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April is Child Abuse Prevention Month:
Standing with Hibiscus for Children’s Safety
Each April, we observe Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time to bring communities together in raising awareness about child abuse and neglect, promoting prevention efforts, and recognizing the importance of supporting families. Countless individuals, businesses, and organizations are working every day to change the tragic outcomes of child abuse. At Hibiscus Children’s Center, we’ve been part of this vital mission for over 40 years, helping children move from crisis to hope—hand in hand with our generous and compassionate community.
Each day at the Tilton Family Children’s Shelter, kids experience a better day than the one before. Children arrive at Hibiscus scared and traumatized. The Shelter welcomes them – day or night – with open arms and love. We believe every child deserves the chance to dream of a brighter future, no matter the challenges they’ve faced. Through our unwavering commitment to safety, love, and support, we create an environment where children can begin to imagine a better life filled with possibility and hope.
The Shelter, located in Jensen Beach, provides safe haven for up to 36 children, ages birth to 12. Children are cared for by trauma-trained staff who work hard to create a sense of normalcy for the children. All children receive medical, dental, and mental health services.
Safety is the foundation of every child’s well-being. At Hibiscus, children find a warm, secure space where they can rest without fear. This stability allows them to focus on being kids again - exploring, learning, and dreaming of the future with hope in their hearts. The Shelter environment promotes a love for learning through our Literacy Program. Education is the key to unlocking a child’s potential, and Hibiscus ensures every young mind has the opportunity to thrive.
Playtime is also an essential part of childhood and a powerful tool for healing. Children enjoy fun, enriching activities that allow children to laugh, connect, and simply be themselves. Whether it’s through arts and crafts, outdoor games, or imaginative play, these moments nurture their emotional well-being and creativity. Last year, 20 birthdays were celebrated and 45 summer fields trips were taken.
To learn how you can be a part of this important work, please visit HibiscusChildrensCenter.org. Because every child deserves a childhood free from abuse—and a future full of hope.
Earth Fest - April 22, 2025
**Earth Day Celebration at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast**
**Date:** Tuesday, April 22nd, 2025
**Time:** 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Museum hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
**Location:** The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast
Celebrate Earth Day with us at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast! This weekday event is perfect for kids not in school, homeschool groups, and anyone looking for a fun and educational way to honor our planet.
Our Earth Day celebration will feature interactive activities provided by a variety of community partners, each designed to teach children and adults about caring for our environment and the amazing world we live in.
Event Highlights:
- Hands-on activities for kids and adults, provided by local organizations.
- Explore the Museum’s exhibits alongside the Earth Day fun.
- Included with general admission; free for Museum members.
Confirmed Participants:
- **Inwater Research Group**
- **Martin County Fire Rescue**
- **Treasure Coast River Cruises**
- **Hobe Sound Nature Center **
- **Oxbow Eco-Center**
- And more to be announced soon!
If you know a business or organization that would be a great addition to this event, please contact Christina McIntosh, our Events Coordinator, at **772-225-7575 ext. 205** or **christina@childrensmuseumtc.org**.
Join us for a day of discovery, fun, and learning as we celebrate the beauty of our planet!
House of Hope Thrift Store Ranks in Florida’s Top 10
STUART, Fla.- Locals know it as a great place to find gently used clothes, shoes, furniture, household items, games and even art work. Now a national audience knows about House of Hope’s Hope Shop in Stuart.
According to the online publication
Family Destinations Guide, Hope Shop is the tenth best thrift store in the entire state of Florida. “This Stuart gem,” the Guide states, “has mastered the art of the upscale thrift experience without the upscale prices.”
“We’re excited and honored at the designation,” said House of Hope CEO Rob Ranieri, “but not surprised. Our Hope Shop Director Donna Vestal, her staff and volunteers do an amazing job, and we receive compliments every day from customers.”
