Celebrating Years 2024 ANNUAL REPORT
THESOURCE CELEBRATES
YEARS
As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a year of incredible milestones and heartfelt impact. This year marked our 29th anniversary, a testament to nearly three decades of dedication to our community. With great excitement, we look ahead to 2025 and celebrating 30 years of transformative service and resilience
From humble beginnings, we’ve grown into a beacon of hope, tirelessly combating homelessness and restoring dignity. Through initiatives like our Dignity Buses, food trucks, job training, dental care, and mental health services, we continue to embody compassion and humanity in action.
This year brought remarkable achievements: launching our 5th Dignity Bus, expanding to Rhode Island and Illinois, introducing a children’s coloring book and Mo’s Sauce, growing Dignity Smiles, and hosting community events like Dog Days of Summer and Hidden Faces. Most importantly, we celebrated members stepping into new opportunities with renewed hope
As you explore this year’s annual report, you’ll see how your support drives our mission. Your generosity and partnership are the lifeblood of our work, and we’re profoundly grateful for your belief in us. Together, we are restoring dignity, faith, and opportunity to so many.
Thank you for making a difference.
Anthony Zorbaugh Executive Director
The Source stands as a truly unique organization in Indian River County, offering a one-stop-shop model that provides comprehensive resources and programs for individuals in need. Our creative and unique approach ensures that members have access to a wide array of services under one roof, addressing both immediate and long-term needs From basic essentials such as free overnight stays offered over 2,800 times to specialized resources like 2557 trips to doctors appointments or job interviews, laundry services (benefiting 182 members), and even unique offerings like smoking cessation programs (131 members).
With over 19,000 resources provided in a single year, we deliver practical assistance and empowerment through innovative programs. For example, our members not only receive physical support, such as access to bicycles, mail services, and movie tickets, but also gain opportunities for transformation, such as accredited hospitality training through Dignity Hospitality. Our holistic services ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness or hardship can access all the tools they need to rebuild their lives in one convenient and supportive space.
The Source’s commitment to a comprehensive service model sets us apart as a leader in community support, combining compassion with actionable solutions to foster dignity and self-sufficiency among our members.
THE IMPACT OF THE SOURCE
Kristeayonna
David
Source Bucks offer our members a tangible form of “income” as they complete chores around The Source On average, each Source Buck is valued at $0.57 in real US dollars, with each chore assigned a specific number of Source Bucks that can be earned.
Moreover, each chore is tailored to the individual member's ability level, reflecting our belief that everyone has value and something unique to contribute
Members can then use their earned Source Bucks to purchase essential items such as bike locks, personal care products, clothing, bicycles, phones, prescriptions, and more as they embark on their journey with us.
At The Source, we often encounter members who arrive with nothing more than a garbage bag or backpack filled with their belongings and no money to their name. To help them regain a sense of dignity as they progress through our programs, we created Source Bucks.
DiningwithDignity DiningwithDignity
Dining with Dignity was created because everyone deserves more than just a quick meal in a paper bag. By offering sit-down meals and professional culinary training, we’re not just feeding people we’re helping them rebuild confidence, learn skills, and create opportunities for a brighter future. It’s about showing that every person matters and deserves a chance to thrive.
The Dining with Dignity culinary program is a 6-, professional training course accredited by the A Culinary Federation Education Foundation (ACFE excellence in culinary arts education The progra students with essential culinary skills and prepar employment in the food service industry For tho advanced certification, the program also offers t endorsed by the American Hotel & Lodging Assoc further enhancing their career prospects.
To join the program, candidates must complete an interview, undergo a mental health screening, commit to one week of volunteer service, and job placement assistance, a professional uniform and non-slip shoes, and a housing bonus after three months of continued employment. Additionally, post-graduate support is available to ensure long-term success.
$319,540 $486,535
Taco Dive received a special honor at Hidden Faces 2024 for their extraordinary commitment to empowering graduates of our Dining with Dignity Program. By opening their doors and hearts, Taco Dive has gone above and beyond in believing in our mission and helping individuals rebuild their lives through meaningful employment. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Taco Dive for their unwavering support To hear a powerful personal testimony from Jason, one of our program graduates, about the impact Taco Dive has had on his life, simply scan the QR code below.
