By Jacob Engels
Last week we sat down with Peter Vivaldi, project manager of Hope Now International. We are really digging this local non-profit, so take a look —
Who is Hope Now International?
The Hope Now International has been serving the Central Florida community for over a decade.
Our community outreach programs and youth initiatives are designed to help those in need. Our meaningful community initiatives and the creation of what has officially become the charitable collaborative that we call “Hope Now” could not have happened without the care, love and talent of many people and caring organizations.
What is the purpose of Hope Now International?
Hope now organizes the largest health fair in the State of Florida. Our motto is that we are giving the community a hand up not a hand out. Below is an example of how many families where served during our Back to School Bash held August 2012 in the Amway Center.
- 30,000 attendees
- 11,000 Children
- 11,000 Backpacks
- 1000 Immunizations
- 1000 Haircuts
- Hundreds of Vision screenings
- Hundreds of Dental Screenings
- 400 Volunteers
What is your involvement with Hope Now International?
As Project Manager I am involved in everything that happens prior and during the event; from fundraising to helping our CEO/Founder Michael Radka coordinated the work with hundreds of volunteers and dozens of sponsors. All our staff works on a volunteer basis which means every dollar donated to this event is used solely to fund this event 100%.
How is The Hope Now International Back to School Bash Funded?
The Back to School is funded by individual and corporate donations. This event has a yearly cost of over $130,000.00 but because of the generosity of many Central Florida supporters we have been successful in raising the funds necessary year after year.
What are the goals of Hope Now?
Due to the economic impact our country is facing our primary goal this year is to be able to find new donors that will help us meet the financial challenges we face in 2013. We are grateful for our corporate Supporters and Partners such as Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club, Pepsi, Starbucks, Bubba Burgers, Central Florida Family Health Centers, Orange Blossom Family Health Center, Community Health Centers, Paul Mitchell, Florida Kidcare, Blue Media, Florida Hospital, Full Sail, Orange County Public Schools, WFTV-9, 107.7fm, 89.1 La Estacion de la Familia, Z88.3 and many others have helped Hope Now make a lasting difference in the lives of the tens of thousands that we serve.
How has the response been so far? How can people get involved?
The response of our Central Florida community has been amazing; I believe we always come together to help the children. We MUST do everything possible to leave a legacy hoping that one day someone else will pay it forward.
If people would like to get involved they can contact us via our website: www.hopenowinternational.org or by pressing “LIKE” on our facebook page Hope Now International. We are always looking for good volunteers to help us out with the event or by simply making a donation to this great cause.
PS- If would like to have a community center, non profit, or charitable organization profiled like the one above, email us at info@eastorlandopost with their information.
Jacob Engels, is the Founder of East Orlando Post. Along with the Post, he owns several other businesses and is currently enrolled at Valencia College. Jacob has lived in Avalon Park since it’s founding and enjoys playing with his black Labradoodle Jasper, listening to indie rock, and seeking out new business ventures. He can be reached at info@eastorlandopost.com
