Florida Disaster Relief

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A nonprofit fundraiser supporting

Adventures in Missions
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Restoring hope to Harlem Heights, Florida through home construction and community outreach.

$4,450

raised by 10 people

$50,000 goal

Update #4

Update posted 9 months ago

Our 1 Year Volunteer Appreciation dinner was a heartfelt evening, filled with genuine gratitude and testimonies that resonated with the spirit of Harlem Heights. 

Among the voices that touched our hearts was Carla Branch Gibson, an angel and Pro desk associate at Home Depot and a lifelong resident of the community. Carla's testimony of gratitude was directed toward Kathryn Kelly, CEO of The Heights Foundation.

Carla's words conveyed the depth of her feelings and faith in the mission we've embarked upon. She spoke of how Kathryn Kelly's unwavering commitment to creating a foundation that genuinely cares for the residents of Harlem Heights has been an answer to a lifelong prayer. It's a testament to the incredible impact that a single "yes" can have.

Nearly 23 years ago, Kathryn's "yes" set a powerful transformation in motion.

The progress we've made over the past year is nothing short of inspiring. With your support and the tireless dedication of our volunteers, here are some of our significant impact:

  • 116 out of 173 homes are functionally complete, marking a 67% restoration rate.

  • 104 homes have been fully restored, standing at a remarkable 60%.

  • While 22 families are still displaced, we are determined to provide them with the support they need.

  • A total of 4,461 volunteers have joined us on this journey, channeling their time, energy, and compassion into the heart of Harlem Heights.

  • The volunteer labor completed in Harlem Heights is valued at an astounding $4,394,208, demonstrating the enormous impact of your generosity.

  • We have cultivated 39 new partnerships, expanding our network of support and resources.

  • Spiritual growth and community bonding are taking place, with the establishment of a backyard Bible Study and the hosting of worship and testimony nights. Several community dinners have brought neighbors together, rekindling the sense of unity in Harlem Heights.

  • Countless salvation stories have emerged, reminding us of the life-changing power of evangelism.

These remarkable milestones speak to the incredible transformation taking place in Harlem Heights, and it's all thanks to your unwavering support and prayers.

Moving Forward Together

As we look ahead, we are filled with gratitude for the past year's achievements and motivated to continue our mission. We invite you to join us in making an impact on the lives of Harlem Heights residents.

By making a donation today, you'll become an essential part of the ongoing transformation, helping us restore homes, foster community unity, and create a brighter future for all.

Carla's testimony reminds us that a single "yes" can move mountains, and together, we can move the mountains of adversity that have affected Harlem Heights.

Our Story

In the wake of Hurricane Ian's devastating arrival on September 28, 2022, the vibrant and multigenerational Harlem Heights community faced a daunting challenge. The storm had left many homes submerged in five feet of water, fences torn down, vehicles submerged, and the overwhelming sense of helplessness and despair hung heavy in the air.

In these moments of darkness, the light of hope began to shine through. Led by Adventures In Missions, Crisis Relief and Recovery, and the unwavering support of compassionate individuals like you, the journey toward recovery and restoration began.

The Harlem Heights mission is not merely about rebuilding homes but is a testament to the strength that emerges when communities come together. Over the past twelve months, we have seen miraculous transformations unfold. And yet, our mission is far from over.

The Harlem Heights Mission To-Date:

  • 116 out of 173 homes are now functionally complete (that's an impressive 67%).

  • 104 homes are fully restored (60%), offering renewed hope to families.

  • Although there have been triumphs, 22 families remain displaced as we continue our mission to restore their homes.

  • A total of 4,461 dedicated volunteers have passed through our Adventures In Missions Base, contributing their time, energy, and skills to the cause.

  • With their remarkable work, these volunteers have brought forth an astounding $4,394,208 worth of labor completed in Harlem Heights.

  • We've forged 39 new partnerships, allowing us to expand our reach and impact in the community.

  • Alongside the restoration efforts, we've also focused on nurturing the spiritual well-being of the community. We've established a backyard Bible study, hosted worship and testimony nights, and organized numerous community dinners that have fostered a sense of unity and togetherness.

  • Perhaps the most important measure of all is the countless salvation stories that have emerged as a result of our evangelism efforts.

These achievements are a testament to what can be accomplished when faith, compassion, and unwavering determination come together. The work done so far is a testament to the boundless potential of faith and action.

Kathy Rosado's Testimony: An Encounter with Divine Providence

During our one-year anniversary event, resident Kathy Rosado shared her testimony, illustrating how adversity and recovery can lead to profound encounters with God's providence. She recounted the moments of despair when her home was in ruins and her heart cried out to the heavens.

In the midst of this despair, an unexpected miracle occurred. A volunteer, unaware of her specific needs, arrived to assess the damage and said, "Ma'am, I'm here to measure your fence… but what you really need is soffits!" That day, Kathy's soffits were fully repaired, and for the first time, she knew that God had seen and heard her cries, sending help when she needed it most.

Kathy's story is just one of many that attest to the miraculous and transformational journey taking place in Harlem Heights. These are the stories of hope, faith, and community spirit that you are helping to create.

The Journey Ahead: Completing the Harlem Heights Mission

While our achievements in Harlem Heights are significant, our work is far from finished. There are still 22 families facing displacement, and 57 homes are at various stages of repair. The need is clear and pressing, and it calls for your partnership.

Our goal is to raise $50,000 to provide restoration materials for every home in the community. With faith and the collective efforts of kind-hearted individuals, this goal is well within reach. 

Your support is crucial in achieving our mission and bringing hope to those who need it most.


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