perform with Cyd Charisse when the legendary dancer visited Love Grove Elementary and also had the honor of playing piano with Boston Pops conductor Arthur Fiedler.
Knowing more about Viva’s childhood, it makes sense that if you’re playing songs she likes, she will be the first one to get up and dance, fearlessly busting a move with the tunes!
Today, Viva continues to thrive in the L’Arche community. She continues to make her own choices – from becoming a member of the Catholic church and faithfully praying each day for everyone on her prayer list to opening her own bank account at VyStar and even taking care of her baby dolls, Chad Francis, Ava Kayla and Lulabelle. Her infectious personality is remembered and adored by everyone she meets.
Viva welcomes all into the community and even remembers the date on which they arrived, often being referred to as L’Arche’s personal calendar. Viva not only impacts the L’Arche community, but also the greater Jacksonville community, too. She continues to work at Pizza Hut, where she has worked for more than 30 years, intricately folding boxes. Ask Viva how many boxes she folded that day and she always responds, “128 or 29, almost 130,” displaying her love of routine and her dedication to her craft and her community.
Mission: To provide a free resource to foster parents, kinship and non-relative placements as well as teens living independently to access clothing, children’s accessories, toys, and children’s furniture and household items for the young adults aging out of the foster care system. We are more than just a clothing resource; we are a support to the foster care community.
THE FOUNDATION OF COMMUNITY HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE
FB: The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care | IG: thefoundationchpc
Executive Director: Annie Tuttle
Mission: The Foundation raises funds to support the mission of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, a nationally recognized locally-based non-profit committed to compassionately caring for the needs of children and adults facing life-limiting and life-ending illnesses.
FRESHMINISTRIES
1131 N. Laura St., 32206 | (904) 355-0000 | freshministries.org
FB: FreshMinistries | IG: freshministries
Founder & CEO: Rev. Dr. Robert V. Lee III
Mission: Empowering communities through equal access to educational tools for children, health initiatives, and enhanced economic opportunities through small business support and career training, all designed to eradicate poverty and improve quality of life.
Mission: Historic Friday Musicale provides free classical, jazz, and world music concerts; scholarships to talented young musicians; and community outreach to local schools and nonprofit partners. Venue rentals for civic, social, and charitable events available.
FRIENDS OF JACKSONVILLE ANIMALS
c/o Animal Care and Protective Services, 2020 Forest St., 32204 friendsofjaxanimals.com | info@friendsofjaxanimals.com
FB: FOJAjax | IG: fojajax
President, Executive Committee: Alicia Strayer
Mission: Friends of Jacksonville Animals works directly with Jacksonville’s Animal Care and Protective Services to benefit the lives of shelter animals by focusing on fundraising to assist with medical care, enrich the shelter environment, and promote adoptions to reduce euthanasia.
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FRIENDS OF JAMES WELDON JOHNSON PARK
214 N. Hogan St., Ste. 114, 32202 | (904) 515-5098
Mission: Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park seeks to transform Jacksonville’s oldest public park into a modern, urban space that engages diverse communities and restores vitality to our city’s public square. Our newly re-named park aims to live up to its namesake, a pioneer in Civil Rights, to create a space where “every voice in harmony” can enjoy.
Mission: The Funk-Zitiello Foundation seeks to help the community by taking the challenges of individuals and turning them into initiatives that can provide hope and funding to those dealing with extraordinary obstacles.
Mission: To promote a “community of healing” environment by providing affordable, temporary lodging for adult organ transplant and cancer patients as well as their caregivers who come to Jacksonville for medical treatment.
Mission: The Garden Club of Jacksonville is dedicated to education, beautification, and conservation citywide with gardening projects at The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens, Tree Hill, and The St. Johns Riverkeeper.
Mission: Gateway Community Services helps deliver effective treatment and recovery services based on proven steps to help people suffering from alcoholism, drug addiction and related mental health issues.
Planting Trees, Growing Community
Good news! Greenscape was offered a historic partnership agreement with the Florida Forest Service to grow our tree maintenance program and offer more education and outreach to River City residents than ever before. We are honored by the agency’s belief in our mission to Plant, Protect and Promote trees and our ability to deliver results to the community.
What could be more motivating than the wise words of a kindergartener who planted trees with us at her Eastside neighborhood school? “It’s very important for the community,” she said. “If we had no trees, we would not have fresh air. We need trees!”
With record summer heat and back-to-back fall hurricanes, planting and protecting trees has taken on a fresh urgency. We’ve prioritized our tree plantings in the parts of town with low canopy coverage, so that all citizens can experience the benefits of trees – shade, wildlife habitat, stormwater absorption, improved air quality, carbon capture, and now, research is showing, mental health benefits.
It’s part of a nationwide movement called Tree Equity, and it’s been our focus for the past few years. Not surprisingly, areas with low canopy coverage are also 10 to 30 degrees hotter than areas with robust tree canopies. Our goal is to help the City reduce the hot spots, and grow community in the process.
We were pleased to be invited to represent the tree advocacy community in the creation of the city’s first resilience plan, Resilient Jacksonville, and are proud to announce the city won the 2024 National Planning Award for Resilience and Sustainability. We have long advocated for incorporating green infrastructure, such as bioswales and rain gardens, into Jacksonville’s public works and we look forward to seeing trees incorporated as tools to solve climate and weather-related problems.
As we enter our 50th year as the oldest tree advocacy organization in the State of Florida and we have much to look back on, great momentum on the horizon, and more to do in the future. But we’ll follow the words of our kindergarten tree planter, who told her fellow students, “If we all work together, we can get this done.”
Thank you for planting, donating, calling, writing and helping, as we plant trees and grow the community. Join us!
Success Story
Providing a lifeline to those in need
Success Story
Retired Army veteran and nurse Patricia lost her son two years ago in a tragic accident after he returned from military service in Afghanistan. Devastated and desperately wanting to keep her promise to care for her son’s family, Patricia managed to take in her daughter-in-law and four grandchildren. Unfortunately, their basic needs quickly exceeded her fixed income amid rising inflation.
Patricia sought help from various community resources but failed to find nutritious and affordable meals to sustain the six of them. She said discovering Catholic Charities Jacksonville’s Food Pantry was a true godsend.
GIRLS INC. OF JACKSONVILLE
100 Festival Park Ave., 32202 | (904) 731-9933 girlsincjax.org | dsimon@girlsincjax.org
FB: girlsincjax | IG: girlsincjax
President & CEO: Deidra Simon
Mission: Girls Inc. works to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold by being a leading advocacy organization dedicated to extending girls’ voices, issues, and concerns to policy makers, corporations and the media.
Mission: To inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. The nonprofit envisions a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.
Mission: Our mission is to meet students’ basic needs, so they can build their confidence and self-worth, and have an opportunity for an overall better quality of life.
Mission: To challenge hunger by bringing relief to people on fixed but inadequate incomes: senior citizens, disabled, single parents, the under-employed or unemployed between jobs.
GOODWILL
INDUSTRIES OF NORTH FLORIDA
5150 Timuquana Road, Suite #15, 32205 | (904) 384-1361
goodwillnorthfl.org
FB: GoodwillNFL | IG: goodwillnfl
President & CEO: David Rey
“The bills were adding up,” Patricia said. “I just needed to get through a couple months and get my budget straight.”
Unlike other food pantries that strictly limit visits, Catholic Charities Jacksonville allows her to come twice a month, ensuring her family will have food on the table as they get back on their feet. Patricia felt this was the lifeline they needed when they had nowhere else to turn.
At each food distribution, Catholic Charities Jacksonville provides roughly 100 families with 80 to 100 pounds worth of groceries. In addition to their hunger-relief programs, the nonprofit also helps struggling Northeast Florida residents through financial assistance programs.
You can be a part of empowering families like Patricia’s as they move toward self-sufficiency by partnering with Catholic Charities Jacksonville. The agency earned Candid’s 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency and prides itself on ensuring 92% of donations go directly to help those they serve.
Visit CCBJax.org to make a donation or explore volunteer opportunities.
Mission: Goodwill Industries of North Florida is a local, not-for-profit organization that removes barriers to employment through training, education, and career opportunities for the communities we serve.
Mission: Grace Ministry of Helping Hands of Jacksonville, Florida, is a grassroots, hands-on program that rescues women on the streets and provides intervention for women recently released from jails and prisons throughout Florida. These women are in the grips of alcoholism, drug addiction and the sex trade, but we share the love of Christ to give them hope and freedom.
Mission: The Greater Jacksonville Area USO provides more than $1 million annually in services through a wide variety of programs and is the channel for community participation during every war effort and in peacetime.
Mission: The Greenwood School’s mission is to provide a challenging and supportive education to middle and high school students with learning differences. Through adaptive multisensory instruction in a positive, safe and secure environment, students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve their highest potential in the classroom and beyond.
Mission: Our mission is to bring about the sustained regeneration, improvement and management of the physical environment by developing community-based partnerships which empower people, businesses and organizations to promote environmental, economic and social well-being. Our mission has been formally adopted by our governing board and is shared with all Groundwork Trusts across the country.
Mission: Our mission is to help students attain their potential through high-quality Catholic education in a Christ-centered environment that inspires each of us to think, learn, achieve, pray and serve our communities.
Mission: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope so that the world might become a place where everyone has a decent residence to live.
Mission: Honoring life by providing comfort, care and compassion to individuals and families we serve. Haven is the choice for end-of-life and advanced illness care.
HAVEN RETREATS
3721 San Jose Pl., Ste. 6, 32257 | (904) 802-0999 | havenretreatsinc.org | info@havenretreatsinc.org
FB: havenretreatsinc | IG: haven.retreats
Founder and Director: Rebecca Harvin
Mission: The goal of Haven Retreats is to create sustainability in foster care and adoption. We believe that by supporting the caregivers, we are providing direct stability to the children in the home. We offer therapeutic retreats and wrap- around care for the caregivers of foster and adoptive children.
Mission: Our mission is to provide ongoing support and service to families and patients as they face the challenges of congenital heart defects.
HEALTHYUNOW FOUNDATION
3800 Joe Ashton Rd., St. Augustine, 32092 | (904) 834-2938 | healthyunow.org
FB: HealthyUNOW
Founder & President: Dr. Julie Buckley
Mission: Our vision is a community connected by care, comfort, and CHD awareness and education.
An Environment for All GREENWOOD SCHOOL
The mission of Greenwood School is to provide a challenging and supportive education to middle and high school students with learning differences through adaptive, multisensory instruction in a positive, safe and secure environment. This year, a decision was made to enhance the school’s mission statement by incorporating the phrases “safe and secure.” These components are essential to the mission of Greenwood School as it prioritizes the well-being of all students from the moment they enter the facility. Students entering Greenwood may experience challenges with self-confidence and may feel frustrated or unmotivated due to previous academic struggles. They often encounter difficulties in peer communication, developing and maintaining friendships, and resolving conflicts. Greenwood’s guidance and mental health department plays a vital role in assisting students in their adjustment and success within the school environment. Currently, Greenwood employs a full-time guidance counselor and a full-time licensed mental health counselor who collaborate to provide students with comprehensive support. All students participate in a semester-long guidance-based course that emphasizes social skills, study skills and transitions to significant life events such as high school and graduation. The program receives generous support from the Lucy Gooding Charitable Foundation Trust and has achieved remarkable outcomes, including a 100% graduation rate, with over two-thirds of Greenwood students pursuing higher education, apprenticeships or military service.
Greenwood takes great pride in fostering an environment that emphasizes safety and acceptance within the campus community. Students consistently express that these elements are fundamental to their overall educational experience. As one current student shared: “in a typical school the student has to adapt to the school but at Greenwood the school adapts with its students.”
Recent graduates have echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Here at Greenwood, I was heard, and because of that I felt confident enough to do things I would never consider… whenever I look at my future I don’t know where I will end up, but I do know that Greenwood will always be there and be a home where I feel safe to be me.”
Thanks to a generous donation of more than 3 acres of land to the school from the Tom Bush Family of Dealerships, Greenwood will be expanding both its arts and mental health programs. Greenwood has a strong track record of supporting students throughout their middle and high school journeys, helping them identify suitable programs upon graduation. Greenwood’s future objective is to extend that support to graduates who may need assistance transitioning into their post-graduation endeavors, whether it be in college or the workforce. By enhancing its facilities, staffing, and resources, Greenwood aims to achieve this goal effectively. For more information or to contribute to the expansion of the Greenwood Mental Health and Guidance program, contact Kate Fraser at kfraser@greenwoodjax.org
Success Story
40 Years of Creating Hope and Joy
Since 1984, Dreams Come True has been the First Coast’s only locally-based dream granting organization dedicated to using the power of a dream to bring hope and joy to LOCAL children battling life-threatening medical conditions. It all started with one dream.
The late Thomas R. McGehee, Chairman of Mac Papers, and his wife, Delia, met a 17-year-old boy named George Lee, who was battling cystic fibrosis. George loved golf! When McGehee learned this, he arranged for George to play with Fred Couples in the Pro-Am of The Players Championship (TPC). Following an exciting round of play, Couples gave George his driver. This simple act of kindness not only meant the world to George but also to his family. A year later, George lost his battle with cystic fibrosis and was buried with his prized driver at his side.
That could have been the end of the story, but Mr. McGehee realized the power of a dream fulfilled and the need for an organization in the community to create unforgettable memories for local children and their families. Partnering with their friends and family, The McGehee’s launched Dreams Come True. The first year, Dreams Come True granted four dreams. Today they are celebrating nearly 5,000 dreams being granted for local children battling lifethreatening medical conditions.
Whatever the dream may be, a trip to Disney, a shopping adventure, a faraway destination or even a furry new friend, the momentary reprieve from doctor visits, tests, and medical treatments makes all the difference.
Dreams Come True not only works to fulfill children’s dreams, but they also know that a child’s medical journey does not end while a child is deciding on their dream or when a dream has been fulfilled. For that reason, Dreams Come True creates hope and joy through the moments in between a child being referred to their dream and following it. These special moments allow children and their families to forget life’s realities momentarily. These opportunities include support during the holidays, back to school supplies, celebrating milestones in a child’s journey, tickets to local events, and even special decorations in a child’s hospital room to make their stay less intimidating.
Each year, thousands of families are given the news that their child has a life-threatening medical condition. Many of them live right here on the First Coast. For these families, life is instantly changed. But, Dreams Come True will continue to be there for the children of our community –creating unforgettable memories and moments of hope and joy all through the power of a dream and all the moments in between.
To learn more about Dreams Come True, please visit DreamsComeTrue.org
HEARING
LOSS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA – JACKSONVILLE CHAPTER
11250 Old St. Augustine Rd., Ste. 15123, 32257 | (904) 631-6357 | hla-jax.org | judygmartin@gmail.com
FB: HLAAJacksonvilleChapter
Chapter President: Tom Logue
Mission: The mission of HLAA is to open the world of communication to people with hearing loss by providing information, education, support and advocacy.
Mission: Heart for Children is a family-oriented organization that teaches the importance of education and team building. One of HFC’s many goals is for children to grow into productive adults who will one day positively give back to their communities.
Mission: The mission of Hearts 4 Minds Inc. (“H4M”) is to help build healthy futures by breaking down the stigma of mental illness and ensuring that people impacted by mental illness get the help they need. We never want a family to lose a loved one simply because they didn’t know where to turn.
Mission: Helping WIN is a nonprofit founded to provide emergency cash assistance to women battling poverty through partner agencies in Northeast Florida.
HENDERSON HAVEN
772 Foxridge Center Dr., Orange Park, 32065 | (904) 264-2522 | hendersonhaven.org | info@hendersonhaven.org
FB: HendersonHaven | IG: hendersonhaven
Founders: Lee and Sherri Henderson
Mission: To protect and support the inherent rights of all people, including those who are developmentally disabled, to choose where and with whom they work, live and play.
National Administrative Coordinator: Courtney McClain
Success Story
Mission: Her Song is interrupting the cycle of human trafficking and leading the exploited to freedom through survivor care, victim outreach, and education. Her Song envisions a world where every girl is free.
Mission: The mission of Here Tomorrow is to transform lives by building a community where suicide prevention is accessible without barriers. Everyone wins when we achieve our vision that all community members in need can access mental healthcare and live full, meaningful lives.
Mission: Hope for a Better Life, Inc. is dedicated to improving the quality of life for socially and economically disadvantaged children and adults in Northeast Florida by focusing on a different local nonprofit each year to promote its mission, raise awareness and funds.
Mission: Hope Haven provides excellence in educational, psychological and related therapeutic services for children, families and young adults with special needs.
Mission: To heal hearts by serving those in need in the community.
HUMANE ASSOCIATION OF WILDLIFE CARE & EDUCATION (HAWKE)
5285 St. Ambrose Church Rd., Elkton, 32033 | (904) 692-1777 | hawkewildlife.org | helphawke@windstream.net
FB: hawkewildlife
Contact: Melanie Cain-Stage
Mission: Hawke is a not-for-profit organization licensed by the State of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Federal US Fish and Wildlife Service to rehabilitate injured and orphaned wild birds, mammals, and reptiles including endangered species. They also have special permits to possess permanent wildlife for educational programs. These birds and animals cannot be released back to the wild.
Mission: The goal of this annual outreach is to continue to give, in Jesus’s name, to those in need in our communities, through a super-size, free garage sale.
Mission: Hunger Fight provides donors, advocates and volunteers the vehicle necessary to end hunger and illiteracy through the provision of nutritious meals to children, seniors, and families in need and age-appropriate books to preschoolers by engaging communities and mobilizing partners.
HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE SOCIETY OF AMERICA – NORTH FLORIDA (904) 641-7984 | northernflorida.hdsa.org | hdsa_nfl@yahoo.com
FB: HDSANorthFL | IG: hdsanational
Contact: Michal Biletzki
Mission: Our mission is to improve the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease and their families.
Mission: To empower youth to believe they are solution-oriented STARS (Smart Talented And Resilient Students) destined to change the world.
INN MINISTRY
1720 Hamilton St., 32210 | (904) 388-7730 innministry.org | innministry@bellsouth.net
FB: InnMinistry
Executive Director: Judith Newberg
Mission: The Inn Ministry promotes and encourages mothers to become spiritually, physically and mentally stable so they will be capable of providing a home for their children and to become productive members of society.
IN THE PINK
522 Third Street N., Jacksonville Beach, 32250 | (904) 372-0029 jaxinthepink.com | jeri@jaxinthepink.net
FB: inthepinkjax
Founder & CEO: Jeri Millard
Mission: In the Pink is a nonprofit boutique and salon dedicated to helping women heal, cope and survive the effects of cancer– physically and emotionally.
ISAIAH 117 HOUSE
New home coming soon | (423) 518-3760 ext. 106 isaiah117house.com/floridahomes | DuvalFL@isaiah117house.com; shane.mccleod@isaiah117house.com
FB: isaiah117houseduvalcofl | IG: isaiah117house
Program Coordinator: Shante McCleod
Mission: Providing physical and emotional support in a safe and loving home for children awaiting foster care placement. Link to follow upcoming house in Duval: linktr.ee/ Isaiah117houseduval
Toddler diagnosed with rare kidney tumor
On Halloween night in 2022, two-year-old Divine and her closest sister Nariah were playing when Divine accidentally fell off the bed. Their grandmother found that Divine had a “knot” on her stomach and grew concerned so she took her to urgent care and then to Wolfson Children’s Emergency Center.
There, an emergency medicine physician ordered a bloodwork panel and an imaging scan. The results showed Divine had multiple tumors on both kidneys, resulting in a diagnosis of a rare but aggressive condition called bilateral Wilms tumor.
“Her left kidney was engulfed with tumors,” said Arabia Brumfield, Divine’s mother. “And there were two tumors on her right kidney, as well.”
Scott Bradfield, MD, chief of hematology/oncology for Wolfson Children’s Hospital and pediatric hematologist/ oncologist with Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville, said while a Wilms tumor is rare and often one-sided, the condition can present in early diagnosis as bilateral, which means it impacts both kidneys.
“In the case of bilateral Wilms tumors, we try to take out parts of both kidneys to save as much of the child’s kidneys as possible to postpone or avoid dialysis,” said Dr. Bradfield. “The protocol upon imaging confirmation is to start chemotherapy immediately to try to shrink the tumors and plan for surgical removal of the kidney or kidneys as needed.”
Divine started an aggressive chemotherapy treatment regimen on Nov. 2, 2022, spending weeks at Wolfson Children’s Hospital and then its new Eckstein Family Infusion Therapy Suite at Nemours Children’s Health, Jacksonville.
The surgery to remove 1½ of her kidneys was complex and well planned in hopes that Divine wouldn’t need dialysis in addition to her chemotherapy treatment.
After the surgery and chemotherapy regimen, Divine completed her treatment. She rang the bell, a tradition that signifies the “end of treatment,” although not being “cancer-free.”
Sadly, only days later, imaging scans showed Divine’s cancer had spread to her lungs. At that point, she began a new chemotherapy regimen.
“Her current course based on her scans is a chemotherapy regimen that aims to spare her remaining kidney function,” said Dr. Bradfield.
Somehow, through all this treatment, Divine (nicknamed “Diva D” for her charm and sassy personality), now 4, has a near-constant smile, with adorable dimples the entire treatment team at Nemours and Wolfson Children’s recognizes when she’s at the clinic or hospital.
“Divine has been so personable and interactive with our teams since early in her treatment,” said Dr. Bradfield. “She is a happy, optimistic little girl who gives a boost to our team, including me. Every day we get to see her, it reminds us of why we work so hard to treat kids like Divine.”
Arabia said while Divine’s future is uncertain, she is hopeful. “She has been doing so well throughout her treatment, which has been tough, and she is always sweet, sassy and full of energy. She is such a joy in our lives.”
Success Story
Reviving Community Health and Opportunity at The Corner at Debs Store
In September 2024, Goodwill Industries of North Florida expanded its traditional focus on employment, training and education to address one of the major challenges facing Jacksonville residents: a lack of access to healthy, nutritious foods.
The Corner at Debs Store, at the corner of Florida Avenue and 5th Street, brings fresh produce and groceries to Jacksonville’s Historic Eastside residents and surrounding neighborhoods, filling a void created by the 2011 closing of the original Debs Store. Working with their partners, LIFT JAX, the Debs Family, VyStar Credit Union, local community organizations and our donors, they seek to create a vibrant community space where residents can build healthier, more prosperous lives.
In addition, The Corner at Debs Store is also working to close the wealth gap by providing career and financial wellness services on the grocery store’s second floor.
The top floor contains a GoodCareers Center, a free, full-service career center that allows anyone looking for work to access resources and learn skills for conducting an independent job search.
Also upstairs is a VyStar Credit Union “Financial Fitness” Center, where VyStar specialists are available to assist members with accessing online services, opening accounts, and providing financial counseling. A community space with flexible seating, a projector, and a screen is also available for reservation at no cost.
Why is this initiative so important?
Because access to healthy, fresh food is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Success Story
JACK - MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY OUT OF THE BOX
P.O. Box 3039, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32004 | (904) 233-6515
jackmha.org
FB: JACKMentalHealthAdvocacy | IG: jack_mha
Founder and Board President: Kim Vincenty
Mission: JACK is a nonprofit created to change the way OCD and anxiety sufferers and their families navigate the challenges of mental illness, fight stigma, and obtain quality education, support and treatment.
JACKSONVILLE ALUMNAE PANHELLENIC ASSOCIATION
13251Companion Circle South, 32224 | (904) 236-3240
Mission: Founded in 1914, the philanthropic association has a continuous history of supporting the greater Jacksonville community. Recognized for its achievements by the National Panhellenic Council, JAPA members have given over 20,000 volunteer service hours annually to help those in the community.
Mission: JASMYN supports the empowerment of LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults through leadership, advocacy, JASMYN supports the empowerment of LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults through leadership, advocacy, resources, and a safe and affirming community.
Mission: The Jacksonville Artists Guild is dedicated to elevating artistic awareness and participation by artists through dynamic programs and exhibitions that enhance, encourage and promote the arts.
JACKSONVILLE CHILDREN’S CHORUS
62 N. Main St., 32202 | (904) 353-1636 jaxchildrenschorus.org | info@jaxchildrenschorus.org; ddailey@jaxchildrenschorus.org
FB: jaxchildrenschorus | IG: jcchorus
President & Artistic Director: Darren Dailey
Mission: The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus provides exceptional music education for children of diverse backgrounds creating impactful choral performances.
Mission: To help resolve community issues by studying a problem, proposing one or more solutions, advocating for change, and providing resources and support.
Mission: The Jacksonville History Center’s mission is to strengthen citizenship through public history education.
Invest in The Corner at Debs Store
Mona Lewis
Success Story
Mona retired from the Army in 2012, but her life quickly spiraled after a difficult divorce. Stranded in Georgia with no identification or personal documents, and on probation, she felt hopeless. After moving to Jacksonville to stay with her mother, a strained relationship left her homeless.
While at the VA to transfer her healthcare, an admin worker noticed something was wrong and gave Mona a card for Northeast Florida Women Veterans. “All I wanted was for someone to care,” Mona says. When she called, a compassionate voice on the other end listened and within an hour, a Lyft arrived to take her to the Lighthouse, a safe haven through the organization’s HerSPACE program that would change her life.
At the Lighthouse, Mona found the support she had been searching for. “I never felt homeless,” she shares. “The women at Northeast Florida Women Veterans made me feel welcome and safe. Amanda, in particular, earned my trust, and I felt safe sharing everything with her.”
Determined not to let her past or the obstacles she faced hold her back, Mona took meaningful steps toward rebuilding her life. With the organization’s help, she replaced her military ID, organized her documents, and resolved a probation violation that once seemed insurmountable.
Mona also joined the HerTOTALWellness program, which she describes as a turning point. “It taught me simple ways to take care of myself, and as I did, I started to feel better.”
Today, Mona has her own apartment, a driver’s license, a car, and is working toward a degree to become a Child Psychologist. “I’ve learned to set boundaries with my family and that I don’t have to do it alone,” she says.
Mona’s journey is far from over. “It was a great experience, and it’s all thanks to the connections I’ve made through Northeast Florida Women Veterans.” Her story is one of resilience, support, and the power of community. Mona’s future is brighter than ever.
Mission: The Jacksonville Humane Society provides care, comfort and compassion to animals in need while engaging the hearts, hands and minds of our community to bring about an end to the killing of abandoned and orphaned shelter animals.
Mission: The Jaguars Foundation and Community Impact Department are committed to uplifting the Northeast Florida community and beyond by providing economic and equal opportunity through programs that strengthen neighborhoods, and develop our youth. The Community Impact team at the Jaguars annually targets three key strategic areas of focus: neighborhood revitalization, youth development and NFL league-wide initiatives.
Mission: No veteran will be buried alone in the Jacksonville National Cemetery. The Jacksonville Ladies’ objective is to honor those who have served this nation; to assist, accompany and promote a sympathetic relationship with veterans and their families at the interment services as needed, and to be present when no family or friends are able to attend.
Mission: We spark innovation, relationships, and resources to power the potential within and around our public schools to achieve excellent outcomes for all students. Our vision is that every student is inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life.
JACKSONVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION
303 N. Laura St., #334, 32202 | (904) 255-6192 jplfoundation.org | info@lfjax.org; scottevans@lfjax.org FB: LFJ1986 | IG: libraryfoundationjax1986
Executive Director/CDO: Scott Evans
Mission: The Jacksonville Public Library Foundation helps to strengthen the ability of the Jacksonville Public Library to serve as an educational and cultural resource for the community.
Mission: Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA) is dedicated to helping individuals with autism and their families by tapping into all available resources to provide “outside of the desk” thinking. With a focus on whole child development and individualized programs that encourage both family and community involvement, JSA is able to nurture each student to reach his/her full potential. Not just a place for learning, JSA creates an environment where relationships grow and lives are changed.
JACKSONVILLE SISTER CITIES ASSOCIATION, INC. (JSCA)
P. O. Box 43512, 32203 | (904) 255-5445 | jsca.org | jscapresident@gmail.com
FB: jsca1967
President: Dr. Cynthia S. Robinson
Mission: The Jacksonville Sister Cities Association fosters and encourages mutual understanding, friendship and peace through cultural, economic, educational and professional exchanges between the people of Jacksonville and the people of our Sister and Friendship Cities.
JACKSONVILLE SPEECH & HEARING CENTER
1010 N. Davis St., Ste. 101, 32209 | (904) 355-3403 shcjax.org | clinic@shcjax.org; cmanning@shcjax.org
FB: jaxspeechhearingcenter | IG: JaxSpeechHear
President & CEO: Chandra Manning
Mission: Our mission is simple: providing the highest quality professional and compassionate care to ALL individuals with hearing, speech and/or language disorders in our community.