Family Destination Guide highlighted the inviting storefront at the Hope Shop, a clothing section that feels “curated” rather than collected, furniture that often looks barely used, housewares displayed with artistry, and the friendly atmosphere “that encourages browsing and discovery, making it easy to lose track of time as you examine potential treasures.”
For House of Hope and the community it serves, though, the Hope Shop and its two other thrift stores in Hobe Sound and Indiantown are so much more. Sales are a key contributor to the nonprofit’s revenue, generating nearly 20% of the funds needed each year to provide programs and services that help to empower residents to overcome hunger and hardship.
"Thrift stores are more than just shops-they're sustainable havens where gently used treasures find new life,” said House of Hope Director of Retail Services & Special Events Donna Vestal. “Our shoppers save money, support a critical community mission, and practice environmental stewardship; transforming quality items into hope, one purchase at a time.”
Within House of Hope, the thrift stores provided the Clothes Closet Program with nearly 190,000 items of clothing, housewares and linens that were distributed at no cost last year to neighbors in need. In addition to sales to customers, the stores provide free books to other non-profits and teachers to encourage reading and offers no cost access to medical equipment such as crutches, canes, wheel chairs, shower seats and other items as available. The stores are also the site of job training for House of Hope clients.
Recently, the Hope Shop started selling fresh hydroponic produce grown locally in Palm City at House of Hope’s Growing Hope production farm. At its current peak production, Growing Hope Farm produces more than 1500 packages of fresh produce weekly. Of the 1.2 million pounds of food House of Hope distributed last year, 500,000 pounds was fresh produce to help feed and empower the most vulnerable residents of the community while improving their nutrition and overall health status.
“We know that the success and impact of House of Hope happens because of the generosity of so many of our neighbors who share their time, treasure and talent,” Ranieri said. “We’re always looking for volunteers at our thrift stores – a great way to see the bargains first and know that you’re making a huge difference in the lives of people in need.”
For more information about the thrift store locations and hours of operation or to volunteer, visit hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673.
About House of Hope
Founded in 1984, House of Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that empowers Martin County residents to overcome hunger and hardship. House of Hope touches the lives of more than 26,000 people each month, helping with basic needs such as food, clothing, furniture, and financial assistance, as well as longer-term case management services that help build life skills for a more self-sufficient future.
The organization has service centers in Stuart, Hobe Sound, Indiantown, and Jensen Beach, with thrift stores in Stuart, Hobe Sound, and Indiantown. House of Hope’s Centers for Enrichment at Golden Gate in Stuart, in Jensen Beach, and at KinDoo Family Center in Indiantown offer free programs, technology, and workshops designed to enhance life skills, earning potential, health, and overall well-being.
House of Hope also operates the Growing Hope Farm in Palm City and several nutrition gardens that provide sustainable sources of fresh produce for clients as well as nutrition education and vocational opportunities to the community. For more information, visit hohmartin.org or call 772-286-4673. Updates and announcements can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Marvin S. Cone 39th Annual High School Juried Art Show: https://www.martinarts.org/programs-events/marvin-s-cone-annual-high-school-juried-art-show/
Awards Reception: Tuesday, April 29 | 5:30-7PM
Exhibit Dates: April 29 – June 21, 2025
Support the future of art in our community and witness the power of young expression at our 39th Annual Marvin S. Cone Annual High School Juried Art Show! This highly anticipated show recognizes the artistic talents from students of Martin County, Jensen Beach, and South Fork High Schools, The Pine School, and Clark Advanced Learning Center. Selected through a competitive process by their art teachers, these outstanding works represent the very best in student creativity. The awards reception is held at the Court House Cultural Center Gallery at 80 SE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34994.
Categories for cash awards are photography, painting, sculpture, mixed media/assemblage, printmaking, and drawing. Additionally, each high school principal and the school superintendent select pieces to purchase that become a part of a permanent collection at their respective high schools and the superintendent's office.
