The philanthropic spirit of Vero Beach continues to shine brightly as the Orchid Island Golf and Beach Club recently hosted its 24th annual Family 5K Walk and Run. Held on April 3, the event brought together the local community for a morning of fitness and charity, ultimately raising a record-breaking $35,000 for Childcare Resources of Indian River.
The 24th annual Orchid Island Family 5K Walk and Run raised a historic $35,000 to directly fund Childcare Resources of Indian River’s new downtown campus, expanding early learning access for local families.
More than 185 participants—including club members, their families, guests, and Childcare Resources staff—took part in the scenic course. The morning also featured a community breakfast and an awards ceremony. The incredible fundraising total was made possible by the generosity of more than 120 club members who contributed through local sponsorships and private donations.
The funds raised during this Indian River County event are earmarked for a crucial local initiative: the Transforming Tomorrow Capital Campaign. According to the organization, this significant financial investment will be used to fund a state-of-the-art downtown campus dedicated to early childhood excellence. Specifically, the new facility will allow the organization to:
- Expand access to high-quality early learning programs across Indian River County.
- Strengthen wellness and early intervention services for young children.
- Create new and expanded opportunities for local educator training and community support.
Shannon McGuire Bowman, executive director of Childcare Resources, expressed deep appreciation for the local community’s backing. She noted that the support acts as a direct investment in the future campus, as well as in the children, families, and educators they serve. The funding will allow the organization to meet growing community needs by offering the vital resources and early learning programs that families depend on.
Following the race, a formal check presentation was conducted by Orchid Island General Manager Rob Tench, Fitness Director JohnMark Jenkins, and Fitness Committee Chairman Timothy McWilliams. Jenkins praised the Orchid Island community, stating that seeing so many members and families come together to raise the funds speaks volumes about the heart of the local residents. He added that he was grateful to be part of a team that organizes events directly supporting children and families throughout the Treasure Coast.
Childcare Resources operates as a vital partner agency of the United Way of Indian River County, the Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee, and the Indian River Hospital District. The organization remains dedicated to elevating and promoting the highest quality early childhood development and education, with a specific focus on supporting economically challenged families in the local area.
