Here in Verandah, we are a community. And we know firsthand that sometimes life brings unexpected and uncontrollable challenges and disasters. They can be external events, like a house fire, a flood, or natural disaster; or they can come as a sudden, unexpected physical or financial hardship. You may remember that, after Hurricane Irma (2017) and Ian (2022), Verandah homeowners organized Verandah Strong and Go Fund Me campaigns to help our staff get back on their feet. Now, building on this legacy, an ongoing mechanism to support our employees during difficult times has been created – the Verandah Employee Emergency Relief Fund (VEERF). On February 2nd and the 24 th over one hundred homeowners gathered at the River House to learn about this new community initiative. The theme of these gatherings says it all: Supporting Our Own in Special Times of Need.
The VEERF is an ongoing fund to assist Verandah’s employees facing unexpected hardships. It originated from a group of nine Verandah homeowners that began their planning work in early 2025. It is now a Florida charitable, nonprofit organization and a 501(c)(3) entity recognized by the IRS. Gifts to the organization are tax deductible. (Tax ID: 33-5026434).
The VEERF Board of Directors has adopted a series of plans and policies for overseeing the fund’s operations. Members of the Board are its President Doug Van Nostran, Pete Biava, Craig Grayson, David Keeley, Frank Leopold, John Kilday, Wayne Morris, Johnny Nolan, Tim Saurs, Doug Van Nostran, and Bill Weller.
Who is Eligible to Apply and What Constitutes Emergency Relief?
Individuals that have worked for the Verandah Club or the Verandah Community Association (VCA) for at least one year are eligible to apply to the VEERF Board for assistance during times of extreme and unforeseen need. Examples of situations where assistance may be provided include natural disasters or emergencies (such as help with food, clothing, medical needs, or temporary shelter), urgent medical expenses resulting from sudden illness or injury, and serious personal or family hardships that impact an employee’s ability to work. The goal is simple: help our staff regain stability and get back on their feet.
Who Makes the Decision to Award Emergency Relief Funds?
Funding decisions are made by the VEERF Board of Directors. It works closely with Kolter Hospitality, Hampton Golf, and the Verandah Community Association to understand and evaluate staff requests
How will money be raised for the Fund?
The three primary sources of funds include corporate contributions, charity events like a golf tournament, and donations from homeowners. In January the VEERF Board had donated $35,000 and Verandah Club Manager Bill Weller has announced a generous $50,000 donation from Kolter Hospitality and Hampton Golf. Verandah homeowners may make one-time or ongoing donation. Everyone is encouraged to learn more about the Fund and to get involved. Members of the VEERF Board would be glad to speak with you.
Donations may be mailed to Verandah Employee Emergency Relief Fund, 11821 Palm Beach Blvd #126-297, Fort Myers Florida 33905