Mission: The Jacksonville Symphony’s mission is to enrich the human spirit through symphonic music.
JACKSONVILLE URBAN LEAGUE
903 W. Union St., 32204 | (904) 723-4008 | jaxul.org | info@jaxul.org
FB: JacksonvilleUrbanLeague1947 | IG: jax.ul
President & CEO: Dr. Richard Danford Jr.
Mission: The Jacksonville Urban League works to assist African Americans and others to secure economic self-reliance, parity, power and civil rights.
NORTH FLORIDA LAND TRUST (NFLT)
25 Years of Conservation Milestones and Achievements
North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) marked its 25th anniversary in 2024 with a year of celebrations, milestones, and achievements that underscored its enduring commitment to land conservation. The organization reflected on its legacy and charted a path forward with notable accomplishments in conservation, fundraising, and community recognition.
The celebrations began with NFLT’s 2024 Annual Meeting, which brought together supporters, members, and conservation partners to honor past successes and outline future goals. Highlights included the inaugural Charlie Commander Land Conservation Award, presented to Atlantic Beach Holding Co. and the Bull Family for their donation of 217 acres along the Intracoastal Waterway, creating the Harcourt and Florence Stolbrand Bull Memorial Preserve. NFLT’s founder, Bill McQuilkin, and former president Jim McCarthy received the Legacy Award for their pivotal contributions. Conservation advocate Charles Lee, a veteran of Florida’s environmental initiatives, delivered a keynote address highlighting the importance of collaboration in preserving natural landscapes.
NFLT concluded its anniversary celebrations with an open house and birthday party at Smith Lake Preserve on November 9. Nearly 100 friends, donors, and community leaders joined for property tours, live music, BBQ, and a showcase of NFLT’s new custom-built firetruck, Lola D, funded by the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds.
Beyond the festivities, NFLT reflected on 25 years of impactful work since its founding in 1999. The organization has protected more than 41,000 acres of natural land across North Florida, focusing on strategic areas such as the Ocala to Osceola Wildlife Corridor (O2O) and coastal salt marsh regions.
Key achievements from 2024 included the launch of the North Florida Land Trust Endowment at the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. This first-ever endowment creates a sustainable financial foundation to support conservation efforts for generations. NFLT also introduced the Silver Spoonbill Giving Society, recognizing donors who contribute $25,000 or more annually.
NFLT set a new record by protecting nearly 5,000 acres in 2024, valued at $17.51 million. Significant additions were made to the O2O Wildlife Corridor, and efforts began on the Corridor to Coast (C2C) initiative, a 5.2-million-acre expansion covering parts of nine Florida counties. The stewardship team managed over 400 acres of prescribed burns and planted 82,500 longleaf pine seedlings, vital for wildlife habitats and species such as the endangered gopher tortoise.
The one-year anniversary of NFLT’s membership program surpassed its initial goal, growing to 353 members. In celebration, NFLT introduced new member events, including Working Lunch Wednesday, Monthly Hikes, and a book club. NFLT also received recognition from the Jacksonville Business Journal as one of the Best Places to Work on the First Coast in the Extra Small Company category.
NFLT’s 25th anniversary was a testament to the collective efforts of donors, members, community partners, and leaders. Together, they have made the organization’s success possible, ensuring the protection of North Florida’s unique landscapes for the next 25 years and beyond.
Mission: The JAX Chamber Foundation serves Northeast Florida in funding workforce development, leadership and entrepreneurial education programs in support of long-term regional prosperity.
JAX HOPE, INC.
5000 U.S. Hwy. 17 S, Ste. 18 #344, Fleming Island, 32003 | (904) 801-5535 jaxhopeinc.org | community@jaxhopeinc.org; community@jaxhopeinc.org IG: jaxhopeinc
President/CEO: Gregg Hummer
Mission: Giving hope to People with Parkinson’s by supporting educational, exercise and social programs in the Jacksonville area.
Mission: The mission of JAXSPORTS is to enhance and positively impact the quality of life and community pride, along with generating economic impact and growth for Northeast Florida through professional and amateur sports. Our values and goals reflect this mission.
Mission: The mission of The Jericho School (non profit 501(c) 3 corporation) is to provide comprehensive, individualized science-based education not otherwise available in our community. We believe those children with autism and other developmental delays deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential. The school’s curriculum provides effective treatment and education programs to children and their families based on Applied Behavior Analysis and Verbal Behavior.
Mission: Our mission is to serve the communities that Jessie Ball duPont knew and loved. We envision a world in which every member of those communities feels they belong.
JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
8505 San Jose Blvd., 32217 | (904) 730-2100 | jcajax.org | info@jcajax.org; adam.chaskin@jcajax.org
FB: Jewish Community Alliance | IG: jaxjca
CEO: Adam Chaskin
Mission: The JCA strengthens Jewish life, serves as a common meeting ground, and enhances the quality of life of the entire community.
JEWISH FEDERATION & FOUNDATION OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
8505 San Jose Blvd., 32217 | (904) 448-5000 jewishjacksonville.org | info@jewishjacksonville.org; mariamf@jewishjacksonville.org
FB: JaxJewish | IG: jaxjewish
CEO: Mariam Feist
Mission: The Jewish Federation of Jacksonville is a fundraising organization supporting the local and global Jewish community funding local and overseas partner agencies; forging strong connections with Israel and helping Jews across the Diaspora; supporting fellow Jews in need; inspiring the next generation to embrace Jewish identity and value Jewish education, and providing programs and services designed to engage the local Jewish community.
THE JIM MORAN FOUNDATION
100 Jim Moran Blvd., Deerfield Beach, 33442 | (954) 429-2122 jimmoranfoundation.org | information@jimmoranfoundation.org
Chairman/President: Jan Moran
Mission: The mission of The Jim Moran Foundation is to improve the quality of life for the youth and families of Florida through the support of innovative programs and opportunities that meet the ever-changing needs of the community.
THE JIM & TABITHA FURYK FOUNDATION
5716 St. Augustine Road, 32207 jimandtabithafurykfoundation.com | information@furykandfriends.com
Mission: JTC Running is Northeast Florida’s preeminent promoter of healthy lifestyles through running, fitness, and fellowship. JTC Running is the creator and operator of the Gate River Run, which, since 1978, has been one of the leading road races in the country. Its four different events encompass over 10,000 national and world class athletes, fitness runners, wheelchair athletes, walkers and children.
Mission: JTTF is dedicated to providing hope to the community of people living with disabilities by offering financial assistance for adaptive equipment and services that will improve their quality of life.
JUDY
NICHOLSON KIDNEY CANCER FOUNDATION
5000 U.S. Hwy. 17 S, Ste. 18 #344, Fleming Island, 32003 | (904) 309-0502 jnfkidneycancer.org | thejudynicholsonfoundation@gmail.com
FB: thejnfoundation | IG: jnkcf
President: Linda Ostoski
Mission: The Judy Nicholson Kidney Cancer Foundation is fulfilling our “Celebration of Hope-Bringing the Hope to You!” in-depth educational symposiums and webinars to provide support and education to Kidney Cancer Patients and their caregivers.
Mission: Junior Achievement of North Florida is a nonprofit that inspires and prepares young people for success.
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF JACKSONVILLE
2165 Park St., 32204 | (904) 387-9927 jacksonville.jl.org | info@jljacksonville.org
FB: JuniorLeagueofJax | IG: juniorleaguejax
President: Kimberly Barrett
Mission: We are an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
JUSTICE COALITION
1935 S. Lane Ave., Ste. 1, 32210 | (904) 783-6312 justicecoalition.org | info@justicecoalition.org
FB: justicecoalition
Executive Director: Robert Bracewell
Mission: To advocate for innocent victims of violent crime, educate victims about their rights in the justice system and work with law enforcement to make our communities safer.
Mission: Determined to end veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors provides highly-trained Service Dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma. With the majority of dogs coming from high-kill rescue shelters, this innovative program allows the Warrior/K9 team to build an unwavering bond that facilitates their collective healing and recovery.
Mission: K9s United is committed to supporting and honoring K9 law enforcement officers who detect, protect and serve our communities by giving them the best equipment, amenities, and quality of life during and after their service, and memorializing those who give the ultimate sacrifice.
Be the Change: Protect Our Planet with Beaches Go Green
Do you have a passion for improving yourself and your surroundings? Is lifelong learning part of your mindset? SAME! Our team of volunteers at Beaches Go Green (BGG) has been learning, educating, and doing GOOD things in our community since 2018! BGG strives to create awareness around how our everyday choices impact both our own health and the health of the planet.
Let’s talk about plastic pollution, as an example. Plastic is an amazing material that certainly has some great uses but maybe you’ve heard about “too much of a good thing”? We are drowning in plastic! When we dig deeper into this ubiquitous material, we know that plastic is an oil-based product that NEVER biodegrades. That means that every piece of plastic that you have EVERY USED or EVER SEEN, still exists in some plastic form on the planet! Plastic breaks up into smaller and smaller pieces of plastic called microplastics and nanoplastics that can now be found nearly everywhere on the planet! Microplastics are found in the air that we breathe, the water that we drink (tap & bottled), in the soil where our food grows, in the snow & rain falling from the sky here and in the highest mountains and the water sampled at the greatest depths of the ocean! Microplastics have also been found in animals around the globe and more recently the human body. Scientists have confirmed that microplastics are in human blood, lungs, liver, kidneys, placentas, brain, heart, intestines, testes, breast milk, human hair and even in saliva. This matters because the exact chemicals that make plastic amazing (being flexible, being rigid, being flame retardant, being black, blue, red, etc) are the very things that are making us and the planet sick! These unregulated chemicals in plastic, many of them carcinogens, most of the endocrine disruptors, are wreaking havoc on our bodies as well as the flora and fauna of the planet! But what can we do? WE can be aware. WE can be informed. WE can make better choices!
Beaches Go Green fills a critical environmental education gap in our community and beyond. By working with local governments, local schools & BGG school clubs as well other like-minded local and national organizations, we are spanning the gap in environmental education. Our goal is to inform every day people about the potential harm of plastic and how they can protect themselves as well as our local beaches, parks, waterways and more that we all love so much! Through our actions, WE ARE THE CHANGE. Beaches Go Green puts on speaking engagements about important environmental topics, presents FREE eco-cinema films, displays environmental art installations, hosts service opportunities like cleanups and dune planting and supports environmental education in local schools through our Beaches Go Green student-led clubs. Our community events are FREE, family-friendly & offer opportunities for students to earn community service hours. We invite you to join in this mission to improve our health, ourselves and our planet. Be the Change.
Beaches Go Green Annual Earth Day Cleanup will be on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at multiple beach locations - please see our Beaches Go Green Instagram & website for exact times & locations.
Success Story
UNITED WAY OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Home repairs are ‘a blessing’
When you meet Shelton Knight at his Orion Street home in North Riverside, you are greeted with a smile and immediately welcomed inside.
With the soft hum of TV news in the background, Knight is quick to tell you how much he loves his neighborhood. It’s quiet, close to work and the community looks out for each other, he said.
Soon, you notice his living room is adorned with reminders of two other things he loves: his family and his Jacksonville Jaguars.
Knight’s home is his castle.
But this castle, built in 1928, needed repairs that Knight and his brother, Willie, needed help making a reality. Knight has lived in the home with his brother since 2010 following the passing of their mother, who purchased the house in 1971. The structure saw little work over the years and needed critical repairs, including the replacement of an aging roof that caused a few leaks in his ceiling.
Knight heard about the Home Repair Program from the North Riverside CDC and Groundwork Jacksonville and applied. Made possible by United Way of Northeast Florida’s multimillion-dollar investment in home preservation, the latest projects of the Home Repair Program support interior and exterior upgrades and/or replacements to owneroccupied homes that make houses safer and more energyefficient, among other improvements.
“Home repairs are our way of partnering with residents who feel their neighborhood has been forgotten and are now seeing a rise in interest from investors due to the development of the Emerald Trail,” said James Ellout, vice president of community impact for United Way. “Repairs are preserving character and ownership in neighborhoods like North Riverside.”
Partners in this work with United Way include the North Riverside CDC, Historic Eastside CDC, Groundwork Jacksonville, LIFT JAX, LISC Jacksonville and JEA. Dozens of homes in North Riverside and on the historic Eastside have already undergone life-changing repairs.
The repairs on Knight’s home included a new air conditioner, roof and gutters, plus landscaping of his front yard. The new AC replaced a unit that was 20 to 25 years old, he said.
Combined with his new cooling roof – designed to keep homes cooler by reflecting sunlight — the new AC unit cut his electric bill in half, Knight said. Groundwork Jacksonville also installed rain barrels to help irrigate his refreshed front lawn. These positive ripple effects of the repairs will save Knight money long-term.
Knight said he’s so thankful for United Way and the partners involved and hopes the program can continue to grow.
“This program means a lot to me,” he said. “It’s a blessing for the neighborhood.”
United Way’s significant investments in home preservation will allow more homeowners to receive life-changing upgrades and improvements. These repairs are an important step in improving families’ economic mobility – and help residents like Knight remain in their castles.
For more information on United Way’s housing work, email James Ellout, vice president of community impact, at jamese@uwnefl.org. To support this important work, make a donation at unitedwaynefl.org/give
Mission: Kamp Kritter Rescue Foundation is a non-profit sanctuary that focuses on the most medical needy and unadoptable dogs from local shelters or other rescues giving them specialized vet care and a warm safe place to recover and any socialization or training until they become adoptable or live out their remaining time with dignity in a loving environment.
KATE AMATO FOUNDATION
135 Professional Dr., Ste. 102, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32082 | (904) 629-8300 kateamatofoundation.org info@kateamatofoundation.org
FB: support.TeamKate | IG: kateamatofoundation
Founders: Lisa and Jeff Amato
Mission: KAF is dedicated to funding pediatric cancer research to develop safer, smarter, and more effective treatments for children with cancer. Our vision is to advance the pace of progress, spare pain and suffering, and save young lives.
Mission: The Katie Caples Foundation is committed to increasing the number of registered organ donors and eliminating the wait for those on the national transplant waiting list.
Mission: Kids First of Florida works to ensure the safety of children through a holistic approach designed to support the health and well-being of families in order to build a healthier community one family at a time.
FB: KIPP Jacksonville Public Schools | IG: kippjax
Success Story
CEO/Executive Director: Dr. Melissa Fullmore
Mission: Together with families and communities, KIPP Jacksonville creates joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose – college, career, and beyond – so they can lead fulfilling lives and create a more just world.
Mission: We believe that by creating an environment where people with intellectual and physical disabilities can share their gifts, we are affecting a positive change in the world. We celebrate the unique value of every person and recognize our need for one another.
Mission: To educate, connect and inspire diverse leaders to build and strengthen their communities and to be the catalyst for vibrant, connected communities where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged for the greater good.
THE LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY NORTH FLORIDA
3505-3507 E. Frontage Rd., Concourse Center III 145, Tampa, 33607 | (904) -900-6702
lls.org/nofl | melanie.johnson@lls.org
FB: LLSusa | IG: llsusa
Executive Director: Melanie Johnson
Mission: To cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.
Mission: We exist to empower young males of color, from father absent families to become successful on and off the field. Our vision is to positively impact the lives of the next generation of males of color.
Mission: The mission of LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is to provide a safe blood supply that meets or exceeds the needs in each community we serve and to provide a variety of services in support of ongoing and emerging blood and transfusion-related activities.
LISC JACKSONVILLE
100 N. Laura St., Ste. 600, 32202 | (904) 353-1300 lisc.org/Jacksonville | icohen@lisc.org
FB: LISCJAX
Executive Director: Dr. Irvin PeDro Cohen
Mission: LISC Jacksonville is the leading nonprofit community development organization in the nation, focused on transforming challenged urban communities into neighborhoods of choice and opportunity – good places to work, do business and raise families.
Mission: The Literacy Alliance of Northeast Florida’s mission is to improve the self-sufficiency, economic mobility, and quality of life for adults through continuing education and literacy skill building with personalized, flexible, goals-based tutoring and small group instruction.
LITERACY PROS OF JACKSONVILLE
118 E. Monroe St., 32202 | (904) 210-6677 literacyprosjacksonville.org | literacyprosjacksonville@gmail.com
FB: LiteracyProsJacksonville
Director: Sarah Van Cleve
Mission: We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching our community through the power of literacy.
Mission: Our mission is to help young adults with cancer by providing dynamic opportunities, fostering community support, and promoting healthy living. Our vision is to inspire each young adult cancer patient and survivor to live every day to its fullest and create a community where they are in support of one another.
Katie’s Journey Back to Her Daughters
Katie Morris moved to Amelia Island in July 2022 looking for a fresh start, though the journey here had been far from easy. After a hard fall that included time in prison and the painful loss of custody of her two young daughters, Katie arrived in Florida carrying the weight of her past. Her girls were back in Colorado, and every day she ached to see them again. But if she was going to rebuild her life—for herself and for them—she knew she needed help. At Barnabas Center, she found the support and second chance she’d been searching for.
As part of her release conditions, Katie volunteered at Barnabas Center New to You Resale Stores. A few months into her ordered community service, she met Priscilla, a resource coordinator at Barnabas Center.
“I was in a tough place,” Katie said. “I had lost so much and was just trying to get my life back on track. Meeting Priscilla was a turning point for me.”
After meeting Priscilla, Katie officially sought help through Barnabas Center’s Empowerment Programs. Together, they mapped out a path toward Katie’s ultimate dream: reuniting with her daughters. The first step was to secure steady employment. Priscilla helped her build a resume that reflected her strengths, patiently practiced interview skills with her and cheered her on every step of the way. In a matter of months, Katie’s hard work paid off with a position in the hospitality industry.
Mission: JFCS’s mission is “Strengthening the entire Northeast Florida Community by providing support services in the Jewish tradition of helping people help themselves.” Since 1917, we’ve provided quality services that now include emergency financial assistance, The Max Block Food Pantry, child safety and prevention support, senior services, dropout prevention, and counseling.
LSF DUVAL HEAD START - LUTHERAN SERVICES FLORIDA
3027 San Diego Dr., 32207 | (904) 627-7276 lsfnet.org/children-families/head-start/duval/ IG: lutheranservfla
President & CEO: Samuel M. Sipes
Mission: Lutheran Services Florida serves to bring God’s healing, hope and help to people in need in the name of Jesus Christ.
Mission: Our mission is to develop and sustain an integrated system of behavioral health care through a network of services built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration.
Priscilla also taught Katie how to save money and manage her finances, so she could afford to travel to Colorado and see her daughters. Before long, Katie was able to make the trip, and while there, she successfully regained custody of her girls. With her daughters finally by her side, Katie brought them home to Florida, ready to begin their new life together.
As Katie and her children settled into their new lives in Florida, Katie’s oldest daughter, Lili, also took an interest in Barnabas Center’s Empowerment Programs. With Priscilla’s guidance, Lili began exploring college options, dreaming of a future filled with opportunities she once thought were out of reach.
“I’ve also relied on the food pantry and accessed medical services,” Katie shared. “But what stands out most is how deeply the team cares. Thanks to their support, I’m a stronger mom, and my daughters and I have a future filled with hope. They didn’t just help us survive; they helped us believe in what’s possible.”
Katie’s story is one of resilience and renewal. With Barnabas Center’s help, Katie secured her first job and, more recently, a better position with improved hours and pay. Today, she’s dedicated to sharing her journey, hoping her story will inspire others to find the courage to seek the help that transformed her life and opened new doors for her family’s future.
To learn more about Barnabas Center’s services, visit BarnabasNassau.org
Success Story
Finding Hope and Healing: A Survivor’s Story of Support
Sexual violence doesn’t just happen when a stranger jumps out of the bushes, and it can happen to anyone, at any age. For me, it was my boyfriend who raped me. He was someone I trusted and who I believed would keep me safe. Until one night he didn’t. He didn’t listen to me, he didn’t take “NO” for an answer and he clearly told me that I was “his”, and I needed to do what he wanted, when he wanted. This began my long journey as a sexual assault survivor. I never would have imagined, at the age of 32, having lived a protected and stable life, that I would find myself at the Women’s Center of Jacksonville’s Sexual Assault Center having a forensic exam conducted, while a detective waited to take my statement. I never thought this would happen to me, especially by someone that I loved and who I thought loved me.
I have so much gratitude for the Women’s Center and their support during my darkest time. From the moment I called their hotline, I felt respected and believed. I knew that they were going to stand by me all the way through and they have. I am still working with the State Attorney’s Office, so the outcome is yet to be determined. But I do know that I am here today, because the Women’s Center believed me, they told me that from the beginning and that gave me the strength I needed to move forward. I learned that I had options and that I could choose how my healing should look – no one survivor is like the other. They helped me get my dignity, my self-respect, and my life back!
A grateful survivor
Statistics tell us that every 68 seconds an individual in the United States is sexually assaulted. Our services include a 24/7 rape crises hotline, forensic exams, counseling services, support groups, community education, stress management, career readiness, and breast cancer support and awareness. All our services are 100% free. We are the only certified Rape Crises Center in Duval, Nassau, and Baker Counties.
Mission: To provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment where children with intellectual and developmental differences can thrive.
MAKE-A-WISH® CENTRAL AND NORTHERN FLORIDA, NORTHEAST REGION
Mission: Make-A-Wish wants each wish experience to be a game-changer for a child with a life-threatening medical condition. The foundation endeavors to be creative in exceeding the expectations of every wish-kid and to make donated resources go as far as possible.
Mission: Our mission is to develop champions in classrooms, on tennis courts and throughout the community. Our vision is that the young people in our program will be provided with the resources they need to rise to their potential and become contributing members of society.
Mission: The Mandarin Museum & Historical Society shares the stories of Mandarin’s history, culture and natural resources by providing engaging programs that educate, entertain and inspire.
Mission: Margaret’s Memories is a standing mission project of the Riverside Park United Methodist Church and makes Bereavement Memory Boxes for parents who lose a child to miscarriage, stillbirth, or death shortly after birth. The boxes are donated to local hospitals in Jacksonville, Florida.
Mission: We are committed to bringing awareness to Spina Bifida, specifically surrounding the diagnosis in utero. Our story will become another family’s reality, and through our platform, we will support and educate families moving forward. The money raised will be sent to a family that will be making their journey to CHOP, just like we did.
Mission: Our purpose is to educate the public about feral cats and the overpopulation problem that exists. Our goal is to promote spay and neuter programs for a healthier, more stable population and provide an example that a functioning TNR program does work.
MCKENZIE NOELLE WILSON FOUNDATION
P.O. Box 2529, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32004 | (904) 992-0124
caregivegrow.org | info@caregivegrow.org
FB: caregivegrow | IG: caregivegrow
Foundation Director: Adrian Gibbs
Mission: Our mission is to help youth recognize their full potential by providing programs that encourage caring for others, giving to those in need, and growing in their own spirituality. The Foundation is dedicated to empowering young people to discover their purpose in an increasingly complex and challenging world.
MEMORIAL PARK ASSOCIATION
1650-302 Margaret St., Ste. 322, 32204 | (904) 673-3357
Mission: The Memorial Park Association, Inc. is a non-profit corporation solely for the purpose of the restoration and preservation of Memorial Park, established in honor of the more than 1,600 Floridians who lost their lives in the service during World War I.
Good is everywhere
Success Story
VyStar Credit Union has a simple purpose, which is to Do Good. This philosophy traces back to their founding in 1952 and continues to guide every decision. Thousands of people in Florida and Georgia enjoyed free experiences at museums, zoos, science centers and more as part of VyStar Credit Union’s awardwinning Good is everywhere celebration. The two-week blitz dedicated to volunteerism, community partners and member appreciation events was held September 12-28 and resulted in tremendous participation from communities throughout VyStar’s service area.
Good is everywhere kicked off in North Florida with VySt ar’s President/CEO Brian Wolfburg and more than 45 VyStar employees and Jacksonville’s Mayor Donna Deegan provided landscaping and painted the interior of the AnnieRuth Foundation’s building. Mayor Deegan proclaimed it “Good is everywhere Day” in the City of Jacksonville.
Mission: Through Christ, we empower our neighbors who are circumstantially in need to strive for a stable and sustainable future. We provide self-sufficiency programs that ensure accountability and measurable results.
Mission: The Methodist Children’s Village works to enhance the quality of young children’s lives through nurturing, early intervention, and developmentally based education.
Mission: Micah’s Place’s mission is to provide safety and support for individuals who have experienced domestic violence, and to raise awareness regarding its cause, prevalence and impact.
THE MILITARY MUSEUM OF NORTH FLORIDA
1 Bunker Ave., Green Cove Springs, 32043 | (904) 863-3527 themilitarymuseumofnorthflorida.com | militarymuseumnf@aol.com
Mission: Mission House exists to empower individuals affected by homelessness in the Beaches area by providing food, clothing, medical care and support services with an avenue to self-sufficiency.
VyStar employees from all areas of the organization collaborated with nonprofits to address community needs.
Good is everywhere 2024 by the numbers in Florida and Georgia:
• 1,498 employees donated 6,336 volunteer hours to nonprofits across the communitiesVyStar serves
• VyStar volunteers took part in service projects at 175 nonprofits
• VyStar provided 23 days of free events to credit union members
• 17,386 people registered for free admission at 20 cultural and educational destinations
This year’s Good is everywhere celebration introduced sporting events and concerts as part of the free experiences as a way for VyStar to show its gratitude for its members’ continued loyalty and dedication to the credit union.
Good is everywhere embodies VyStar’s unwavering commitment to being a strong community leader and a trusted financial institution. In 2023, VyStar donated an impressive $6.6 million to over 400 nonprofit organizations, and VyStar employees personally volunteered an unprecedented 32,000 hours.
To learn more, visit vystarcu.org/goodiseverywhere
Mission: The mission of the Monique Burr Foundation for Children is to protect children from bullying, digital dangers, abuse and exploitation with comprehensive, evidence-based prevention education programs.
Mission: Rooted in the Gospel and Strengthened by the Sacraments, the Mission of Morning Star School is to provide a unique, inspiring education empowering students with learning differences to achieve their full potential. Morning Star is fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference. Morning Star is the only special education school in the Diocese of St. Augustine. All faculty are certified in special education.
Mission: Murray Hill Theatre, operated by a non-profit organization established in 1995, is an alcohol-free, drug-free, smoke-free, all-ages music venue that showcases faith-based and positive live music and events. Our goal is to have a positive influence on others through music and relationships.
Mission: The mission of NAMI Jacksonville is to support and improve the quality of life for family members and those living with mental illnesses and cooccurring substance abuse through compassion, education, and advocacy.
Mission: Nassau County Animal Care and Control promotes and protects public safety and animal care through sheltering, adoption programs, education and animal law enforcement. Our philosophy is to promote responsible pet ownership, compassion towards animals and safe human-animal interactions.
Mission: NHS improves the lives of homeless animals in our community by providing them shelter and compassionate care. Our work focuses on adoption services, educations about responsible pet ownership, and working to reduce animal overpopulation.
Mission: National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS) unrelentingly invests in, mobilizes, and unites our community to discover a cure, deliver effective treatments, and advocate for patients and care partners.
NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY NORTH FLORIDA
8940 Western Way, Ste. 16, 32256 | 800-344-4867 nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/FLN
FB: nationalmssociety | IG: mssociety
President & CEO: Cyndi Zagieboylo
Mission: We will cure MS while empowering people affected by MS to live their best lives. Our vision is a World Free of MS.
Mission: Formerly Cerebral Palsy of Northeast Florida, New Heights works to enrich the lives of persons with disabilities and their families and empower their independence and lifelong growth through quality services.
Mission: The Nonprofit Center of N.E. Florida connects, strengthens, and advocates for nonprofits, creating a more vibrant Northeast Florida.
NORTH FLORIDA LAND TRUST
843 W. Monroe St., 32202 | (904) 479-1967
NFLT.org | Development@NFLT.org; ADeFoor@NFLT.org
FB: nflandtrust | IG: northfloridalandtrust
President/CEO: Re. Cn. Allison DeFoor
Mission: NFLT is a non-profit land conservation organization committed to protecting and preserving the natural landscape and ecosystems of North Florida. Throughout its 25-year history, NFLT has remained steadfast in its focus on preserving the most ecologically, agriculturally, and historically significant lands in North Florida.
FB: North Florida School of Special Education | IG: nfsse_jax
Head of School: Sally Hazelip
Mission: The mission of North Florida School of Special Education is to discover and foster each student’s unique abilities revealing their highest potential within an engaged community.
NORTHEAST FLORIDA AIDS NETWORK (NFAN)
2715 Oak St., 32205 | (904) 356-1612 nfanjax.org
FB: nfanjax | IG: nfan_jax
Executive Director: Donna Fuchs
Mission: Northeast Florida AIDS Network provides compassionate leadership, services and advocacy in meeting the prevention, health, spiritual and social needs of individuals, families and communities.