Established in 1987, the Marvin S. Cone Annual High School Juried Art Show honors Marvin S. Cone, a local writer, poet, art collector, entrepreneur, and educator inspired by the creativity of art students in Martin County. He sought to encourage young people to pursue even greater achievements by transforming the annual high school art exhibit into an event that truly recognized student's artistic accomplishments.
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR PALM BEACH AND MARTIN COUNTIES ADDS TWO LEGAL EXPERTS TO PHILANTHROPY ADVISORY COUNCIL
Darren J. Mills and Richard Vaughan to Provide Estate and Tax Law Leadership and Guidance
West Palm Beach, FL (April XX, 2025) – The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, a nonprofit organization that leads partnerships with donors, nonprofit organizations, and community members to solve the region’s chronic and emerging issues, today announced the addition of two legal experts to its Philanthropy Advisory Council (PAC). The Philanthropic Advisory Council is a collaborative group of trusted advisors providing the Community Foundation with leadership and guidance to best serve the nonprofit’s clients and the community.
“Our Philanthropic Advisory Council keeps gaining strength with the addition of two experts who can assist the foundation in matters related to estate and tax planning,” said Mary Katherine Morales, Vice President for Philanthropic Services at the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “Their deep-rooted connections with their clients and the community can guide the foundation as we work to make a real impact on addressing the many needs in our area of service. We look forward to the contributions that Darren Mills and Richard Vaughan will make, helping to drive us forward in making a difference in our local communities.”
The newly appointed members are:
Darren J. Mills, Partner at Stern, Kilcullen & Rufolo in West Palm Beach
Mills is a seasoned legal and financial professional who serves clients in New Jersey, Florida, and internationally. He has a proven track record in asset protection, tax planning, and wealth transfer. In addition to being licensed to practice law in New Jersey and Florida, he’s a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Florida. Mills is a Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) and a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®) with The American College. He’s also a member of the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (TEP®) and the Palm Beach County Estate Planning Council. Mills has been a sought-after speaker and author on various topics, including asset protection, taxation, and estate planning. His expertise has been featured in professional journals, and he has authored a comprehensive treatise on asset protection and wealth transfer tax planning for Florida residents. Mills obtained his bachelor’s degree and law degree from Seton Hall University and a Master of Science in taxation from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Richard Vaughan, Associate at Jones Foster in West Palm Beach
Vaughan is a member of the Jones Foster Private Wealth, Wills, Trusts & Estates, and Corporate & Tax Practice groups. He focuses on estate planning, trust and estate administration, business planning, and transactional corporate law. Vaughan is a member of The Florida Bar’s Real Property, Probate & Trust Law Section and its Tax Section. Richard develops comprehensive estate plans for individuals and families to efficiently preserve their assets, including the use of revocable and irrevocable trusts. He handles all aspects of estate and trust administration from probate matters to asset distribution. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina, his law degree from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, and a Master of Laws in Estate Planning from the Heckerling Graduate Program at the University of Miami School of Law. He also holds an MBA from the University of Memphis Fogelman College of Business and Economics.
To learn more about the Community Foundation PAC, please visit
https://yourcommunityfoundation.org/philanthropic-advisory-council/,
About the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties is a nonprofit organization that leads philanthropy locally. The foundation provides charitable expertise and vehicles to increase the investment options on behalf of individuals, family foundations, and corporations. Since 1972, the foundation has distributed nearly $250 million in grants and scholarships aimed at closing the area’s opportunity gaps. With its vast network of donors and nonprofit partners, the foundation supports initiatives that improve youth and education, economic opportunity, thriving communities, and crisis preparation and response. Learn more at https://yourcommunityfoundation.org.
