No one likes talking about evictions. If you’re a renter struggling to pay the rent, an eviction draws an indelible line between being housed and unhoused. If you’re a landlord, it’s an unpleasant but necessary part of doing business. For the sheriff’s deputies tasked with...

In Indian River County, many streams—the high cost of rent, the scarcity of affordable housing, and the growing numbers of people living in poverty amidst plenty—have converged into a relentless river sweeping too many individuals and families into homelessness. Even with shelters like The Hope...

Economists talk about barriers to entry to discuss how difficult it is for an entrepreneur to break into a competitive market. How much capital will they need to get started? Are there complicated licensing or other legal requirements that have to be overcome? It’s helpful...

In the 2024-2025 school year, the Florida Department of Education identified 655 homeless students in Indian River County. For over ten years, Little Birthday Angels has brought hope to this population by serving homeless children on their birthdays. The Birthday Bags of Hope program delivers birthday bags each...

Established in 1978, The Arc of Indian River County supports and empowers individuals with special needs to achieve their life goals. This organization operates six residential group homes, and provides adult training, behavioral services, supportive employment, and transportation services. The Arc supports over 200 individuals,...

In partnership with Vero Beach Magazine, Indian River Community Foundation’s President and CEO, Jeff Pickering, writes a monthly column called Indian River Insights. These articles explore the root causes of community needs, celebrate successes, analyze meaningful solutions, and offer insights into persistent challenges. In the December 2025...

Over the years, Indian River Community Foundation has developed several tools and resources that use data to help donors practice more effective philanthropy. Our online Nonprofit Search helps donors find, learn about, and give to local charities that meet the highest standards for transparency and...

In partnership with Vero Beach Magazine, Indian River Community Foundation’s President and CEO, Jeff Pickering, writes a monthly column called Indian River Insights. These articles explore the root causes of community needs, celebrate successes, analyze meaningful solutions, and offer insights into persistent challenges. In the November 2025...

Founded in 2006, Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) works to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems and the life that they sustain through innovative technologies, applied research science, education, and citizen science with particular emphasis on the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). Indian River Community Foundation recently awarded...

Indian River Community Foundation awarded grants totaling $235,000 to six nonprofit charitable organizations serving Indian River County. The grants were reviewed by a Grants Committee comprised of volunteers Suzanne Bertman, Pat Brier, and Dawn Michael. The grants were awarded from the Community Enrichment Fund and...