As our community continues to face a tight economy and shrinking budgets, the Daily Record has established this page that will each week chronicle the efforts of local nonprofit organizations. Bailey Publishing & Communications invites all members of the local nonprofit community to submit news, announcements, success stories and any other information they feel would be of interest to our readers. Email to: [email protected].
We also encourage our readers to become more aware of the needs of these worthy organizations as they try to continue to provide valuable services with reduced resources.
HabiJax receives $2 million
Habitat for Humanity of Jacksonville received a donation from Ann and David Hicks and Delores and Wayne Weaver for $1 million each, for $2 million total.
The funds are lead gifts for HabiJax's $16 million campaign to revitalize New Town.
"We are touched by this generous gift," said HabiJax President and CEO Mary Kay O'Rourke.
HabiJax is committing its experience, housing products and services to revitalize the New Town neighborhood. A capital campaign with a $16 million goal will assist in building at least 100 homes in the neighborhood over the next three years. Qualified potential homeowners also will be offered an interest-free mortgage.
HabiJax has provided homeownership to more than 1,850 families since 1988. Combined with its other homeownership services, HabiJax has served more than 7,500 families.
More information about HabiJax and how to contribute to the New Town capital campaign is available online at habijax.org or by calling (904) 798-4529.
Online giving opportunity
Northeast Florida nonprofits are using WeGive.org to inspire local giving. Nearly 100 projects have been posted to the website in anticipation of #GivingTuesday on Nov. 27.
To date, the website has raised more than $50,000 for area nonprofits. The Nonprofit Center of Northeast Florida hopes to double that number to reach $100,000.
Rena Coughlin, CEO of the Nonprofit Center, said individual giving and volunteering is the heart of local nonprofits.
"Seventy-three percent of donations come from individuals. #GivingTuesday emphasizes the importance of small kindnesses in our community," she said.
Launched by the Nonprofit Center in 2008, the website connects local residents with giving opportunities in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. From children's museums to senior services, job training to animal protection, the community can contribute to causes that match their passions.
For more information visit givingtuesday.org.