Treasure Coast Hospice to Observe National Healthcare Decisions Day 2025
Advance Care Planning Information and Tools Offered at Local Libraries
(STUART, Fla. April 2, 2025) – In observance of National Healthcare Decisions Day on Wednesday, April 16, Treasure Coast Hospice will distribute advance care planning materials at local libraries in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. Staff and volunteers will offer information and tools for the public to talk about their wishes with loved ones, including Five Wishes, America’s most popular advance directive, at the following library branches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., unless noted:
Martin
Blake Library, 2351 SE Monterey Road, Stuart
Hobe Sound Public Library 10595 SE Federal Highway, Hobe Sound
Hoke Library, 1150 NW Jack Williams Way, Jensen Beach (12 – 2 pm only)
Peter & Julie Cummings Library, 2551 SW Matheson Avenue, Palm City
Robert Morgade Library, 5851 SE Community Drive, Stuart (12 – 2 pm only)
Okeechobee
Okeechobee Public Library, 206 SW 16th Street, Okeechobee
St. Lucie
The Susan Broom Kilmer Library, 101 Melody Lane, Fort Pierce
The Zora Neale Hurston Library, 3008 Avenue D, Fort Pierce
Lakewood Park Library, 7605 Santa Barbara Drive, Fort Pierce
The Morningside Library, 2410 SE Morningside Boulevard, Port St. Lucie
Founded in 2008, National Healthcare Decisions Day is observed annually on April 16. Its goal is to increase the number of Americans who have completed an advance directive (“living will”), in which they name the person who will make medical decisions for them in the event they are seriously ill and can’t speak for themselves. Experts say only about 20-30% of Americans have completed an advance directive even though all people age 18 and older should have one.
“Advance care planning empowers individuals to shape their future healthcare decisions and ensures their end-of-life wishes are honored with compassion and respect,” said Treasure Coast Hospice CEO Jackie Kendrick, CHPCA.
Treasure Coast Hospice staff and volunteers will encourage community members to prepare their advance directives by distributing Five Wishes, America’s most popular advance care planning program at participating area libraries. Five Wishes, a 12-page booklet that helps guide individuals in discussing personal, family and spiritual matters, in addition to medical and legal concerns, is a valuable tool for beginning difficult family discussions. When completed, it meets the legal requirements of 46 states and is useful in those states that still require state forms and mandatory notices. To meet the cultural needs of the community, English, Spanish and French Creole versions of Five Wishes will be available.
“Five Wishes deals with the things people say matter most to them,” said Aging with Dignity President Paul Malley. “It allows them to clearly state what kind of treatment they want or don’t want so their families aren’t left to guess or second-guess. Treasure Coast Hospice is providing a helpful service to the whole community by offering Five Wishes, and it’s a sign of their commitment to understand and honor the wishes of those whom they serve.”
About Treasure Coast Hospice
Treasure Coast Hospice is a non-profit community organization of skilled professionals and dedicated volunteers whose mission is to provide access to compassionate, caring, expert and professional hospice and grief support services to patients and families at the end of life. Founded in 1982, Treasure Coast Hospice has grown to serve more than 4,000 patients annually in Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties. Thanks to the generous support of our community, the Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation is able to fund comprehensive hospice and grief support programs for Treasure Coast Hospice, including three Inpatient Units for those who need a higher level of care, the specialized pediatric program Little Treasures, music therapy, massage therapy, virtual reality experiences, individual and group bereavement services, and Camp Good Grief for children who have experienced the loss of a loved one.
About Aging with Dignity
Founded in 1996, Aging with Dignity is a national non-profit organization that seeks to protect the God-given human dignity of the most vulnerable among us. Five Wishes is an advance care planning program created with help from national legal experts, with initial development and distribution funded by a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
World Art Day 2025
Get ready to unleash your inner artist!
The Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast is teaming up with the Jensen Beach Art League to bring you a colorful World Art Day celebration on Tuesday, April 15th!
Every year, people around the world celebrate the magic of art in all its forms—painting, sculpting, music, dance, and more! This special day is all about taking a moment to appreciate beauty, spark creativity, and explore different artistic styles from around the globe.
Join us from 10 AM to 12 PM, when amazing artists from the Jensen Beach Art League will be at the museum, leading hands-on activities in a variety of art mediums! Kids and families can create, explore, and get inspired—because art is all about having fun and expressing yourself!
