Florida Disaster Relief
A nonprofit fundraiser supporting
Adventures in MissionsRestoring hope to Harlem Heights, Florida through home construction and community outreach.
$0
raised by 0 people
$50,000 goal
Update #2
As we look back on the year that has passed since Hurricane Ian's destructive path through Harlem Heights, Florida, we are deeply moved by the transformation and hope that have emerged from the ruins. Thanks to the unwavering support of people like you, we've been able to achieve remarkable milestones that have truly made a difference in the lives of our neighbors.
Here’s how gifts have been stewarded to make a major impact:
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 AIM Base, contributing their time, energy, and skills to the cause.
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.
We've also focused on nurturing the spiritual well-being of the community, by establishing a backyard Bible study, hosting worship and testimony nights, and organizing 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!
A Heartwarming Homecoming
In the spirit of the holiday season, we want to share a heartwarming story that epitomizes our mission's essence:
Mary Broomfield, a single, hardworking grandmother of 13, has spent the past twelve months displaced from her home. Her house had been inundated with two feet of water, leaving her and her family with very little to salvage. Over the past year, Mary faced numerous challenges, from health complications to caring for her elderly father, all while managing her full-time job. For her family, her home was the one constant source of security, making its loss all the more devastating.
Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming Mary back home to a fully restored house. The World Race Gap Year squads, who have worked tirelessly during their time in Florida, completed her home to perfection.
I asked her to meet us at her house on Friday afternoon, not really indicating why. Little did she know, it was to welcome her home and walk her through her finished house!
As Mary's tears of joy flowed, all 63 Racers, our dedicated leadership team, and some neighbors gathered to witness her emotional homecoming.
It is an honor to journey through hardship with strangers, and to see it through to completion. Welcoming Mary home was incredible!
Lighting the Path Forward
As we stand on the precipice of a new year, we are filled with gratitude for the change we've been able to bring to Harlem Heights. The past year has shown us the true meaning of resilience, compassion, and unity. But our mission is not yet complete.
The journey ahead will be just as challenging, and we need your continued support to help us reach our $50,000 goal so we can continue to provide the materials needed to restore homes. Furthermore, we plan to organize community outreach events, such as Operation Christmas, community dinners, and other enrichment activities, to nurture our community's spirit.
Donate Now to be a part of this transformative journey and help us light the path to a brighter future for Harlem Heights.
Wishing you a blessed holiday season and a year filled with hope, joy, and love,
Chris and Sarah Horvath
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.