NORTHEAST FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
7801 Deercreek Club Rd., 32256 | (904) 394-9132
nefarcharitablefoundation.org
FB: yourNEFAR | IG: yournefar
CEO: Glenn East
Mission: With a vision to be the charity of choice for real estate professionals, the mission is to serve as an advocate and resource for local nonprofit communities in Northeast Florida.
NORTHEAST FLORIDA HEALTHY START COALITION, INC.
751 Oak St., Suite 610, 32204 | (904) 723-5422 nefhealthystart.org | fjohnson@nefhsc.org
FB: NEFHealthyStart
CEO: Faye Johnson
Mission: The Healthy Start Coalition leads a cooperative community effort to reduce infant mortality and improve the health of children, childbearing women and their families in Northeast Florida.
Mission: The Northeast Florida Women Veterans, Inc. is focused on ensuring women who have served on active duty, National Guard, or Reserves transition into the civilian community with the tools they need to become self-sufficient. We operate a resource center to provide supportive services and resources to women veterans and advocate for and promote community awareness of their challenges and accomplishments at the local, State, and National levels ensuring each has a voice.
Mission: Since 2016, they’ve been working with elected officials, law enforcement, business professionals and religious fellowships as advocates to empower, educate and organize communities to establish greater selfsufficiency. They focus on improving social, racial and economic injustice, particularly for minority youngsters and the elderly.
Mission: Old Arlington Inc. was founded in 1993 and has been instrumental in documenting and maintaining the history of Arlington. As a volunteer-led, nonprofit organization, OAI is dedicated to preserving the architecture, history, and culture of the Arlington community and championing its revitalization.
ONEJAX INSTITUTE
100 Festival Park Ave., 32202 | (904) 799-5370 | onejax.org | onejax@onejax.org
FB: OneJaxInc | IG: onejaxinc
CEO: Elizabeth Andersen
Mission: OneJax is an interfaith organization dedicated to achieving civility, understanding and respect for all people.
Mission: Our mission is to enhance the health and well-being of others through our work with blood and stem cell products and by facilitating scientific research. Our vision is to become the leading world-class blood system in the innovation of new services, technology and research, that positively impacts blood product safety and availability, and enhances the lives of our team members.
ONCE UPON A ROOM
3948 3rd Street South #428, Jacksonville Beach, 32250 | (904) 509-1816 onceuponaroom.org/jacksonville | hello@onceuponaroom.org; Jacksonville@onceuponaroom.org
Mission: Enrich the lives of hospitalized children, teens and infants who are fighting serious illnesses and long-term acute trauma. To provide personalized hospital room makeovers, in-hospital and outpatient events to promote happiness and healing in the lives of critically ill and extended stay pediatric patients.
OPERATION NEW HOPE
1830 N. Main St., 32206 | (904) 354-4673 operationnewhope.org | info@operationnewhope.org; rfullwood@operationnewhope.org
FB: RenewHope | IG: renewhope
President/CEO: Reggie Fullwood
Mission: Operation New Hope provides support, life and job skills training for people with a history of involvement with the criminal justice system, and places them in employment that offers a sustainable quality of life.
OPERATION NEW UNIFORM (ONU)
8825 Perimeter Park Blvd., St. 503, 32216 | (904) 328-1600 onuvets.org | info@onuvets.org
FB: OperationNewUniform | IG: onuvets
CEO: Michelle McManamon
Mission: The Mission of Operation New Uniform (ONU) is to empower Active Duty Servicemembers, Veterans, and Military Spouses to successfully transition from military life to purposeful, stable careers.
Mission: Pace provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy.
PAJCIC FAMILY FOUNDATION
102 Palm Pl., Neptune Beach, 32266 | (904) 358-8881
President: Helen Pajcic Nicholson
Mission: The Pajcic Family Foundation promotes social justice, animal welfare and the preservation of mother nature, with a focus on the Jacksonville community.
PANCREATIC CANCER ACTION NETWORK
National Office: 2101 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 3200, 90245 | (877) 573-9971 pancan.org | info@pancan.org
FB: pancan | IG: pancan
President/CEO: Julie Fleshman
Mission: Our mission is to take bold action to improve the lives of everyone impacted by pancreatic cancer by advancing scientific research, building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for patients. PanCAN’s vision is to create a world in which all patients with pancreatic cancer will thrive.
PATIENT ASSISTANCE FOUNDATION OF CANCER SPECIALISTS OF NORTH FLORIDA
7015 AC Skinner Pkwy., Ste. 1, 32256 | (904) 519-2739
pafcsnf.org | foundation@csnf.us
FB: PAFCSNF | IG: paf_csnf
President: Beth Page
Mission: The Patient Assistance Foundation of Cancer Specialists of North Florida offers short-term financial assistance for day-to-day living expenses to patients undergoing treatments for cancer or blood-related diseases.
Mission: Patrons of the Hearts is a program that functions under the umbrella of the Baptist Health Foundation and benefits international children that live in corners of the world with no access to the specialized care they require.
Mission: We are committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, administration of proper medical care, and loving placement of dogs into second-chance homes. We believe in rescue by need, not breed.
Mission: Our mission is to financially support and promote the game of baseball for the betterment in Northeast Florida, and to provide scholarships for higher education, as well as to assist the community in times of natural disasters. Our vision is to award meaningful grants in perpetuity to organizations and institutions to better the game of baseball, and to open the Foundation’s dream, The Jacksonville Baseball Museum, A History of Professional Baseball in Jacksonville, providing a cultural destination to showcase the historical legacy of baseball.
THE PGA TOUR – THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP
1 PGA TOUR Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, 32082 | (904) 285-3700 pgatour.com
FB: PGATour | IG: pgatour
Senior Vice President & Executive Director: Jared Rice
Mission: The PGA TOUR, its players and tournaments support more than 3,000 charities. These local and national organizations work in a range of areas affecting the lives of millions in the communities where we live and play.
PILLARS PLUS FOUNDATION
pillarsplus.org
FB: Pillars Plus Foundation Inc. | IG: pillarsplusfoundationinc
Founder: Rev. Tiffany McCall
Mission: Pillars Plus Foundation aims to unite the pillars of our community, working together toward the common goal of reducing human suffering and poverty for the next generation.
PINE CASTLE, INC.
4911 Spring Park Rd., 32207 | (904) 733-2650 pinecastle.org | info@pinecastle.org
FB: pinecastle | IG: pinecastle_florida
CEO: Lori Ann Whittington
Mission: Pine Castle is committed to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental differences through opportunities to learn, work, and connect. We envision a community where persons with differences achieve their highest potential for independence.
PINK RIBBON JAX
P.O. Box 483, Ponte Vedra Beach, 32004 | (904) 202-2919
Mission: Pink Ribbon Jax, a National Philanthropy Day 2021 honoree, is an all-volunteer nonprofit group that raises funds for local breast cancer research, mammography, and patient services at Baptist Health and Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville. What began as one event, the Pink Ribbon Golf Classic, has grown to multiple fundraising and educational events. To date, we have raised and donated more than $2.5 million in the fight against breast cancer, and it all stays in Jacksonville!
Mission: To eliminate the emotional distress of cancer survivors by addressing tangible non-medical needs, providing opportunities to build meaningful networks, and connecting to therapeutic education opportunities.
FB: Planned Giving Council of Northeast Florida | IG: PGC President: Rachael Mueller
Mission: Our mission is to foster awareness and to provide an effective forum for education, communication, networking and collaboration for our gift planning community.
Mission: The Police Athletic League of Jacksonville works to enrich the lives of children by creating positive relationships between law enforcement officers and the youth of our community through educational, athletic and leadership programs.
Mission: The club was established in 1970 by 15 women who wanted to work together for a charitable cause; over the decades the list of charities and scholarships has increased.
PRESBYTERIAN SOCIAL MINISTRIES
4115 Post St., 32205 | (904) 338-0920 psmjax.org | info@presbyteriansocialministries.org
FB: PSMJAX | IG: psmjax1
CEO: Teri Ketchum
Mission: A faith-based ministry connecting goods and services with partner agencies who serve those in need.
Mission: Prisoners of Christ (POC) has helped make Jacksonville a safer community since 1990 by assisting individuals who have been recently released from prison. POC’s clients benefit from three primary services offerings: character development/life skills initiatives, residential services and securing employment.
Mission: Our mission is to fight PTSD and veteran suicide through the outdoors and sharing the true freedom that comes through Jesus Christ. Our prayer is that all veterans will forge community, ignite purpose and defy darkness!
Mission: Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health, substance, and other behavioral services to youth, adolescents, and families in Northeast Florida.
President & CEO: Dr. Robert H. Kelly, Jr. Mission: READ USA works to solve illiteracy through high-interest books and high-quality teaching.
RETHREADED
515 9th St. E., 32206 | (904) 438-8109 rethreaded.com | info@rethreaded.com; kristin@rethreaded.com
FB: rethreadedinc | IG: rethreadedinc
Founder and CEO: Kristin Keen
Mission: Human trafficking destroys lives. Rethreaded exists to restore choice, eliminate vulnerabilities to exploitation and break the cycle of generational trauma for survivors of human trafficking by providing employment, career development and supportive services.
Mission: The Mission of The RITA (Research Is The Answer) Foundation is to raise awareness and money to help in the fight against all cancers, with an emphasis on breast cancer.
Mission: The Ritz Chamber Players foster the appreciation of chamber music through performances and educational outreach featuring preeminent African American musicians and composers, with an emphasis on building audiences and arts inclusion that reflects our diverse society.
RIVER GARDEN SENIOR SERVICES
11401 Old St. Augustine Rd., 32258 | (904) 260-1818 rivergarden.org | foundation@rivergarden.org; mmizrahi@rivergarden.org
FB: rivergardenseniorservices
Chief Executive Officer: Mauri Mizrahi, CEO, LNHA, PT
Mission: To provide a wide range of quality senior care services in residential, outpatient and community based settings.To Create a comfortable and dignified home for seniors, serving all in our care with excellence regardless of financial resources. To Serve people of all faiths, while maintaining an environment supportive of Jewish identity and informed by Jewish values. To Act as a valuable senior services resource for the entire community.
RIVERSIDE/AVONDALE PRESERVATION (RAP)
2623 HERSCHEL STREET, 32204 | (904) 389-2449 riversideavondale.org | info@riversideavondale.org
Mission: Riverside Avondale Preservation, Inc. (RAP) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance and preserve the architecture, history, culture, and economic vibrancy of the Riverside Avondale historic neighborhood. RAP facilitates neighborhood improvements and preservation through community participation, education, advocacy, and events that highlight Riverside Avondale’s unique quality of life.
Mission: Established in 1971 by Riverside Presbyterian Church to provide a safe, secure residence for adult men wishing to recover from the problems resulting from substance abuse.
Mission: Our mission is to provide integrated health services that change lives, rebuild families, and restore communities. River Region Human Services, Inc. is committed to being the “provider of choice” for integrated health services in Northeast Florida, dedicated to the recovery, restoration, and promotion of strong and healthy individuals, families, and communities.
Mission: Our mission is nurturing children in a safe Christian environment, providing the roots to become thriving adults. We believe that how we care for children, protect their well-being, and prepare them for the future are some of the most important issues we face during our lifetime.
Mission: We provide essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need healthcare.
ROTARY CLUB & CHARITIES OF NORTH JACKSONVILLE FL 521 Airport Center Dr., 32218 | (904) 534-0035 NorthJAXRotary.org
President: Thomas Meissgeier
Mission: For over 50 years, we have continuously designed & successfully implemented an amazing number of high-impact health / education / wellness / disaster recovery / economic development and workforce development / environmental and other “signature” outreach programs for families, veterans, elders, and young people throughout the entire US and our world.
Mission: The mission of Safe Harbor is to provide a caring, loving, disciplined atmosphere, to instill self-esteem, responsibility, and reliability in the boys. We endeavor to assist the boys in becoming responsible, mature and independent young men through spiritual, educational and vocational training. Our goal is to teach them to live and work in harmony with others, to be accepting and tolerant of their fellow man without compromising the truth, in a word to become mature.
1665 Old Moultrie Rd., St. Augustine, 32084 | (904) 829-2737 staughumane.org | info@staughumane.org
FB: StAugustineHumaneSociety | IG: staughumane
Mission: St. Augustine Humane Society is committed to providing resources that strengthen lifelong human-animal bonds in our community. We strive to eliminate the need for families to relinquish their pets to shelters, enabling pets to live happily and healthfully in their homes.
Mission: The St. Johns Riverkeeper works to be an independent voice that defends, advocates, and activates others to protect and restore the St. Johns River.
SAN MARCO TURNS 100!
The San Marco Preservation Society (SMPS) invites you to participate in a year-long commemoration of San Marco’s Centennial in 2025. In collaboration with partner neighborhood organizations and the City of Jacksonville, the SMPS is working to convene a Centennial Committee and roll out an event line-up with something for everyone — concerts, history tours, preservation projects, lectures, and a signature gala. Join the SMPS in its mission to preserve, protect, and renew San Marco.
How It All Began
San Marco’s founding dates back to an era when the south bank of the St. Johns River was the independent city of South Jacksonville. In 1890, the Florida East Coast Railway Bridge connected both banks of the river by rail, but the real exodus from the “big city” of Jacksonville to the south bank occurred after the Great Fire of 1901. By 1907, South Jacksonville was incorporated and caught the eye of many entrepreneurs, business-savvy individuals, and land seekers. The St. Johns River Bridge (later named the Acosta Bridge) opened in 1921, which introduced automobile traffic across the river without the need for a ferry.
In the 1920s, the bustling city welcomed Telfair Stockton, one of Jacksonville’s most prominent developers. His office, originally located downtown at the corner of Duval and Laura streets, was where his firm worked to plan the Avondale community. Inspired by his travels to Venice, Italy, Stockton envisioned an 80-acre residential neighborhood and village center called San Marco. By the fall of 1925, the designs were complete and advertisements were placed. On Sept. 12, he opened the doors of his tiny office and sold every residential lot by the close of business.
On land once owned by Alexander and Margaret Reed Mitchell, Stockton transformed the old Gamble & Stockton brickyard into a new and prized neighborhood. His firm then established present-day San Marco Square, fulfilling his dream of a town center with a main thoroughfare: San Marco Boulevard. Stockton even reinvented an old claypit to become Marco Lake.
Mission: St. Michael’s Soldiers is dedicated to the support of the deployed men and women of our United States Military, local active military and their families.
Mission: The Salvation Army is an international evangelical organization that is part of the Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible and is motivated by love for God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Mission: Our mission is to encourage and empower Jacksonville youth and families in need by ministering to their spiritual, physical, social, and intellectual needs.
SAVING ANIMALS FROM EUTHANASIA (SAFE)
1250 County Road A1A, St. Augustine, 32080 | (904) 460-0556 safe-pet-rescue-fl.com
FB: SAFEPetRescue | IG: safe_pet_rescue
Mission: SAFE was founded in 2008 with the goal of rescuing animals from kill shelters when they are facing euthanasia. To date, we have rescued over 27,000 pets who, through no fault of their own, became homeless.
Mission: SCORE Jacksonville is a team of experienced business professionals who provide guidance to those desiring to start up a new small business or to assist existing small businesses in improving their profitability.
SEAMARK RANCH
1 San Jose Pl., Ste. 31, 32257 | (904) 288-8885 seamarkranch.com | jaxoffice@seamarkranch.com; greg@seamarkranch.com
FB: seamarkranch | IG: seamarkranch
CEO: Greg Voss
Mission: Seamark Ranch is a nurturing Christian home and family system that give children from families in crisis the tools they need for a brighter future. Through a family home model, a specialized residential school and the lessons of life on a working farm community, Seamark Ranch provides the ideal setting for love, stabilization, healing, education and empowerment.
Mission: Seniors on a Mission exists to honor, love, and encourage independent living senior adults, inspiring them to live invigorated lives filled with purpose and grace.
Mission: Our mission statement is simple: Helping Jacksonville Cure Cancer. Serving Up A Cure relies on volunteers, with much of the event’s expenses being covered by sponsorships, players, and in-kind donations from local businesses and individuals. All funds go directly to the charities we serve: The Ellie Kavalieros DIPG Fund, The Gabriel House of Care and Community Hospice of Northeast Florida.
SHANNON MILLER FOUNDATION
2472 Dennis St., 32204 | shannonmiller.com/foundation | contact@shannonmiller.com
FB: ShannonMillerOfficial | IG: shannonmiller96
Founder: Shannon Miller
Mission: Through education and awareness of the health risks associated with childhood obesity, the Shannon Miller Foundation strives to make a positive impact on children’s health.
SHULTZ CENTER
4019 Blvd. Center Dr., 32207 | (904) 348-5757
schultzcenter.org | raifords@schultzcenter.org
FB: schultzcenter | IG: schultzcenter
Executive Director: Simmie A. Raiford
Mission: Schultz Center strives to create a welcoming environment for anyone hosting or attending an event, meeting, or training inside. We’re proud to be the best venue in Jacksonville and we love promoting our local roots. Both the outside and inside of our building are adorned with art from local artists that promotes the sense of empowerment we try to cultivate within every person that attends an event, meeting, or training under our roof.
Mission: Single Vision’s mission is worldwide conservation of endangered species and the preservation of land and habitat essential to earth’s remaining wildlife.
Mission: The Sontag Foundation is one of the largest private funders of brain cancer research in the United States. Established in 2002 by Frederick and Susan Sontag following Susan’s successful battle with a normally lethal form of brain cancer.
Mission: Special Olympics Florida provides year-round sports training, competition, and health services to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, at no cost to the athletes or their caregivers, as a means to achieve physical fitness, self-esteem, socialization skills, and the life skills necessary to be productive, respected, and contributing members of their communities.
Mission: The Spina Bifida Association provides support for families living with Spina Bifida.
SPRINGFIELD IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION AND ARCHIVES
210 W. 7th St.,32206 | (904) 633-9308 historicspringfield.org | siaaweb@historicspringfield.org
FB: HistoricSpringfield | IG: sparjax
President: Debbie Thomopson
Mission: We speciallize in enhancing the quality of life in Historic Springfield through beautifying its public spaces, providing volunteer service, and educating the community, while preserving our archives.
Mission: Our focus is primarily on taming feral kittens that are too big to go to ACPS and not tame enough to go to the Humane Society. We are located in the historic neighborhood of Springfield.
SPRINGFIELD PRESERVATION AND REVITALIZATION COUNCIL, INC. (SPAR)
1321 N. Main St., 32206 | (904) 353-7727 sparcouncil.org | sparoffice@sparcouncil.org; michael.haskins@sparcouncil.org
FB: sparjax | IG: sparjax
Executive Director: Michael Haskins
Mission: The mission of SPAR is to ensure historic Springfield is a preferred place to live and do business by leading programs that drive the preservation, revitalization and balanced growth of our community
STEP UP FOR STUDENTS
PO Box 54429, 32245 | 877-735-7837 stepupforstudents.org | schoolchoice@fldoe.org
FB: stepup4students | IG: stepup4students
President: Doug Tuthill
Mission: Step Up is serving more than 170,000 scholarship students across Florida this year, helping public education fulfill the promise of equal opportunity. Our goal is for all Florida students to have access to the tools that best meet their learning needs.
Mission: Sulzbacher works to empower homeless and at-risk women, children and men through health, housing and income services thereby restoring hope and self-sufficiency.
Mission: Our mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs of our communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.
Mission: Our mission is to inspire play, discovery, exploration, and innovation through science and creativity. tag! Children’s Museum creates transformative, play-based opportunities for families.
Mission: Take Stock in Children works to change the lives of deserving children by combining in-school support through a college support coach, the promise of a college or vocational school scholarship and most importantly the guidance of a caring mentor.
Mission: Teach For America finds, develops, and supports equity-oriented leaders – individually and in teams – so they can transform education and expand opportunity with children, starting in the classroom.
Founders/Board Co-Chairs: Paul and Michelle Tesori
Mission: The foundation’s mission is to achieve great things through God by lending a helping hand, providing hope, and healing hearts for children. Its vision is to make a positive change in the lives of children in the local community and those touched by the PGA TOUR.
TIM TEBOW FOUNDATION
2220 County Rd. 210 W., Ste. 108, PMB 317, 32259 | (904) 380-8499
timtebowfoundation.org
FB: TimTebowFoundation | IG: timtebowfoundation
President: Steve Biondo
Mission: The Foundation’s mission is to bring faith, hope and love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need.
TIMUCUAN PARKS FOUNDATION
9953 Heckscher Dr., 32226 | (904) 374-1107
timucuanparks.org | info@timucuanparks.org
FB: TimucuanParksFoundation | IG: timucuanparks
Executive Director: Mark Middlebrook
Mission: The Timucuan Trails Parks Foundation serves to protect, preserve and promote the Timucuan Trail Parks through advocacy, fundraising and marketing.
TOM COUGHLIN JAY FUND FOUNDATION
PO Box 50798, Jacksonville Beach, 32240 | (904) 543-2599
tcjayfund.org | info@tcjayfund.org
FB: tcjayfund | IG: tcjayfund
CEO: Keli Coughlin Joyce
Mission: The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund helps families tackling childhood cancer by providing comprehensive financial, emotional, and practical support.
Mission: Tree Hill Nature Center promotes environmental stewardship to the community through hands-on educational programs and low-cost access to natural areas.
TRINITY RESCUE MISSION
622 W. Union St., 32202 | (904) 355-1205 trinityrescue.org | gjudd@tbc.org
FB: TrinityRescue | IG: trinityrescue
Executive Director: Gary Judd
Mission: Our Mission is to end the cycle of homelesness for men, women, and especially children across Northeast Florida. We Focus on root cause, long-term and sustainable solutions for ending homelessness.
TRISTYN BAILEY FOUNDATION
FB: TristynBaileyStrong | IG: tristynbaileystrong
Mission: The Tristyn Bailey Memorial Fund was established to honor the vibrant life of Tristyn Bailey. Its impact focuses on the four pillars of good acts: scholarship, victim advocacy, self-defense and confidence, and education on the dangers of social media.
Mission: UCOM serves the community to ensure that no one faces hunger alone, providing emergency relief to those facing food insecurity, providing one hot meal a day to the homebound, and providing help to those willing to break their cycle of crisis.
UF HEALTH JACKSONVILLE
580 West 8th Street, Tower 1, Third Floor, 32209 | (904) 244-1061
ufhealthjax.org | events@jax.ufl.edu
FB: ufhealthjaxgives | IG: ufhealthjaxgives
CEO: Patrick Green
Mission: The mission of the University of Florida College of Medicine –Jacksonville and UF Health Jacksonville is to heal, to comfort, to educate and to discover through quality health care, elimination of health disparities, medical education, innovation and research.
UNF FOUNDATION
1 UNF Dr., 32224 | (904) 620-1833
unf.edu/foundation | teresa.nichols@unf.edu
FB: UofNorthFlorida | IG: uofnorthflorida
Vice President and Executive Director: Teresa Nichols
Mission: The University of North Florida Foundation has a focus on fiduciary responsibility, volunteer leadership, and endowment growth in order to provide private support to the University’s strategic plan for academic and student life programs to meet such needs as scholarships, faculty instruction, research and facilities.
Mission: We solve our community’s toughest challenges by connecting people, resources and ideas. We envision a community of opportunity, where everyone has hope and can reach their full potential.
Mission: Vision Is Priceless works to fulfill the need in our community for vision screenings and provide access to vision care – including eye exams, prescription glasses, and specialty care – for the uninsured and underserved. Our mission is to assess, sustain, and improve the visual health of children and adults in Northeast Florida through education, vision screenings, treatment, and referrals.
Mission: Voices for Children of Florida supports children in Florida’s dependency system, whether in foster care, being adopted, or reuniting with family. Committed to closing gaps wherever they exist for more than 30 years, VFC Florida ensures no child is lost or harmed by the system meant to protect them.
Mission: Volunteers in Medicine is a free healthcare clinic, providing quality healthcare as cost-effectively as possible while maintaining our overall mission to provide healthcare for all who need it. We believe that healthcare is a human right and not a privilege.
Mission: VyStar Foundation is dedicated to doing good and leading by example through collaborative partnerships that support youth, military members and veterans and overall community vitality in the areas served by VyStar Credit Union.
THE SALVATION ARMY OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
'i Serving the Homeless and Hungry since 1891
Providing Disaster Relief and Assistance since 1905
Your Dollar Goes Far, Not Far Away
WAGONER FOUNDATION
P.O. Box 10042, Fleming Island, 32006 wagonerfoundation.com | charities@904HappyHour.com; charles@904happyhour.com
FB: WagonerFoundation | IG: wagonerfoundation
Founder & President: Charles M. Wagoner, Jr.
Mission: Wagoner Foundation is a North Florida organization focused on the arts, assisting our veterans, educating our youth and bettering our community.
WAGS & WHISKERS PET RESCUE AND ADOPTIONS
32 Masters Dr., St. Augustine, 32084 | (904) 814-0615 petrescue.org
Mission: Wags & Whiskers Pet Rescue is a nonprofit, no-kill pet rescue and adoption agency. We are not a shelter. We are a small, local group of volunteers working hard to ensure that every animal in our community can find the perfect home. Forever.
Mission: We Can Be Heroes Foundation shares and publicizes nominations for courageous heroes and unsung heroes from across America, including first responders, community volunteers, veterans, and youth; offers the online Wall of Heroes photo gallery for public to honor their past and present heroes; hosts tributes to heroes, and educational forums on America’s founding values, and helps veterans and those in need.
Mission: Our mission is to ensure respect for all wildlife through education and conservation, while providing orphaned, injured and displaced animals with a second chance at life. Our goal as a Wildlife Rescue Organization is to educate the public as well as treat and rehabilitate wildlife.
Only First Horizon brings together the best of big and small. Like a powerful network of banking centers, ATMs and online tools local banks can’t match. With local decision-makers big banks overlook. When the best of big meets the best of small, you get it all.
Proud to support North Florida’s Nonprofit Community.
Mission: Empowering disabled and PTSD-diagnosed military veterans and their children to improve their mental health through the beautiful game of golf on Florida’s First Coast.
Mission: Winterland is a 501(c)3 organization run by working musicians eager for sustainability and equality within the industry. It is on the forefront of cultural change in the city, helping to build a promising future for working-class creatives.
WJCT PUBLIC MEDIA
100 Festival Park Ave., 32202 | (904) 353-7770 wjct.org | dmcgowan@wjct.org
FB: WJCTJax | IG: wjctjax
President & CEO: David McGowan
Mission: WJCT Public Media uses its unique assets as a resource for citizens to come together to celebrate human diversity, experience lifelong learning, and actively engage in matters of civic importance, all to improve the quality of our lives and our community. WJCT is to be regarded as an indispensable community resource, connecting citizens to content, sharing ideas, and setting the standards through which the community learns and grows.
Mission: The mission of the Woman’s Club of Jacksonville is to work for the improvement, benefit and advancement of womankind in every direction, and generally, to give aid to worthy causes.
WOMEN FOR CHRIST JACKSONVILLE
P.O. Box 380010, 32205 jaxwomenforchrist.org
FB: WFCJax | IG: jaxwomenforchrist
President: Christy Mobley
Mission: Our purpose is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ to the women of Jacksonville through the timely messages of inspirational Christian speakers.
THE WOMEN’S BOARD OF WOLFSON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
1325 San Marco Blvd., Ste. 802, 32207 | (904) 202-2866 womensboardwch.com | womensboard@bmcjax.com
FB: womensboardwch | IG: thewomensboardwch
President: Kendra McCrary
Mission: The Women’s Board strives to further awareness in the community of the services and remarkable facilities of Wolfson Children’s Hospital and to raise funds to ensure the best health care for every child who comes through the hospital’s doors.
WOMEN’S CENTER OF JACKSONVILLE 5644 Colcord Ave., 32211 | (904) 722-3000 thewcj.org | info@thewcj.org; tmiles@thewcj.org
FB: TheWCJ | IG: thewcj
Executive Director: Teresa Miles
Mission: Women’s Center of Jacksonville improves the lives of women through advocacy, support and education and provides rape recovery services for individuals of all genders in Duval, Nassau and Baker Counties. Our vision is to create a community with gender equity, where women are empowered and safe.
Mission: We are a growing community for Jacksonville writers to nurture and celebrate the individual voice by facilitating supportive writing circles and by encouraging people to craft more conscious lives through the art of writing and the practices of community.
Mission: The World Affairs Council of Jacksonville is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization promoting an understanding of the world and its people and engaging citizens of Northeast Florida in becoming better informed participants in the global community.
Mission: The Wounded Warrior Project works to honor and empower Wounded Warriors.
