PRESS RELEASE

While Holiday cheer filled homes and streets of Vero Beach during the past few months, there were angels in Vero who did not forget there were some who did not have a home to celebrate the holidays.

While others were shopping and celebrating, Lalita Janke and other Camp Haven supporters continue to work hard to ensure Camp Haven will provide a place for homeless in Vero Beach to sleep safely each night in 2014.  Janke says residents have no idea of the number of homeless who sleeps wherever they can.

“There are so many in need of a safe place to sleep and a second chance,” Janke said from Camp Haven headquarters this week when she announced the 2014 kickoff of Camp Haven’s extraordinary fund raising event on January 23, 2014.

An elaborate ballroom evening of fine Dining, Dancing and Entertainment in support of Camp Haven will be held at the Vero Beach Elks Club Crystal Ballroom with a reception at 6 p.m. and dinner to follow at 7 p.m.  “This event is a very important fund raiser that is needed to ensure the success of Camp Haven’s program, which will take homeless men off the streets and give them a chance at a new beginning,” Janke said.

The event will honor Richard Stark, an Indian River County philanthropist, who is well known for his non-profit work the past 15 years. “We’re proud to honor Mr. Stark, a champion for the fight against homelessness,” said Jim Beckley, Board Vice President.  Stark continues his charitable work in his hometown by passionately supporting the highly anticipated Camp Haven Homeless Shelter for men on US 1 in Vero Beach, that is to receive its occupancy license any day now.

Camp Haven is an Indian River County community project that provides supportive living opportunities and education to men committed to rising out of homelessness.  Participants who are accepted into the Camp Haven program will go through a comprehensive evaluation process to assess whether they are willing to improve their lives and get back to work.  The goal of Camp Haven is to help local men achieve self-sufficiency through counseling, training and encouragement – rebuilding their mind, body and spirit, Janke added.

“Camp Haven, a Vero Beach non-profit community project whose time has come, provides not only shelter and stability while residents rebuild their lives, but also provides professional counseling, job opportunities, hope and encouragement,” said Board Member, Louise Hubbard.

Serving on the Board of Directors of Camp Haven are:  Janke, President; Jim Beckley, Vice President; Jim Schorner, Treasurer and Richard A. Stark, Sheila Connors, Louise Hubbard and Sue Rux.

Committee Chairs, Carol Jean Jordan, Connie Bishop and Dr. Deepti Sadhwani urge all of Indian River County to join Camp Haven’s Board of Directors by attending the event – making a difference in the lives of men and their families.  Reservations must be called in by January 12, 2014 to: (772) 999-3625.