Non-Profit Notices

 SUMMER FUN STARTS AT THE MUSEUM ON MAY 30TH! 

The countdown is ON for the 3rd Annual Summer Palooza at The Children's Museum of the Treasure Coast, and trust us, this is the event families will be talking about ALL summer long! 

 Pony Rides ($5 per pony ride)

 Petting Zoo

 Magical Ladybug Release sponsored by Truly Nolen Pest & Termite Control and David Schupp

 Dunk Tank

 Inflatable Obstacle Course

 Cheese Muenster Food Truck (Not Included with Admission)

 Carvel Ice Cream (Not Included with Admission)

 Special activities with community partners

…and SO much more!

This is not your average museum day — it’s the BIGGEST kickoff to summer fun, packed with unforgettable memories for the whole family. Families LOVE this because there is nonstop excitement around every corner!

 Don’t wait until the last minute!

Advance tickets save you $5 per person and are ONLY valid for May 30th. Once the day arrives, general admission applies!

 Grab your tickets now before everyone else does:

https://givebutter.com/summer-palooza-2026-jgoxas

 Museum Members get in FREE as part of their membership!

 Mark your calendars NOW and make plans to join us — because missing this would mean missing one of the BEST family events of the summer!

 Questions? Contact community@childrensmuseumtc.org

 772-225-7575 ext 205

 Please note: If anyone comments claiming to be a vendor or representative from the museum, they are NOT affiliated with us. The contact information above is the ONLY safe and accurate way to get event information.

Childcare Resources Named Recipient of Record Gift from

Orchid Island Family 5K Walk & Run

VERO BEACH – Community spirit was on full display at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club’s 24th Annual Family 5K Walk & Run, where Childcare Resources of Indian River was named this year’s charitable beneficiary.

Caption: Pictured at the Annual Family 5K Walk & Run (left to right): Orchid Island General Manager Rob Tench; Childcare Resources directors Monica Cheslak, Tara Beard, and Tracey Griffis; Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman; Childcare Resources director Michele Harr; and Orchid Island Fitness Director JohnMark Jenkins.

More than 185 participants, including members, their families and guests, and Childcare Resources staff, took part in the April 3 event, enjoying a scenic course, breakfast, and awards ceremony. In total, more than 120 members contributed through sponsorships and donations, helping to raise a record $35,000.

this year’s proceeds will directly support Childcare Resources’ Transforming Tomorrow Capital Campaign, funding the organization’s new downtown campus of early childhood excellence. The investment will expand access to high-quality early learning, strengthen wellness and early intervention services, and create new opportunities for educator training and support across Indian River County.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Orchid Island community for their belief in our mission,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “This support is an investment in our future campus and in the children, families, and educators we serve. It allows us to meet the growing needs in our community by offering the resources, support, and early learning families depend on.”

Afterward, Orchid Island General Manager Rob Tench, Fitness Director JohnMark Jenkins, and Club President Timothy McWilliam presented a check to Childcare Resources.

“Seeing more than 185 members and families come together—both as participants and sponsors— to raise $35,000 for Childcare Resources speaks volumes about the heart of our Orchid Island community,” said Jenkins. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Orchid team that promotes and organizes an event that directly supports children and families throughout Indian River County.” About Childcare Resources of Indian River

Childcare Resources, a partner agency of the United Way of Indian River County, Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee, and the Indian River Hospital District, elevates and promotes the highest quality early childhood development and education in Indian River County, focusing on economically challenged children and families. To learn more about Childcare Resources, visit ChildcareResourcesIR.org or call 772-567-3202.

About Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club 

Spanning from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian River, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is highly sought-after for its laidback waterfront lifestyle. The Beach Club serves as the heart of the community, with a resort-style pool, world-class fitness center, salon and spa, and multiple dining venues overlooking the azure Atlantic Ocean. Residents also enjoy nearly a mile of a secluded beach, an Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf course, and an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Located along Florida’s Treasure Coast, Orchid Island is home to a wide variety of premier riverfront and oceanfront estates, courtyard homes, cottages, and mid-rise condominiums. Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is located at One Beachside Drive, Vero Beach. For real estate inquiries, call 772-388-3888 or visit OrchidIslandFL.com.

Christmas is coming early, and you’re invited! 

Join Martin County PAL as they kick off Operation Nutcracker with a festive Christmas in July celebration. You’ll enjoy cocktails, light bites, good vibes, and great company while learning how you can support local youth programs through Operation Nutcracker.

Get ready to purchase your nutcracker and be part of something magical for the kids and families PAL serves.

Thursday, July 23, 2026 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Location to be announced - stay tuned!

Come celebrate, connect, and help us make a meaningful difference in our community!