Important Info:
Included with museum admission (Members get in FREE!)
Check our event Facebook page for details on guest artists!
If you have any questions, reach out to our Events Coordinator, Christina McIntosh at 772-225-7575 ext 205 or christina@childrensmuseumtc.org.
So get ready to unleash your imagination, and let’s make some masterpieces together! See you there!
Pickleball charity event to benefit shelter animals at Humane Society
PALM CITY, Fla. — The shelter animals at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) are going to benefit from the growing popularity of pickleball. Starting at 8 a.m. on Sunday, April 27, the HSTC will host Pickle for Paws III at Harbour Ridge Pickleball Center, 13500 NW Gilson Rd, Palm City.
Event Chairpersons Michael & Kim Izzolo and Robbie Jacobs
The players will hit the courts in the men's doubles, women's doubles and mixed doubles 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 divisions. The national anthem and ceremonial first serve will take place promptly at 8 a.m. to kick-start the games. Awards will directly follow the event’s conclusion later that afternoon.
The cost to participate is $60 per player. To sign up, visit https://tinyurl.com/mud5mrm2. All proceeds benefit the HSTC.
Event Sponsor Bill Lichtenberger played the first serve at last year’s Pickle for Paws event.
In addition to the pickleball play, there will be courtside attractions. They include Misty’s Pals Pet Therapy teams (trained dogs and their handlers) and adoptable pups from the shelter looking for their “furr-ever” homes. In addition to the meet and greets, there will be a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, as well as a variety of items also being raffled off, adding even more fun to the day’s activities.
Michael and Kim Izzolo and Robbie Jacobs are chairing the event. Sponsors include Harbour Ridge, Stuart Stamp & Engraving, Michael Leonard’s Salon, MGM Originals Painting & Photography, and Premier Pickleball League.
For more information, call Michael Izzolo at 772-529-5384.
Misty’s Pals Team member Sallie Snyder and Jessie Lou
About the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast – The Humane Society of the Treasure Coast (HSTC) is a no-kill animal welfare organization located at 4100 SW Leighton Farm Ave. in Palm City, FL. Since 1955, it has been the leading advocate for animal protection and well-being in the Martin County area. A 501(c)3 private, nonprofit organization, the HSTC is independent and locally operated and relies on donations to support its programs and services. Follow the HSTC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/humanesocietyTC and Twitter at https://www.twitter.com/hstc1. For more information, visit https://www.hstc1.org or call 772-223-8822.
A Day of Elegance and Impact: The 15th Annual Molly’s House Polo Classic
On March 1, 2025, the 15th Annual Molly’s House Polo Classic, presented by the Herold-Cadorette Family, unfolded in spectacular fashion, blending the heart-pounding excitement of polo with the sophistication of an elegant social affair—all in support of Molly’s House, a place of comfort for families navigating medical challenges. Under brilliant blue skies, guests arrived at Port Mayaca Polo Club for a day that epitomized grace, generosity, and community spirit.
A Mission That Matters: Voices from Molly’s House
Amidst the excitement of the match and festivities, the heart of the Polo Classic was truly felt during the moving speeches that reminded everyone why we gathered. Katie Bartlett, Executive Director of Molly’s House, took a moment to share the story of Bonnie, who later spoke herself, moving the audience as she shared how Molly’s House saved her life by providing a safe and convenient place to stay during her care. Her words were a powerful testament to the mission of Molly’s House and the impact of every donation and sponsorship.
Katie also introduced and recognized several current Molly’s House guests who joined us for the day. Dakota, a 7-year-old boy who has been staying at Molly’s House with his family for four months, was in attendance, along with his family. A special silent auction item even featured a beautiful piece of Dakota’s artwork, further connecting guests to the individuals they were supporting. Also joining in the festivities were Laiyah and her mom, whose journey through medical challenges has been made a little easier thanks to the comfort and support of Molly’s House.
