Our History
From Humble Beginnings to Meaningful Impact
The Birth of a Vision: In 2017, Devin Pappas gathered a group of friends with a shared passion for helping those in need within their community. This initiative led to the formation of the Denim and Diamonds Committee, a group dedicated to addressing the critical needs of individuals and families facing hardship.
Growth and Expansion: The initial success and positive community response encouraged the committee to expand its efforts. With a focus on fundraising and community engagement, the organization grew, attracting more volunteers, partners, and supporters. This growth allowed for greater impact and the ability to support a wider range of charitable causes.
Key Milestones
2018-2019
The organization hosted its first major fundraising events, raising significant funds for local charities and increasing community awareness.
2020
Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, the organization adapted and continued its mission, providing critical support to those affected by the crisis.
2021-2022
Expansion of programs and partnerships with new organizations, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of their efforts.
Making a Lasting Impact: Today, Raising Relief continues to embody the spirit of its founders, committed to making a tangible difference in the community. Through collaborative efforts, innovative fundraising, and a dedicated team, the organization has made a lasting impact on countless lives.
Looking Ahead: The future holds exciting opportunities for further growth and impact. Raising Relief is dedicated to evolving its programs, expanding its reach, and continuing to support those in need with unwavering commitment and compassion.
Causes We Support
Homelessness: Raising Relief has been at the forefront of combating homelessness, providing essential resources such as shelter, food, and support services to individuals and families in need. Our initiatives aim to offer not just immediate relief but also long-term solutions to help people regain stability and independence.
Families of the Green Berets: We proudly support the families of Green Berets, offering financial assistance, counseling, and community support. Our programs are designed to honor their service and sacrifice, ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve.
Trafficked Teen Girls: Dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating trafficked teen girls, Raising Relief provides safe housing, therapy, education, and vocational training. Our comprehensive approach helps survivors rebuild their lives and find hope for the future.
Local Food Banks: Our partnership with local food banks ensures that families in our community have access to nutritious meals. We organize food drives, volunteer support, and funding to help stock shelves and feed those in need.
Animal Welfare: Committed to the welfare of animals, we support shelters and rescue organizations. Our efforts include funding for medical care, adoption programs, and educational campaigns to promote responsible pet ownership and animal rights.
Hurricane Ian Survivors: In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Raising Relief played a critical role in disaster response and recovery. We provided emergency supplies, temporary housing, and financial assistance to help survivors rebuild their lives and communities.
Scholarships for Teens: We believe in the power of education. Our scholarship programs provide financial support to teens, enabling them to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams despite financial hardships.
Neurodiversity Students: Supporting neurodiversity, we offer specialized programs and resources for students with neurological differences. Our initiatives aim to create inclusive educational environments where all students can thrive.
Pediatrics Lupus Awareness: Raising awareness and funding for pediatric lupus, we support research and provide resources for affected families. Our goal is to improve diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for children with lupus.
Crisis Therapy for Sexual Abuse: Providing crisis therapy for sexual abuse survivors, we offer immediate and ongoing psychological support. Our programs include counseling, support groups, and resources to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
Foster Charities: We support foster children and families through various programs, including financial aid, educational resources, and mentorship. Our efforts aim to improve the lives of children in the foster care system and support their transition to permanent homes.
Summer Camps for Children: Our summer camps provide a safe and fun environment for children to learn, play, and grow. We offer a range of activities designed to foster creativity, teamwork, and personal development.
Entrepreneur Academy for Young Women: Empowering young women through entrepreneurship, our academy offers training, mentorship, and resources to help them start and grow their own businesses. We believe in nurturing the next generation of female leaders.
Survivors and Their Children of Domestic Violence: Supporting survivors of domestic violence and their children, we provide safe housing, counseling, and legal assistance. Our programs help families escape abusive situations and rebuild their lives.
Holiday Help with Children and Seniors: During the holiday season, Raising Relief spreads joy by providing gifts, meals, and companionship to children and seniors in need. Our holiday programs aim to create a sense of community and belonging.
Court Assistance for Children and Abuse Survivors: We offer legal assistance and advocacy for children and abuse survivors, ensuring they receive the protection and justice they deserve. Our support includes court accompaniment, legal representation, and counseling.
Social Events for Adults with Disabilities: Creating inclusive social opportunities, we organize events and activities for adults with disabilities. Our programs promote socialization, skill-building, and community integration.
How Raising Relief works
We raise money through our Denim and Diamonds Gala to support other local non-profit organizations to fill in the gaps to better serve our community’s needs or directly help individuals or families in a crisis.
Some recent highlights from our work:
* Assisting Foster Angels in supporting foster children.
* Partnering with Hero to a Child to provide support for foster children.
* Sending a student from Florida Sheriff Youth Ranch to the Rose Bowl for Seminole High School.
* Providing fresh produce for 100 senior citizens through Save Our Seniors.
* Organizing a community outreach food drive and collected over 300 lbs. of food for providing financial support to help fill hungry kids’ tummies through Kind Mouse.
* Supporting suicide counseling and awareness through Remember Me.
* Providing domestic violence and sexual abuse therapy through Heels to Heal.
* Volunteering and financially supporting Help Us Gather which provides several social events for adults with special needs.
* Aiding in the restoration of history and arts through CPPAC Arts for the Hearts and the Clearwater Historical Society through financial support and donations.
* Continuously supporting teen survivors of human trafficking through Top Buttons and Bridging.