On Thursday, June 13, 2024, six (6) employees from EverBank spent the morning volunteering at a home owned and operated by Options for Community Living, Inc. (Options). The project began a month earlier when employees from EverBank volunteered their time to build three new garden beds and clean out existing beds at the residential site.
Options provides safe and affordable housing for individuals and families in over 160 homes across Long Island. The individuals served by Options face chronic illnesses and disabilities and often come from challenging circumstances. Most are low-income and have a history of homelessness or have been at risk of homelessness. Through affordable supportive housing and connections to healthcare services, entitlements, and community resources, Options fosters stability, safety, independence, and improved health outcomes.
“The residents are always seeking new ways to stay active. These garden beds are a way for them to do that and allow them to be more social, develop new interests, and give them something to look forward to daily,” said Vanessa Smith, Program Supervisor. The volunteer group from EverBank returned to plant fruit, vegetables, and herbs, providing the residents with access to fresh and healthy food this season.
“We’re honored to work together and confident we can continue to build on this wonderful long-standing relationship we have started,” said Tori Pappas, AVP, Brand Partnerships at EverBank. “Our EverBank Builds program stands for a commitment to building the communities around us. EverBank associates nationwide come together with shared dedication and compassion to empower individuals of all ages to attain financial health and build generational equity.”
The EverBank Builds program is centered around three important missions: financial development, community development, and empowering people.
About Options for Community Living, Inc.
Established in 1982, Options for Community Living, Inc. operates residential programs for adults recovering from mental illness, care coordination services for adults and children with chronic health conditions, and housing and services for homeless people with disabilities and/or HIV/AIDS. Options’ mission to assist people to live independently and with dignity in the community has grown through the years to serve more than 2,200 adults and children annually. For more information, call 631.361.9020 or visit Options’ website at https://www.optionscl.org.