Why we do it
1 in 5 children in Florida are living in poverty.
18% of children in Florida are without health insurance.
Over 49,000 children in Florida are victims of abuse and neglect.
Nearly 31% of women report to be sexually or physically abused by an intimate partner.
27% of custodial mothers and their children live in poverty.
How we started a decade ago....
The Royal Palms, a non-profit grassroots organization serving the needs of women and children in St. Lucie County, are back in action this year…with a reason to celebrate! 2012 marks the ten-year anniversary of its inception, all starting with just two women, an idea, and a living room. In 2002, Becky Springsteen and Sara Lloyd of Fort Pierce came together to discuss their passion for volunteering. Together they realized they would like to start a platform for young professionals in St. Lucie County to come together and create a sense of sisterhood while giving back to the community. They envisioned the organization to combine charity organizations they were familiar with, such as the Anchor Club at John Carroll High School, an organization for women that promotes volunteerism in St. Lucie County; a college sorority, which promotes philanthropy and sisterhood; and Junior League, another non-profit for women focusing on charity and building civic leadership.
The two devoted women started sending postcards to all their friends and acquaintances in St. Lucie County to join them for an informational meeting, with no name to the organization or a plan in mind. Roughly thirty women joined Becky and Sara in Sara’s home to discuss the goals and the mission of the group that would later be named, The Royal Palms. The idea blossomed in the community and the Royal Palms came to fruition under Becky and Sara’s lead throughout the next two years. In 2004, Jennie Capezza and Joy Yancy were appointed President and Vice President, respectively. Through their hard work and dedication, a structure was formed to the organization and signature fundraisers were established that are still popular today, such as Viva Las Vegas, pub crawls, and the Royal Palms ornament sale.
With just 2 women, an idea, and a living room, the Royal Palms have successfully raised more than $218,000 over the past ten years for abused, neglected, and impoverished women and children in St. Lucie County. “Over the years the organization has grown from a group of friends to a diverse group of women of all ages and walks of life, but the common denominator has remained the same …working together to make a positive impact in St. Lucie County
How can YOU help?
YOU! Can donate via our donate button anytime (to the right), any amount will be greatly appreciated. YOU can become a sponsor in our premiere event Viva Las Vegas, YOU can follow us on Facebook and come to our FUNd raising events such as pub crawls, 5k race, Kentucky Derby and any others... YOU can make a difference!
