INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Camp Haven is pleased to announce the addition of James Kerns as a Member of the Board of Directors.
Kerns and his wife Madeleine have been married for 45 years, living most of that time in New Jersey where he pursued a career in Information Technology. The couple relocated to Vero Beach 12 years ago and immersed themselves in charitable activities in the community and through their parish, Holy Cross Catholic Church.
Kerns has been a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity since 2006. He was named Volunteer of the Year twice and led a team of volunteers to perform residential electrical construction. Kerns developed an electrical construction training program, Electrical 101, which focused on providing at-risk young adults with training, tools and a personal recommendation to obtain an entry level construction position. The training program also prepared students for entrance into the Indian River State College Apprentice Program for Electrician and HVAC licensing.
His most recent volunteer work includes the construction of a duplex to house 10 disabled and homeless veterans. Kern’s duties involved fundraising and construction oversight for this project.
Kern’s selfless giving hasn’t gone unnoticed in the community. He was honored for his devotion to helping others with the Unsung Hero award as part of National Philanthropy Day in 2013.
“We are blessed to have Jim Kerns as our newest Board member. He embodies the spirit of community service and collaboration. His volunteer expertise, community contacts, talent, energy and proven leadership skills couldn’t come at a better time,” stated Lalita Janke, Board President.
“We are tying down details of Phase Two of Camp Haven with the expansion of eight additional rooms. Jim has enthusiastically taken a lead role in coordinating volunteers and resources to get the project moving along. We should get construction started by mid-August, beginning with the demolition of the interior walls.”
The other Directors of Camp Haven are Vice President Jim Beckley, Treasurer Jim Schorner. Members: Connie Bishop, Claude Hessee, James Kerns and Diana Stark.
Camp Haven is an Indian River County transitional home that provides supportive living opportunities and education to men committed to rising out of homelessness. By implementing a thoughtful intake procedure, and strict adherence to guidelines, residents in the program receive educational opportunities, counseling, and encouragement, as they move from homelessness to hopefulness, eventually becoming active, engaged, contributing members of the community.
With the ongoing support of individuals, churches and the community as a whole, Camp Haven is able to provide: shelter, food, clothing, vocational training, and life skills classes that aid in the transitional process for each of the residents.
To learn more about Camp Haven, visit CampHaven.net.