$166,995
DignityFoods DignityFoods
Our food trucks are thoughtfully designed to give members of our culinary program
meaningful opportunities to gain hands-on training and build confidence By working alongside their peers and engaging with the public, they develop valuable skills in a supportive environment, which helps them achieve greater success in maintaining long-term employment
The food trucks serve multiple purposes: offering award-winning dishes at community events, serving made-to-order meals at regular stops, and providing complimentary food relief during natural disasters. With two food trucks in operation, culinary students gain additional skills and real-world experience in a dynamic and supportive environment
To learn more about hiring one of our food trucks for your next event, simply scan the QR code and complete the form on our events page
Catering Catering
Every dish served through Dignity Catering represents more than just a meal it symbolizes growth, hope, and the dedication of our culinary students as they gain valuable hands-on training, build self-esteem, and develop essential customer service skills by connecting with the community.
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choose from a y prepared daily laborate with a custom menu heir special
DignityBuses DignityBuses
VERO BEACH UPDATE: In 2024 we added a third Dignity Bus® to our fleet after a generous donation.
Dignity Bus® is the -kind in the country, an overnight emergency shelter available 365 days a year. The three Vero Beach buses offer a total of 55 climatecontrolled sleeping pods.
re available 7 nights a week, providing security, comfort, and a safe environment for individuals to get a restful night’s sleep.
We also built and sold two additional Dignity Buses® nationally! One bus went to Woonsocket, Rhode Island and the second bus went to the Chicago area
If you are interested in learning how to bring a Dignity Bus® to your location, contact: jonathan.orozco@iamthesource.org.
BEDS 55
DIGNITY BUS IMPACT
13,315 416
$279,615 $1,997,250 SOURCE COST MARKET COST* COMMUNITY SAVINGS $1,717,635 WHOSTAYS ONTHE DIGNITYBUS
DignityVillage DignityVillage
The creation of Dignity Village was inspired by the harsh challenges our members face even after completing our various programs and securing employment The outrageously high cost of local housing makes it difficult to maintain monthly rent or afford the steep upfront costs of first, last, and security deposits This financial barrier is a significant factor in the struggles our member's encounter
The Dignity Village is a hotel/motel that provides affordable daily, weekly, and monthly stays, featuring 18 units available to individuals and families in our community It is a selfcontained community offering housing, a chapel, outdoor dining areas, onsite laundry facilities, and a game room, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
DIGNITY HOUSING
Affordable and Sustainable
We provide affordable and sustainable housing at an average rent of $475 per month, 62% less than the market rate.
In 2024 alone The Source provided 8,450 Nights of affordable housing
At a savings to our community of $476,808
Community Community Works Works
Jon Shainman, WPTV talks with the Community Works Team, Tony Zorbaugh, Executive Director, Jonathan Orozco, Directo f D l t d M J h C t g
Members participating in Community Works are employed by The Source as an alternative to our culinary or hospitality job training programs Dressed in uniforms, they contribute to keeping the city beautiful by cleaning streets, lawns, and alleyways. Their work often involves tasks like picking up trash, pressure washing, and addressing other areas in need of care.
he Sourc n identifi ully stock he cleani nd equip ecessary omplete fficiently
COMMUNITY WORKS IMPACT
GRADUATES HOUSED
MEMBERS GRADUATED
DignitySmiles DignitySmiles
2024 DIGNITY SMILES IMPACT
$49,298
Bobby Gatlin by Dr. Kumar, DMD
Devin Bode by Dr Pryszlak, DMD, Dr Kumar, DMD, and Dr Hernandez, DMD
Tommylee Enberg by Dr Napoles, DDS
Tyrieff Lawrence by Dr Pryszlak, DMD
Jason Roach by Dr. Pieczynski, DMD
Lysander Weaver by Dr Kumar, DMD and Dr. Cromer, DDS
Toni Moore by Dr Adam Jones, DMD, MS
DignityWellness DignityWellness
At The Source, we believe that the single greatest family Many of our members find themselves com and no one to confide in. For them, isolation beco connection and support that so many of us take fo
That is why we offer mental health counseling through the Dignity Wellness Program, which provides daily mental health services, community outreach, and education aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. The program includes Mental Health First Aid training, equipping individuals with the tools needed to recognize, respond to, and intervene in situations that may require mental health support, whether in the workplace or personal life.
