Rotary Club Supported the Vineyard Transitional Center with “Block by Block” Fundraiser

 Our Rotary Club recently supported fellow club member John Sanders and his nonprofit organization, The Vineyard Transitional Center, through a service project aimed at helping fund their new facility. The center was designed to serve up to 16 individuals recently released from the Clay County Jail, with the goal of reducing recidivism by providing support services and life skills training. As construction began to take shape, our club contributed to one of the most immediate needs—funding cinder blocks for the building’s foundation.

Each cinder block cost $3, and The Vineyard needed approximately 3,000 to complete the next phase of construction. As of January 2025, they had secured about 400 blocks, leaving a goal of 2,400 more to reach by the end of the month. While local organizations donated manpower for plumbing, electrical work, and more, fundraising efforts focused on purchasing materials—starting with the cinder blocks. Our club joined this grassroots effort, helping to fund the project one block at a time and demonstrating how small donations could come together to make a big difference.

The new facility was being built just south of the Clay County Jail on Pine Avenue, replacing the old building that had been demolished in 2022. Community leaders and fellow Rotarians such as Sheriff Michelle Cook, Teresa Scott, Katie Vineyard, Nancy Keating, and Joseph Smith were instrumental in bringing the project to life. The Vineyard’s vision was powered by generosity and collaboration, and we were proud to play a part in building a brighter future—block by block.

Progress Pictures: January 2025 – Present

 For more information, please email: 
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