ARC of the Treasure Coast Awarded $20,000 Grant from First Citizens Bank

Stuart, FL - (May 18, 2026) The ARC of the Treasure Coast is honored to announce it has been selected as a recipient of a $20,000 Community Development grant from First Citizens Bank. The funding will support Alice’s Caring Cafe Workforce Development Program, which focuses on job training and career opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the food service industry.

Alice’s Caring Cafe is a fully operational restaurant offering a menu of breakfast and deli fare while providing paid employment training for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While the ARC has long provided job training opportunities for this population, Alice’s Caring Cafe represents an expansion into food service training, equipping participants with practical, hands-on skills to prepare them for long‑term employment in the culinary and hospitality workforce.

“First Citizens Bank is committed to building long-term stability in the communities where we live and work,” said Mike Atkinson, Senior Director of Community Affairs at First Citizens. “We are thrilled to support ARC of the Treasure Coast and join its efforts to foster community participation, job skilling and independence. First Citizens’ legacy of strength and stability over the long term enables them to contribute to the social and economic well-being of the neighbors and communities it serves. Associates volunteer with local organizations supporting causes close to their hearts, including ARC of the Treasure Coast.”

For more information about the ARC of the Treasure Coast and its programs, please contact (772) 283‑2525 or visit www.arctreasurecoast.org. For more information about First Citizens Bank, visit firstcitizens.com.

About ARC of the Treasure Coast: ARC of the Treasure Coast (Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential through residential, vocational, educational, and therapeutic services. ARC of the Treasure Coast—Inspiring Success Through a Lifetime of Achievements.

Promise Fund to Host Free ‘Mammography Screening Days’ in Martin County 

Since 2024, more than 470 Treasure Coast women have been screened 

Stuart, FL (April XX, 2026) – Promise Fund, a South Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer, will host free Mammography Screening Days on the following dates: 

Since expanding to the Treasure Coast in 2024, Promise Fund has provided breast and cervical cancer screenings to more than 470 women, delivering early detection and, in some cases, lifesaving intervention. 

The screening event is presented in partnership with Florida Mobile Mammography, Florida Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, and Florida Community Health Centers, Inc. 

“The Promise Fund is here to make screenings accessible for everyone, especially those who might otherwise go without care,” said Patricia Ferrer, Promise Fund’s Martin County Navigator. “Early detection can make a real difference. Treatment is often easier to manage, and people are able to focus more on their health, their families, and their everyday lives.”

While Promise Fund’s program reaches women across Palm Beach, Broward, and Martin counties, it currently operates four co-located screening programs within partner sites in Palm Beach and Broward, and is actively working to secure funding to establish a co-located program in Martin County.

Appointments are required. To register, call 305-389-5850. 

Promise Fund reaches tens of thousands of women in Palm Beach, Broward and Martin Counties who are uninsured, under insured or have limited or no access to healthcare. The organization, founded in 2018 by Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, is dedicated to increasing survivorship from cervical cancer and breast cancer by providing guided support and access to screenings, as well as early detection, treatment, and beyond.

To date, Promise Fund has reached more than 145,000 women in South Florida through education and advocacy, and has impacted the lives of over 27,000 women through access to screenings, diagnostics, and care. Promise Fund has helped 286 women who were diagnosed with cancer navigate getting treatment. 

ABOUT PROMISE FUND 

Promise Fund, founded in 2018, is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing survivorship from breast and cervical cancer by providing guided support and access to screenings, as well as early detection, treatment, and beyond. To learn more, visit thepromisefund.org. Follow on Instagram @thepromisefund and on Facebook @PromiseFundofFL. 

Helping People Succeed’s inaugural Strides to Success 5K Run/Walk held Mother’s Day weekend on May 9, 2026, at Clover Park home of the St. Lucie Mets was a tremendous success, raising nearly $10,000 to support local individuals and families in our community.

With more than 200 attendees including race participants, volunteers, sponsors, and families cheering on their loved ones, the morning was filled with energy, encouragement, and community spirit. The event brought people together for a meaningful cause while creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Many racers were proudly greeted at the finish line by Helping People Succeed Board Chair Tom Campenni, who personally handed out finisher medals in support of the organization and all who participated. Special recognition also goes to Board of Directors members Marco Valionte and Artie Manfredi, who volunteered their time at the first and last turn of the course helping direct racers along the route and ensuring the event ran smoothly.

Helping People Succeed also extends a sincere thank you to MCM Timing and Snyder Marketing Solutions for their incredible support for the race and for ensuring every detail went off without a hitch. From arriving before the sun came up to begin laying out the course to being among the last to leave, their dedication and professionalism helped make the event a seamless success for participants and spectators alike.

