Success Stories

Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition

At the beginning of March 2020, Julia and her husband were enjoying one of the happiest experiences in a couple’s life — looking forward to the birth of their first child. But the ensuing weeks brought the troubling realization that a global pandemic was afoot, and their joy was dampened by considerable anxiety.

Julia was terrified of what effect a coronavirus exposure might have on her baby. On top of that, she had to attend all of her prenatal appointments alone due to COVID-related restrictions.

The situation changed dramatically when Julia and her husband started attending Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition’s Babies and Beyond classes, which were being held via Zoom. They “met” participants from all over the country, because the Healthy Start Coalition was one of the few organizations offering prenatal classes during that period.

Through Healthy Start, the couple found friendship, comfort and a much-needed support system. And the instructors stayed by their side through the birth of their son and beyond.

“I can’t thank Healthy Start and these women enough,” she says. “They helped me see the light during a very dark time.”

*Name changed for privacy

Economic Opportunities

COUNCIL OF INDIAN RIVER COUNTY 772-562-4177 eocofirc.net

MISSION: To transition at-risk individuals and families from poverty to self-sufficiency through our agency programs and public/private partnerships

MAIN EVENT: Motown Fundraiser, April 9, 2022; Community Reads, October 2021, Adopt a Class, November 2021

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Board of directors, fundraising advisory council, Head Start program

Founded: 1965

THE HOPE FOR FAMILIES CENTER INC.

772-567-5537 hopeforfamiliescenter.org

MISSION: To transition families from homelessness to sustainable permanent housing by providing a safe shelter, food, employment and other supportive services

MAIN EVENT: Secret Garden of Hope Fundraiser Dinner, 2022

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Reading with children on designated evenings and assisting with fundraising activities throughout the year

Founded: 1991