Indian River County on Florida’s Treasure Coast exemplifies the spirit of giving at its core. With a remarkable count of 190 charities and nonprofit organizations, the region undeniably showcases its caring nature. Education foundations and healthcare organizations are among the array, underlining Vero Beach’s commitment to aiding its residents. Noteworthy are the Members at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club, embodying the call to make individual and purpose-filled contributions that we take great pride in. Witness firsthand how our unwavering support for these nonprofits contributes to forging a brighter future for countless individuals.
Photo Caption: 2022 Orchid Island Toy Drive for Operation Hope
A Hands-On Approach
Indian River County is home to nonprofit organizations that leave a lasting impact on the community. Habitat for Humanity works both locally and globally to provide secure housing for all. The Learning Alliance is dedicated to enhancing education standards, aiming for 90% of students that read proficiently by third grade. Volunteers provide professional development for teachers, after school learning opportunities, and parental support for parents of young children. The Gifford Youth Orchestra brings enrichment to children’s lives through music and cultural arts education. Operation Hope’s volunteers coordinate weekly distributions of food, clothing, and household items to families in need. They also arrange school supplies, Thanksgiving baskets, and Christmas toy drives to ensure families can celebrate the joy of every season. Orchid Island Members take a hands-on approach to support these nonprofits through volunteering, organizing donation drives, and raising funds for their missions.
Photo Caption: Orchid Island Director of Golf David Champagne pictured far right with Matthew Challoner, A.J. Petrelak, and Bella Nagy at the 2023 Annual Golf-A-Thon. Photo courtesy of Joshua Kodis.
Orchid Island Events Support Worthy Causes
Orchid Island is also the host of numerous charitable events each year, channeling all funds raised to support the charity of choice. The Annual 5K Walk/Run is dedicated to benefitting a different charity each year. In July, the event rallied support for the Senior Resource Association’s Meals on Wheels program, raising $23,000. Thanks to the generosity of 74 race participants and 100 sponsors, this sum will directly fund daily hot meals and wellness checks for homebound local seniors. Another standout event, the Visiting Nurse Association’s Annual Golf-A-Thon, sees the county’s finest golf club pros compete at a local club. This year’s event on May 1st featured thirteen golf pros, including Director of Golf David Champagne, playing at Indian River Club. The event raised over $500,000 for the VNA, the sole hospice provider in Indian River County, ensuring compassionate end-of-life care and support for patients and their families.
Photo Caption: Orchid Member Maureen Baus with the 2023 Orchid Outreach scholarship recipients.
Changing 117 Lives One Scholarship at a Time
The spirit of giving extends to educational opportunities as well through the Orchid Outreach program. This Member-run organization offers valuable educational scholarships to deserving individuals and students within the community. Beneficiaries include first responders of Indian River County and their families, promising students from throughout Indian River County and Orchid Island’s employees and their families. Orchid Outreach has supported over 117 scholars with financial assistance, covering college tuition, books, and supplies. This year alone, 23 students are receiving the funds they need to pursue higher education, opening doors that a young person might never have dreamed possible.
Photo Caption: Orchid Island Member Dr. Fredy Delacruz at his Fellsmere Volunteer Medical Clinic. Photo courtesy of Sam Wolfe.
Founding the Fellsmere Volunteer Medical Clinic
Despite retiring in 2006, Orchid Island Member Dr. Fredy Delacruz was not finished helping the local community. In July 2022, he opened the Fellsmere Volunteer Medical Clinic to serve uninsured residents ages 18 to 64. The clinic offers essential medical care to low-income individuals in the surrounding area, with two exam rooms, a waiting area, and a private office. A part-time nurse and appointment secretary volunteer their time as well to support the clinic’s operations. His commitment to serving the community extends beyond Fellsmere, as he also operates a similar clinic in Palm Bay and volunteers with Space Coast Volunteers in Medicine. The clinic stands as a testament to Member’s compassion to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need.
It All Begins on the Barrier Island
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River, Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club enjoys a beautiful natural barrier island setting that is second to none. Pristine waterside environments and world-class club amenities converge with a welcoming culture to create an exceptional private golf and beach club lifestyle. The Arnold Palmer-designed golf course and the golf clubhouse are the beloved social centerpiece of the community. The West Indies-style Beach Club is home to a resort-style pool, oceanfront dining and a private spa. A separate state-of-the-art fitness center and adjoining racquet club offer eight Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a wide array of wellness programming.
Beautiful Homes on the Golf Course, the Riverfront or Oceanside
Each of Orchid Island’s 375 residences is set amongst Florida’s natural beauty. With many homes located directly on the water or overlooking Orchid Island’s championship golf course, each home features West Indies architectural designs, panoramic natural vistas, and the secluded privacy of living in a gated oceanfront golf community. Luxurious oceanfront condominiums and oceanfront estates are spacious and bright with open Atlantic Ocean views. A wide array of single-family riverfront estates offer open Indian River views and many feature private docks. Golf course homes and cottages are tucked away on private cul-de-sacs and winding streets to maintain open views of the lush fairways and sparkling lakes of its distinctive Arnold Palmer course.
With demand for this highly sought-after community at an all-time high, a waiting list for new inventory has become the norm at Orchid Island. To stay updated as new real estate listings become available register at OrchidIslandFL.com. A complimentary copy of the Orchid Island Magazine is available online, showcasing the surrounding area and lifestyle of the community. Call 772.388.3888 for more information or to schedule a private community club tour.
