In recognition of the significant contribution the Northeast Florida Builders Association has made to its downtown community, Trinity Rescue Mission honored the association at the Women and Children’s Center dedication ceremony last month. Trinity named NEFBA the cornerstone sponsor and unveiled a plaque acknowledging the association’s role in completing the 14,000-square-foot facility that will serve an estimated 1,200 women and children annually.
The dedication ceremony began with breakfast for the NEFBA board provided by Trinity Rescue Mission. Gene Rutherford, Trinity Rescue Mission board of directors chairman, introduced his brother, Sheriff John Rutherford, who addressed the association. A brief video that dramatically relates the plight of homeless women and children and the center’s purpose was shown.
City Councilman Reggie Fullwood assisted with the unveiling of the cornerstone plaque honoring the Northeast Builders Association and explained why he became involved with the center.
“It is incumbent upon us to help the least among us,” said Fullwood. “It was amazing to see hundreds of volunteers hammering nails the weekend we raised the roof, and it was one of the best experiences I have ever had.”
NEFBA and its members provided more than $1 million in funds, in-kind gifts, donations and labor for the center. This giving spirit has been shown in the past and continues to be shown to organizations that provide assistance to those in need.
“Your association not only provided funds, labor and materials, you propelled this project toward completion,” Trinity Rescue Mission Executive Director Gene Pruett told association members. “Your enthusiasm and dedication brought about a renewal of interest and was a major force in bringing the facility this close to completion.”
Greg Matovina, NEFBA immediate past president, spearheaded the association’s efforts to assist in building the center. Several NEFBA members received member of the month honors for their involvement, including Chip Avery, Steve Kicklighter and Malcolm Willis. Many other NEFBA members took an active role in the Trinity project.
Pruett said he anticipates a grand opening of the facility early next year.