in the News
2024 Organization of the Year: Promise in Brevard
December 6, 2024
Individuals with disabilities often encounter obstacles when trying to find suitable support systems and secure housing opportunities. Challenges can stem from societal attitudes, physical barriers and limited access to resources.
Promise in Brevard, located in West Melbourne, was created to serve the needs of disabled adults in Brevard, providing housing, vocational training, and education opportunities in a residential community.
Promise houses 125 residents with special needs, ranging in ages from 19 to 60, in 52 apartments on acres of land, akin to a college campus. The average age for most residents is 30 and there is an extensive waiting list. Residents benefit from subsidized rents, which is crucial for their ability to stay in the community.
The program helps residents with transportation and finding gainful employment, with many residents working at the facility, Publix and other local corporations. Promise also provides life skills education, teaching adults about health, nutrition and cooking as well as fitness and art classes.
Accepting the award on behalf of Promise in Brevard was Jeff Kiel, the organization’s president and CEO.
“I came to this organization four-and-a-half years ago and have just been in awe,” Kiel said. “We couldn’t do it without an amazing group of employees, volunteers and our residents are amazing.”
