Serving our community...

Chairman’s Message

Welcome to the Vero Beach Rotary Charities Foundation. Since July 1992, our mission has been to lift up Indian River County by funding local 501(c)(3) nonprofits. We operate entirely on the generosity of our members and community partners. We receive no state funding.

Our growth reflects our club’s deep commitment to service. The Foundation started with just $12,500 in assets. Today, thanks to members celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones with personal donations, our assets exceed $350,000. To date, we have awarded more than $375,000 in grants to over 50 local organizations.

We maximize the impact of every dollar. Because our member financial advisors and CPA treasurer provide voluntary oversight, our administrative expenses remain minimal. Your contributions go directly to the community, protecting our environment through clean water initiatives and supporting neighbors from youth to seniors. We invite you to review our current financial statements to see this impact in action.

Grant Focus and Applications

Our Foundation typically funds specific programs run by local nonprofits. The Board prioritizes local youth organizations in Indian River County, focusing on:

• Health: Promoting physical and mental well-being.

• Education: Improving academic performance.

• Future Success: Preparing students for college and career paths.

This targeted approach ensures our funds build a stronger future where they are needed most. We remain deeply sensitive to local needs and look forward to partnering with Indian River County charities for years to come.

Grant applications should be mailed to (or otherwise emailed to info@rotaryofverobeach.com):

Vero Beach Rotary Charities Foundation, Inc.

P.O. Box 3224

Vero Beach, FL 32964

A Special Thank You

We extend our deepest gratitude to John J. Schumann, Jr. John joined our Club in 1956 and helped launch this Foundation in 1992. His wise counsel, consistent leadership, and sincere dedication to our members embody the true spirit of “Service Above Self.” We are honored to have him continue his legacy as our Foundation Board’s Chairman Emeritus.

Thank you to our dedicated members and community donors who make this vital work possible.

Sincerely,

Foundation Chair