Dignity Wellness also promotes mental health through creative self-expression, guided by volunteer musicians and artists. In this photo, one of our members, Precious, is creating a stunning nighttime painting of the moon over serene waters. Our Creative Coffee art therapy program offers a warm and welcoming space for artistic activities and includes enriching field trips to local galleries, museums, and cultural venues
We hosted a Dignity Wellness Health Fair to launch May's Mental Health Awareness Month The children loved Maximum Velocity’s gymnastics showcase, the Sheriff’s K-9 demonstration, the scavenger hunt, and, of course, the bouncy houses. Families participated in interactive presentations from the Treasure Coast Food Bank on nutrition, Whole Family Health on diabetes prevention, and Doterra Oils, which shared helpful health solutions
“Managing the Holiday Blues” was moderated by Charlene Morris, LMHC, MCAP, Director of Mental Health (far left) along with an expert panel that included (Left to right) Charlotte "Shotsi" Cain Lajoie, Irene Cauwels, Dr Deepti Harish Sadhwani, and Psychologist, Dr Linda Petrilla
Mental Health First Aid Training equips our staff, volunteers, and community to recognize a mental breakdown and the tools for how to address it to get the proper help in an empathetic and encouraging way.
DignityJobs DignityJobs
We also recognize that many of our members need opportunities within their community while they work on themselves and their situations.
The Source’s Dignity Jobs program provides our homeless members with meaningful work that supports both their growth and our operations Participants earn a dignified income while gaining valuable skills in roles like maintenance and food service, preparing them for future employment opportunities.
Beyond financial benefits, Dignity Jobs fosters confidence, purpose, and self-worth, helping members reintegrate into society and build brighter futures It’s more than a job it’s a pathway to independence and stability
The growing demand for hospitality workers in Vero Beach, Florida, led to the creation of Dignity Hospitality, a program by The Source designed to meet industry needs while empowering our homeless members Hospitality is a cornerstone of the local economy, and businesses often struggle to find skilled workers. Recognizing this gap, we developed a program that equips participants with practical training and accredited certifications through the American Hotel and Lodging Association
Dignity Hospitality not only prepares individuals for stable careers but also gives them the confidence and tools needed to succeed in a thriving industry. By addressing workforce shortages, the program creates opportunities for members to rebuild their lives, regain dignity, and achieve self-sufficiency.
DIGNITY HOSPITALITY IMPACT
Individual
Members Certified through our programs in 2024
Training students in personal development is key to enhancing their employability. It builds essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, all highly valued by employers These skills help students adapt to diverse workplaces, manage stress, and demonstrate leadership. Personal development also fosters lifelong learning, empowering students to navigate their careers and adapt to a changing job market.
DIGNITY JOBS IMPACT
Dignity Bus Builders
Of our Members were Employed at The Source through the Dignity Jobs program in 2024, representing 20% of wage expenses
Confessor “J.R.” Head of Maintenance
Our bus mechanics, once members, are now housed and working full time
Kyle
Anthony
ureen Archer, Assistant Executive Director at The Source and creator of Mo uce, sadly passed away in 2022 Mo Sauce was created to honor her ibbean roots, vibrant personality, and love for food. Each bottle reflects her sion for helping those in need and serves as a lasting tribute to her legacy
Bottles of Mo Sauce are also sold at the following local businesses:
Mrs. Mac's Filling Station
951 Old Dixie Hwy, Vero Beach, FL
Jonny D's Market and Bistro 1409 Highway A1A, Vero Beach, FL
o sauce is available for purchase at both Countryside Citrus locations
3300 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, FL
6325 81st Street , Vero Beach, FL
Waldo's - Mo Wings are on the menu
3150 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL
Dignity Education
At The Source, we believe that empathy starts young, and understanding the realities of homelessness can be a transformative lesson for children.
That’s why we created a special coloring book designed to help parents teach their children about homelessness in a compassionate and relatable way.
