Americans don’t realize the breadth of philanthropy’s reach and support. But nonprofits like Health First have a wide-ranging ripple effect.
When you think of charity, chances are your mind flashes to disaster relief. People who flock to the aftermath of hurricanes and tornadoes, equipped with volunteers, resources, and money to kickstart recovery efforts.
While noble and sorely needed, it’s not a realistic picture of charities, overall. Charity isn’t just about the big things. It’s also about the homegrown efforts that make our communities a better place. And it’s about encouraging and celebrating philanthropic support of the numerous charities right here in Brevard.
You might have seen a recent study published by the Indiana University (IU) Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Summarized by a Chronicle of Philanthropy story featured on Page 5A of FLORIDA TODAY on April 9, the study made one thing clear — most Americans’ concept of charity and nonprofits is cloudy at best.
Health First is your local nonprofit that serves the wellness needs of all of Brevard. We’re passionate about helping our community. You may not realize it, but we’ve been here for more than 85 years, so you or someone you know has likely been touched by our outreach or cared for by us. It’s also likely that you, your family, friends, or neighbors are part of the Health First family on the front lines of service to our community.
More:Health First tells staff not to panic after more than a year of financial losses
So, let’s clear up some misconceptions IU’s study unearthed.
This research was done last summer, surveying about 1,300 people. One statistic that shocked us – just 5% of Americans think they’re affected by charity. (That’s even with one in 11 people being employed by a nonprofit.)
That’s not the reality. Especially when it comes to Health First: On any given day, we’re caring for more than 2,500 people in Brevard, regardless of their ability to pay.
In addition, last year, Health First awarded 12 nonprofit Wellness Grants — worth $360,000 — to community partners aligned with our mission, including:
- Streetside Showers. They provide showers and free toiletries to those in need, as well as home-cooked meals and laundry services. Our grant helped them expand their services and buy a mobile unit that’s accessible for the disabled.
- Junior League of the Space Coast’s Fueling Families program. This means added access to healthy, nutritious food for kids and families in need, coordinated through local elementary schools.
- WAYS for Life. This nonprofit is geared toward helping teens and young adults avoid homelessness and crime. They provide wrap-around services, including essential services and healthcare navigation programs. Think shelter, transportation, and mentorship – the keys to a better path
Recipients of our grants have voiced they’re “beyond grateful.”
“Most kids who come to our center have aged out of foster care or are experiencing homelessness,” said Pamela Bress, executive director of WAYS for Life Brevard.
“With the help of this grant, it’ll create better ways for life for our vulnerable youth by providing them with services to meet their basic needs — which provides them an opportunity to successfully transition to adulthood and independence.”
More:Health First scales back plans for Merritt Island hospital/wellness village project
While some Americans recognize the community value philanthropy generates, plenty don’t. The IU study pointed out this troubling figure — 60% of Americans think the number of people giving has increased or stayed the same. But it hasn’t. In fact, in the past 20 years, philanthropic giving has dropped from 85% to 50% today.
The research also unveiled that some don’t give because they figure someone else is stepping up. But as the study revealed, more are stepping away.
It’s another reason charities need your help more than ever. And, Health First is still dedicated to our mission, even during turbulent times.
“Health First has had some financial challenges in the past year, as have the majority of healthcare organizations nationwide,” said Kent Smith, Health First interim CEO.
“We have a plan and are making great strides to turn things around. And we remain firmly committed to our mission. We will continue to support these community partners and programs whose vision aligns with ours — wellness for our entire community.”
It’s important to mention that our financial support and grants to other charities aren’t handouts. They’re our community’s collective investment in the place we call home. And it’s imperative we keep going.
Our community needs Health First. And we want to continue to serve Brevard in ways that are meaningful. If you don’t know that Health First is a non-profit charitable organization, head over to hf.org/foundation for more real examples of what gifts of support do for our neighbors. (And check out our Donor Report, which paints a comprehensive picture of all the ways we give back.) Just check us out and see if we’re a good fit for your support.
If you decide the Health First Foundation isn’t for you, we get it. We just ask one thing: Find a cause you believe in — and support it.
When you give, you’re not just helping others. You’re helping your loved ones, your friends, your neighbors — and building a better Brevard. Both now and in the future.
Michael Seeley is the president of the Health First Foundation, which works in support of Health First’s mission of wellness and health for Brevard.
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