RISE 2025 Summer Updates

Slushies for Surveys

The team has been working diligently in Coleman Park to build our organizational capacity and fulfill our mission of community development alongside residents. I'm excited to share several encouraging updates on our trajectory and strategic plan progress.

Organizational Strengthening -We've engaged David Halpern Consulting to handle our bookkeeping needs. David brings over thirty years of nonprofit financial leadership experience and has specialized in supporting smaller organizations since founding his consultancy in 2001. He has already taken the lead on our FY24 audit process, working closely with our auditors, and has brought our financials current for presentation at our upcoming board meeting.

Talent Development - We're benefiting from intern support through PBAU with Terra Miller, who joined us in early July for a 90-hour commitment through the end of August. Terra is working directly with OJ to enhance community engagement through data collection, follow-up communications, and administrative support.

Fundraising results:

• $450,000 approved from the Low Income Investment Fund for land acquisition

• $220,000 awarded from a Donor Advised Fund through the Community Foundation for a Senior Home Renovation program

• $25,000 grant submitted to Bank of America (pending)

• Successfully completed interim and final reports for Quantum, Deluca Foundation, and Community Foundation Palm Beach Martin Counties FY24

Community Engagement Highlights - We participated in a valuable Peer Exchange hosted by the Northside Development Group/Voyagers in Spartanburg, NC (July 24-25). Seven Voyagers program members shared insights on community formation, organization, and governance, including resident engagement strategies and partnership development. This opportunity, supported by Purpose Built Communities, included OJ, Terra, and resident leaders David Gibson, Latisha Myrick, and Valda Green.

Resident Leaders Peer Exchange

Additionally, throughout June and July, we've been conducting the Coleman Park Early Learning Assessment through focus groups and weekly resident surveys. Our "slushies for surveys" outreach strategy, supported by resident volunteers, has generated strong participation. We'll be sharing the analysis with early learning stakeholders to develop an action plan.