Thanks to the unwavering generosity of all sponsors, supporters, donors and attendees- this year’s event reached new heights, raising an astounding $176,700, with a net total of $133,238 funds raised for Molly's House—a true testament to the power of community giving.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Events like the Molly’s House Polo Classic are made possible through the dedication of our planning committee:
• Betsy Herold – Polo Classic Committee Chair
• Joe Endress – Molly’s House Board President
• Kate Wiegerink – Molly Sharkey’s Family Representative
• Jean Caligiuri – Events Committee Member
• Katie Bartlett – Molly’s House Executive Director
• Mimi Wild – Molly’s House Program Director
• Sarah Siebritz – Molly’s House Events and Community Relations
Their leadership, along with the tireless efforts of our volunteers and the incredible generosity of our sponsors, ensures that Molly’s House remains a beacon of hope for families in need.
Looking Forward to Next Year
With another successful Polo Classic in the books, we are already looking ahead to March 7th, 2026—eager to continue this tradition of philanthropy, sport, and celebration. Until then, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who made this event possible—our sponsors, guests, volunteers, and supporters.
Because of you, Molly’s House remains a home away from home for those who need it most.
Bahama Mama Mia 2025 – An Unforgettable Evening Awaits!
Martin County PAL is thrilled to invite you to Bahama Mama Mia 2025, an exclusive pop-up event inspired by the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. On May 1st, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, guests will experience an elegant evening filled with live entertainment, gourmet cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and an incredible luxury raffle featuring two exclusive getaway trips.
Adding to the excitement, the event location will remain a mystery until the day of the event. Ticket holders will receive the exclusive venue details at 3 PM via text and email, heightening the anticipation for this unforgettable night.
Guests are encouraged to dress in Amalfi Coast Chic, embracing the effortless sophistication and Mediterranean charm of this stunning destination. Think breezy linens, stylish prints, and timeless coastal elegance as you prepare to immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind experience.
As part of this extraordinary evening, we are raffling off two luxury vacations, giving attendees the chance to win a dream getaway! This is your opportunity to enjoy a night of indulgence while supporting Martin County PAL’s mission to develop, healthy productive leaders of the future.
Tickets are limited, and this event is expected to sell out quickly. Secure your spot today and don’t miss out on the ultimate Bahama Mama Mia experience! Additionally, sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses looking to gain premium exposure while supporting a meaningful cause.
To purchase tickets or learn more about sponsorships, visit www.martincountypal.org. For additional information, please contact madison@martincountypal.org
We can’t wait to celebrate with you at Bahama Mama Mia 2025—see you there!
Road to Victory Military Museum! It’s truly commendable how the museum honors veterans and educates the public about their sacrifices and the importance of our freedoms.
• Location: The museum is situated at 319 Stypmann Ave, Stuart, FL 34994, near the tennis courts.
• Collection: Visitors can explore large displays of artifacts and memorabilia related to significant historical events, including WWI, WWII, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam Conflict, the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
• Exhibits: The museum showcases historical artifacts, uniforms, militaria, photos, and military vehicles. Coming Soom M60 tank, combat, full tracked:
• Purpose: By paying homage to veterans, the museum plays a crucial role in informing the public about their noble endeavors and the importance of our freedoms as Americans.
• Hours of Operation: Free admission
o Saturdays: Open to the public from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
o Appointments: Available for schools, small groups, and veteran organizations.
• Community Involvement: The museum’s members actively participate as docents, mechanics, and maintenance personnel. They also engage in reenactments and community events.
• Student Engagement: The museum encourages students aged 14 to 20 to actively participate.
For more details, you can contact them at 772-210-4283.
Open Sat & by appt. text, message. or call.
We have a large display of artifacts & memorabilia from WWI/WWII/Korean Conflict/Vietnam Conflict/Persian Gulf/Iraq and Afghanistan. We display historical artifacts, uniforms, militaria, photos, & military vehicles. We pay homage to veterans while informing the public of their noble endeavors and our freedoms as Americans.