YEAR
UP JACKSONVILLE – DOWNTOWN
Florida State College at Jacksonville, 101 W. State St., Ste. 3001, 32202 (904) 647-1990 | yearup.org
FB: yearup | IG: yearup
Site Director: Latonya Hines
Mission: Year Up’s mission is to close the Opportunity Divide by ensuring that young adults gain the skills, experiences, and support that will empower them to reach their potential through careers and higher education.
Mission: The YMCA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Guided by core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, the Y is dedicated to giving people of all ages, backgrounds and all walks of life the opportunity to improve their lives, nurture their families, and strengthen their community, together.
CSX Florida
Carl and Amee Bailey
Bill and Ann Buchholz
Chris and Teri Emans
Ann C. Hicks
Anne Hoverson
SUPPORTERS
Anne and Charlie Joseph
Matthew and Beth Koenings
Lisa Palmer
Delores Barr Weaver
J. Wayne Weaver
YOGA 4 CHANGE
PO Box 330117, Atlantic Beach, 32233 | (904) 510-2004 y4c.org | info@y4c.org
FB: yoga4changeJax | IG: y4c_jax
Executive Director: Michelle LeClair
Mission: Yoga 4 Change is a non-profit organization that achieves lasting, demonstrative change for veterans, individuals who are experiencing incarceration, youth, and people living with mental health conditions through a purpose-driven yoga curriculum.
Mission: Our mission is to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them walk in their faith. We are committed to reaching all teenagers and young adults throughout Jacksonville, including those from marginalized communities, pregnant and parenting teens, teens in the foster care system, and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Mission: To build a healthier community by empowering young people and families to rise above adversity.
Is your 501(c)(3) nonprofit listed with us? If not, or if your information needs an update, now’s the perfect time to get involved! For over 10 years, we’ve proudly highlighted organizations like yours. To make sure you're included, submit your updated information to circlesmagjax@gmail.com no later than August 1, 2025.
OUR MISSION IS TO END THE CYCLE OF HOMELESSNESS FOR MEN, WOMEN, AND ESPECIALLY CHILDREN ACROSS NORTHEAST FLORIDA.
We focus on root cause , long-term and sustainable solutions for ending homelessness.
SERVICES
EMERGENCY SERVICES TRANSITION PROGRAMS
178,420 56,735 1,680
Book Smart: Growing Your Knowledge
Reading helps teams become more prosperous in 2025
Nonprofits rely on financial support, strong leaders and radical new ideas to sustain their operations, which makes it critical to master the art of running a nonprofit as one might run a corporation or highly productive private firm. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field – one of the most effective ways to improve your team operations is by learning from others – that's where specialized books come in.
This reading list provides valuable insight into successful strategies, lessons learned, and common pitfalls to avoid when growing leaders, adapting to change and managing to thrive in uncertain times. Nonprofits and their staffs can always seek opportunities to grow professionally and refine their methods to strengthen the mission. Dive in, learn and innovate in 2025…your team is counting on it!
She Thinks Like a Boss: 9 Essential Skills for New Female Leaders in Business & The Workplace
By Jemma Roedel
JEMMA ROEDEL, 2021
UK entrepreneur Jemma Roedel offers strategies for becoming an effective woman in leadership. From dealing with imposter syndrome and overcoming fears to building a great team and communication tools for setting boundaries, She Thinks Like a Boss offers practical techniques for building a successful career.
The Nonprofit Dilemma: Insights & Strategies for Purpose-Driven Leaders
By DC Armijo
MILFORD BOOKS, 2024
Based on the simple idea that nonprofit leaders frequently encounter a choice between advancing their organization's impact or its financial health, The Nonprofit Dilemma explores why nonprofit management is so challenging. Nearly every decision comes with the same underlying question – which aim to prioritize? The Nonprofit Dilemma aims to help nonprofit leaders gain the clarity and strategic intent needed to become exceptional leaders.
Fundraising Without Burnout: Radically Reimagining Philanthropy to Transform Your Impact
By Radha Freedman
DIFFERENCE
PRESS, 2023
Fundraising for a nonprofit can feel never-ending and stressful, causing many fundraisers to burn out and quit. In Fundraising Without Burnout, philanthropic advisor Radha Friedman critiques how accepted industry best practices may be sabotaging an organization’s fundraising efforts. Friedman dispels industry myths while offering solutions that help nonprofit leaders redefine their purpose, prevent burnout and meet their fundraising goals.
The Rising Leader Handbook: Turning High Achievers into Effective Leaders
By Mark J. Silverman
INK HEART PRESS, 2024
Are you a corporate leader aiming to thrive rather than just survive? The Rising Leader Handbook offers strategies for mastering leadership and interpersonal skills in a fast-paced corporate environment. The Rising Leader Handbook explores leadership from four crucial perspectives: leading up (advising senior executives), leading across (how to excel in leading a team of peers), leading our team (achieving success through empowering others) and leading you (being your best in all situations).
The Gift of Influence
By Tommy Spaulding CURRENCY, 2022
Tommy Spaulding explores the potential each of us has to effect positive change by fully embracing the power we have to influence those around us. Through a collection of stories, Spaulding considers how we can harness our gift of influence more mindfully and effectively.
Jen Shang and Adrian Sargeant
In this 2024 title, authors Jen Shang and Adrian Sargeant give readers the opportunity to get to know 48 high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, sharing their philanthropic journeys and revealing the people behind the giving.
When you choose Ascension nationally awarded care that’s focused on the local community. esignat as one of the Top 15 Health Systems in the U.S. , is committed to providing high-quality, patientcentered care in
• Home to Jacksonville's leading cardiovascular program
• Certified by the Joint Commission for hip replacement, knee replacement and spine surgery
• One of the first hospitals in the world to receive the da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system
Ascension S s a destination for specialty care. Our services include, but are not limited to:
• Breast imaging
• Breast surgical oncology
• Cancer care
•
• Heart and vascular health
• Imaging, including PET scans
• Knee, hip and shoulder replacement
• Laboratory services
• • Outpatient dietary education
• Primary care for adults and children
• Rehabilitation
• Spine and neck care/spine surgery
• Surgery
• Urology
• Women’s health
Whether you or a loved one needs a place to heal or a place to call home, River Garden is where you’ll find friendships, caring and support. For 78 years, we’ve maintained the highest quality services while evolving our programs to meet the ever-changing needs of older adults.
Continued from Page 94
The Jossey-Bass Handbook of Nonprofit Leadership and Management
By David O. Renz, William A. Brown, Fredrik O. Andersson
JOHN WILEY & SONS, 2024
In this revised fifth edition, the authors review the latest research, theory and practices that impact today’s nonprofits. Featuring contributions from more than two dozen nonprofit leaders, the book explores the challenges confronting nonprofit leaders, including the concept of accountability and the pressure to demonstrate concrete outcomes and results during a time of extreme economic challenge.
24 Fundraising Trends and Predictions for 2024
By Jeremy Reis
NONPROFIT DONOR PRESS, 2024
Jeremy Reis breaks down strategies, technologies and trends into five parts exploring donor-centric strategies, tech-powered fundraising, community and collaboration, impact and accountability and macro trends, providing an essential guide for the nonprofit ready to elevate their philanthropic game.
The Practice of Philanthropy: A Guide for Foundation Boards and Staff
By Malcolm Macleod BARLOW BOOKS, 2023
Drawing on his experience as a nonprofit leader, author Malcolm Macleod explores the elements required for a nonprofit organization to make a significant impact – from building strong relationships with other nonprofits and getting the most out of a governing board to managing an endowment. Topics covered include the principles of grantmaking, recruiting an effective board, making grants that will have an impact and achieving superior investment returns.
Social Media and Philanthropy: A Match Made in Heaven
By Clifford D. Wheeler CLIFFORD WHEELER, 2023
This book asserts that social media is revolutionizing traditional philanthropy practices, exploring the dynamics of “social philanthropy.” Wheeler aims to offer insight into how traditional charity barriers are disappearing and viral philanthropy is making an impact. Through real-world case studies, the book helps fundraisers prepare for the future of online giving.
“Great first time home buyer experience.” ~ Connor & Paige C.
“Susan did an EXCELLENT job and brought a sales contract sooner than I expected. She was very comfortable to work with and knowledgeable throughout the closing process. I highly recommend Susan as a Realtor that gets results.” ~ Jack M.
“ The Singleton Team is amazing! They made the process of relocating from out of state much easier than anticipated. Excellent communication and follow-through.”
Hundreds of runners hit the streets on the last Saturday of every January for the annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge. The day of races and family-friendly festivities raises funds for Wolfson Children’s Hospital, the region’s only not-for-profit children’s hospital.
Each year, the Wolfson Children’s Challenge also honors 55 current and former patients, known as the “Wolfson 55.” Their stories are shared throughout the day during the annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge Telethon, also held during January, leading up to the main event.
“We are so grateful to our sponsors, volunteers and community for their support of the Wolfson Children’s Challenge. Their commitment and energy are inspirational,” said Allegra Jaros, MBA, president of Wolfson Children’s Hospital.
To date, the event has raised more than $4 million to help purchase life-saving equipment and technology.
Percy and Susan Rosenbloom with Jim Agee, Renee Parenteau, Marie Foster Gnage and David Gnage, Howard and Terry Wanamaker
Rick and Sammie Graham with Dr. Mark and Ellen Gould, Andrew Wooten and Grace Wooten
Daniel and Janine Burkhardt
Janet Wozniak with Jennifer and Chris Spires and Suzanne Hinckley
Diana Donovan with Yanira ‘Ya Ya’ Cardona, Mike Hightower and Monica Hernandez
Amber Wilson with Sarah Small
Tracy Arthur with Lana Shuttleworth Wood and Dr. Wayne Wood Robin and Laura Braddock Nathan and Kat Miller with Meg and Tom Davis
Past Board Presidents Agnes Danciger, Percy Rosenbloom and Pattie Houlihan
Join us in celebrating 35 years of Communities In Schools of Jacksonville, a milestone marked by transforming the lives of over 111,000 students. Through dedicated case management, literacy tutoring, and afterschool programs, CIS Jax continues to drive student success.
You’re invited to a memorable evening that features a reception with drinks and a silent auction, followed by an elegant dinner with live entertainment and heartfelt student testimonials. It’s a time of celebration and inspiration you don’t want to miss! By taking a ‘walk in their shoes,’ we can reaffirm our commitment to making a lasting impact on the community. Tickets, sponsorship, and VIP opportunities are available on our website.
4
JaxPAL 5K and Fun Run
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
18
45th Annual Matanzas 5000
Police Athletic League - Jacksonville Ed Austin Park | 3450 Monument Rd. raceroster.com/events/2025/96720/jaxpal-5k | (904) 854-6555 | 8 a.m.
15
Florida Forum - Deepak Chopra
Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water St. https://www.womensboardwch.com/florida-forum-1 | 7 p.m.
17 Dreams Come True’s 40th Anniversary Gala Dreams Come True
Join Dreams Come True as they celebrate 40 years of fulfilling dreams for local children with life-threatening medical conditions. The event will include a cocktail hour, dinner, silent and live auctions and more! Meet several Dreamers and their families at the event.
Ancient City Road Runners
Francis Field | 29 W. Castillo Dr. ancientcityroadrunners.org/matanzas-5000
Florida’s fastest 5K, the MATANZAS 5000 benefits youth running programs in St. John’s County, Florida. Proceeds from this race benefit the cross-country running programs at St. Johns County high schools and middle schools, as well as the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind. Since 1989, ACRR has donated more than $300,000.00 to youth running programs, all made possible by your continued support and by the generosity of our valued Matanzas 5K sponsors.
The purpose of this event is to raise funds and awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida and our one-to-one mentoring programs. Little Big Run is a great opportunity to focus on connecting with the environment, building a sense of community and starting off the new year with healthy habits.
Hellcat 10K 30K 50K
Military Museum of North Florida
Historic Lee Field | 1 Bunker Ave., Green Cove Springs hellcatrace.com | (904) 655-6511 | 8 a.m.
Brooke and Charlie Holt with Marian Poitevent, Randy and Alison DeFoor
Thomas Lee IV with Chris Warren, Mike Hightower and Andrew Kisz
David and Susanna Barton with Lindsey and Ryan Riggs
Caitlyn Miller with Amanda Thomas and Morgan Parks
Jeff and Jane Chefan with Jessica Chefan Hansen
25
RITA Cash 5K
The RITA Foundation
Nocatee Station Field | 400 Nocatee Center Way the-rita-foundation.org/rita-cash/ | (904) 363-1493 | 8 a.m.
2025
Daddy Daughter Dance Girls, Inc.
University of North Florida | 12000 Alumni Drive girlsincjax.org/events | (904) 731-9933 | 4-8 p.m.
The Daddy Daughter Dance will feature a professional DJ, photo booth, dinner & dessert, raffle baskets to win, and a silent to bid on!
1st Annual Pickleball Tournament
Haven Retreats
The Yards | 254 Alta Mar Drive havenretreatsinc.org/store/p/haven-retreats-1st-annual-pickleballtournament | (904) 802-0999 | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Haven is hosting our 1st annual Pickleball Tournament to raise awareness and funds for foster and adoptive families in our community.
Wolfson Children’s Challenge
Wolfson Children’s Hospital
Winston Family YMCA in Riverside | 221 Riverside Avenue WolfsonChildrensChallenge.com | (904) 202-2919 | 8 a.m.
Hundreds of runners will hit the streets of Jacksonville for the annual Wolfson Children’s Challenge. The races and family-friendly festivities raise funds for Wolfson Children’s, the region’s only not-for-profit children’s hospital. Each year, the event honors 55 patients, known as the “Wolfson 55,” who represent the range of services offered.
26
Women’s Philanthropy Champagne Brunch
Jewish Federation & Foundation
San Jose Country Club | 7529 San Jose Blvd. jewishjacksonville.org/upcoming-events | (904) 448-5000 | 10 a.m. - noon
Each year, all 59 Clubs that make up Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida nominate up to three Youth of the Year candidates for elementary school, middle school and high school categories. These Youth of the Year nominees represent their Boys & Girls Club in this competition, celebrating Club members’ academic achievements, leadership abilities and communication skills.
31
In Their Shoes - 35th Anniversary Gala
Communities in Schools of Jacksonville Deerwood Castle | 7601 Centurion Pkwy, Jacksonville, FL 32256 www.cisjax.org/35th | (904)-344-3900 | 6 p.m.
Join Communities In Schools of Jacksonville in celebrating 35 years of impact, transforming the lives of over 111,000 students! Enjoy drinks, a silent auction, dinner, live entertainment, and heartfelt student testimonials. The evening will honor past achievements and inspire future change across Duval County. Explore sponsorship and VIP opportunities on their website.
31-FEB 2
18th Annual DONNA Marathon Weekend
The DONNA Foundation City of Jacksonville & The Beaches breastcancermarathon.com | (904) 355-7465
The 18th Annual DONNA Marathon Weekend will include a 5K, DONNA Dash, Half Marathon, Marathon, Ultramarathon, Event Challenges, and Health & Wellness Expo that will again fill the City of Jacksonville and the Beaches of Northeast Florida with thousands of runners from all 50 states and many countries.
Chad and Stephanie Munsey
Holland Gibbs with Kristi Emmet and Catherine Friedline
Scott and J enny Kashman with Walter and Sally Suslak, Joni Berg
Christian and Stephanie Harden with Emily and William Magevney
Stephanie Henderson with Meg and Peter Hunt, Beverley Brooke
Grier and Julie Wells with Beverly and Tim Sleeth
FEB 2025
TBD
Winterland Six
Winterland Music Outreach Foundation
James Weldon Johnson Park | 135 W. Monroe St. winterlandpresents.org/winterland-six-2024 | All day
Winterland is a music festival that blends a mix of local favorites with national headlining musicians coming together to support the equality and sustainability of the Jacksonville arts economy.
Miles for Mainspring 2025
Mainspring Academy
Mainspring Academy | 6700 Southpoint Pkwy, Suite 400 www.facebook.com/groups/milesformainspring/ | (904)503-0344 | All Day
Walk 10K steps a day for 7 days to support fitness, art, and music enrichment for special education students at Mainspring Academy. Registrants who successfully complete their walks each day will be eligible to win a daily raffle, and a $1000 grand prize for completing all 7 days.
Novo Nordisk Jaguars 5K Stadium Challenge
Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation
EverBank Field | 1 EverBank Stadium Dr. 1stplacesports.com/races/stadium5k/ | (904) 633-6599 | 6 p.m.
Join the annual Jaguars/Novo Nordisk 5K Stadium Challenge to support the Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation and local youth sports programs. The glow in the dark run will include a unique course both inside and outside EverBank Stadium and is fit for all ages. Participants will run around the stadium, up and down the ramps, and finish by crossing the football field. The videoboards will show a live feed of runners running across the field! After the race, join us on the stadium field for a glow in the dark themed post-race celebration and dance party.
1
Extravaganza 2025: Reverie
Douglas Anderson School of the Arts
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water St. dcps.duvalschools.org/domain/7083 | (904) 346-5620 | 6 p.m.
The evening will begin at 6:00pm in the main lobby with an Art Exhibition of student work from our Visual Arts department. Guests will move into the theatre at 6:45 pm for an energetic performance, including collaborations between departments, a musical revue, and individual spotlights on student performers.
Grayson and Erin Avery with Elijah Von Almen and Jamie Sandifer
Mark Velarde and Jessica Cummings with Kathy Barbour and Sean MacMaster
Bill and Kim Latimer
Yael Carlton with Nicole Young, Maddie Smith, C.J. Jack, Shannon Smith and Emmeline Johnson
Katherine Hardwick and Jason Roth
Haley Tinkle and Hannon Holland
Allegra Jaros with Katherine Gilligan
Kendra McCrary with Grace Wooten
Colin and Kaci Barnes
Deborah Stapp with Gabrielle Dean-Rector Merry and Roger Rassman
Josh Smith with Suzanne Hendricks and Tom Janning
2
ROARS
and More
The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care
Join us for ROARS and More “a gala of a different sort” at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for Colors of the Wild on Sunday, February 2nd beginning at 5:30 pm for a spectacular night of lights, animals, and fun. This event benefits the pediatric patients and families of Community Hospice and Palliative Care.
4
Annual Breakfast and Luncheon
Women for Christ
Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Road jaxwomenforchrist.org/annual-February-speaker-luncheon/ | 11:30-1:00 p.m.
Meet our 2025 speaker, Marcy Gregg. She is an artist, author, and speaker in Charlotte, North Carolina where she resides with her husband Dev of 44 years
5
9th Annual 2025 Women with Heart Luncheon
Volunteers in Medicine
Florida Blue Conference Center | 4800 Deerwood Campus Pkwy. vimjax.org | (904) 399-276 | 11 a.m.-1:00 p.m
Women with Heart honorees are chosen because they are committed to leadership, advocacy, and the health of our community.
Proceeds for the 2025 Smoking Clays for Kids event will support the Smoking Clays for Kids endowment which will benefit the Wolfson Children’s Porter Family Children’s Trauma Center. Teams of 4 are invited to play two 14-station target courses. The stations include tower and ground level presentations that are varied often to keep the course fresh and challenging.
SOUPer Bowl VIII
Blessings in a Backpack First Coast Chapter Bowing Oaks Plantation | 7743 Alphons St. firstcoast.blessingsinabackpack.org/upcoming-events | (904) 237-9340 6:00 p.m.
First Coast Blessings in a Backpack and Sysco Jax are hosting Blessings SOUPer Bowl VIII to raise funds and awareness regarding child hunger in our hometown. SBVIII will feature 20+ chefs including culinary students who will present their signature soups to the crowd! Event includes a private VIP Clubroom with dessert, wine & whiskey tastings, Silent Auction, Cocktail Bar, Live Music, and more. Local students create beautiful, unique handmade soup bowls for every participant. Every Ticket sold brings Blessings to the table for a local child struggling with hunger.
Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older. Thousands from around the world will come together to honor those with disabilities.
8
Night for Heroes Gala
UF Health Jacksonville
Sawgrass Marriot Golf Resort and Spa | 1000 Tournament Players Club Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 ufhealthjax.org/heroes | (904) 244-1061 | 6 p.m.
A Night for Heroes gala was established in 2008. The evening serves many purposes: celebrating positive patient outcomes, recognizing UF Health staff and first responders who are true heroes, raising funds to provide state of the art equipment to better serve the community, raising awareness in our community of the value of a Level I trauma center (the only level 1 trauma center in our region) and providing a joyous occasion to advocate for all the great work done daily at UF Health.
Cupid’s Undie Run
Children’s Tumor Foundation
Lynch’s Irish Pub | 514 1st St. N, Jacksonville Beach my.cupids.org/event/2025-cupids-undie-run-jacksonville/e555439 (212) 747-0004 | 12-4 p.m.
Every February, thousands of undie runners in cities across the U.S. come together to support those affected by NF, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. Cupid’s Undie Run kicks off with drinking and dancing, then we jog it out with a mile(ish) run and end it all with an epic dance party!
W.W. Gay Ortega River Run
Episcopal School of Jacksonville
Episcopal School of Jacksonville, St. Mark’s Campus | 4114 Oxford Ave. esj.org/support/events/ortega-river-run | (904) 308-7300
8 a.m. 1-mile fun run | 8:30 a.m. 5-mile run / walk
For the past 47 years, the St. Mark’s Campus has been home to the Ortega River Run. Hosted by First Place Sports as a Grand Prix sanctioned event, this is a great event for the whole family! Proceeds benefit the financial aid program at the school.
14th Annual Mukti Freedom Gala
Rethreaded
The Glass Factory | 601 Myrtle Ave. N rethreaded.com/mukti-2025/ | (904) 438-8109 | 6:30-10:30 p.m.
Mukti means “freedom” in Bengali and is Rethreaded’s largest annual fundraiser. Join us as for a champagne welcome, hors d’oeuvres, open bar, seated dinner, silent and live auctions, entertainment, dancing, and a meaningful story of Flourish from Rethreaded’s community. Valet parking provided. Attire is cocktail attire to semi-formal.
Shannon Blankinship with Kandice Clark
Dita Domonkos and Anita Taylor with Jackie Cornelius
Michelle Harp with Karen Breakell and Emily Knight-Smith
Florida Forum - Carl Hiaasen
The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water St. womensboardwch.com/florida-forum-1 | 7 p.m.
13
Heart of the Runway After Dark
North Florida School of Special Education
North Florida School of Special Education | 223 Mill Creek Rd. northfloridaschool.org | (904) 724-8323 | 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Enjoy an evening runway show featuring the Spring collections of Linda Cunningham and Dillard’s. Students modeling their Night to Shine Prom styles. This nighttime event is filled with energy and fun, a great way to celebrate with your Valentine or Galantines
15th Annual Symposium
Planned Giving Council of Northeast Florida Florida Blue Deerwood Campus | 4800 Deerwood Campus Pkwy. pgcnefl.org | (904) 415-1760 | 8 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
With keynote speaker Heidi Jark, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Foundation Office, Fifth Third Bank.
14
Heart of the Runway Luncheon and Fashion Show
North Florida School of Special Education
North Florida School of Special Education | 223 Mill Creek Rd. northfloridaschool.org | (904) 724-8323 | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
With an elevated runway and dramatic decor, the Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center is transformed into an elegant fashion event. Experience the beautiful collection of Linda Cunningham and spring trends of Dillard’s while enjoying an al fresco lunch with friends.
18th
Annual Gala New York, New York
Boys and Girls Clubs of Nassau County Foundation
Ritz Carlton Amelia Island | 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy. bgcnassau.org/gala18/ | 6 p.m.
The 18th Annual Gala will take place on Friday, February 14, 2025. The event will be held at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. All proceeds will support our valuable programs designed to enhance our Club members’ academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character and leadership development. The 18th Annual Gala engages over 600 guests representing our community’s social philanthropists, foundations, community leaders, donors, and friends of Boys & Girls Clubs of Nassau County Foundation (BGCNCF)
7th Annual McKenzie’s Camp Deep Pond Clay Shoot
Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Florida
Jacksonville Clay Target Sports | 12125 New Berlin Rd. bgcnf.org/events/clay-shoot2025 | (904) 913-8100 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Our goal is to provide thousands of kids and teens a real outdoor summer camp experience at McKenzie’s Camp Deep Pond. Our young people will experience outdoor water sports, archery, fishing, campfire meals, launching STEM rockets and arts, all in an outdoor setting. Campers will have the opportunity to learn how to swim, ride a bicycle, learn about nature, and explore the great outdoors.
Join Us for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and an amazing silent art auction featuring a private collection of original works donated by Sandy Hansford, a founding member of the Women’s Center, and her family. Tickets to the event are FREE but limited. RSVP today!
Get ready for an unforgettable night at our “ALL IN” Poker Tournament benefiting the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus! Secure your tickets now for a chance to win big while making a difference. Enjoy great prizes, hors d’oeuvres, and the joy of supporting young voices in our community. Don’t miss out – grab your seat at the table today!
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2025 Flea Market Preview Party
Garden Club of Jacksonville
Garden Club of Jacksonville | 1005 Riverside Ave. gardenclubjax.org | (904) 355-4224 | 5-8 p.m.
Get the best selection one night before the main event. If you enjoy shopping amazing antiques and fabulous finds, the Flea Market Preview Party is the hottest ticket in town. Don’t miss out!
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2025 Flea Market
Garden Club of Jacksonville
Garden Club of Jacksonville | 1005 Riverside Ave. gardenclubjax.org | (904) 355-4224 | 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Score fantastic finds at this gigantic sale featuring enticing items from homes across Jacksonville. Find housewares, artwork, furniture, books, plants – perfect for your home or for gifts. Visit the boutique of women’s, men’s, and children’s fashions straight from the closets of our members. You’ll find cocktail dresses, suits, school clothes, and more! The Flea Market is the ultimate place to reuse and recycle. Keep these valuable items out of the landfill while you help support the Garden Club of Jacksonville.
Join us for an inspiring annual celebration honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and commemorating Black History Month. Our spirits will rejoice as the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus shares the stage with the talented Morehouse College Glee Club for a powerful performance. Together, we will pay tribute to those who paved the way for future generations in the ongoing pursuit of equity for all.
Deborah Gervin with Chase Zimmerman, Judi Hardwick and Karla Newton
Jax to the Future - Annual Fundraiser
Jewish Community Alliance
Jewish Community Alliance | 8505 San Jose Blvd fundraise.givesmart.com/e/QYONHQ?vid=18pjs8 | (904) 730-2100 ex. 231 7:30 p.m.
Join us for an electrifying night of time-traveling fun at the JCA annual fundraiser! No DeLorean needed…rumor has it, one might show up! Hop in, fasten your seatbelts, and join us for a night where “the future is what you make it!” This annual event supports scholarship services and financial assistance to members and program participants to ensure no one is turned away due to their inability to pay.
THE GREAT GATSBY GALA & Silent Auction
Ponte Vedra Women’s Club
The Greenhouse at the Yards | 254 Alta Mar Dr. pontevedrawomansclub.com | (904) 654-7281 | 6-10 p.m.
Come yourself, with your mate, and/or with friends to an evening of fun - live music with the Chris Thomas Project, catered dinner, drinks, dancing, a silent auction!
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11th Annual 2025 Riverside Craft Beer Festival
Riverside Rotary for the Community Hospice & Palliative Care
Riverside Arts Market | 715 Riverside Dr. riversidecraftbeerfestival.com | (904) 318-3599 | 1-4 p.m.
All proceeds will benefit: Community PedsCare® a nationally recognized program of Community Hospice & Palliative Care which provides comfort, care, and support for children with life-threatening conditions, as well as the charitable causes of the Riverside Rotary Foundation.
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Hometown Heroes Fashion Show
Barnabas Center
Mocama Beer Company | 629 South 8th Street, Fernandina Beach BarnabasNassau.org | (904) 261-7000 | 5 p.m.
Barnabas Center Hometown Heroes Fashion Show is an acknowledgment of local volunteers’ commitment to Nassau County. It celebrates the volunteers who provide service in Nassau County’s multitude of charitable organizations that function to make our lives healthier and our community better.
21st Annual Ron Townsend Golf Classic
Guardian Catholic School
Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Rd. rontownsendgolfclassic.com | (904) 765-1920 | 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Please join us as we celebrate the 21st Anniversary of the Ron Townsend Golf Classic! Over the past two decades, this tournament has raised over $2 Million for financial assistance for deserving students in North Jacksonville to receive a high-quality faith-based education at Guardian Catholic School regardless of financial situation or religious preference.
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5th Annual Pull for Sight Clay Shoot
Vision is Priceless
Jacksonville Clay Target Sports | 12125 New Berlin Rd. visionispriceless.org/pullforsight | (904) 503-2423 | 11 a.m.
