Linda and Gordon Stewart PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

Camp Haven celebrated a decade of commitment toward transforming the lives of homeless men in Indian River County with a 10th Anniversary Celebration at Oak Harbor. Camp Haven takes a multifaceted approach to reach these “diamonds in the rough,” changing men’s lives through its comprehensive programs.

Guests saw this firsthand through videos of residents speaking of what led to their homelessness and how they’ve been able to rebuild their lives at Camp Haven.

“Over the years, we’ve had over 275 successes. That’s not just thanks to the staff. It’s thanks to you guys for investing in our cause, feeling that emotion, and putting your money there,” said Chuck Bradley, executive director.

The milestone is a testament to the determination of the organization to effect lasting change and to the unwavering support of its supporters.

The evening shone with brilliance under the creative genius of event co-chairs Brenda Bradley and Linda Teetz, with guests enjoying cocktails, silent and live auctions, dinner and a raffle.

“Eleven years ago, a few people had the foresight to recognize that there was a community of people that were underserved, and that is homeless men that didn’t want to be homeless,” said Gordon Stewart, board president.

After thanking Jim Schorner, Diana Stark who stepped in when her husband Dick passed away, and Dr. Walter and Lalita Janke, for laying the foundation for the nonprofit, he noted that Camp Haven could also not have succeeded without the support of its volunteers.

To recognize that crucial role, the annual Diamond Award is given to a volunteer for service to the organization, and this year Bob Houlihan was the honoree.

“I really love going to Camp Haven and speaking and spending time with the men there,” said Houlihan, sharing how meaningful it is when men seek him out to share their successes with him.

Given the skyrocketing cost of housing, Stewart said most of the men are still unable to afford the cost of a rental apartment. To mitigate the issue, they are raising money to build studio apartments for the men to transition into.

“So far, we’ve raised $363,000. Once we get to $550,000, we want to start construction.

That’s what tonight is about,” he added, before paddles were raised in a Call to the Heart.

“It’s the most direct change you can make in the world. It’s profound. It breaks cycles. It changes futures. It changes trajectories,” said Neil Saffer, auctioneer, referencing the impact donations have on men who are ready to do the work.

Since its inception, Camp Haven has provided homeless men with the tools and resources to break the cycle of homelessness and lead fulfilling lives for themselves and their families.

Through its comprehensive programs, participants are offered shelter, counseling, vocational training, life skills workshops, and access to educational opportunities, all with the goal of empowering them to regain their independence and reintegrate into society as self-sufficient members.

A cornerstone of its success is its transformational educational program, which equips participants with the skills and knowledge to secure employment, manage finances, and navigate life’s challenges effectively.

For more information, visitcamphaven.net.

Photos by Joshua Kodis