This isn’t just any coloring book—it’s a tool for changing perceptions. Through engaging illustrations and simple, heartfelt stories, it introduces children to the lives of our members, showing their humanity, resilience, and hope.
By using this coloring book, parents can have important conversations with their kids about kindness, understanding, and the value of treating everyone with dignity. We believe these lessons will help foster a generation that sees people experiencing homelessness not as strangers, but as neighbors and friends.
Our hope is that this small but impactful resource will help shift perspectives and build a world where everyone is seen for who they truly are: people with stories, dreams, and immense worth.
FUND RAISERS
Night of Night of 19th ANNUAL
Night of Hope is an exclusive annual fundraiser and cherished winter tradition, perfectly timed to welcome the return of our northern supporters to the area. This invitation-only event highlights the finest and most innovative culinary creations from our talented Dignity Catering team, delivering an unforgettable dining experience.
Over the years, Night of Hope has featured inspiring speakers, including Rudy Ruettiger, whose story was immortalized in the film Rudy, and Tamara Day, a celebrated designer, television host, and home restoration expert.
This extraordinary evening is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of the past year while sharing our vision and goals for the year ahead. Night of Hope provides a meaningful opportunity for supporters to contribute through financial gifts, empowering us to continue our mission and bring our plans to life. It is a night that embodies hope, gratitude, and the transformative power of community.
The inaugural Dog Days of Summer event debuted in 2024 at Riverside Park, running from 1:30 to 4:00 PM and offering a lively and engaging experience for the entire community. This now-annual celebration featured a thrilling hot dog eating contest, a dynamic hot dog cooking competition showcasing the culinary talents of local food trucks and restaurants, and a variety of fun activities and games designed especially for children
The event was filled with a vibrant sense of community spirit, providing wholesome entertainment and camaraderie before culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. We are thrilled with the success of this event and excited to see it grow and evolve in the years to come. play
Hidden Faces is an annual signature event held every October, bringing the community together to connect with the mission of The Source. This special gathering highlights our impactful programs, shares inspiring success stories, outlines our vision for the future, and demonstrates how donor contributions are effectively utilized to support both our daily operations and long-term initiatives.
The event features an engaging program, including an informative video, live testimonials from members who have successfully graduated from our programs and transitioned to stable employment and housing, and a delightful selection of dishes prepared by our talented Dignity Catering team.
Hidden Faces is a celebration of progress, hope, and generosity a heartfelt acknowledgment of the support that makes our work possible.
OPERATING EXPENSES 2024
Where every dollar goes.
OPERATING REVENUE 2024
The Source is funded primarily through your generosity. Direct public support helps us grow and provide opportunities to end homelessness every single day, however our members are truly putting their hands into the process We believe every person has value and we instill a heart of giving into our members
Our Social Enterprises, such as our Dignity Food Truck, Dignity Catering, and Dignity Bus sales help The Source to be self-sufficient, while providing real opportunities for our members to work and grow holistically.
At The Source, it is through the generous investment of time and talent from our dedicated volunteers that we can transform the lives of individuals in need within our community
Our volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the smooth daily operation of our campus, allowing us to direct our financial resources where they
can have the greatest impact Together, we’re creating opportunities and building hope for those who need it most
In 2024, our incredible volunteers contributed a remarkable 4,783 hours of service, valued at $151,429 78 At The Source, we simply couldn’t fulfill our mission without the dedication and hard work of these amazing individuals! From stocking shelves in our Dignity Store to serving meals in our dining room, our Volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization, helping us provide vital support to those in need.
“When Tony Zorbaugh called and said he needed me, I didn’t hesitate What I’ve found at The Source is so much more than I expected it’s become my second family. Olguy, who was once quiet and withdrawn, now greets me with a warm hug every time I come in He’s gone from being a member to working at The Source and living in one of our housing units. Then there are Alex and Nick, two brothers who told me I remind them of their late mother Knowing I love Tom Jones, they gave me her cherished CD, something they’d kept since she passed. Even as I try to stay busy, the members are always looking out for me. Their kindness and care are constant reminders of why this place is so special ” - Sue Johnson, Volunteer
Dana Davis, Sous Chef (left) and Toni Moore, Kitchen Manager