Helping People Succeed extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who ran, walked, volunteered, donated, sponsored, and supported the event. Special thanks to our generous sponsors for helping make this inaugural event possible: Bowman Consulting, Certified Payroll Advisors, Seacoast Bank, Max Bossis Health Insurance Agent, The Gym Administrator, Fleet Feet Stuart, Improved Motions, SE Logo, Finish Strong CPR, and Snyder Marketing Solutions. A special thank you to Max Bossis for additionally supplying the post-race refreshments.

The success of this first-ever event reflects the power of community coming together to help individuals and families of all ages and abilities turn their challenges into success, and organizers look forward to building on this momentum for years to come.

Spring is Almost Over — Summer Is Almost Here!

Things have been buzzing at Banner Lake Club as we wrap up an exciting spring season and look ahead to summer fun!

Academy Award Ceremony

Recently, Banner Lake Academy students were recognized during a special award ceremony celebrating their hard work, achievements, and growth throughout the school year. Families, staff, and students gathered together to honor academic accomplishments, positive attitudes,and outstanding effort in the classroom.

The ceremony was filled with proud smiles, applause, and memorable moments as students walked across the stage to receive their awards. Teachers shared encouraging words and celebrated the progress each student has made this year. Events like these remind us how important it is to recognize student success and encourage confidence as they continue learning and growing.

We are incredibly proud of all of our students and the dedication they have shown this school year! We are also excited to announce that Banner Lake Academy will be expanding to 5th grade this fall. We look forward to watching our current 4th grade students step into their new roles as 5th graders and continue their educational journey with us.

Traveling Nutrition Garden Visits BLC

Students at Banner Lake Academy recently enjoyed a visit from the Traveling Nutrition Garden presented by House of Hope. Kindergarten through 4th grade classes had the opportunity to explore a variety of plants and learn how vegetables help keep our bodies healthy.

The nutrition garden teacher explained the different parts of plants, including roots, leaves, and stems, while also teaching students about helpful insects found in gardens. Students learned that worms are beneficial because they burrow through the soil, allowing rainwater to reach plant roots more easily. They also discovered that ladybugs help protect plants by keeping harmful insects away and that butterflies taste with their feet!

During the visit, students were invited to sample small pieces of vegetables and take a closer look at the plants by touching and examining them. The traveling garden featured tomatoes, bananas, chives, celery, collard greens, aloe vera, rosemary, lantana, colorful flowers, and many more plants.

Although it was a hot day outside, students thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on experience and were excited to learn more about gardening, nutrition, and nature.

Thank you to House of Hope for bringing this fun and educational experience to our students!

VPK Western Prom

Banner Lake Early Learning Center VPK students and staff recently kicked up their boots for a western-themed prom celebration! Students of all ages were invited to join the fun and came dressed in their best western attire, ready for an unforgettable evening.

The dance featured a DJ, two dance floor areas, dinner, and plenty of excitement throughout the night. The DJ kept the crowd entertained with a mix of popular songs and fun remixes of children’s music that had everyone out on the dance floor showing off their best moves.

Staff members loved watching the students laugh, dance, and enjoy this special event together. The evening wrapped up with the exciting announcement of Prom King and Queen, making it the perfect way to celebrate the end of a wonderful school year.

Looking Ahead to VPK Graduation

As the school year comes to a close, we are also gearing up for one of our favorite celebrations of the year — VPK Graduation! We look forward to celebrating our amazing graduates and all they have accomplished as they prepare for their next big step into kindergarten.

Thank you to all of our families, staff, and community partners for making this season so special. We’re looking forward to an exciting summer at Banner Lake Club!

Pickle for Paws combines friendly competition with support for shelter animals

Palm City, Fla. — Almost 100 women and men served, dinked, volleyed, rallied and more at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast’s 4th annual Pickle for Paws charity event. They raised nearly $23,000, which benefits the humane society’s shelter animals.

Players and spectators were greeted by Misty’s Pals pet therapy teams and they had the opportunity to interact with some of the shelter’s adoptable animals. Attendees also were able to participate in a 50/50 raffle and win a variety of raffle baskets and auction items.

Ramona Floridor-White sang the national anthem followed by 92-year-old Ralph Wakeam hitting the ceremonial first serve. Then play began and continued into the early evening.

The humane society is grateful to have the support of its sponsors, donors and committee members for making this event possible. Michael and Kimberly Izzolo, Robbie Jacobs and Jessica Agee-Bradshaw organized and managed the event.

Custom Pickle for Paws shirts and tank tops are still available for those who wish to provide more support by visiting this website: https://www.bonfire.com/2026pickleforpaws/.