Event participants may register in teams of 4 shooters or as individuals. There are 15 shooting stations. Awards will be given to teams with the highest scores. The event will also feature a prize drawing and happy hour with beer, wine, liquor and snacks immediately after the shoot. This is sure to be a fun and competitive yet laid back day. All proceeds from the event will support our sight-saving services for children and adults in need in Northeast Florida.
Wine Tasting Gala
Tom Coughlin Jay Fund
EverBank Field | 1 EverBank Stadium Dr. tcjayfund.org/wine | (904) 543-2599 | 6:30-9:30 p.m
Sample culinary delights from the area’s best restaurants, as well as hundreds of renowned wines. The event helps to provide financial, emotional and practical support to local families tackling childhood cancer.
Proceeds from the #DTJax Gala benefit the PlacemakingJax placemaking initiative to turn passive spaces into active public places. PlacemakingJax is facilitated by Downtown Vision and funded in part by the #DTJax Gala held each February.
2025 Mayor’s Masked Ball Jacksonville UNCF
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront | 225 E. Coastline Dr. uncf.org/events/2024-uncf-Mayors-masked-ball-jacksonville-fl (407) 491-1264 | 6 p.m.
The 4th Jacksonville UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball is a premier fundraising gala and major social event focusing on raising awareness of the need and benefits of a college education, the students UNCF serves and the contributions of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Jacksonville’s very own Edward Waters University – Florida’s first HBCU and first independent institution of higher education.
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water St. jaxsymphony.org/2025-symphony-gala/ | (904) 354-5479 | 5:00 p.m.
Young Life Northeast Florida northeastflorida.younglife.org/events | (904) 913-7811
Join alumni, parents, leaders, staff and board members as we celebrate 65 years of ministry in Jacksonville.
Mark your calendar for the 2025 Diamond Anniversary Symphony Gala all in support of North Florida’s premier nonprofit performing arts organization! The theme of the night, inspired by the “Diamond Medley” from Moulin Rouge sets the tone- both glamorous and playful, with elements that reflect the magic of Paris’ most famous cabaret.
A Celebration of SJEDS Through the Decades
San Jose Episcopal Day School
San Jose Country Club | 7529 San Jose Blvd. sjeds.org/gala | (904) 733-0352 | 7p.m
San Jose Episcopal Day School celebrates 75 years with a joyous benefit gala. This festive night includes dinner, dancing, live, and silent auctions.
2025 15K features a spectacular finish line at the base of the Hart Bridge! All races start and finish on Gator Bowl Boulevard. The Expo will be held in the Flex Field at Everbank Stadium with the post-race area at Metropolitan Park.
Nicolas Storm with Jalon Allen, Leah Hughes, Shermayne Reynolds and Jehu King Marie Celano and Theresa Wilcox
Ashley Mcleod with Mike Biagini and Nathan Wiltei
Justin Stowell and Travis Joyal
Courtney Chrestensen with Grant O'Brien
Jay Wright with Martha Barrett
Stephen Capehart with Trevor Richter Merry and Roger Rassman
Natalie and Charlie McLane
Adelya Nartadjieva, John Reed, Amy Reed, Chris and Lauri McNevin with Kevin Fitzgerald
Baba McCaffrey with Ray Martin, Billy Nelson and Grace Nelson
2-3
Hayden Hurst Family Foundation Golf Tournament
Youth Crisis Center
Marsh Landing Country Club | 25655 Marsh Landing Pkwy haydenhurstfoundation.com/events/2024golfjacksonville-wyftj-ppel6-9xpkt-hlfp4 | (904) 725-6662 | 7:30 a.m.
Enjoy a beautiful day on the course, a chance to win prizes and an amazing silent auction.
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Betty Griffin Center Annual Breakfast
Betty Griffin Center
The Plantation at Ponte Vedra Beach | 220 Plantation Cir. bettygriffincenter.org/tickets-available-for-betty-griffin-centers-first-annual-breakfast-on-march-4/ | (904) 808-8544 | 7-9 a.m.
Please join us for our first breakfast to celebrate domestic and sexual violence survivors. Proceeds of the breakfast help the Betty Griffin Center fund its emergency and support services which include an emergency shelter, two Rape Crisis Units, transitional housing, counseling, legal and financial education programs, and preventive education programs.
Masters of Disasters: 32nd Annual Golf Invitational
American Red Cross Northeast Florida Chapter Deerwood Country Club | 10239 Golf Club Dr. redcross.org/local/florida/north-florida/about-us/news-and-events/events/ masters-of-disasters | (904) 358-8091 | 9:30 a.m
The day begins with registration opening at 9:30 am. Players are welcome to warm-up on the putting green, browse an array of auction items, grab a goodie bag, pick-up their player’s gift, and load their cart with a delicious boxed lunch before the shotgun start at 11am.
35th Annual Golf Classic
L’Arche Jacksonville
Queen’s Harbour Yacht and Country Club | 1131 Queens Harbor Blvd larchejacksonville.org/support-us/ | (904) 721-5992
Shotgun start 11am with Banquet to follow Bring your team and compete for prizes while supporting L’Arche Jacksonville programs.
6-9
29th Annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance
The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care
The Ritz-Carlton, The Golf Club of Amelia Island | 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy ameliaconcours.com/event | (904) 886-3883 | All Day
Join us for The Amelia Concours d’Elegance and see hundreds of the most impressive vehicles from across the globe. The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is among the top automotive events in the world. Always held the second full weekend in March“The Amelia” draws nearly 300 rare vehicles from collections around the world to The Golf Club of Amelia Island and The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island for a celebration of the automobile like no other.
7
Sandal, Sneaker & Stiletto Gala
Child Guidance Center
San Jose Country Club | 7529 San Jose Blvd. cgcjax.org | (904) 644-5316 | 6 p.m.
Join us at CGC’s 4th Annual Sandal, Sneaker, and Stiletto Gala on March7, 2025, for an evening of drinks, dinner, dancing, and an auction to support children’s mental health. Anthony Austin of First Coast News will return as emcee. More info at cgcjax.org/gala.
The RITA Foundation is excited to once again offer the RITA Championships! The tournament started in 1997 and has been in cornerstone in The Rita Foundation’s fundraising efforts.
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First Coast Heart Ball
American Heart Association First Coast Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa | 1000 Tournament Players Club Blvd https://ahajacksonville.ejoinme.org/2024-2025JacksonvilleHeartBall/tabid/1439493 | (904) 679-1799 | 6 p.m.
The Heart of the First Coast Heart Ball is an annual event dedicated to raising critical funds to safeguard that fewer people die from heart disease and stroke and ensuring everyone, everywhere has the opportunity to live long and healthy lives. This year’s event will be chaired by Anthony Hucker and Elizabeth Thompson.
2nd Annual Dinks and Drives for Dragonflies
Hearts 4 Minds
The Yards | 254 Alta Mar Dr. hearts4minds.org/pickleball | (904) 200-2845 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Join us for the 2nd Annual Dinks and Drives for Dragonflies Pickleball Tournament! This fun-filled event supports Hearts 4 Minds’ mission to break the stigma of mental illness. Enjoy a day of pickleball, delicious food, and live music while making a difference. Register now!
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J.B. Coxwell Annual Dreams Come True Bass Tournament
Dreams Come True
Palatka City Dock and Boat Ramp | 319 River Street, Palatka dreamscometrue.org | (904) 296-3030 | 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dreams Come True’s Annual Bass Fishing Tournament, with payouts to 1 in 7 boats. Big Bass award and raffle prizes included.
Jacksonville Clay Target Sports | 12125 New Berlin Rd. angelwoodjax.org/sporting-clay-shoot | (904) 288-7259 | 8 a.m.
This premier event combines the thrill of sport with the warmth of giving back to our local community. Join us for a morning of friendly competition and purposeful fun as we come together to support Angelwood, a vital non-profit organization in Jacksonville, Florida, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
ANNUAL PAJCIC YARD GOLF TOURNAMENT
Pajcic & Pajcic
When: March 29, 2025
Where: Pajcics’ homes
Info: www.jaxlegalaid.org/pajcicyardgolf/
The Pajcic Yard Golf event has been described as a big lawn party with a purpose. The annual event has now raised over $1 Million since its inception for Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. Golfers can try for a $6K or $7K prize if they get a hole-in-one on specific holes. The Pajcics match all donations, sponsorships and prizes dollar for dollar to benefit Legal Aid. The group provides free civil legal services to those in need. The highlight of the event is always the celebrity shoot-out featuring Jaguar players, other former pro athletes and local politicians. The event is set for March 29th from 3-8pm. Register at www.jaxlegalaid.org/pajcicyardgolf/
Jana Angel with Diana Donovan
Morgan Chupp with Nancy Meyers, Jill Morrow and Peyton Chupp
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Fight
for Air Climb
American Lung Association
Bank of America Tower | 50 N. Laura St. lung.org | (904) 520-7120 | 8-11 a.m.
The Fight For Air Climb - Jacksonville, is returning to the Bank of America Tower, featuring one-of-a-kind views and the best set of stairs in town. The Bank of America Tower is the perfect setting for a day of fun, challenge and camaraderie.
Clarke Ice Cream Run
Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech
St. Johns Town Center | 4663 River City Dr. clarkeschools.org/events/ice-cream-run/ | (855) 2037085 | 7:30 a.m
Join Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech and Marble Slab Creamery & Great American Cookies at the St. Johns Town Center for the annual Clarke Ice Cream Run on Saturday, March22, 2025. The timed 5K and 1 mile walk/run will feature a new racecourse and new vendor area (next to Maggiano’s and Marble Slab Creamery), all to benefit the students at Clarke Florida.
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Rally for Kate
Kate Amato Foundation
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club | 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd rallyforkate.com | (904) 629-8300 | Time: TBD Golf tournament at the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Ocean Course
25
27th Annual Golf Classic
Downs Syndrome Association of Jacksonville
Marsh Landing Country Club 25655 Marsh Landing Parkway dsaj.org/charity-golf-classic | (904) 353-6300
Check in: 10:30, Shotgun noon, Awards 5 p.m.
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2025 Women of Vision Celebration Luncheon Girls, Inc.
WJCT Studios | 100 Festival Park Ave. girlsincjax.org/events | (904) 731-9933
11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
This event highlights the needs of the girls served by Girls, Inc. of Jacksonville, and celebrates a woman community member and an organization making strides for women and girls.
Join Here Tomorrow as we celebrate those who are here today! The 5th-annual Gather to Reimagine will highlight how Here Tomorrow has supported 2,000+ individuals in crisis at no cost and with no wait for an entire year. For more info, please contact Nancy Weaver at the phone number listed.
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Vilano Bridge 5K and 10K Run
Florida School for the Deaf and Blind
Vilano Beach Community Center | 120 Meadow Ave. 1stplacesports.com/races/vilanobridgerun/ (904) 827-2200 | 8 a.m.
Your registration will go to supporting important projects in the Vilano and North Shores communities and the Florida School for the Deaf & the Blind.
Jax Contemporary Opening Celebration
MOCA Jacksonville
MOCA Jacksonville | 333 N. Laura St. mocajacksonville.unf.edu | 904-366-6911 | 8 p.m.
MOCA Jacksonville is excited to launch Jax Contemporary, a triennial juried art exhibition bringing to the fore the artistic talent in the Northeast Florida region. The opening celebration takes place March29, 2025 at 8 p.m. Become a MOCA Member to be invited to an early access preview!
Victory Beyond Cancer Gala
Pink Ribbon Blue Skies Foundation
Sheraton Hotel | 10605 Deerwood Park Blvd prbsf.org/event/victory-beyond-cancer-gala/ (904) 426-9389 | 7 p.m.- 12 a.m.
Annual Pajcic Yard Golf Tournament
Pajcic & Pajcic for Jacksonville Area Legal Aid
Pajcic Homes jaxlegalaid.org/pajcicyardgolf | 3-8 p.m.
The annual Pajcic Yard Golf will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Avondale and benefits Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. The highlight every year is the celebrity shootout featuring Jacksonville Jaguar players, former pro golfers and other local celebrities. Every donation for Jacksonville Area Legal Aid is matched dollar-for-dollar by the Pajcics, going toward the nonprofit’s free civil legal services to those who cannot afford an attorney.
(MARCH 30TH RAIN DATE)
Tiffany Thigpen with Kirk Brennan
Patrick and LaNece Green
Courtney and Aundrea Harris
Jean and Dr. Ross Krueger
Lee Haramis, Jr. with Drew Haramis and Lee Haramis
March To Get Screened is a fun family 5k event that helps bring community awareness to colon cancer. It is held every year on the last Sunday in March in Jacksonville, Florida. With your support, we can continue to raise awareness and help our community learn about the importance of scheduling your colonoscopy screening!
North Florida Land Trust Annual Meeting
North Florida Land Trust
The Yards | 254 Alta Mar Drive playtheyards.com | (904) 479-1967 | 12:00 p.m.
NFLT’s Annual Meeting draws an audience of more than 120 dedicated donors, community leaders, government partners, business executives, and landowners from around North Florida. The event includes a champagne brunch and program and the keynote speaker for the 2025 Annual Meeting will be Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, an American anthropologist and educator.
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2025 Child Cancer Fund Golf Tournament
Presented by Duval Asphalt
Child Cancer Fund
Jacksonville Golf and Country Club | 3985 Hunt Club Rd. N childcancerfund.org/event/2025-golf-event/ | (904) 396-4223 | 9 a.m.
The 2025 Child Cancer Fund Golf Tournament Presented by Duval Asphalt was established to raise funds for Northeast Florida families who are fighting childhood cancer. It supports our mission to provide caring practical, financial, educational and emotional assistance - including psychosocial music and animal-assisted therapies - for families during this difficult time.
The 16th annual Stand Up & Stride Domestic Violence Awareness Walk celebrates the strength of survivors through a morning of family-friendly fun! The event begins at 8 AM, and the Walk starts at 9 AM.
an extraordinary milestone—100 years as a living tribute to 1,700+ Floridians who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War I, and one of Jacksonville’s favorite places to visit, enjoy, and play.
As we honor a century of history, we invite you to help secure Memorial Park’s legacy. Please consider donating today and join us in protecting Memorial Park for the next 100 years and beyond.
Taylor Fisher with Alyssa Arena, Ally Capriotti, Maddy Howland and Riley Howland
APR 2025
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
39TH ANNUAL CELEBRITY CHEFS TASTING
The
Salvation Army of Northeast Florida
When: April 3, 2025
Where: Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center 1000 Water St. | Jacksonville, FL 32204
The Women’s Auxiliary hosts this annual fundraising event to support The Salvation Army’s various programs that bring lasting, positive change to those in need on Florida’s First Coast. At the 39th Annual Celebrity Chefs Tasting Luncheon, guests can enjoy delicious food, decadent desserts, and a fantastic silent auction. Local celebrities will serve their favorite recipes at each station, offering diners a spoonful of something special at every stop. Individual tickets are $40 and discounted group tickets are available.
Marilyn Carpenter and Karen Anderson
Cathy Hurst, Bill Joel and Katie Krisher
Kathy Barbour with Jessica Cummings
Jennifer Bowman with Emily Inman and Jennifer King
Numa Saisselin with Andrea Barnwell Brownlee
Kyle Williams with Tony Tindol
Courtney Weatherby Hunter with Kacie Smythe
Alice Morris with Michele Waddell
Maria G. Vogt with Erica La Spada
Billy Zeits with Tara Dodson, Chandra and Lee Hutchins
Greg and Beville Anderson
Kelly Kunz and Joanna Lewis
Ashley Garcia with Ryan Tselikis
Karen Feagins with Holly Keris and Kim Kuta Dring
TBD
Wine Down in the Parks
San Marco Preservation Society
Whatley, Davin and Balis Parks smpsjax.com/events/ | (904) 396-4734 | Time: TBD
4TH
ANNUAL GREENWOOD GALA: CELEBRATING AN ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL!
Greenwood School
When: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Where: Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa
Join the Greenwood School for an evening dedicated to celebrating our Greenwood community. Together, we can ensure that students with learning differences can achieve success in an environment that focuses on academic excellence, guidance and mental well-being.
This year’s annual fundraising gala will raise funds to enhance and expand the diverse and inclusive environments at Greenwood, reinforcing our commitment to being a “Community For All.” The event will feature live music by Bold City Classics, a casino night and a silent auction. For more information on sponsorship opportunities and ticket purchases, please visit greenwoodjax.org/gala.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
Join us to experience the charm of Whatley, Davin, and Balis Parks on this magical evening filled with live music, tapas, craft beer, wine, and cocktails from several of the neighborhood’s best bars, restaurants, and musicians. Each event stop will feature a different theme and flavor.
Join us for a family-friendly furry festival of fun to support the dogs and cats at the Jacksonville Humane Society.
7th Annual Jax Healing Hearts Race
The Healing Hearts Project
Location: TBD | Time: TBD thehealingheartsproject.org/jax-healing-hearts-race | (904) 314-0533 Community event with timed 5K and 1m fun run/walk, vendors, food trucks, and more to raise CHD awareness
39th Annual Celebrity Chefs Tasting Luncheon and Silent Auction
Salvation Army of Northeast Florida
Prime Osborn Convention Center | 1000 Water St. jacksonville.salvationarmyflorida.org/nefl/events/39th-annual-celebrity-chefs-tasting-luncheon-and-silent-auction | (904) 301-4841 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
At the 39th Annual Celebrity Chefs Tasting Luncheon, guests can enjoy delicious food, decadent desserts, and a fantastic silent auction. Local celebrities will serve their favorite recipes at each station, offering diners a spoonful of something special at every stop. Individual tickets are $40 and discounted group tickets are available.
Event Chairs Susie O’Quinn, Debbie Veale and Rita Cannon with Auxiliary President NeeCee Lee
Jim Wiss with Stephanie Cost, Ellen Wiss and Tim Cost
Thatcher Madelly with Magen McRoberts
Stephanie Castro with Ashley Volz, Emily Inman and Leigha Tipley
Bryan and Leigh Fogle with Erik Higgins
Frank Watson with John Donahoo
Dan Gallagher with Steve Pajcic and Cherry Gallagher
3
JFCS 2025 Annual Event
The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services
Florida Blue Conference Center | 4800 Deerwood Campus Parkway jfcsjax.org/2025-annual-event | (904) 394-5727
Time: TBD
Join us for cocktails, connections, and putting compassion into action at JFCS’s annual fundraiser, chaired by Whitney and Grant Kuvin, Ellen and Alan Rosner.
4
20th Annual Spring for the Arts
Cathedral Arts Project
Epping Forest Yacht & Country Club | 1830 Epping Forest Dr. | capkids.org/sfta | (904) 281-5599 ext. 118 6:30-10:30 p.m.
Spring for the Arts is CAP’s signature fundraiser which celebrates community engagement in support of funding arts education initiatives throughout the region. Since its inception, the event has generated over $8 million for arts education in the greater Jacksonville area.
20th Annual Subaru of Jacksonville BASCA Golf Classic
The 20th Annual Subaru of Jacksonville BASCA Golf Classic brings together golfers dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental differences. Taking place at Eagle Harbor Golf Club, the event showcases team competition, exciting prizes, and community spirit. Essential funds are raised to support BASCA’s programs and services for those in need.
2025 Blooms Galore & More
Preview Party
Garden Club of Jacksonville
Garden Club of Jacksonville | 1005 Riverside Ave. gardenclubjax.org | (904) 355-4224 | 5-8 p.m.
Enjoy live music, small bites, and a free drink while you shop for the best selection of plants one day before the main event. Check out the raffle of amazing items. Your ticket helps support free and low-cost programs at #GardenClubJax all year long.
4 & 6
Berry Good Farms Weekend FestivalConcert on the Farm
North Florida School of Special Education
Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center 223 Mill Creek Road | northfloridaschool.org
(904) 724-8323 | Time: TBD
Join us for our signature weekend festival filled with delicious food, live music, entertainment and a celebration of the NFSSE community at the Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center. Concert on the Farm, April 4, kicks off the weekend with live music, local food trucks and craft cocktails. Dinner on the Farm, April 6, is our traditional dinner under the riding pavilion featuring a casual but elegant atmosphere and farm to table dining.
Dress up groovy and run with a purpose to raise awareness and funds to help end domestic violence and sexual abuse in our community. Sponsorship & volunteer opportunities available.
Breakthrough T1D
Greater Jacksonville Walk
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF)
University of North Florida, J.B. Coxwell Amphitheater | 1 UNF Drive | Walk.BreakthroughT1D.org | 8 a.m.
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) Walk is the largest global event for the T1D community, driving research, advocacy, and support to improve lives while funding cures research. Whether you are personally connected to T1D or supporting loved ones, your participation fuels vital progress. Be a part of this significant event contributing to a brighter future for those with T1D.
Walk on the Wild Side Spring Event
Gabriel House of Care
Fantasy Farms | 194 S. Roscoe Blvd. (904)821-8995 | Time: TBD
A wild adventure with the Chris Thomas Project band, dinner, classic cars and amazing wildlife, all to support the work of Gabriel House to offer lodging for organ transplant and cancer patients and caregivers coming to Jacksonville for life saving medical care.
This year’s annual fundraising gala will conclude our annual campaign aimed at raising funds to enhance and expand the diverse and inclusive environments at Greenwood, reinforcing our commitment to being a “Community For All”. The event will feature live music by Bold City Classics, a casino night, and a silent auction
Run for Peace 5K
Safety Shelter of St. Johns County, Inc. DBA Betty Griffin Center
Dress up groovy and run with a purpose to raise awareness and funds to help end domestic violence and sexual abuse in our community. Sponsorship & volunteer opportunities available.
Giving
Tree Gala and W.W. “Bill” Gay Community Impact Award Ceremony
YMCA of Florida’s First Coast
Jessie Ball duPont Center | 40 E. Adams St. givingtreegala.org | (904) 296-3220 | 6-9 p.m.
The Winston Y’s Giving Tree Gala is a night to remember the contributions of W. W. “Bill” Gay, and to celebrate our donors and friends who help create the impact happening in and around the Winston Family YMCA. Please join us for dinner and fellowship at this special community event.
Wine & Chocolate Run 5K
San Marco Merchants Association
San Marco Square | 2018 San Marco Blvd. 1stplacesports.com/races/wine5k 5 p.m.
The Wine and Chocolate 5K s an awesome run through historic San Marco to raise funds for the continued beautification of the San Marco Square.
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Boots on the Green
Community PedsCare
The Yards | 254 Alta Mar Drive thefoundationcares.org/events/boots-on-thegreen-2025/ | (904) 886-3883 | 3-7 p.m.
This fun and meaningful music festival benefits the music therapy program for pediatric patients at Community Hospice & Palliative Care.
Barbara and Dr. Michael Bredehoeft
Peter Gibson, Jill Saig and Carlyn Hanlon
Lavinta Campbell with Victor Derienzo and Lisa Kemph
Betsy Geary and Jenny Cocanougher
Jessie Drew Hawkins with Drew Haramis
6–7
The Illumination Golf Classic
Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center
TPC Sawgrass | 110 Championship Way giving.baptistjax.com/event/2025-illumination-golf-classic/e611506 | (904) 202-2808
5:30 p.m. on the 6th/8:00 a.m. on the 7th
For more than 26 years, the Golf Classic has supported various needs at Baptist Health. Proceeds from 2025 will benefit Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center’s cellular therapy and stem cell transplant program.
8
A Night in the Vineyard
Monique Burr Foundation
SoNapa Grille | 2400 3rd St. S Unit 101, Jacksonville Beach mbfpreventioneducation.org/night-in-the-vineyard/ (904)299-6128 | 6 p.m.
The 4th annual Night in the Vineyard charity event at SoNapa Grille will feature live entertainment, auctions, gourmet food, and wine pairings in support of the Monique Burr Foundation for Children’s (MBF) mission to protect children from child abuse, bullying, online dangers, and human trafficking through prevention education.
10
5th Annual Wine Women & Shoes
Episcopal Children’s Services
Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Rd. ecs4kids.org | (904) 612-5982
6 p.m.
Wine Women & Shoes Jax is back for the fifth year in a row! A community favorite, this annual fundraiser for ECS4Kids, allows attendees to sip, shop, savor and support ECS in a fun and fashionable way. Raising the bar on non-profit events, WW&S Jax 2025 will be held at the beautiful Timuquana Country Club on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 6 p.m.
11
9th Annual Veterans Cup Clay Shoot
Operation New Uniform Jacksonville Clay Target Sports |12125 New Berlin Rd. onuvets.org/event/onu-veterans-cup/ | (904) 328-1600
Join us for our ninth annual Veterans’ Cup Clay Shoot on Friday,April 11, 2025, at Jacksonville Clay Target Sports in support of Operation New Uniform’s mission to support transitioning active duty servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses. Expect an incredible experience including a competitive shoot, high-end raffle prizes, an upscale vendor experience, food and beverage offerings, prizes, and bragging rights.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
5TH ANNUAL
WINE WOMEN & SHOES 2025
ECS4Kids
When: April 10, 2025 | 6 p.m. Where: Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Rd. Info: www.winewomenandshoes.com/jax
Wine Women & Shoes Jax is back for the fifth year in a row! A community favorite, this annual fundraiser for ECS4Kids allows attendees to sip, shop, savor and support ECS in a fun and fashionable way. Raising the bar on non-profit events, WW&S Jax 2025 will be held at the beautiful Timuquana Country Club on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 6 p.m.
Event activities include wine tasting, designer shopping, silent auction and a “best in shoe” contest, encouraging all guests to slip on their fanciest shoes and enjoy a night of fun and fashion. Working together with local and national brand partners, ECS4Kids strives to uplift the mission of the organization, empowering communities to rise above systemic poverty by providing early childhood education and holistic family support. For sponsorship inquiries, contact Lauren Weedon Hopkins at lauren.hopkins@ecs4kids.org
Yolanda Jackson with Aimee Boggs and Dr. Atiya Abdelmalik
Amy Kemper with Lauren Bourlier
Meredith Guess with Sheila Collier and Sue Stepp
Garden Club of Jacksonville Executive Director Denise Reagan and Board of Trustees President Tiffany Davis
Joy McDonald with Gracie Register, Emily Magevney and Simmons Skinner
CSX Executive Vice President and COO and Celebrity Chef Mike Cory with Marilyn Carpenter
Audra and Patrick Macabasco
SHOW US A NEED, AND WE WILL SHOW YOU OUR WORK.
It is something that our team understands because as we always say, “Just do the work”. It is so easy to get distracted and off course but if we focus on what is important…that is, the wellbeing of women veterans and their children, we can change lives. Northeast Florida Women Veterans is guided by a simple truth: we can’t do this important work without your support. Over the past 12 years, your commitment has kept our doors open and allowed us to make a lasting impact on the lives of families. For this, we are truly grateful. Northeast Florida is home to more than 16,000 women veterans, representing all branches of service, every war from WWII to the present, and a rich diversity of races and ethnicities.
We have the largest population of women veterans in the state of Florida and the second largest in the nation, representing 10-15% of the veteran population.
As the population of women veterans continues to grow, so does the need for services to support their transition from military life—no matter how long it’s been since they served. To better meet this need, we are rebranding! Our new name, effective January 2025 is, Women Veterans Ignited, Inc, allowing us to expand our services beyond northeast Florida.
Many of our programs will gradually become accessible to women veterans throughout Florida and in some cases, nationally. Jacksonville has set a standard and created a blueprint to be duplicated nationally. Programs such as our mindfulness retreats (HerTIME) and our personal and professional development programs (HerTOTALWellness and HerBIZ), will be offered virtually, and the retreat will now accept more applicants from outside Florida.
OUR PROGRAMS
OPERATION HANDUP: Assists homeless and at-risk women veterans. 238 new clients in 2024.
HERTOTALWELLNESS: A 4-week program empowering self-sufficiency in mind, body, and economic empowerment. 21 graduates in 2023.
HERBIZ: A 4-month program helping women veterans start their own businesses. 9 graduates in 2023.
HERVOICE: Gives women veterans the platform to share their stories of service and transition.
HERTIME: Created in response to the rising suicide rate among women veterans. 5 retreats in 2023, with 22 participants, 448 individual sessions, and 21 group sessions.
HERSPACE: Provides emergency shelter and temporary housing for women veterans and their children. 11 women and 1 child were residents in 2023.
12
50th Anniversary Root Ball Celebration
Greenscape of Jacksonville, Inc. River Club | 1 Independent Dr. #3500. greenscapeofjax.org/events | (904) 398-5757 | 6 p.m
Join us for Greenscape’s 50th Anniversary Root Ball with A Celebration of Trees Unlike Any Other. This signature fundraising event will benefit Jacksonville’s precious tree canopy with a Masters Tournament twist.
Song of Joy: Celebrating 30 Years
Jacksonville Children’s Chorus
Riverside Park United Methodist Church 819 Park Street
Join us in celebrating 30 years of song with The Jacksonville Children’s Chorus as we mark this momentous occasion in our 30th anniversary season! From a humble beginning with just 16 singers in 1995, The JCC has joyfully grown to serve thousands of children annually through the power of music. This special celebration will feature a performance of John Rutter’s “Magnificat.” Come be a part of this incredible journey!
