news release

The City of Vero Beach has embarked on a partnership with private, corporate and non-profit entities to address Pocahontas Park. Mayor John Cotugno held a Call Meeting on May 17 to discuss the ideas and goals to rejuvenate the park known as the centerpiece of downtown Vero.

 “Some believe the park looks worn, even unsightly and those who have always enjoyed sitting on benches under the shade of the beautiful trees, or playing in the historic playground, are not feeling safe anymore” Cotugno shared. “The fountain is not working properly, restrooms need refurbishing, and some of the unhoused members of the community have become an issue in a one-time popular gathering spot in the center of town. Now is the right time to address this problem and come together as a caring community to beautify our Jewel.”

The first non-profit to step up-to-the plate with ideas comes out of The Source and its newest effort called “Community Works.” It is designed to help the community’s public streets and properties become clean, while at the same time allowing Source members to earn a paycheck.

According to Anthony Zorbaugh, Executive Director of The Source, “Members participating are paid by our organization and dressed in uniforms while picking up trash along streets, lawns and alleyways that might smell or need pressure cleaning, and do other work to help beautify the city. We are equipping an identifiable trailer with all the cleaning supplies needed to get the job done. We are proudly committing $30,000 from our operational budget to pay the Community Works participants. The Source is trying to help the city by doing our part.”

In addition to The Source and the City of Vero Beach, others that are initially making commitments to help the crusade for change include Main Street Vero Beach, the Indian River Chamber of Commerce, the Vero Beach Police Department as well as the incoming corporate sponsor, Piper Aircraft.

The Source, along with city representatives who include Monte Falls-City Manager, the Vero Beach Police Department and the Public Works Department, will launch the Community Works project from a meeting site at the Train Depot on 14^th Avenue on Thursday, June 1 at 9 a.m. The public is invited to attend.