news release

The Source closed out the month of March with an inaugural event named “Brunch and Blooms”…Planting Seeds of Change in our Community. The sold-out event focused on homelessness in our community with a special emphasis on women coming out of homelessness. It provided insights into the operations provided by The Source as well as to celebrate the powerful women within the organization while uniting women of all ages and local businesses within the community.

While the sunshine of the day brilliantly showcased the botanical beauty that encompassed The Tree House, the hosting venue, it was an opportunity for women to enjoy an extensive brunch buffet, mimosas and networking. Attendees had an opportunity to shop the local vendors that included Seahorse Lane Boutique, Idlewild Co and Wang & Dickerson Tea. They registered for raffle prizes that featured a Wellness Basket – valued at $500.00 from Botanica, Pampered Life and Sunrise Cycle, as well as a Staycation Basket – valued at over $500.00 from Captain Hiram’s. Each guest took home a parting gift reminiscent of their day… seed packets of local wild flowers… tying the theme all together… “Planting Seeds of Change in our Community.”

The informational program was led by Jade Alexander, Director of Operations for The Source. The moving video that ensued was a story about a woman coming out of homelessness in the most dignified manner.  The presentation focused on Eugenia, a mother of six who had fought through unimaginable hardship for 11 years in an abusive relationship that resulted in a cycle of pain and addiction and losing her children to child protective services. With the support and programs offered by The Source, Eugenia was able to turn her life around, secured stable housing and gained the skills she needed to rebuild her future and be reunited with her children. The program concluded with a major surprise and presentation to Eugenia, a maroon Kia Outlook XR donated by anonymous supporter of The Source for Eugenia to experience independence for herself along with her family to enjoy.

Committee members included Veronica Kluener, Maria Sommers, Margaret Anne Evans, Jade Alexander, Joanne Balshi, Carla Friedman and Jonathan Orozco. The Source is appreciative of event sponsors that included: Berg Insurance, Coastal Van Lines, Margaret Anne Evans, Diantha Harris, Cindy O’Dare & Richard Boga, Captain Hiram’s Resort, Klekamp Insurance LLC, Vero Strength + Conditioning, Lawn & LeBlanc Law Group, PLLC, Vero Women’s Care, Joanne Balshi, Jean Cravens, The Frazier Foundation, A Pampered Life, Kids By The Sea, Sunrise Cycle & Sculpt Fitness Studio, Botanica, Pak Mail Beachside, and River Twist Vero.

The Tree House is a working tree farm and the guests were seated at tables surrounded by nature with each table setting featuring centerpieces of greenery and blooms from the venue’s gardens. The venue, a private tropical  paradise and situated by The Indian River Lagoon, is nestled amongst a nature preserve with convenient attached parking and located at 8010 43^rd Ave, Vero Beach, FL. They may be contacted at (772) 564-1466 or visit www.treehouseverobeach.com

Celebrating their 30th year, I am Ministries DBA The Source, is a Christian social outreach ministry that has been empowering communities into a lifestyle of service for the homeless since 1995.  Founded in Indian River County, the organization serves its homeless neighbors through core programs and services that instill a sense of community.  Visit www.iamthesource.org  for more information or contact Jonathan Orozco, Development Director for more information at jonathan.orozco@iamthesource.org.