Walk to Defeat ALS
ALS Association Florida Chapter UNF J.B. Coxwell Amphitheatre |1 UNF Dr. als.org/get-involved/events?f%5B0%5D=future_event_state%3AFlorida 904-524-1435 | 8:30 a.m
Help us unlock ALS in Jacksonville. Fundraising through the Walk drives bold and urgent innovation as we march together toward a treatment, and ultimately, a cure for ALS.
13–14
Mulligans for the Mission
Ascension St. Vincent’s Foundation
TPC Sawgrass | 110 Championship Way givestvincents.org/mulligans-for-the-mission/ (904) 308-7306
5 p.m. Sunday Dinner, 9 a.m. Monday Golf Tournament Tee off for a healthier community at Ascension St. Vincent’s Foundation’s 16th Annual Mulligans for the Mission on April 13 & 14, 2025, at the iconic THE PLAYERS Stadium Course. Proceeds from this tournament benefit the Ascension St. Vincent’s Mobile Health Outreach Ministry – the only mobile provider of free acute and preventive medical care for families across Northeast Florida who otherwise lack healthcare access.
The Boselli Foundation Hall of Fame Golf Classic and “It’s Not About the Golf” Party
The Boselli Foundation
Sawgrass Country Club | 10024 Golf Club Dr., Ponte Vedra Beach bosellifoundation.com/the-boselli-foundation-hall-of-fame-golf-classic.html (904) 704-6212 | 6-9 p.m. April 13, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. April 14
Mark your calendars and join Tony Boselli and other football greats for the first annual The Boselli Foundation Hall of Fame Golf Classic held at Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
14
24th Annual Hank Haynes Golf Classic
Daniel Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Rd. danielkids.org/events | (904) 296-1055 | 9 a.m.
When you support the 24th Annual Hank Haynes Golf Classic, you are supporting the 5,000 kids and families that Daniel serves annually. Join us at Timuquana Country Club on April 14, 2025 for a day of golf, fun and fellowship while benefitting Florida’s oldest child service agency.
17
29th Annual Child Abuse Prevention Luncheon
Exchange Club Family Center
UNF Adam W. Herbert Conference Center | 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville FL 32256 | exchangeclubfamilycenter.com | (904) 306-9318 | 12 p.m.
Annual luncheon where social services professionals are nominated by their peers for outstanding work in the field of child abuse prevention.
19
Earth Day Cleanup Beaches Go Green
The Beaches: Several Beach locations beachesgogreen.org | (904) 575-1175 | Time: TBD
To celebrate Earth Day, we are organizing a community and beach cleanup to engage the public and our Beaches Go Green school club members. It’s a day of service and gratitude.
Annual KATE KOMBO Tournament
Kate Amato Foundation
The Yards | 254 Alta Mar Dr. kateamatofoundation.org/kate-kup/ | (904) 629-8300
Kate Amato Foundation is thrilled to share some exciting news. Two of our most anticipated events, formerly held on separate days, are coming together for a full day of fun with a takeover at The Yards in 2025!! That’s right, the 2025 KATE KUP and rescheduled KATE KOMBO will BOTH take place on April 19, 2025.
KATE KUP Triples Tennis Tournament
Kate Amato Foundation
The Yards 254 Alta Mar Dr. kateamatofoundation.org/kate-kup/ | (904) 629-8300 | 9 a.m.
Kate Amato Foundation is thrilled to share some exciting news. Two of our most anticipated events, formerly held on separate days, are coming together for a full day of fun with a takeover at The Yards in 2025!! That’s right, the 2025 KATE KUP and rescheduled KATE KOMBO will BOTH take place on April 19, 2025.
Coral Messina with Mary DeSalvo
Ryan Sharrit, Jim Terrell, Artis Gilmore and Judge Mike Sharrit
Sarah Taylor with James Robison representing Good Dough
23
THRIVE! 2025
Women’s Center of Jacksonville Florida Blue Conference Center | 4800 Deerwood Park Center thewcj.org/thrive2025/ | (904) 722-3000 ext. 203 | 8 a.m.
THRIVE! is an annual breakfast event during Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAM) to educate the community on how to prevent sexual assault. We come together to encourage Northeast Florida to stand united against sexual violence. Together we can pave the way towards a safer, more supportive community.
26
River City Dancing with the Stars
Jacksonville Children’s Chorus
UNF Lazzara Performance Hall |1 UNF Dr. rivercitydwts.com | (904) 353-1636 | 3:00 p.m.
Local leaders join forces with professional ballroom instructors to learn to dance and compete for the title of River City’s Favorite Dancer! This exciting event culminates in a spectacular celebration filled with dancing, music, and fun, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus. Be sure to attend and vote for your favorite dancer! For more details, visit rivercitydwts.com.
PurpleStride is an amazing day where survivors, families, caregivers, friends, physicians and researchers celebrate people currently affected, honor those we’ve lost and take steps to end pancreatic cancer. Check out the event village, grab a snack, write on the tribute wall, take pictures with your family and friends in the photo area, and be inspired during the opening ceremony before you set off on the walk.
Our 5K Seamark Mudrun challenges participants with 26 obstacles along a course that takes advantage of the natural terrain on the 468-acre campus of Seamark Ranch in Green Cove Springs. Mudders navigate ponds, berms, pits, a rope web, dip into Black Creek, and down a 100-foot slippery slide known as Prayer Hill.
9K for K9s
K9s United Ring Power, St.Augustine | 500 World Commerce Parkway k9sunited.org/events | (904) 601-2220 | 8 a.m.
This event - which supports our four-legged heroes through fitness and fun - includes a 1-mile fun run, classic 5K and challenging 9K, as well as games, activities, and food and drinks.
The
Soirée Brooks Rehabilitation
Brumos Collection | 5159 San Pablo Road S. brooksrehab.org/brooks-foundation | (904) 345-7069 | Time: TBD
This event promises an evening of delicious food, networking opportunities, captivating entertainment and more. All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting our Adaptive Sports and Recreation and Pediatric Recreation programs. The generous support of our community sponsors is crucial in enabling us to offer these life-changing programs to participants at little or no cost. We hope you’ll join us for an unforgettable night for a great cause!
As the Ronald McDonald House’s signature event in Jacksonville, the McGala blends food, music, dancing and fundraising to celebrate supporters of the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Jacksonville
Rotary Club of Mandarin was established in 1975 and is proud of our 48 years of accomplishments in the community promoting “Service Above Self.” The race will primarily benefit the Mandarin Food Bank at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and the Daily Bread Food Pantry at Mandarin Presbyterian Church.
26–27
Springfield Tour of Homes and Gardens
Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council
SPAR Council Office | 1321 N. Main St. sparcouncil.org/tour_of_homes | (904) 353-7727 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Guided tour of homes and gardens in the Historic Springfield neighborhood of Jacksonville.
Family-friendly 5K walk/run to benefit JASMYN’s youth programs and services.
28
River Garden Classic
River Garden
Deerwood Country Club | 10239 Golf Club Dr. rivergarden.org/river-garden-foundation/golf-classic/ (904) 260-1818 | 11:30-6 p.m.
The River Garden Foundation raises money to support the Home. Donations made through the Foundation or for the Golf Classic are subject to a taxable and non-taxable portion.
Nancy Lantinberg with Maia Oberholtzer, Hannah Oberholtzer, Eliza and Stephanie Garfunkel
Rebecca Sale with Callie Sprague, Adriana Cantville, Claire Pulignano, Dr. Elaine Koziol, Jessica Michaud and Bonnie Melin
Ted and Nancy Powell with Glenn Ullmann and Lisa Landwirth Ullman
Buck Williams with Susan and Jim Towler
Ozzie Cuffie with Andrea Barnwell Brownlee and Sharon Cuffie
M AY 2025
EVENT SPOTLIGHT
ANTE UP FOR AUTISM GALA AND GOLF CLASSIC
Jacksonville School for Autism
When: May 3 & 5, 2025
Where: Bowing Oaks Plantation | Deerwood Golf & Country Club
Info: jsakids.org/fundraisers/ante-up-for-autism/
Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Jacksonville School for Autism at the Ante Up for Autism Gala and Golf Classic ~ Derby Edition! The festivities kick off on May 3 with a gala at Bowing Oaks Plantation. Enjoy an evening of mint juleps, dinner, live music and Derby-style events. Then hit the greens on May 5 for the Golf Classic at the Deerwood Golf & Country Club. Gather your foursome and compete for prizes, all while supporting JSA Kids! Proceeds from both events will directly benefit the children and families at Jacksonville School for Autism, helping to provide essential resources and programs. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to make a difference! For more information regarding sponsorships and tickets, please visit: www.jsakids.org/fundraisers/ante-up-for-autism/
Miko Burgstiner with Tricia Todd
Numa Saisselin with Laura and Adam Edgecombe Scott and Katherine Wohlers
Hanz Tanzler with Bob Gay
Gary Walsh with Richard Coquillion, Mark Anderson, Angela Washington, Robert Lee, and Paul and Laurie Stasi
Sue Molm with Susie O'Quinn
Brooks Holland with Dottie King
Penny Christian with Linda Lanier and Cindy Funkhouser
Erin and Allen Harris
Priscilla Stroud with Shirley Turner
Beth Lampp with Summer Taras
Kennedy Smith with Erin Streva
Col. Spencer Smith with Maj. Marshall Hand, Sgt. Rodolfo Magana, Sgt. Jericho Logan and Col. Len Loving
TBD
First Coast Go Red for Women
American Heart Association First Coast
33RD ANNUAL BRASS GALA AND CONCERT BRASS
When: Sunday, May 18, 2025 | 6 p.m.
Where: Ponte Vedra Inn and Club
Info: www.BRASSonline.org | info@BRASSonline.org
The BRASS Board of Directors cordially invites you to the 33rd Annual BRASS Gala and Concert – the culmination of our fundraising events for the Jacksonville Symphony. The highlight of the gala is an intimate performance by the Jacksonville Symphony, preceded by a cocktail hour with open bar and dinner, including a live auction featuring an array of exciting items. Throughout the year we hold a number of BRASS member-only events. We urge you to consider joining us!
Tickets for the gala are $225 per person for BRASS Members, $250 for non-members. To purchase gala tickets, join BRASS or for more information, please visit www.BRASSonline.org, call (904) 84-BRASS or email info@BRASSonline.org.
The Go Red for Women event experience focuses on connection and engagement, fostering an atmosphere of interaction and networking at every turn. We will celebrate the power of women banding together and the joy of spending time with fellow champions of our mission. The event will include education and experiences that can help improve your health and well-being and that of the women you know and love.
The event’s goal is not only to provide entertainment, but also to raise funds for Children’s Home Society and support the children and families of Northeast Florida. Be prepared for a fun and philanthropic experience where the joy of music meets the spirit of giving.
Casa Marina Hotel | 691 1st Street N sulzbacherjax.org | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Join us for a lively evening of fiesta, food and fun with live music, benefitting the Sulzbacher Beaches Health Center. Your support means homeless and disadvantaged people in our community receive the healthcare they need!
1
10th Annual Difference Makers Gala
City Rescue Mission
Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk | 1515 Prudential Dr. crmjax.org/events/10th-annual-difference-makers-gala/ (904) 421-5147 | 6:30 p.m.
Come support City Rescue Mission and celebrate our 10th Annual Difference Makers Gala. Thursday, May1, 2025 Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk Tickets: Individual $150 Table (10 seats) $1500 CONTACT: Angela Washington (904) 421-5147 or crmdevelopment@crmjax.org
Rising Stars!
Communities in Schools of Jacksonville Florida Theatre | 128 E. Forsyth St. #300 cisjax.org/rising-stars | (904) 344-3900 x117 | 6-9 p.m.
Communities In Schools of Jacksonville is proud to announce its annual fundraiser Rising Stars! This fundraiser showcases the incredible talents and accomplishments of our students while celebrating community partners, donors, and sponsors who help make their success possible. The event is led by a panel of celebrity judges and includes a cocktail hour, live silent auction and student showcases. All proceeds will support our case management, afterschool and literacy programs.
OneJax Institute’s Humanitarian Awards Event
OneJax Institute
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water St. onejax.org/programs/humanitarian-awards/ | (904) 799-5370 | 5:30 p.m.
Each year since 1970, OneJax hosts a Humanitarian Awards Event to honor outstanding individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our community.
Kelly Harvey with Patrick MacRay
Melinda Bergborn with Theo Prousis
Christi Zaffaroni with Rhonda Day
Jane Sharp Synnestvedt and Holly Brooks
2
10th Annual Jacksonville Walk for Wishes
Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida Jacksonville Beach Seawalk Pavilion | 75 1st St. N wish.org/cnfl/our-events | (904) 580-5906 | 5:30 p.m.
Walk for Wishes ® is a nationwide Make-A-Wish fundraiser that supports life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. It’s a family-friendly event powered by wish families, volunteers, companies, donors and friends that ensures no child waits even one unnecessary day to experience the hope and joy that a wish brings.
2025 Community Health Symposium
Florida Blue Foundation
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld | 6677 Sea Harbor Dr. floridablue.com/foundation/community-leadership-education (904) 905-6803 | Time: TBD
The Community Health Symposium is an annual event that provides organizations within the state of Florida opportunities to help improve the wellness of Floridians.
3
12th Annual Hula Hustle 5K and 1-mile Fun Run
Young Life Clay County Bestbet | 455 Park Ave., Orange Park claycounty.younglife.org | 8 a.m.
The proceeds from this race will benefit Clay County Young Life with their weekly gatherings for high school teens from Clay County. It will also support our WyldLife (junior high), YoungLives (teen moms) and Capernaum (our friends with special needs) programs. Your support will also provide opportunities to send kids to summer camp.
The Great Fire Run 5K
Jacksonville History Center
Old St. Andrew’s Church | 317 A. Philip Randolph Blvd. jaxhistory.org/events | (904) 665-0064 | 8 a.m.
Commemorate the biggest event that shaped Jacksonville’s architectural history, the Great Fire of 1901. Enter to run or walk to support the Jacksonville History Center.
The Derby Run is a fun and fashionable evening full of laughter, cheer and downhome charm which supports Community Hospice & Palliative Care in St. Augustine and St. Johns County.
3 & 5
20th Anniversary Ante Up for Autism
Gala & Golf Classic Derby Style
Jacksonville School for Autism
Gala: Bowing Oaks | 7743 Alphons St | 5 p.m.
Golf: Deerwood Golf & Country Club | 10239 Golf Club Dr. 10 a.m. GALA 5:00 p.m. | jsakids.org/fundraisers/ante-up-for-autism/ (904) 732-4343 or 901-336-8614
Enjoy a weekend of golf and festivities for the 20th Anniversary Ante Up for Autism Gala & Golf Classic Derby Style. All net proceeds from the event will go toward supporting the critical and life-changing programs and services we provide individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Visit JSAKIDS.org for more information.
Melissa Hunt with Tiffany Davis and Karen Schrader Rod and Deb Jones
Jackie Culver with Alicia Somas
Lexie Kieweg with Hayley Wilder
John Miller with Judy Hardwick and Zen Miller
Jackie Culver with Cathy Howland
5
24th Annual KB Home Dreams Come True Golf Tournament
Dreams Come True
San Jose Country Club | 7529 San Jose Blvd. dreamscometrue.org | (904) 296-3030 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dreams Come True’s Annual Golf Tournament and silent auction.
9
2025
Jack Myers Champions for Mercy Golf Tournament
Mercy Support Services
Eagle Harbour Golf Club | 2217 Eagle Harbor Pkwy. mercysupportservices.org/golf2025/ | (904) 297-4052 8:15 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.
Proceeds from the tournament directly benefit families and children in Clay County, to continue programs to help individuals and families who are circumstantially in need to get to a place of self-sufficiency.
L’Arche Jacksonville will celebrate 40 years of bringing people with and without Intellectual and Developmental disabilities together.
DONNA Mother’s Day 5K
The DONNA Foundation
Friday Musicale | 645 Oak St. www.Moms.theDONNAFoundation.org | (904) 355-7465 | 8 a.m.
DONNA Mother’s Day 5K celebrates every Mom and returns in 2025 from historic Friday Musicale in the Riverside area of Jacksonville, Florida. Don’t miss this sell-out event in support of The DONNA Foundation.
FinFest
Jacksonville Speech & Hearing Center
Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Rd. shcjax.org/finfest/ | (904) 717-6930 | 7 p.m.
As JSHC’s signature event, FinFest urgently raises funds to support the FundA-Child program, which provides essential speech and audiology services to uninsured and underinsured children. Through this vital initiative, JSHC offers screenings, evaluations, custom intensive therapy sessions, and support to children and families in need of financial assistance. The contributions make a life-changing difference for these children’s academic and social success! Come party with a purpose at this island-themed, fun-filled beachy bash!
15-17
36th Annual Bass Tournament
Wolfson Children’s Hospital
Palatka City Dock and Boat Ramp | 319 River Street, Palatka giving.baptistjax.com/event/2025-wolfson-childrens-bass-tournament/ e581823 | (904) 202-2919 | 4 a.m.
Since 1989, the Tournament has helped fund specialized treatments, lifesaving technology and capital improvements at Wolfson Children’s. This year’s event is focused on lifesaving equipment and technology in the C. Herman and Mary Virginia Terry Heart Institute at Wolfson Children’s Hospital.
16
Tides and Tails Happy Hour
Jacksonville Humane Society
One Ocean Hotel & Resort | 1 Ocean Blvd. jaxhumane.org/events/tides-and-tails-2/ (904) 493-4606 | 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Happy hour for you and your furry friend. Let us come together and celebrate our lifesaving mission for pets in need and the people who love them.
Jenn Roberts with Caitlyn Miller and Brooke McDuffie
Kelly and Garrett Mitchell
Paige Tutwiler with Allison Wellman and Jenny Ream
Kaitlyn and Sidney McRae
Sally Alice Smith with Peggy Johnson and Cheryl Hall
Joni Magnusson with Ashley Cox
17
Florida Theatre Ball
Florida Theatre
Florida Theatre | 128 East Forsyth Street floridatheatre.com | 904-562-5973 | 6 p.m.
Join us on Saturday,May17, 2025, an enjoy an evening of complimentary valet parking, craft cocktails, dinner, one-of-a-kind auction items, and dance the night away on the Florida Theatre stage. The evening supports the Theatre’s mission to enhance Northeast Florida’s quality of life by bringing memorable arts and entertainment experiences to our community and by preserving a unique historic Jacksonville landmark.
Ready to lace up and join us for our annual walk to cure cystic fibrosis? By participating, you have the power to change thousands of lives. Your support helps the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation fund the research and care needed to help advance a cure for this disease. While we’ve made significant progress, we still have a long way to go. We still lose precious lives to CF every day. You can help us accelerate progress. Now is the time to act.
18
33rd Annual BRASS Gala and Concert
BRASS
Ponte Vedra Inn and Club | 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd. BRASSonline.org/GALA | (904) 84-BRASS | 6:00 p.m.
The Gala highlight is an intimate performance by the Jacksonville Symphony, preceded by a cocktail hour with open bar, and dinner including a live auction featuring an array of exciting items.
This premier event is the foundation on which the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund was built. For 29 years, the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Celebrity Golf Classic has provided financial, emotional and practical support for families facing this devastating disease.
20
The Women’s Giving Alliance Annual Meeting
Women’s Giving Alliance
Florida Blue Conference Center | 4800 Deerwood Campus Pkwy. wganefl.org | (904) 356-4483 | 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
At this event, WGA members will ratify their 2025 grants aligned to their focus area, “Addressing Violence Against Women & Girls.” The Women’s Giving Alliance is a collective giving initiative of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. To become a member, visit wganefl.org.
26
Memorial Day Picnic & Concert in the Park
Memorial Park Association
Memorial Park | 1620 Riverside Ave. | (904) 673-3357
Memorial Park Association presents a Memorial Day Concert in Memorial Park. Join us on Monday, May26, 2025 at 6:30 P.M., for free. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets or folding chairs and can bring their own picnic to enjoy during or after the concert.
Colonial Dames President La Grange Gippe with Co-Chair Ellen Stark
Lisa Cochran with Charlene Shirk
Navy Cmdr. Adam and Edda Hernandez with Michael Atter and Robin Axtell
Rick Derrer with Hope Hana and Mike Hightower
29
Hall of Fame
Junior Achievement
UNF University Center | 12000 Alumni Dr. northflorida.ja.org/events/ja-of-north-florida-hall-of-fame (904) 398-9944 | 11:30 a.m.
Junior Achievement of North Florida presents the Thompson S. Baker Award, recognizing individuals who have dedicated themselves to bettering our community through leadership, hands-on involvement, and philanthropic deeds. The annual award celebrates our local heroes who have positively influenced business and education in the Jacksonville community.
31
Black & White Soiree
Catholic Charities Jacksonville Garden Club of Jacksonville | 1005 Riverside Ave CCBJax.org | (904) 224-0077 | 6-9 p.m.
Mark your calendars forMay31, 2025, and experience Catholic Charities Jacksonville’s renowned Black and White Soiree! Indulge in an unforgettable night of elegance, live entertainment, and culinary delights – all while uplifting those in need. Be part of something truly special and help make a lasting impact!
31–JUNE 1
MixedRITA
The RITA Foundation Sawgrass Country Club | 9175 Preston Tr. East the-rita-foundation.org/mixed-rita/ (904) 363-1493 | 8 a.m.
Lauren Weedon Hopkins with Dr. Natalya Bannister Roby
Jaime Davis with Bill and Patty Schroeder and Angela Washington
Niki Garvey with Jenell Flynn and Nathalia Dhaiti
Brayden and Justin Taylor
Miles Scheuth with Mary Elizabeth Lott and Daisy Davidson
Community Hospice and Palliative Care President and CEO, Phil Ward, alongside his granddaughters Ann and Ava Ward
Jordan Hooten with April Hewlett, Bryan Murphy, Gabe Menescal and Jacqueline Pallai Robinson
Olivia Vo and Erika Hooper
Rob Marrione with Jordan Wilkerson, Elissa and Kevin Stone and Jason Roth
From cottages to castles, Elizabeth Hudgins and Sarah Alexander specialize in buying and selling oceanfront and waterfront properties along Northeast Florida’s breathtaking First Coast. With over 30 years of combined experience, this nationally recognized mother-daughter duo brings local expertise, seamless service, and a passion for showcasing the area’s unparalleled beauty and charm. Whether you’re selling your beach home or searching for your own slice of paradise, Elizabeth and Sarah are dedicated to minimizing stress, maximizing value, and turning your coastal real estate dreams into reality.
Our annual Year of Hope event helps us raise money to support families of unsolved homicides while providing an educational opportunity for the Jacksonville community. Survivors, supporters, elected officials and curious citizens are invited to join us as we celebrate accomplishments and announce future goals.
Run for the Pies
Misc. Youth Programs
Location: TBD | 6:30 p.m.
1stplacesports.com/races/pies/
Funds go to support high school cross-country and track programs in Duval county and the summer camp scholarship program.
5
Sock It 2 Me Sneaker Ball
Misc. Charities
WJCT Studios | 100 Festival Park Ave. | 7:30-11:30 p.m.
This charitable event is to bring awareness to the needs of the less fortunate. Socks are the least-donated, yet most-requested item needed by this growing population. A portion of proceeds will be donated to local shelters.
8–14
Women Veterans Recognition Week
Northeast Florida Women Veterans, Inc.
Various locations | Various times | forwomenvets.org | (904)-862-6039
This week-long celebration not only honors the remarkable achievements of women veterans but also sheds light on the unique challenges they encounter as they transition into civilian life.
13
Day of the Girl
Junior Achievement of North Florida Schultz Center | 4019 Boulevard Center Dr. northflorida.ja.org/events/day-of-the-girl | (904) 398-9944 | 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Day of the Girl will be held Friday, June13, 2025, from 9am-3pm at the Schultz Center. Youth in grades 3-8 from across Jacksonville will gather to celebrate, empower, and inspire one another to dream big and reach their full potential.
Amy and Jason Rice with Ragu Murthy, Sonia Vohra and Bhavin Shah
PC Bryant with Jason Roth
Simone and Olivia Ridgell
Meg and Peter Kuchar
TBD
ADA Luncheon
CIL Jacksonville
Location: TBD | Time: TBD
CILJacksonville.org | 904-399-8484
Celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act with CIL Jacksonville.
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa | 1000 Tournament Players Club Blvd. angelwoodjax.org | (904) 288-7259 | 6 p.m.
We invite you to join us for the Angelwood Annual Celebration: Soaring Possibilities on Saturday,August16th at 6:00 pm at the Sawgrass Marriott in Ponte Vedra Beach. While this event is important to help fund our services, it’s also an opportunity to come together to celebrate our community and those we serve. Your support helps ensure that children, adults and families living with intellectual and developmental differences continue to have access to the care they need.
23
5th Annual Fields Auto Group Wishmaker’s Ball
Jacksonville
Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida
Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa | 1000 Tournament Players Club Blvd. wishmakersballjax.com | (904) 580-5906 | 6 p.m.
Make-A-Wish’s signature black-tie gala raises money to grant the heart felt wishes of children who are facing life-threatening illnesses in our local communities. The evening includes a three-course dinner, open bar, silent and live auctions, wish stories and a separate after-party.
Promote your company through a sponsorship or register a team at the Champion’s Challenge Golf Tournament. Your support helps City Rescue Mission continue the legacy of providing hope, healing and change to our neighbors in need.
26
Women, Words & Wisdom
Women’s Center of Jacksonville
Schultz Center | 4019 Boulevard Center Dr. thewcj.org/women-words-wisdom/ | (904) 722-3000 | 5:30 p.m.
Join us for an evening that brings our community together to celebrate, motivate, and inspire! Our annual event takes place on Women’s Equality Day, a national day celebrating the women’s suffrage movement. The evening also honors local unsung Sheros and Heros. These special awards recognize individuals who work tirelessly to improve the lives of women.
Jennifer Ged, Bre Gipson, WCJ Board President Laura VanZee and Madonna Gipson
Unsung Hero honoree Stephanie Lynn and Kristina Heath
Cheryl Kelly and Nish Stump
Sarah and Brian Small
WCJ Board Member Alma Ballard and Marcus Ballard
Connie Phillips, Bridget Bateman and Joey Klockare of Drama Kids International
Kim and Billy Wendell Terry and Preston Ward of Dillard's
Event Co-Chair Erica Flamm (center) with John and Whitney Spinks
Join Art with a Heart in Healthcare (AWAHIH) for “A Fine Heart Experience” fundraiser, supporting our mission to provide personalized fine art experiences that enhance the healing process for patients and their families. Subscribe to our newsletter at www.awahih.org to stay updated on the event date and time. Since 2001, AWAHIH has served 150,000+ individuals across Jacksonville, FL.
Delicious Destinations
Ascension St. Vincent’s Foundation
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club | 302 Ponte Vedra Blvd. givestvincents.org/delicious-destinations/ | (904) 308-7306 | Time: TBD
The BASCA CapeAbilities 5K/1M run in Orange Park, is where runners wear capes to celebrate abilities of all kinds! This family-friendly event welcomes runners of every skill level. Funds raised support BASCA and individuals with developmental differences.
DESC Defenders
Downtown Ecumenical Services Council
WJCT | 100 Festival Park Ave. descdefenders.com | (904) 358-7955 | 6 p.m.
Annual fundraising social uniting DESC supporters teaming up to help families fight poverty during a fun event including an opening reception, dinner and festivities.
8th
Annual Dreams Come True 5K
Dreams Come True
University of North Florida Amphitheater | 1 UNF Drive DreamsComeTrue.org | (904) 296-3030
7 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Lace up your shoes and walk, run or roll for the dreams of local children battling life-threatening medical conditions. Dream Come True’s largest fundraising event is three events in one - a 5K, one mile fun run, and Dreamfest. Enjoy a fun-filled morning that will include costumes, cheer zones, games, and dream families cheering you on as you cross the finish line.
Our annual Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ showcases Jacksonville’s best wings, pulled pork, smoked brisket and more. All proceeds from Blues, Brews, Bourbon & BBQ will benefit the nonprofit Florida Theatre Performing Arts Center, Inc.
13
Two Piano Journey Benefit Recital for Lutheran Social Services
Lutheran Social Services
Friday Musicale | 645 Oak St | 7:00 p.m. lssjax.org | (904) 730-8239
The mother-son piano team Two Piano Journey joins Lutheran Social Services to celebrate LSS’s 45 years of service to the community.
