Foodies Care to Honor Jacksonville Volunteers with Legacy of Leaders Awards

Foodies Care, a Jacksonville-based nonprofit committed to addressing hunger and homelessness, is preparing to celebrate the contributions of 12 local volunteers at the Legacy of Leaders Awards Ceremony. Scheduled for July 30 at the Jacksonville Golf and Country Club, the event not only honors these individuals but also awards each of their associated nonprofits a $1,500 stipend, contributing to over $115,000 in donations and marketing grants aimed at bolstering their missions.

The ceremony introduces a series of food-centric fundraising events organized by Foodies Care, designed to engage the community in supporting vital causes. These include Bourbon & Smoke, Irish Tap & Table, and Strike Out Homelessness, among others, offering unique experiences that combine enjoyment with philanthropy for a monthly contribution of $25.

Founded by Mike White in 2014, Foodies Care has grown from a musical production highlighting homelessness to a significant supporter of local nonprofits like Feeding Northeast Florida and Mission House. The organization's president, Anne Ackerson, emphasizes the dual purpose of their events: to entertain while fostering meaningful change. The Legacy of Leaders Awards, with categories such as the Gary Chartrand Lifetime Service Award and the Barbara Westrick Heart of Service Award, underscores the nonprofit's commitment to recognizing and amplifying the efforts of those making a difference in Northeast Florida.

This initiative not only celebrates individual achievements but also strengthens the capacity of nonprofits to serve their communities, showcasing the power of collective action in tackling pressing social issues.