012926 CampHaven DiamondsInTheRough JoshuaKodis 010 — PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

Supporters of Camp Haven gathered at the Oak Harbor Club for their annual Diamonds in the Rough Celebration, an evening that celebrates the transformation of homeless men into productive, independent members of our community.

“I’m here to thank you, the donors, for investing in us,” said Chuck Bradley, executive director of the nonprofit.

“Hopefully, through the success stories you see tonight, you’ll see what kind of return you get for your investment.”

Board President Gordon Stewart updated guests on the program’s rigorous standards, including the 90-day sobriety requirement for entry. He noted that the resident population is now split evenly between men in recovery and those facing homelessness due to economic factors.

Several residents and alumni, those “diamonds” polished by the program, shared personal stories of redemption. Whether battling economic, addiction or mental health challenges, each credited their success to the support they received at Camp Haven.

“I’ve been learning how to communicate better,” said one resident, who had arrived on a freezing January night seeking only a blanket. Instead, he said, he found a pathway to self-worth, proudly adding that he has reconnected with his 5-year-old daughter.

Mike Digman, a graduate who spoke at the gala two years ago, returned with a powerful update, commenting that since leaving the program, he has expanded his air conditioning business and purchased a home.

“I’m a satisfied customer,” Digman told the audience, his wife, son and stepdaughter by his side. “My wife and I are both in sobriety. It’s all really a result of all this.”

Stewart updated guests on the status of the eminent domain issue involving plans by the Florida Department of Transportation to widen the intersection of Aviation Boulevard and U.S. 1. The project will likely claim a significant portion, if not all, of the current campus.

While they have already raised funds for their Phase 3 housing objectives, construction is on hold until the land issue is resolved. Stewart estimated Camp Haven will need to raise an additional $1.3 million to $1.5 million beyond state compensation to secure a new campus.

“We have nothing but good things in our future. We just need to raise a few more dollars,” Stewart assured the crowd.

To kickstart the effort, Stewart announced that he and his wife Linda have issued a $50,000 matching challenge grant. Auctioneer Wesley Davis then rallied the room for a call from the heart that saw paddles raised across the room.

Also of note, it was announced that this year’s Diamond Award recipients were Don and Pam Young, in recognition of their dedication to the residents of Camp Haven.

Additionally, they spoke of a strengthened partnership with Thrive IRC, which addresses substance misuse and behavioral health through its prevention, education, and recovery services.

“It’s always nice to see people with such humanity helping people they don’t know and probably will never meet,” said Stewart thanking everyone as he closed out the program.

For more information, visit CampHaven.net.

Photos by Joshua Kodis