“There is no greater satisfaction than to help those who cannot always help themselves. We are so proud to be a part of this opportunity to bring awareness to the community about Helping People Succeed and its mission toward helping young and old to achieve their goals of independence and a contribution to their community,” said Rich and Yvonne Ross.

Ross served on the board of trustees for the Helping People Succeed Foundation for 12 years. He is the owner of Ross Mixing a worldwide company with a location in Port St. Lucie and owns Seminole Wind Farms in Palm City where he raises Paso Fino horses.

Helping People Succeed President/CEO Suzy Hutcheson thanked the Ross Charitable Foundation and the community for surpassing the goal and demonstrating support of the many programs Helping People Succeed brings to the community and its 4,500 families who are served. “This much needed funding could not have come at a better time. We are forever thankful for this philanthropic endeavor. This is a great start to 2014 as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary in March.” said Hutcheson.

Among the many programs provided by Helping People Succeed are Employment Options and Community Connections for adults with disabilities, Baby Steps, Healthy Families and Music and Movement classes for families and Behavioral Health Services for children of all ages for counseling. Helping People Succeed recently coordinated after-school programs for students with autism spectrum disorders, including yoga classes, art therapy, parental counseling and more.

For additional information on Helping People Succeed programs or to provide a donation, contact Glenna Parris at 772.320.0778. Helping People Succeed kicked off its programs in 1964 in Stuart and has grown to serving families in St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River and Duval counties.