Childcare Resources Named Recipient of Record Gift from Orchid Island Family 5K Walk & Run

Childcare Resources received a $35,000 gift in support of its Transforming Tomorrow capital campaign. Pictured (left to right): Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club General Manager Rob Tench; Childcare Resources Director of Outreach Monica Cheslak; John Hendricks; Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club Fitness Director JohnMark Jenkins; Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman; Director of Philanthropy Ashley Marshall; and Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club Fitness Committee Chairman Timothy McWilliams.

Community spirit was on full display at Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club’s 24th Annual Family 5K Walk & Run, where Childcare Resources of Indian River was named this year’s charitable beneficiary.

Pictured at the Annual Family 5K Walk & Run (left to right): Orchid Island General Manager Rob Tench; Childcare Resources directors Monica Cheslak, Tara Beard, and Tracey Griffis; Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman; Childcare Resources director Michele Harr; and Orchid Island Fitness Director JohnMark Jenkins.

More than 185 participants, including members, their families and guests, and Childcare Resources staff, took part in the April 3 event, enjoying a scenic course, breakfast, and awards ceremony. In total, more than 120 members contributed through sponsorships and donations, helping to raise a record $35,000.

This year’s proceeds will directly support Childcare Resources’ Transforming Tomorrow Capital Campaign, funding the organization’s new downtown campus of early childhood excellence. The investment will expand access to high-quality early learning, strengthen wellness and early intervention services, and create new opportunities for educator training and support across Indian River County.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Orchid Island community for their belief in our mission,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “This support is an investment in our future campus and in the children, families, and educators we serve. It allows us to meet the growing needs in our community by offering the resources, support, and early learning families depend on.”

Afterward, Orchid Island General Manager Rob Tench, Fitness Director JohnMark Jenkins, and Fitness Committee Chairman Timothy McWilliams presented a check to Childcare Resources. 

“Seeing more members and families come together—both as participants and sponsors— to raise $35,000 for Childcare Resources speaks volumes about the heart of our Orchid Island community,” said Jenkins. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Orchid team that promotes and organizes an event that directly supports children and families throughout Indian River County.”