Mission stAtement
The mission of the Grand Harbor Outreach Program is to address the unmet needs of groups and individuals in the area of health, education and human services in Indian River County.
President's Message __________________________________________________
Did you know 32967 is the poorest zip code in Florida and the fourth poorest in the United States? Startling statistics! • The living wage needed for a family of four in our county is $63,145 while the average annual income in Gifford is just $22,000. • At last count, there were 256 homeless adults and 423 homeless students! 7% of children under 18 live below the poverty level. • Death from suicide is increasing among children and adults. • Over half of our seniors over 65 have limited access to healthy food and half of our renters are cost burdened. Grand Harbor Community Outreach exists because caring residents like you wanted to find a way to help our struggling neighbors. This year $486,470 has been allocated to grantees, and you have provided countless volunteer hours to put these dollars to work. This issue of Sharings is about you and the work you are doing. It is such a privilege for me to represent you among other funders in our community. Our work is far from finished and we know some of you want to be more involved. Please contact any of our Board members and we will help you make a difference!
Thank you,
Liz Crowther
GHCOP, President
The Organization ____________________________________________________
The Grand Harbor Community Outreach Program is an all-volunteer organization operating as a 501 (C) (3) non-profit charity*, founded in 2001. Through a direct appeal to Grand Harbor members and residents, solicitation of corporate sponsorships and hosting several major events, we raise funds which are distributed to over 30 local charities. Nearly 400 donors and volunteers support the activities of GHCOP. We have an active Board that oversees all our activities and we are always looking for additional volunteers and Board members. GHCOP raised over $575,000 in the 2021-2022 season and since our founding, has raised over $6.6 million. We have no paid employees and 100% of each donor’s contribution goes to support a local charity.
How We Generate Funding _____________________________________________
Annual Fund Campaign
The Annual Fund Campaign is the major source of funds for the Outreach effort each season. Every October we mail a solicitation letter to the residents of Grand Harbor. Last season, 2022 – 2023, we raised $375,000.
Events
We hold three fundraising events each season:
In addition to the fundraising events we sponsor a Philanthropy Agency Award Breakfast and a Major Donor and Corporate Sponsor Recognition Reception.
Corporate Sponsors
Each season we have a number of generous sponsors from various local businesses. These funds cover all of our administrative expenses so that 100% of our individual contributions go directly to area non-profit programs.
Meet The Board
Since its inception GHCOP has been served by a volunteer Board. As a true “working Board” they have given of their time and worked selflessly to grow the organization into an important part of the Indian River County support community.
Liz Crowther, President
Ed Churney, Treasurer
Linda Kruger, Secretary
Maryann Braden
Tim Cutler
Al Gallo
John Groves
Ken Mindt
Janine Nebons
Barbara Reis
Mark Rice
Barbara Rice
Michael Spence
Kathy Tonkel, Past President Bonnie Walker
Tina Wilcox
Awards
GHCOP has been awarded several times for its work in the Indian River County community.
*Grand Harbor Community Outreach Program, INC. is a 501 (C) (3) Non-Profit Organization, Federal Tax ID#51-0418002. A copy of the Official Registration and Financial Information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free within the State of Florida (800) 435-7352. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the State of Florida. GHCOP Registration # CH15327.