VERO BEACH — On Feb. 26, Epic Missions of Vero Beach held the first fundraising event in the history of the organization. They could not be happier with the results.
Two years ago, Paul and Jackie Munsie leased the former Christian Outreach International campus on 12th St., just west of 58th Ave. The property had been vacant for several years, was run down, and was fast becoming a scar on the face of the neighborhood.
The Munsies immediately began rehabilitating the property and preparing it for guests. Within months they were recruiting and hosting college groups and church groups from around the country, and hosting them as the groups came to Vero Beach on mission trips.
In the process, the groups are trained and put to work volunteering in local organizations such as The Source, Gifford Youth Center, Harvest Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Hibiscus House, and many others.
More than 300 people from out of state have now come to Vero Beach at their own expense to volunteer in our local organizations. The impact that Epic Missions has had on the community in such a short time is tremendous.
The event was held at the Vero Beach Country Club on Tuesday, Feb. 26. It was attended by approximately 150 guests who enjoyed a wonderful meal and were challenged by guest speaker Dr. Marshall Foster.
Updates were given on the current status of the organization, and a challenge was given to further support their work by giving towards operating expenses. Goals were also shared for the future expansion of the facilities to include dormitories, a commercial kitchen, and expanded meeting space.
Dr. Marshall Foster is known as one of the leading Christian historians in the world. He was the writer and co-producer of the feature film Monumental that played in local theaters last year. Dr. Foster’s message emphasized the importance of community development, driven by “an army of compassion.”
Approximately $60,000 was raised for the organization through the event, providing them with funding to continue hosting volunteer groups through the spring and summer.
The event was produced by PennellChing Development, a local consulting company that works with non-profit ministry organizations across the U.S.A.