Veterans in Focus (VIF)

This project trains veterans in photography, videography, and film. Building the project into a self-sustaining business that can be transitioned to veteran ownership is the ultimate goal.  Hence, FLVCS has contracted with VIF to video their meetings and on other projects which will provide training for the Veterans in Focus team. In addition, VIF completed video projects for several non-profits with more projects underway.

The model for VIF is Green Path Veterans Farm, an urban farm project started by FLVCS Fund that FLVCS built into a self-sustaining business. Consequently, in 2019, Green Path Veterans Farm was transferred to an independent non-profit charity, Operation Eco Vets.

If your non-profit or business can use the services of Veterans in Focus, please contact VIF Project Director, Dave Taylor, vetsinfocus@gmail.com.

Vets Village

This project is addressing homeless veterans’ greatest need, housing. As a first step, the team will be raising the funds to rent housing for a homeless veteran. Further, the team is investigating building a residential complex to house homeless vets. Providing housing while making other needed social services available through community partners, such as, Harvest House and Jewish Family and Community Services is the goal.

Veterans Reforestation Project

In partnership with the Rotary Club of Sarasota Bay, FLVCS Fund started a project to provide training and materials to veterans to launch and build an Urban Resilience company. A self-sufficient veteran-owned and operated company is the goal. The company will install trees and related landscape features to protect Sarasota against flooding, red tide, and hurricane wind damage. Furthermore, the tree and landscaping will sequester carbon to combat climate change. Project Co-Director, Professor Charles Reith, has extensive experience with horticulture and design. Moreover, he has expertise in developing resilient urban landscapes, as well as, marketing a new business in the landscape space.