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The Village of Pinecrest knows that the strength of a neighborhood relies on its collective generosity as residents champion one another through diverse local initiatives. From food security to educational mentorship, the community fosters a culture of “neighbors helping neighbors.”
Palmetto Pantry
Jake Lazar looked around his classroom and realized some of his fellow students at Palmetto Senior High were hungry. Instead of waiting for someone else to solve it, he and his mother, Beth, established the Panther Pantry.
This student-run initiative now ensures classmates facing food insecurity, homelessness, or unexpected hardships have a reliable place to turn. The pantry operates entirely on private donations and receives zero local or state funding.
Open Closet
Emily Rubin, a student at Miami Palmetto Senior High School, identified a critical need for professional attire among shelter residents and began collecting, sorting, and donating business-casual clothing to Miami-based organizations. She has donated thousands of items, including shoes and accessories, to shelters such as Lotus House, The Caring Place, and Camillus House. Residents can find her donation bins at the Pinecrest Community Center, Pinecrest Physical Therapy, and Palmetto High School.
PORCH Pinecrest
PORCH Pinecrest redefines the fight against childhood hunger through an innovative “porch-to-school” delivery model. Maryann Rio founded the PORCH Pinecrest chapter when she saw a critical gap in food access for children, particularly in South Dade.
Once a month on collection day, residents place non-perishable food donations on their front porches. Volunteers coordinate the pickup and, within two hours, transport the goods directly to participating schools. This direct approach ensures essential items reach students quickly while minimizing administrative overhead.
Rotary Club of Pinecrest
Led by President Robert Bull, the Rotary Club of Pinecrest functions as a cornerstone of local education. The club invests in the future through high school scholarships and annual backpack drives. They further cultivate academic excellence and character through their annual GRATITUDE writing contest.
Watch D.O.G.S
At the middle school level, the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) program at Howard Drive Middle School invites fathers and father-figures to volunteer their time on campus. By providing positive male role models and an extra set of eyes and ears, these volunteers enhance school security while building meaningful connections with students.
Get Involved
Residents looking to serve the community can find opportunities by visiting the village volunteer portal at https://www.pinecrest-fl.gov/Government/Human-Resources/Volunteer.
ABOUT US:
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