At the Fort Lauderdale Community Center (FLCC), we are dedicated to creating brighter futures for at-risk youth, families, and individuals living in underserved neighborhoods, particularly in the 33311 zip code within the Broward Municipal Service District (BMSD) of Unincorporated Broward County.

Through innovative programs and compassionate services, our mission is to break the cycle of ignorance, homelessness, and unemployment in disadvantaged communities.

Our Mission: Building a Path to Empowerment

We believe in a future where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive. Our mission is clear: to eliminate barriers such as ignorance, homelessness, and unemployment in the communities we serve, especially around the 33311 area. We are committed to helping individuals and families find stability, independence, and hope.

Helping Hands (HH): A Lifeline of Support

Since 2002, our Helping Hands (HH) initiative has touched the lives of over 10,000 at-risk youth, adults, families, and disabled Veterans. We provide essential services such as food, shelter, social support, and transportation. Through a network of dedicated partners, generous donors, and community grants, we maximize our resources to offer vital programs that address our clients’ daily challenges and long-term goals.

With your donation, we can ensure that a single individual, a family, or a disabled Veteran receives personalized support from a Case Manager. Our Case Managers assist with short-term goals like obtaining a bus pass, earning a GED, or completing a certification to enhance job opportunities. We also help with long-term aspirations, such as pursuing higher education, saving for a car, or making a down payment on a home.

Programs that Make a Difference

Through our programs, participants gain access to resources that help with food security, educational and vocational training, job placements, and support for utilities, rent, and transportation. We also offer guidance towards affordable housing and homeownership, providing a pathway to economic stability and independence.

The community we serve is primarily African American, with 95% of residents living below the poverty line. According to the United Way’s ALICE Report, a family of four in our area has an average annual income of less than $24,000. Many of our clients live within a 5-mile radius of the 33311 zip code, where the unemployment rate exceeds 64%, and 75% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch programs. Your support can make a real difference in reaching those who are most vulnerable, helping them find the resources they need to build stronger futures.

Adapting to Change: Serving Our Community Through COVID-19

Since the onset of COVID-19, we have adapted to continue our services safely and efficiently. Our assessment processes have been streamlined to include phone and WhatsApp consultations. To speak with a Case Manager, please call (754) 484-4229 or email us at helpinghands@flccenter.org, and someone from our team will respond within 24 hours.

Supporting Helping Hands: Budget Overview

To sustain these life-changing programs, we need your support. Our annual budget for the Helping Hands initiative includes:

– Case Managers PT: $32,000 

– Client Flex Funds:    $20,000 

– Outreach Activities:  $13,000 

– Total: $65,000 

Join Us in Making a Difference

Your generosity can help us continue to provide critical services and create lasting change. Together, we can strengthen our community, uplift our neighbors, and build a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Thank you for considering a donation or getting involved with FLCC!