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.

Sweet Success: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed gala raises funds for Martin County education

PALM CITY, Fla. — Hundreds of people who support local schools, students and teachers recently went on a fantastical tour of their own at the Education Foundation of Martin County’s Evening of Excellence | Bids for Kids gala. Presented by Morganti, the event featured Charlie Bucket and Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory. This elegant fundraiser, held at Harbour Ridge Country Club in Palm City, attracted a sell-out crowd and raised $200,000. 

Brittany and Joel Spiece, Jessica Sines, Stephen Sines, Terra and Brent Martin, Kalie and J. D. Lewis of the Morganti Group (photo by Doreen Poreba)

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see so many people come together to support our students and teachers,” said Lisa Rhodes, executive director of the Education Foundation of Martin County. “Nights like this remind us that when a community invests in education, everyone benefits. The impact of this gala will be felt long after it ends.”

The evening began with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, sponsored by Hedrick Brothers Construction, as guests walked through the candy-coated wonderland while perusing the largest silent auction on the Treasure Coast. They bid on more than 500 extraordinary treasures before professional auctioneer KC Daniel conducted an exclusive live auction that featured once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Auction items included gift baskets, vacation getaways, spa treatments, golf packages, jewelry, artwork, fishing charters and restaurant certificates. All proceeds support educational enrichment programming for students.

Paul Meola, Nancy Loveless, Jennifer and G Millhollin of the Meola Group (photo by Paul Careccia)

Other top event sponsors included CROC Enterprises LLC; Gehring Group Brown & Brown Public Sector; Jacquin & Sons Construction; Keiser University; Proctor Construction; PBK; Sandhill Cove Retirement Living; AT&T; Tami Karol Insurance; FPL; Anthony D. George, Jr. P.A.; Meola Technology, Inc.; Treasure Coast Psychiatry; Conchy Joe’s Seafood; The Dolphin Bar & Shrimp House; UDT; Florida Blue/USABLE; STS Aviation Group; Ocean Breeze Animal Hospital and SwissMango.

For information about the Education Foundation of Martin County, visit the website, www.EducationFoundationMC.org or call the office at 772-600-8062.

The Education Foundation of Martin County is the Martin County School District’s strategic non-profit partner with the mission of enriching and enhancing educational opportunities and support for students and teachers in Martin County’s public schools. As an independent group, the Foundation promotes this effort by raising and distributing private and corporate funds through several established programs, including classroom enrichment grants, literacy programs, professional development for teachers, special initiatives, scholarships and programs to recognize outstanding teaching. For more information, please visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org.

May is Leave a Legacy Month: A Legacy of Hope for Hibiscus Children in Need  

Treasure Coast - Every day, hundreds of nonprofit organizations quietly shape the heart of our community—providing vital services, preserving dignity, and creating pathways to brighter futures. For more than 40 years, Hibiscus Children's Center has stood as a beacon of safety, healing, and hope for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, and trauma. Our mission is clear—but we cannot fulfill it alone.

While Hibiscus receives some government funding, it covers only a portion of the care and support our children need to thrive. The generosity of compassionate individuals who believe that every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and valued, is essential to fulfilling our mission.

One of the most powerful ways to ensure this mission continues long into the future is through Planned Giving.  Planned Giving allows donors to make a lasting impact by including charitable contributions in their estate plans. Whether through a will, trust, charitable gift annuity, or other financial vehicle, planned gifts create a legacy of kindness that extends far beyond one lifetime. During this month of recognizing Leave a Legacy, we invite you to consider leaving a legacy for children and families for generations to come.  

Planned Giving is not only an act of generosity, it’s also a smart financial strategy. Many planned gifts can provide a lifetime stream of income to the donor or their family, yield tax benefits including reduced estate and capital gains taxes, enable larger contributions than might be possible during one’s lifetime, and ensure peace of mind that your values will live on through charitable impact.

Each year, Hibiscus serves more than 1,800 children and families with critical services—safe haven, mental health counseling, prevention and intervention programs, educational services, and career training.  Your planned gift helps ensure these vital services will be here for future generations in need. It can provide safety where there was danger, hope where there was despair, and opportunity where there was none.  When you include Hibiscus in your estate plans, you become part of something greater - a legacy of compassion, protection, and transformation for vulnerable children.

Michelle King, CDO, shared, “Let your lasting gift tell a story of hope. Partner with us to build a future where every child can dream again. Together, we can create a legacy of hope, healing, and resilience for children who need it most.”

To learn more about Leaving a Legacy, please visit HibiscusChildrensCenter.org or contact Michelle King, CDO, at (561) 452-5791.