Guests attending last Wednesday evening’s Diamonds in the Rough dinner at the Riomar Country Club stood as one in a standing ovation for Joshua Murray, one of more than 100 men served by Camp Haven’s compassionate residential and rehabilitative programs.
It was the culmination of a delightful fundraising dinner, chaired by Linda Teetz, which had guests mulling over silent- and live-auction items during the cocktail hour before sitting down to a delicious dinner accompanied by the soothing sounds of the musical duo Tony and Holly.
Murray, who studied music production technology at Northwest Florida State College, captivated his audience, accompanying himself on the piano while performing soulful renditions of works appropriate to the mission of the organization – John Lennon’s “Imagine” and Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”
As with the other men who have been accepted into the program, Murray and Jeff Butts, a plumber by trade who spoke to guests about his journey from homeless to hopeful, are both appreciative of the support afforded to them as they strive to get their lives back on track.
“There’s so many things that this organization does for us that we can never even list them, or explain to you how much it actually does for a person who has considered themselves worthless,” said Butts.
Camp Haven has seen remarkable success since opening its doors in January 2014. Men receive food, shelter, clothing and healthcare, but more importantly, life-skills counseling, as well as education and employment assistance. As a result, more than 93 percent are now employed, 33 percent are enrolled in school, and 57 percent have paid back their debt.
Camp Haven Executive Director Lalita Janke, a strict but kindhearted mother figure to the men, related that thanks to Louise Hubbard of the Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council, Camp Haven recently secured a $200,000 State of Florida Challenge Grant to renovate eight additional transitional housing units which will enable them to serve more men.
“This my greatest joy; watching them as they walk their own way out of their own mess, as I call it. Just being there to support them as they find themselves,” said Janke. She added that rather than think of Camp Haven as a homeless shelter, she considers it a retreat center, where men can restore themselves introspectively and work their way back through their connection to God.
Janke also noted that John’s Island residents Gordon and Linda Stewart have proffered a challenge grant, offering to match every dollar donated up to $100,000. The Stewarts will also host a wine and cheese reception on Feb. 21 at their Motor City Classic Cars showroom. Tickets are $25 or $40 for two.
For more information, call 772-999-3625 or visit camphaven.net.