27
VyStar Emerald Trail 5K/10K Presented by JTC Running
The Annual VyStar Emerald Trail 5K presented by JTC Running takes walkers and runners along the portions of the Emerald Trail. A 1-Mile Fun RunWalk option offers participants of all ages and skill levels to enjoy the Emerald Trail.
29
JA of North Florida Golf Classic
Junior Achievement of North Florida San Jose Country Club | 7529 San Jose Blvd northflorida.ja.org/events/ja-of-north-florida-golf-classic (904) 398-9944 | 10:30 a.m.
Play FORE JA and help young people discover what’s possible in their lives! All proceeds from the Junior Achievement of North Florida Golf Classic go towards inspiring and preparing over 25,000 students in North Florida to invest in their future and pursue their dreams.
DESC DEFENDERS
DESC (Downtown Ecumenical Services Council)
When: September 2025
Where: WJCT
Info: www.descdefenders.com
This year marks 10 years of DESC Defenders, and the event is set to be bigger than ever! What began with introducing poverty-fighting heroes like Captain Underwear, Princess Pantaloons, Commander Current and Queen Appétit has grown into a celebration of the true DESC Defenders – our donors, volunteers, staff and clients. The event has become a favorite evening of fun, friendship, learning and giving, bringing people together to help families in need. Support from the event provides basic needs like food, clothing, emergency assistance, work boots and case management. Altogether, it turns into 15,000 services for 8,300 households each year but most importantly, it brings hope, encouragement and love to those who need it most.
Pickleballers are invited to compete in a fun-filled, round-robin tournament to benefit survivors of domestic and sexual abuse in St. Johns County.
11th Annual WOKV Care-A-Thon
Child Cancer Fund
Nemours Children’s Health | 807 Children’s Way childcancerfund.org/event/11th-annual-wokv-care-a-thon/ (904) 396-4223 | 5 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The 104.5 WOKV Care-a-thon is a two-day radiothon in partnership with Cox Media Group that brings together more than one million listeners and supporters. The weeklong digital, social and radio campaign culminates in a live two-day broadcast which includes an online silent auction. All proceeds support Child Cancer Fund.
The Child Cancer Fund Gala raises funds for Northeast Florida families who are fighting childhood cancer. It supports our mission to provide caring practical, financial, educational and emotional assistance – including psychosocial music and animal-assisted therapies – for families during this difficult time.
The American Cancer Society’s 2025 Cowford Ball promises to be a toe-tapping, knee-slapping good time as you give back to our community and the American Cancer Society. This one-of-a-kind evening features great food and drink, entertainment, a spectacular auction, and much more. With your support, the American Cancer Society saves lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures, and by fighting back against cancer.
Margarita J’ville
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida Mavi Waterfront Bar and Grill | 2309 Beach Blvd. bbbsnefl.org/events | (904) 727-9797 | Time: TBD
Margarita J’Ville, Fall 2025, brings the island flare and fun of Duval Street, in Key West, to Duval County. Guests will groove to live music, indulge in delicious island-inspired cuisine, and sip unlimited margaritas and signature drinks all while enjoying picturesque views and Jimmy Buffet vibes.
Join us for an evening to celebrate the work you make possible at Jacksonville’s premier event, Toast to the Animals. This elevated cocktail party is a night to remember complete with more than 15 local restaurant vendors, wine and beer, a live auction, a silent auction, Mutt Putt with the Players, a Wine Pull with VyStar Credit Union, and more! Head to jaxhumane.org/toast or call 904-493-4560 for more information.
Lace up your shoes and walk, run or roll for the dreams of local children battling life-threatening medical conditions. Dream Come True’s largest fundraising event is three events in one - a 5K, one mile fun run, and Dreamfest. Enjoy a fun-filled morning that will include costumes, cheer zones, games, and dream families cheering you on as you cross the finish line. For more details, including sponsorship opportunities, visit www.DreamsComeTrue.org
Murina Buncome Jerome with Artis Gilmore and Melina Buncome
OC T 2025
TBD
First Coast Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
The American Cancer Society’s Making Strides movement raises lifesaving funds that support breast cancer patients, survivors, thrivers and caregivers through every step of the journey. We’ve enhanced digital offerings available to anyone across the nation, including one-on-one breast cancer patient support services and the use of video chat to safely connect patients, caregivers and family members with valuable services and resources through our website, in addition to a 24/7 helpline.
Join your friends, family and coworkers to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We’re all tied to heart disease and stroke in some way, and we must change that. Every walker who joins, every dollar donated means more research, more people trained in lifesaving CPR, more medical breakthroughs and more champions for equitable health.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida – Nassau County will host the 30th anniversary of our annual Reggie Hunt Memorial Golf Classic in Fernandina Beach. This event is held annually in Nassau County in memory of Reggie Hunt, a former Fernandina High School student athlete and six-year participant in our Nassau County program.
Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts | 300 Water St. sulzbacherjax.org | Time: TBD
Transforming lives through housing: Join us as we celebrate the milestones and stories of our neighbors whose lives have been transformed through housing.
Cindy Cooper, Niki Logoreci, Paige Ludecke, Dr. Leslie Gordon and Lynn Bauman
Stacy and Matt Lasonde and Morgan Kehnert
Jaymie Kohl and Kenny Logsdon Kiara Nixon with Marybeth Shermetaro
Deborah Zacovic with Nidhi Every and William Zacovic
Brad Waldrop with Katie Blonski, Clyde Taylor and Darby Taylor
Amanda Gudaitis and Brett Holbrook
DONNA 5K at TPC Sawgrass
The DONNA Foundation TPC Sawgrass www.tpc.thedonnafoundation.org | Time: TBD
The 18th Running of DONNA 5K at TPC Sawgrass will be the highlight of breast cancer awareness month in October of 2025. This family friendly event celebrates survivorship and raises funds to finish breast cancer through the programs of The DONNA Foundation. We welcome runners and walkers of all levels to experience the most beautiful 5K at the PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass.
NAMIWalks Jacksonville
NAMIWalks Jacksonville
Location: TBD | Time: TBD | (904)724-7782
It’s not how far we walk at NAMIWalks Jacksonville, but how far we’ve come to make our milestones count. With your support, we intend to make an unprecedented impact on mental health in our community. NAMIWalks 2025 represents a powerful chance to leave a significant mark on the local mental health landscape.
Join us for the 2025 CHO Jax Social, which will be an evening of fundraising, great food and purpose. Stay tuned for more details as we raise essential funds, showing the love of Jesus by providing vital services to those in need.
MWYF’s largest fundraising gala includes cocktail reception, dinner, live and silent auction, student testimonials, professional athlete guest speaker and more!
Grazie Gala
Mission House
The Yards | 254 Alta Mar Dr. missionhousejax.org/about | (904) 241-6767 | Time: TBD
Celebrate a night of elegance and compassion at the Grazie Gala, Mission House’s premier fundraising event. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with fine dining, entertainment, and opportunities to support those experiencing homelessness in our community. This black-tie affair will help fund Mission House’s life-changing services while honoring those who make a difference.
Peace in the Pages celebrates the link between literacy and the values of empathy, peace, and freedom, and recognizes seven local leaders for their commitment to literacy and closing the reading gap in Duval County. The event also features teacher and teen testimonials of triumph and success through literacy.
Red Shield Ball
The Salvation Army of Northeast Florida
Location: TBD | Time: TBD | (904) 894-1510
The Salvation Army’s 12th Annual Red Shield Ball is the event of the year to create lasting change for the men, women, and families who find refuge at the Towers Center of Hope. This gala-style fundraiser features an exquisite dinner, live music, dancing, and both live and silent auctions, all in support of the transformative work happening every day at the Towers Center of Hope.
SHINDIG
Sanctuary on 8th Street
Brick and Beam | 1101 N Main St. sanctuaryon8th.org | (904) 356-3588 | 6-9 p.m.
The SHINDIG is the Sanctuary on 8th Street’s annual fundraiser to support their after-school and summer programs for at-HOPE youth. Come to the SHINDIG and enjoy a relaxing evening of local cuisine, music, drinks, and a silent auction, all set in the heart of Historic Springfield.
The 31st annual Barbara Ann Campbell Memorial Breakfast remembers those our community has lost to domestic violence and creates awareness of the problem and solution. You will leave inspired by the stories of now-safe survivors.
Joli Craver and Carla Montgomery
Alexis Gonzalez, Sarah Harrison, Jenifer McGuire, Jessica Root and Jenifer Peters
Elecia Goodman and Reign Jefferson
Brette Petway, Ellen Glasser and Monica Gilt
Shirley Barton Haley Brewer and Faye Eason
George Sabbag and event Honorary Chair Dan Wahby
1-31
Wolfson Children’s Wolfie BOO!
Wolfson Children’s Hospital
WolfsonChildrensHalloween.com | Month-long
Throughout the month of October, you can help spread spooky cheer when you BOO! your friends and neighbors with a Wolfie BOO! yard sign. It is a fun and festive way to brighten up our community while supporting Wolfson Children’s.
3
19th Annual Coming Out Day Breakfast
JASMYN
Downtown Hyatt | 225 East Coastline Dr. jasmyn.org | (904) 389-3857 | 7 a.m.
JASMYN chose the National Day of Observation, Coming Out Day, to celebrate diversity in our Northeast Florida workforce. Our breakfast honors the work of individual leaders, employee resource groups, corporations and non-profit partners
3-5
Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS
presented by Circle K
The Jim & Tabitha Furyk Foundation
Timuquana Country Club | 4028 Timuquana Rd. constellationfurykandfriends.com | Time: TBD
Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS presented by Circle K is a PGA TOUR Champions event that focuses on music, food and fun for all at Timuquana Country Club, October3-5, 2025.
6
12th Annual Golf Classic
Ronald McDonald House
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club | 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd. rmhcjacksonville.org/events | (904)807-4670 | 8:30 a.m.
Support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Jacksonville’s mission to provide essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need healthcare.
11
23rd Annual Buddy Walk
Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville Jacksonville SeaWalk Pavilion | 75 First Street N, Jacksonville Beach dsaj.org | 904 353-6300 | Time: TBD
The Buddy Walk will be centered on celebrating individuals with Down syndrome as well as their families and friends. The walk is one mile down beautiful Jacksonville Beach and back.
10-12
The RITA Foundation
SenioRITAs Tennis Tournament
Sawgrass Country Club | 9175 Preston Tr. East the-rita-foundation.org/senioritas | (904) 363-1493 | 8 a.m.
11-12
Arlington Mod & More Home Tour & Symposium
Old Arlington Inc.
Various Homes | Addresses TBD oldarlington.org | 904-891-6320 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Arlington Mod & More Home Tour and Symposium, features several Arlington homes each year from Mid-Century modest to riverfront estates. All proceeds benefit Old Arlington, Inc.
18
8th Annual Pour Your Heart Out
The Healing Hearts Project
The Lark | 229 North Hogan Street thehealingheartsproject.org | (904) 314-0533 | 5-9 p.m.
8th Annual gala including dinner and wine pairings in the heart of Jax to raise funds and awareness for local heart families.
26
5th Annual Farm Fun Fall-O-Ween
EPIC Outreach
Location: shared at time of ticket purchase epicoutreach.org | (904) 274-1177 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Come meet the rescued animals at the most magical education farm sanctuary in Northeast Florida. EPIC Outreach is home to 60+ rescued animals that include horses, donkeys, chickens, cats, dogs, a guinea pig, a rabbit, and PIGS, lots of PIGS!
COWFORD BALL
American Cancer Society
When: Fall 2025 Info: cowfordball.acscbb.org
Join us for the American Cancer Society’s 30th Annual Cowford Ball, Jacksonville’s premier western-themed gala. This special anniversary event promises to be a night to remember, filled with exciting entertainment, delicious cuisine and a vibrant celebration of community spirit. Set against a backdrop of rustic charm and modern elegance, the 2025 Cowford Ball will bring together friends, family and local businesses to raise critical funds in the fight against cancer.
Come celebrate the millions of lives saved in the past 30 years through ACSfunded cancer research. With a rich history of fun, philanthropy and unforgettable moments, this year’s Cowford Ball will be bigger and better than ever. So, dust off your cowboy boots, don your finest western wear and get ready to kick up your heels to help fight cancer. Stay tuned for more details on this milestone event and how you can be part of something truly special!
This annual event honors those who have advocated for seniors and caregivers, as well as serving as the agency’s only fundraiser supporting seniors facing a short-term financial crisis.
Gather for Goodwill is an annual luncheon and fashion show where individuals from Goodwill Industries of North Florida’s mission programs are celebrated, and local celebrities take the runway showcasing trendy finds from their thrift stores. This signature event allows them to share the “Good News” about Goodwill in an exciting and festive atmosphere while highlighting their mission’s meaningful impact on the North Florida community.
Join us as we celebrate 5 YEARS of Haven Retreats and all that we have done for foster and adoptive families in our community. We will start the night with casino games, a silent auction and live music, followed by dinner provided by Hawker’s Asian Street Food and a short program highlighting our work over the past 5 years.
The River Garden Foundation Gala is the major annual fundraising event for River Garden Hebrew Home, held in late Fall. The Gala raises significant funds, supporting an unparalleled experience and exceptional care for all seniors we serve with dignity and compassion.
Dinner With Bill & Friends
The Arc Jacksonville
The Arc Jacksonville Village | 3675 Kirbo Way arcjacksonville.org | (904) 355-0155 | 5:30 p.m.
Dinner with Bill & Friends is a special evening celebrating The Arc Jacksonville community and those we serve with intellectual and developmental differences. Through the support we receive each year at Dinner with Bill & Friends, we are able to continue being an innovative leader and offering a full range of education, employment, residential and advocacy services in our community.
11th Annual Tony’s Turkey Trot for Brain Injury Awareness
Join Voices for Children of Florida for an unforgettable evening celebrating hope, resilience, and the importance of home. There’s No Place Like Home brings together community champions to support vulnerable children in Florida’s foster care system. The event features heartwarming stories, a delightful dining experience, and engaging entertainment- all to raise funds for critical advocacy and support services. Your participation helps ensure every child has a voice and the opportunity to thrive.
An elegant event celebrating our impact and honoring Angel families with an auction, live music, food and more guest experiences.
6
WeCareJax Caring Award Event
WeCareJacksonville
River City Railway | 1737 East Adams St. wecarejacksonville.org/caringawards | (904) 674-6459 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Annually, this event honors the volunteer physicians and partners who go above and beyond to make compassionate care possible for our uninsured and under-resourced neighbors experiencing a medical crisis.
Association of Fundraising Professionals Fl, First Coast Chapter Hyatt Regency Downtown | 225 E. Coastline Dr. https://npdoc.org/ | 11:45-1:30p.m.
Join us in celebrating National Philanthropy Day on Friday,November8th, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Downtown Jacksonville. Save the date for this inspiring event that honors the spirit of giving and generosity in Northeast Florida. Stay tuned for frequent updates and don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate those who make a positive impact on our community through their philanthropic endeavors.
The Kettle Kickoff marks the first day of The Salvation Army’s iconic Red Kettle Campaign, which has been an iconic representation of the Christmas season for over 100 years and brings help and hope to those in need in Northeast Florida.
21
42nd Annual Golf Classic
Brooks Rehabilitation
Ponte Vedra Inn & Club | 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd. brooksgolf.org | (904) 345-7069 | Time: TBD
This event is one of the top charity golf tournaments in Northeast Florida, with approximately 150 corporate and community leaders participating. All proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Brooks Rehabilitation in the care of patients suffering from brain injuries, strokes, spinal cord injuries, comprehensive orthopedic problems and other disabling conditions. When you play, everyone wins.
22
13th Annual Clay Shoot
Trinity Rescue Mission
Jacksonville Clay Target Sports | 12125 New Berlin Rd. trinityrescue.org/shoot/ | (904)355-1205 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sponsored by The Farm at Okefenokee, Trinity Rescue Mission is hosting the 13th Annual Out-Shoot Hunger Sporting Clay Shoot! This event is an awesome opportunity for businesses and individuals to get involved and help feed the needy in our community.
23
Riverside WineFest
Riverside Avondale Preservation
King Street
riversidewinefest.com | (904) 356-4517 | 6-9 p.m.
Join us in the street for the Annual Riverside WineFest and drink for a good cause. Event features food trucks and live entertainment, along with a tasting of over 250 wines.
The Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens is excited to introduce our inaugural solo holiday light show, Glowing Gardens! Step into a Floridian winter wonderland this holiday season and join us for a month-long celebration that transforms the Arboretum into a mesmerizing display of lights, sculptures, and more!
Kelli Novak and Keely Kopp
Michael Gallagher with Ralston Brooke
Kailyn Letts with Margaret Gibbs
Abbey Ellison with Elizabeth Wilkins
HOST YOUR EVENT AT THE JESSIE
Hosting your event at The Jessie helps fuel programs and initiatives that strengthen the nonprofit sector and build a more vibrant community
OUR SPACES ABOUT US
Host your next corporate or philanthropic event at The Jessie, Jacksonville's premier venue that combines historic charm with modern functionality Nestled within one of the city's architectural treasures, The Jessie offers versatile workspaces and gathering areas enhanced with state-of-the-art technology and energy-efficient features. Celebrate, convene, and strategize in a space that unites the community while embracing a legacy of excellence and innovation
The Jessie is a nationally recognized, beautifully preserved architectural gem that adds charm and sophistication to any occasion
Historic Elegance Modern Amenities
Enjoy state-of-the-art technology and energy-efficient facilities that cater to the needs of today’s events
Versatile Spaces
Choose from a variety of work and gathering areas perfect for both intimate meetings and large-scale events
Community Connection
Align your event with a venue that fosters unity and supports Jacksonville’s vibrant nonprofit and corporate community
TBD
30th Annual Festival of Lights 5k
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals of Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia
San Marco Square | 2018 San Marco Boulevard 1stplacesports.com/races/fol | (904)244-9337 | 5:00 p.m.
The 30th Annual Festival of Lights 5K is a unique fundraising event that benefits Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The streets of San Marco will be illuminated as thousands of runners, walkers and strollers take off during this nighttime, winter race. All proceeds from this event benefit the CMN Hospitals program which supports UF Health Jacksonville and Wolfson Children’s Hospital.
35th Annual Tree of Life & Candlelight Service of Remembrance
Community Hospice & Palliative Care Foundation
Earl B. Hadlow Center for Caring | 4266 Sunbeam Rd. communityhospice.com/events/ | (904) 268-5200 | 5:45 – 7 p.m.
A free public event hosted by Community Hospice & Palliative Care for those grieving the death of a loved one during the holidays.
35th Annual Tree of Life & Candlelight Service of Remembrance
A free public event hosted by Community Hospice & Palliative Care for those grieving the death of a loved one during the holidays.
DEC 2025
Gingerbread Extravaganza
Jacksonville History Center
Old St. Andrew’s Church | 317 A. Philip Randolph Blvd. jaxhistory.org/events | (904) 665-0064 | Various Times
One of Northeast Florida’s most beloved traditions and the city’s most creative holiday event, the Gingerbread Extravaganza benefits the educational programs and archival repository of the Jacksonville History Center.
Discover a mesmerizing fusion of lanterns, wildlife and wild places as over 1,000 intricate lanterns come to life. From the towering cherry blossoms of Asia to the native panthers and manatees of Florida, each lantern tells a unique story highlighting diverse cultures around the world. Experience the magic of the event as we celebrate the interconnectedness of culture, creativity and conservation.
Luminaria in the Park
Memorial Park Association
Memorial Park | 1620 Riverside Ave. memparkjax.org | Time: TBD
Celebrate the annual Luminaria with special events and entertainment in Memorial Park.
Pat and Brooke George with Sarah and Matt Humer, Kal Kseib
Morgan, Edward and Roya Ashurian
Laura Phillips Edgecombe and Paul Davison
Heather, Cee Cee and Kaelyn Cassidy
Carolyn and Clancy Houston
Jack Moranthaler with Austin and Kelsey Heneveld, Kippy Warner, Erin Dooley, Courtney Morgenthaler and Ryan Warner
Richard and Kimberly Sisisky
Sam and Missie Sarra LePrell with Mike and Cathy Hartley, Heather Sarra Hand and Chris Hand
Holiday on the Farm
North Florida School of Special Education
Delores Barr Weaver Therapeutic Equestrian Center | 223 Mill Creek Road northfloridaschool.org | (904) 724-8323 | Time: TBD
Unique gifts with a social impact. Your friends, family, and coworkers will love receiving unique gifts that make a social impact.
Celebrating its 41st year, Luminaria is one of the premier holiday events in the Riverside and Avondale communities, illuminating neighborhoods with more than 24,000 kits.
San Marco Luminaria
San Marco Preservation Society
San Marco Communities smpsjax.com/events/ | Time: TBD
Every year, San Marco lights up for the annual luminaria celebration with one of the most beautiful traditions in Jacksonville.
First Coast Design Show
The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital
Prime Osborn Convention Center | 1000 Water St. firstcoastdesignshow.com | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
In 2022, The Women’s Board committed to raising $1.5 million for a new Kids Kare Mobile ICU, a Neonatal and Pediatric Critical Care Transport vehicle, including equipment and the services necessary for the operation of the ambulance. The Women’s Board has committed to raising these funds.
33rd Annual Fun Shoot
Ascension St. Vincent’s Foundation Jacksonville Clay Target Sports | 12125 New Berlin Rd. givestvincents.org/fun-shoot/ | (904) 308-7306 | 8:30 a.m.
This event has long supported the Ascension St. Vincent’s Good Samaritan Fund (GSF), and is held at the Jacksonville Clay Target Sports. In the 2024 fiscal year, the GSF helped over 4,800 patients in need of emergency assistance.
1
12th annual Empty Bowls
Barnabas
Center
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island | 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy BarnabasNassau.org | (904) 261-7000 | 12 p.m.
Empty Bowls is an event to raise awareness and funds to combat hunger and crisis in Nassau County. A simple meal of soup, bread and dessert will be served by volunteers. In addition, each guest will be able to select a beautiful, hand-painted bowl to take home.
The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville’s Annual Arts Awards celebrates exceptional contributions to the sector in Northeast Florida. This prestigious event honors individuals, organizations, and businesses that advance the region’s cultural landscape, showcasing artistic excellence, innovation, and community impact. Proceeds support local arts programs and initiatives, inspiring future growth.
Seeding Jacksonville
Jacksonville Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Location: TBD | Time: TBD
jacksonvillearboretum.org | (904)318-4342
We connect with the community and report about the health and future of the Arboretum. We will provide insights into the Arboretum’s wonderful successes this past year and help our community gain perspective of what’s to come in the future. Special guest speakers TBD.
Claudia Adams with Annie Tuttle and Erin Streva
Casey Roth, Marisa Whittemore and John Silveira with Chloe Kuhn and SJ Osborne
Julie Williams and Sarah DeBellis with Elizabeth Hunter and Shiya Scott
Pat and Brooke George with Sarah and Matt Humer, Kal Kseib
Jason and Allegra Jaros with Erin Wolfson and Joe Standley
Philanthropy Supports Local Preservation
Community efforts safeguard history, culture, and nature
By Michele Leivas
From the historic Oesterreicher-McCormick Cabin to the vibrant neighborhoods of Jacksonville, the story of Northeast Florida is one of resilience, community, and preservation. Through the dedicated efforts of local organizations, volunteers, and philanthropists, the region’s history, culture, and environment are being protected and celebrated for generations to come. Whether it’s relocating a 19th-century cabin, advocating for historic neighborhoods, or conserving natural landscapes, these collective efforts reflect a deep commitment to maintaining the unique identity and heritage of the area.
In 2015, work was about to begin on Twenty Mile – one of the newest neighborhoods in the burgeoning Nocatee master-planned community. But situated on the Twenty Mile land along the western banks of the Intracoastal Waterway was a small, white cabin.
Built in 1873, the Oesterreicher-McCormick Cabin was considered to be one of the area’s oldest examples of Florida Cracker architecture. And if Twenty Mile were to be completed, it would have to go.
Thanks to the McCormick Family, however, the historic cabin escaped demolition. Instead, the family donated it to the Beaches Museum, which spearheaded a capital campaign to raise $150,000 to relocate the cabin to the museum’s Jacksonville Beach campus and refurbish it.
“The cabin’s move and restoration were funded entirely with private dollars,” said Beaches Museum Executive Director Christine Hoffman, noting that donations ranged from $20 contributions to large donations that enabled the museum to start an endowment fund. “The community’s outpouring to save this building shows the importance of historic preservation to our donors.”
Today, visitors to the museum can tour the Oesterreicher-McCormick cabin and envision what life was like in 19th-century Florida.
“The building continues to be a part of our history,” Hoffman said, “with thousands of visitors getting a glimpse into pioneer life in Northeast Florida.”
The community’s outpouring to save this building shows the importance of historic preservation to our donors.
– Christine Hoffman Executive Director, Beaches Museum
Funding preservation
Philanthropy and volunteerism play an important role in preserving the history, heritage and environment of Northeast Florida. And nowhere is that more evident than in Jacksonville. The largest city geographically in the contiguous United States is comprised of a plethora of neighborhoods and communities, each with its own distinct history and identity.
Working to preserve these unique areas is the mission of several grassroots community organizations, particularly in the historic areas of Jacksonville. Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP) has spent the last half-century preserving the identity and character of Jacksonville’s Riverside Avondale area, from its architecture to its walkability. RAP Executive Director Shannon Blankinship said the community’s historic fabric cannot be taken for granted.
“The reason that we retain that historic fabric over decades is because of the ongoing advocacy work and membership with [RAP],” she said.
RAP’s memberships, volunteer hours and monetary gifts allow it to continue its preservation efforts for the community. RAP’s membership also offers resources beyond its dues, however. Blankinship said the organization’s membership is where she looks for expertise on various topics, from infrastructure to transportation and members can provide invaluable, expert insight on issues important to the organization and, by extension, the community.
“I go to our membership, and I look to our membership for the people who understand these issues,” she said.
On the other side of downtown sits the neighborhood of Springfield, Jacksonville’s oldest neighborhood, and home to the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization (SPAR). This neighborhood, established in 1869, was the city’s first neighborhood outside of the downtown area. Today, there are roughly 1,800 “architecturally significant” contributing structures to the historic area and SPAR Executive Director Michael Haskins said preserving those structures and the historic district as a whole is one of the organization’s three pillars.
“We think the architecture of this neighborhood is one of the things that makes it really unique,” he said.
PorchFest delivers a good time for folks visiting some of Jacksonville’s most iconic homes, thanks to the efforts of Springfield Preservation And Revitalization (or SPAR)
Christine Hoffman and Jean McCormick (seated) withJack Schmidt (campaign co-chair), Bob White, Michael Oesterreicher, Suzanne Taylor and Darby Brower
The historic Florida Theatre is the only one remaining of the 13 theatres that once filled Jacksonville’s Northbank.
San Marco Merchants Association member John Curington and San Marco Preservation Society Vice President Yvonne Corey inspecting broken sidewalks, May 1989.
Grassroots organizations like the San Marco Preservation Society and San Marco Merchants Association help to preserve the character of the San Marco community while promoting growth and development.
Like RAP, SPAR celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and Haskins credits local volunteers and donations to the organization’s success and exponential growth over the decades.
“Up until 10 years ago, SPAR was entirely volunteer-run,” he said. “It was an incredible effort and the people who did that work were tireless advocates for the neighborhood.”
Even today, SPAR has just two full-time staff members on its payroll, and its volunteers and donations continue to play a crucial role in the organization’s three pillars: preservation, revitalization and arts and cultural programming.
At the heart of SPAR are several committees that address various neighborhood issues – from events like the Jacksonville PorchFest or the Historic Springfield Tour of Homes and Gardens to more technical issues like design review, infrastructure or fund development. Community input is key to any decision, Haskins said, and these committees allow the community to get involved in a variety of different issues and causes. In a way, SPAR serves as an “information highway” to connect the community with the entities that have direct impacts on the residents and businesses that call Springfield home and Springfield boasts a very engaged, very informed community.
“We get information out to them and then they can give feedback that will create meaningful change,” he said.
One of the core things about San Marco that makes it the way it is and will continue to preserve the wonderful environment is organizations like San Marco Preservation Society, which are fully focused on just the quality of life, the public spaces and just the cultural fabric of the neighborhood.
– David Paulk, President San Marco Preservation Society
These neighborhood organizations lay the groundwork that can ultimately lead to a vibrant community for residents and visitors to enjoy. David Paulk, president of the San Marco Preservation Society (SMPS), credits much of San Marco’s current success to the organization’s work in its near 50 years, from its walkability to its public art and spaces.
“One of the core things about San Marco that makes it the way it is and will continue to preserve the wonderful environment is organizations like San Marco Preservation Society, which are fully focused on just the quality of life, the public spaces and just the cultural fabric of the neighborhood.”
