by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Social service organizations have myriad needs. While there are some common denominators found on just about every not-for-profit’s wish list, each organization also has a special need.
The special need on the list was fulfilled for two social service organizations Monday at the Downtown Rotary Club of Jacksonville’s Charity Foundation Grant presentations.
Club member Jeff Lane chaired this year’s Screening Committee and said more than 30 organizations were considered for grants, but in the end the committee was unanimous that the $60,000 donated by the membership in the past year be divided equally between Family Promise of Jacksonville and St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and Outreach.
“It was a long and complicated process,” Lane told the club members. “I was humbled by the responsibility, but I thank you for it.”
Family Promise of Jacksonville was founded in 2006 and is part of a national interfaith hospitality network. The organization serves homeless families and provides temporary housing with church congregations, food, transportation and counseling.
Executive Director Mindy Roberts pointed out the organization’s budget is just slightly more than $100,000 a year and the $30,000 grant from the Rotarians would be used to replace an aging van with a new shuttle bus to serve clients.
“The old van was also a gift, and it was great because it got us started. But now it’s 16 years old and it’s about on its last legs,” she said.
The grant to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church will be used to renovate an exterior wall of the church that was built in Springfield in 1913.
Sue Carmichael was named lay vicar of the church 20 years ago and is now also the director of outreach services. The congregation provides services to families and individuals in need of everything from clothes and food to counseling.
“We serve in many ways like a surrogate family. We are a well of resources for people who need us,” said Carmichael. “This (grant) is such a blessing and a joy. Our north wall is currently held up by a brace, but soon when you come and visit us it won’t be so risky anymore.”
Roberts also predicted this year’s Charity Foundation Grants will lead to new partnerships and said of meeting Carmichael, “We’ve been trying to decide what projects we can work on together.”
Photos by Max Marbut