In addition to its neighborhood advocacy, SMPS hosts several community events throughout the year. Wine Down in the Parks is one of its primary fundraising events every year and Paulk said the volunteers, sponsors and local business support for that event is invaluable. That, in turn, has an immediate effect on the other work the organization is able to do for the community.
“It’s a labor of love from everyone, but it allows us to then focus on some of the more core issues of development in the neighborhood and protecting the historic properties that we do on the side,” Paulk said. “It’s all funded by these events and the volunteer efforts of our members.”
Warren Jones, Wayne Wood, Perry Reynolds, Pamela Telis, Alicia Grant, Michael Langton, Michael Corrigan, Carmen Godwin, Nancy Powell, Brooks Andrews, Mitch Woodlief, Iris Eisenberg and Bob Griffin at RAP's 50th anniversary celebration.
San Marco Preservation Society recognizes local efforts of passionate community members at its annual Annual Meeting. The gatherings are held in Fletcher Park in San Marco’s Preservation Hall, a preservation project in its own right. The awards recognize contributors to beautification, renovation and community stewardship and support of the mission of SMPS.
Resident News file photo, June 2023
We fundraise about 15% of our budget every year, and 15% doesn't sound like a lot, but it's 100% of our ability to be the special Florida Theatre that people think of.
– Numa Saisselin Florida Theatre President
Culture
Cultural institutions, from theaters to historical societies, also rely heavily on local volunteers to continue their missions, whether it’s advocating for the arts or cataloging the community’s past.
At one time, Florida Theatre President Numa Saisselin noted, there were 13 theaters situated along Downtown Jacksonville’s Northbank. Today, only the Florida Theatre survives. While the nearly 100-year-old building is owned by the city, it is maintained and run by the Florida Theatre nonprofit, which is also entrusted with bringing traveling performers to the Bold City. Volunteers, from the board of directors to the ushers who direct guests to their seats, have an immediate impact on the continued success of this historic theatre.
“[Ushers] probably save us tens of thousands of dollars a year, if we had to pay them, and that’s tens of thousands of dollars a year that we’re able to put into programming or put into the building,” said Saisselin.
That substantial saved expense is much appreciated by an organization that has to pay upfront for the performers that come to the theatre.
“The good news is our batting average is good and 75 to 80% of the time we make money on the show, but that also means 20 to 25% of the time we lose money on the show – and that’s a very good year,” Saisselin said. Additionally, there are instances where the nonprofit will bring a performer to the theatre knowing it won’t sell enough tickets to turn a profit, but it considers the show important enough for the citizenry to see to take that loss.
The volunteer efforts of the theatre’s ushers and board of directors, and the monies collected through fundraising efforts, allow the theatre to continue in its mission.
“We fundraise about 15% of our budget every year,” Saisselin said. “And 15% doesn’t sound like a lot, but it’s 100% of our ability to be the special Florida Theatre that people think of.”
Historical societies, meanwhile, serve as both the stewards of a community’s history and the bridge between the past, present and future. Jacksonville History Center CEO Dr. Alan Bliss said the collaboration with other neighborhood organizations provides an opportunity to strengthen the ties residents have with the place they call home.
Mayor Donna Deegan speaks at the grand reopening of the Florida Theatre in October 2023 following extensive renovations of the historic theater.
Mayor Donna Deegan marks the grand reopening of the Florida Theatre in a ribbon cutting ceremony in October 2023, joined by Numa Saisselin, P.C. Bryant and Nathan Marty.
Everything in that museum, the community donated or paid for. It’s become a real community space.
– Magen Wilson, Executive Director St. Augustine Historical Society
“As [neighborhoods] become more settled in their own identities and as people in those neighborhoods become more invested in those neighborhoods, that connection on the neighborhood level strengthens the overall city across its entire geography,” Bliss said.
A historical society’s work is also not relegated to the distant past or the large-scale history of an area. Rather, it works to preserve various facets of a community’s identity and relies on volunteers to collect those stories. What began as a collection of roughly 70 oral histories from local St. Augustine surfers led to the St. Augustine Surf Culture and History Museum
“Everything in that museum, the community donated or paid for,” said St. Augustine Historical Society Executive Director Magen Wilson. “It’s become a real community space.”
In addition to the surf culture and history museum, the historical society maintains four colonial structures – two of which are national historic landmarks – and oversees a research library with one of the largest collections of South Colonial Spanish documents in the country.
While these historical societies are dedicated to their communities, they also rely heavily on local support, whether it’s through fundraising efforts, attending special programming, volunteer hours or donations of all kinds to continue their mission of preservation and education.
Any size donation is extremely helpful. There’s a lot of fees and processes we go through before we even get to purchase property …and then you have the costs of the actual property, which is usually pretty significant.
–
Lee Anderson Louy NFLT Director of Philanthropic
Services
Environment
“You can’t get anymore local than land,” North Florida Land Trust President and CEO Dr. Allison DeFoor stated.
For 25 years, the North Florida Land Trust has worked to conserve and protect North Florida’s natural landscape and ecosystems, serving seven counties: Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Putnam, Baker, Flagler and Nassau. To that end, more than 41,000 acres of land – including pine forests, cypress swamps, beaches and coastal salt marshes – have been conserved by this local organization.
While its focus is on the environment, NFLT relies on people to donate their time, money or land to further its mission of conservation. DeFoor said the organization has spent the last quarter century gaining the trust of the donor community in the area, which has played a crucial role in NFLT’s success. Additionally, the NFLT offers various tiers of annual membership that give the community the opportunity to support the organization while receiving special access to certain membership perks, including members-only events throughout the year.
“Any size donation is extremely helpful,” said NFLT Director of Philanthropic Services Lee Anderson Louy. “There’s a lot of fees and processes we go through before we even get to purchase property … and then you have the costs of the actual property, which is usually pretty significant.”
In Ponte Vedra, the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Research Reserve) is one of 30 such reserves across the country that provides a sanctuary for a wide range of the region’s native flora and fauna. There are several ways for the community to get involved and support the reserve’s efforts, from its annual membership to donations to on-the-ground volunteering or even participating in its Adopt-a-Nest or the GTM Research Reserve Sea Turtle Patrol Program. The Adopt-a-Nest program continues 25 years of research on leatherback, loggerhead and Atlantic green sea turtles, while the patrol “educate many people each year through direct contact on the beach and through lecture presentations.”
The North Florida Land Trust works to protect and preserve the area’s natural resources and beauty, like this land at Ft. Clinch Thornton in Fernandina in Nassau County.
The North Florida Land Trust (NFLT) celebrated its 25th anniversary at Smith Lake Preserve in Clay County on Saturday, Nov. 9. In attendance were NFLT President and CEO Allison DeFoor with NFLT board member Rick Hoffman and his wife Faith alongside NFLT board member TR Hainline and his wife Melody.
Photo courtesy of Doug Eng
Photo courtesy of Doug Eng
Beyond the Call
By Michele Leivas
Northeast Florida’s philanthropic community is filled with countless organizations dedicated to fulfilling their missions and serving their communities. They do this through generous donations of time, talent and treasure – much of which comes from selfless volunteers who believe in the good that comes from these organizations. In this special 10th anniversary edition of Circles magazine, we wanted to take a moment and shine a spotlight on some of these volunteers who heard the call for help and went above and beyond to answer it.
A Legacy of Giving
Ema Parks lives by the credo of giving more than she gets, and for the past 42-plus years, her volunteerism has been a testament to that mindset.
Her desire to pass down a legacy of service to her children led her to get involved with Sulzbacher when her children were young and, now that they’re grown and she’s retired, she continues to devote her time and passion toward serving others. She credits growing up in a rural area for instilling in her a strong sense of community support.
“I didn’t see homelessness, I always saw helpfulness,” she said. “That was during a time where if a neighbor was down, the whole neighborhood would come together and whatever the need was, the neighbors stepped in and did it.”
With Sulzbacher, Parks funnels her passion into the food she cooks in the organization’s kitchen with her “second family” of fellow volunteers and Sulzbacher employees, whose passion she finds equally inspiring.
“That’s why I stay, because their hearts are in it,” she said. “They’re not in it for whatever their salaries are or whatever accolades they may get. They’re in it because they have a heart for what they do.”
While Parks said some people might not find the kitchen very “glamorous,” it is her happy place where she can do the things she loves: cook food and give back, serving people less fortunate.
“That’s who I am and that’s who I’ve always been,” she said, “and I don’t know how to be anybody else.”
I didn’t see homelessness, I always saw helpfulness.
– Ema Parks Dedicated Volunteer
Ringing the Bell and So Much More
Last year marked Debbie Veale’s 25th anniversary of volunteering with The Salvation Army of Northeast Florida Women’s Auxiliary.
A simple question from a friend back in 2009 – would she like to get involved? – led Debbie to a group of women and a cause that have all become important parts of her life.
“I’ll be honest with you, the only thing I knew about the Salvation Army at the time was they are those people that at Christmas time ring the bells by the red buckets,” she said. “ …I thought, ‘I would really like to do this’ and I could do a couple of hours ringing a bell, no big deal.”
Over the years, Debbie has learned the Salvation Army and its Women’s Auxiliary are so much more than that, and she has seen firsthand the impact both have on the Jacksonville community.
While the Women’s Auxiliary has one major annual fundraiser – the Celebrity Chefs Tasting Luncheon and Silent Auction – it has several smaller projects on which volunteers work throughout the year. From the yearly Easter baskets to the Angel Tree program, Veale has her hands in many of those and she enjoys all of it, particularly being surrounded by such dedicated and selfless people.
“It blows my mind that there’s so many people willing to [give back],” she said. “And to be a part of that is truly amazing. It warms my heart.”
It blows my mind that there’s so many people willing to [give back]. And to be a part of that is truly amazing. It warms my heart.
– Debbie Veale Celebrity Chefs Co-Chair
Giving back is a family affair for Ema Parks, shown here with her sons Marquise Pittman, Ellington Upshaw and Harry Upshaw.
– Jessie Drew Hawkins Angels for Allison volunteer since 2022 …I saw what they were doing, and thought, ‘I need to be involved in this’.
A Passion for Preservation
Logan Cross has called San Marco home for many years. While he has always embraced his community, his involvement with the San Marco Preservation Society has given him a deeper appreciation for his neighborhood and its residents.
An active volunteer through other organizations – he is the chair for the Sierra Club of Northeast Florida – Cross got involved with SMPS three years ago. Since then, he has become deeply immersed in the organization and the community it strives to preserve.
“I’ve enjoyed meeting the people, but also getting the feeling that I am, in certain ways, giving something back to the community,” he said.
Cross is the chairman for two SMPS committees: Resiliency and Sustainability; and Traffic, Pedestrian and Bicycle. As Resiliency and Sustainability chairman, Cross is using his voice and platform to help raise community awareness about those two concepts – especially, he said, because of San Marco’s susceptibility to flooding.
“[The committee] will provide a vehicle for people to get more engaged in the community in a lot of ways,” he said.
While he is passionate about the projects and causes he champions for SMPS, he said his favorite thing about volunteering with the organization is seeing and meeting fellow neighbors who are equally passionate about the neighborhood they call home.
“It’s always encouraging to see people who just volunteer their time and their expertise and experience for a cause that they believe in,” he said. “…I feel more part of the community than all the other years I have lived here.”
Coming Home and Giving Back
When Jessie Drew Hawkins returned to Jacksonville after a decade overseas, she had to get to know her hometown all over again.
She quickly found that volunteering was the way to do it.
Ten years prior, when she first transferred to the Savannah College of Art and Design’s Hong Kong campus, Angels for Allison had been a fledgling organization. Founded in honor of Hawkins’ cousin, Allison Haramis, who died in 2014 as a result of an automobile accident, the nonprofit helps pay the funeral expenses for families who have lost a child.
When Hawkins returned to the First Coast and attended its 2022 Flight of Fancy gala, however, she was pleased to see how much the organization had grown and evolved.
“…I saw what they were doing, and thought, ‘I need to be involved in this,’” she said.
With her background in social media marketing and event planning, Hawkins now donates her time and expertise to help Angels for Allison, including chairing the 2024 Flight of Fancy event. Given that it was at the 2022 event that she committed to getting involved, Hawkins said chairing the 2024 gala felt like coming full circle.
Through volunteering, Hawkins was able to reconnect with her community in Jacksonville’s Ortega neighborhood, which her family has called home for several generations.
“Coming back after 10 years has been a whirlwind, because Jacksonville is constantly growing and changing,” she said. “When you’re away for so long…you’re in a whole new community.”
Her volunteerism also extends to The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital, into which she was inducted last year, and she finds great satisfaction in the time she gives back to her community.
“The time that I give is time I’m happy to give, because of what we’re able to do.”
I've enjoyed meeting the people, but also getting the feeling that I am, in certain ways, giving something back to the community.
–
Logan Cross San Marco Preservation Society Committee Chairman
Logan Cross participates in the River Oaks Park Clean Up event this past August, organized by San Marco Preservation Society and the St. Johns Riverkeeper.
Planting Roots through Volunteering
As president of The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Kendra McCrary is fully immersed in the Jacksonville community. Yet the River City was never meant to be a permanent move for McCrary and her family when they moved here from Atlanta in 1996.
Still new to the community, McCrary began volunteering with the Junior League of Jacksonville to get to know her new home. Volunteering had been part of her life since childhood, with both parents active volunteers in their church and community, and McCrary had become engaged in various volunteer efforts throughout college, so it was second nature to her to get involved in her new city.
Through the Junior League, McCrary became connected with many other nonprofit organizations in Jacksonville. She’s never looked back.
“I really did learn Jacksonville through volunteering,” she said, “and love Jacksonville through that experience.”
McCrary served as the Junior League president in 2004 and became involved with other community organizations, including the Sanctuary on 8th Street, Sulzbacher and The Women’s Board. In her role as president, McCrary oversees the board’s efforts to raise funds to ensure the hospital has the latest life-saving equipment and technologies to care for infants and children.
Between her own business and The Women’s Board, McCrary’s days are full, but she said giving back has never been a drain on her.
“I work full time, but I still have time to volunteer because the volunteering recharges me,” she said. “I can do so much more as part of this group of The Women’s Board than I could ever accomplish individually and that’s really wonderful.”
More than 20 years since they moved here, McCrary’s family still lives i n the same Avondale home. Jacksonville truly is home for them – and while McCrary never would have anticipated that, she said she’s grateful that it is.
“It was a true gift,” she said, “because Jacksonville is a really great community.”
When you're working [with like-minded people] for something you're both passionate about, it creates lifelong friendships.
– Marica Pendjer 2024 Chair, Pink Ribbon Jax
I work full time, but I still have time to volunteer because the volunteering recharges me. I can do so much more as part of this group of The Women’s Board than I could ever accomplish individually and that’s really wonderful.
– Kendra McCrary President,
The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital
Putting on the Pink
Marica Pendjer has learned that life is all about timing and being in the right place at the right time.
“It’s that one moment,” she said. “You look back, and it was that one question from that one person at the right moment.”
Pendjer has been an avid breast cancer awareness advocate and volunteer since 1999, but all the stars aligned to lead her to get involved with Pink Ribbon Jax in late 2019, after she and her husband relocated to Jacksonville from Orange County, California. The organization was founded in 2006 and by the time Pendjer got involved, the founders – “the giants whose shoulders we stand on” – were ready to take a step back and usher in a new generation of leaders to take the reins.
Around this same time, the pandemic hit and brought with it social distancing, business closures and remote working. But that wasn’t about to stop Pendjer.
“It was, again, incredible timing,” she said. “…I think I came in with some new ideas and a co-chair, at that point, and we thought, ‘We’re not going to not do this because of COVID. Breast cancer isn’t taking a break; it’s not isolating. It’s not doing the things we’re doing, therefore we need to keep fighting this disease.’”
While the work Pink Ribbon Jax does throughout the community is incredibly rewarding for Pendjer, she is also grateful for the friendships she’s made along the way.
“When you’re working [with like-minded people] for something you’re both passionate about, it creates lifelong friendships.”
Ashley Helmick, executive director of the Women’s Board with Kids Care
Mobile ICU Team Member Cortni Sant CCT RN, Kendra McCrary, president of the Women’s Board and Craig Skirvin CCT RRT in front of the Kids Kare helicopter. The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital is currently raising funds for this critical transport system.
sister Natasha Restrepo, second from left, a two-time breast cancer survivor.
with the Downtown Ecumenical Services Council.
We
fulfill our love of God and each other by helping other people.
– Mike and Sharon Williams DESC Volunteers
Handing Out Happiness
Every Tuesday, Peggy Halter and her husband, Paul, collect their cart filled with a “smorgasbord” of supplies, receive a list of patients and begin their day of service at Baptist Health.
The couple began volunteering with Baptist Health last year and they visit patients on the fifth, eighth and ninth floors.
Sometimes the patients will ask for a drink or a snack. Sometimes they’ll take a coloring book or a blanket or playing cards. One time, the husband-and-wife duo handed out hand-crocheted teddy bears donated by another volunteer.
“Oh, the people just love those,” Peggy said.
More than the supplies on their cart, though, Peggy said, the patients enjoy the company she and her husband provide.
“We just have conversations with them, if they want to,” she said. “Some ask for prayer. Some are just so grateful that people came and saw them.”
“Sometimes they need just a smile,” Paul added. Paul is no stranger to being on the other side of supply cart, having been “in and out of the hospital several times” over the years. He said being a patient himself has given him a greater appreciation for what it’s like to be the one in the hospital bed.
“I think that’s part of why we wanted to be volunteers,” he said. “Just add another pair of hands to be hands-on for them.”
Surgery put Paul out of commission for a short period while he recovered, and Peggy said they chatted with the spouse of another patient on Paul’s first day back.
“He [the spouse] was just marveling about the hospital and the staff and the volunteers, which is rewarding,” Peggy said, “and we pass that on.”
One Couple’s Love Language
Retired Presbyterian clergyman Mike Williams knew about the Downtown Ecumenical Services Council’s mission long before he and his wife, Sharon, a retired Duval County Public Schools teacher, began volunteering with the organization in 2009.
Ever since they got involved – spending time three or four days a week at DESC – he said he’s found a “rich fulfillment” in his retirement years and the interactions he’s shared with DESC clients.
“I’ve been very touched by certain clients whose heart just is poured out with appreciation,” he said.
Sharon works in the children’s section of the DESC closet, sorting clothes and preparing bags for clients to take home. She particularly enjoys learning what she can about each family and customizing the bag just for them.
“I seek to find one or two things that I can put in their bag that will be a surprise for them and they might really enjoy,” she said.
For this couple, volunteering is their love language and how they find joy and fulfillment both individually and as spouses. Volunteering and giving back is not only meaningful and impactful for the community, Sharon said, but also how she and Mike express their love.
“We fulfill our love of God and each other by helping other people.”
I think that’s part of why we wanted to be volunteers – just add another pair of hands to be hands-on for them.
– Paul Halter Baptist
Health Volunteer
The Power of Collective Giving
Sheila Collier attended her first meeting for the Women’s Giving Alliance (WGA) in 2015 at a friend’s invitation. She was no stranger to philanthropy at the time: She was the chair for the Art and Antiques Show – the precursor to the First Coast Design Show – hosted by The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital. But after learning more about the WGA, she became more and more drawn to its mission and its approach to giving.
“I just really, I guess, drank the Kool Aid about the power of collective giving,” Collier said. “That my$1,500 check, when combined with other women’s, would have more impact.”
The key to getting involved, Collier learned, is finding something about which one is passionate. As a “very, very varied passion person,” Collier had been and is involved with several nonprofit organizations, but passion for these causes is what drives her involvement and the WGA’s focus entirely on issues impacting women and girls is a cause about which Collier is truly passionate.
Last year, Collier’s two-year term as president of the WGA ended and she passed the gavel to current president Sabeen Sabeen Perwaiz. Throughout her time with the giving circle, Collier has been impressed and inspired by the power of women.
“You take us and put us all in a big room and we are 30 women in a room and every one of them has a gift to give and every one of them brings something to the table,” Collier said. “So that, when we collectively put that together, that’s powerful.”
I’m a really big believer that you can’t change the whole entire world, but you can change pieces of it.
–
Rebecca Ackerman Hearts 4 Minds Young Professionals Group Chair
You take us and put us all in a big room, and every one of them has a gift to give and brings something to the table. When we collectively put that together, that’s powerful.
–
Sheila Collier, Immediate Past President Women's Giving Alliance
A Heart for Helping
Since Hearts 4 Minds was founded, Rebecca Ackerman has been there to put her heart into the organization and its mission. After all, its founder, Sheryl Johnson, is her aunt and Alex was her younger cousin by four weeks. In 2017, Alex passed away after a prolonged battle against anxiety and depression. When Ackerman saw Johnson begin working to transform that tragic loss into something bigger, she knew she wanted to be a part of it and she has been part of the organization ever since.
While the world will always have its problems, Ackerman believes in the power of the helpers.
“I’m a really big believer of you can’t change the whole entire world, but you can change pieces of it,” Ackerman said.
The work Hearts 4 Minds has done to help break the stigma surrounding mental illness has done just that, Ackerman said: changed pieces of the world here in Jacksonville.
Beyond Hearts 4 Minds, Ackerman has always had a passion for philanthropy and being a public servant. With a background in public administration and nonprofit management, Ackerman gives back a lot of her time with several nonprofits in Jacksonville.
“[It’s] amazing because I just get to give back to the community that I have grown to love,” Ackerman said.
Oftentimes, she said, her work is more behind-the-scenes and it is this perspective that has taught her that people can make a positive impact regardless of the role they serve in a nonprofit setting.
“I’m not boots on the ground dealing with people in crises – I’m doing the back-end operations of it – but I can see that contributing in all these different ways and all the different ways of volunteering overall, contributes to the bigger problem and helping it,” she said.
on the Hearts 4 Minds Leadership Team.
Knowing how much it means to the students is an incredible feeling.
–
Emily Uruburu San Jose Elementary Work Day Organizer
More Than a Walk in the Park
Every day, Avondale Dance Owner and Director John Glessner takes his dogs, Louis, Leah and Leo, on a walk through Stinson Park. And every day, on that walk, he picks up any litter he spies on the ground.
Glessner said previous cleanup efforts for the area parks in Ortega had been organized by other neighbors, and when those fell by the wayside, he decided since he was already there with his pups, why not do a little cleanup as they walked.
“It's such as a little diamond for us in the neighborhood,” he said. “I’m not really keen on thinking about all that stuff going into the river or just laying around or blowing around or whatever.”
For Glessner, it’s these small efforts that can make a big impact, and he hopes to lead by example.
“I would hope that if somebody appreciated what I was doing that they either join in and help or pick a park,” he said.
In a world that has infinite ways to help and countless causes that are always seeking aid, Glessner said that while those causes are all certainly worthy, looking for ways to help at home is “an investment in ourselves.”
“You know, it's our community. It's our neighborhood,” he said. “I wanted a nice, safe, clean place for myself and the dogs to go walk and you know, other people are benefiting by that. So that's a great thing. That's not why I'm doing that. It makes me happy. I'm there anyways, so why not?”
Giving Back to the Future
When Emily Uruburu felt the need to give back to her community, she didn’t have to look far beyond her office at NexGen Roofing and Restoration to San Jose Elementary School.
“Our office is directly across the street so we get to come and we get to see the impact daily and we get to be involved with the students throughout the school year,” Uruburu said.
For two years now, Uruburu has organized and participated in NexGen Foundation’s San Jose Elementary Work Day, where she is one of dozens of volunteers donating their time to bring beautification efforts to the elementary school’s campus ahead of a new school year.
“Knowing how much it means to the students is an incredible feeling,” Uruburu said.
Uruburu said she gains inspiration from how invested the teachers, faculty and administration are in the students. Spending a day giving back to the students and knowing the impact one day of work can have is its own reward for Uruburu, whether it’s spent giving buildings and picnic tables a fresh coat of paint or installing new soccer goals for the kids to use on their soccer field.
Ultimately, though, Uruburu said the children are the why behind her volunteerism.
“I would say that’s the reason – they’re the future,” said Uruburu. “So if we can give back to them, it means everything.”
Looking for ways to help at home is an investment in ourselves. It’s our community. It’s our neighborhood.
– John Glessner, Owner and Director, Avondale Dance
of the volunteers from the 2024 San Jose Elementary Work Day.
Beautifying the Neighborhood
Commuters passing through the Shoppes of Avondale on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday have surely seen Jane Riechmann doing her early morning litter clean-up along that stretch of St. Johns Avenue.
For more than five years, Riechmann has arrived at dawn to pick up trash and even do some minor weeding, mulching and other landscaping work to keep the popular Avondale corridor pristine and welcoming.
“I enjoy it and, you know, I’ve met a lot of nice people,” she said.
Riechmann keeps a list of names in her phone, in fact, of the people she’s met during her clean-up hours: Jennifer, the jogger. Ellis, the trash guy. Eric, the JTA guy. Even a gentleman who buys her green tea every Friday, although Riechmann said, laughing, that she encourages him to contribute the money to the Historic Avondale Merchants Association instead.
If Riechmann finds any money on the ground, she uses it to purchase gift cards from local fast food places to hand out to homeless people in need of a meal.
“I know people value me, I know the merchants do, but I’m not doing it to be valued,” she said. “I’m doing it because I live nearby, and I want (the neighborhood) to look nice.”
Riechmann hopes her volunteerism inspires others to clean up where and when
“I’m hoping people will do that and I know some people have, so that makes me feel good when they say that.”
I know people value me, I know the merchants do, but I’m not doing it to be valued. I’m doing it because I live nearby, and I want (the neighborhood) to look nice.
– Jane Riechmann Dedicated Volunteer
A Practice in Philanthropy
For more than 30 years, Dr. Karen McCarthy donates her time and talent at the free medical clinic she and her husband, Dr. Dennis McCarthy, launched for City Rescue Mission. She spends every Wednesday there, treating patients.
Though McCarthy retired from her private medical practice three years ago, she maintains her license so she can continue volunteering with City Rescue Mission.
“I have seen so many miracles there,” she said.
After launching the medical clinic for City Rescue Mission, McCarthy said she was able to expand its services by integrating dental and chiropractic components as well. When her children were little, McCarthy would bring them along to the clinic and those experiences instilled a sense of duty and altruism in the younger McCarthy generation as well. Today, her daughter joins her at the clinic, making time to volunteer in between her hospital shifts.
“She’ll come every other week and help me because she still loves that,” she said. “…It’s a really great ministry.”
McCarthy grew up in Long Island and completed her medical training in Manhattan and Brooklyn. McCarthy said Jacksonville stands out from other cities across the country for its strong, philanthropic community,
“I really think of all the different parts of the United States that Jacksonville is a very, very giving community, it really is,” she said. “There aren’t many areas and cities that have as much going on as far as community support.”
I really think of all the different parts of the United States that Jacksonville is a very, very giving community, it really is.
– Dr. Karen McCarthy, Co-Founder, City Rescue Mission Free Medical Clinic
Jane Riechmann is a familiar sight along St. Johns Avenue at the Shoppes of Avondale, where she picks up trash three times a week.
Dr. Karen McCarthy
Decades of Devotion Decades of Devotion
Honoring the memory of those driven by a sense of compassion, altruism, and a desire to create positive, lasting change in our community.
Over the past decade, the world has lost many remarkable philanthropists who dedicated their lives to improving the lives of others in Northeast Florida for many years. From funding groundbreaking medical research to providing educational opportunities for underserved communities – not to mention – funding hospitals, theatres and the Arts; their contributions continue to resonate. These individuals were driven by a profound sense of responsibility and compassion, creating a ripple effect of kindness and generosity in their wake.
As we recognize their legacies, it is important to remember that philanthropy is not just about giving money – it's about giving time, resources, and hope to those in need. The philanthropists we honor today set an example of selflessness and vision, leaving behind a blueprint for future generations to build upon. Their work, while in some cases no longer visible, has planted seeds that continue to grow and thrive, shaping a more compassionate world for years to come.
Warren
Henri Landwirth
George Hodges
Robert Jacoby
Raymond Knight Mason
William Cordell Mason
Marcia Morales
A. Chester “Chip” Skinner, Jr.
David Stein
John Murray
Anne Kelley Pajcic
Frank Rossi
Carol Shircliff
George Sedding Trotter
Joan Van Vleck
Mary Virginia Terry
Judi Zitiello
EXPERIENCE GETS RESULTS.
The Law Firm of Pajcic & Pajcic was established in 1974 and has handled more than 12,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases, recovering more than $1.5 billion for our clients. From the beginning, outstanding service was the signature of our firm and remains so today.
Our 17 attorneys have amassed more than 550 years of combined legal experience and zealously represent clients in their time of need. Some of the firm’s practice areas include car, motorcycle, and truck crashes, medical malpractice, as well as litigation concerning dangerous consumer products and unsafe motor vehicles.
