News

Hibiscus Children’s Center Announces 2024-25 Board of Directors

Hibiscus Children’s Center (HCC), a non-profit that provides life-saving services to children and youth from across the State of Florida, announces the appointment of new board officers to its Board of Directors.

Beginning July 1, the new officers are: Michael LaPorta – Chairman, Nicholas Ferraro – Vice Chair, Tracey Dexter - Treasurer, Mike Harrell - Secretary, and Scott Roads - Past Chair.

For over 39 years, Hibiscus has never wavered from its mission to provide safe haven, mental health, preventative care and life skills for at-risk children and families. Hibiscus serves over 150 children annually in our residential programs and 1,800 children and families through our community outreach programs.

Incoming Board Chairman Michael LaPorta has supported Hibiscus since 2007 and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Hibiscus Board of Directors. He joined the Indian River Foundation Board in 2015 and became a member of the Board of Directors in 2017. He has also served on the Development and Performance Quality Improvement (PQI) Committees and as Chair of the Directorship Committee.

Michael LaPorta said, “I believe HCC is often the last best hope for children who have been dealt a terrible hand. At an early age, they have faced trauma, abuse and abandonment and deserve the community’s help to get their lives back on track. HCC plays a vital role in helping these children.”

Hibiscus recognizes returning members: Dan Braden, John Corbett, Beckett Horner, Esq., Deborah Kessler, Frank Noonan, Fernando Petry, DO, Joseph Trapani, Travis Walker, Esq., and Dave Wilson. The Board of Directors is comprised of individuals from the medical, business, and volunteer communities. The Board oversees the operations, overall management, and fiscal responsibilities of Hibiscus Children’s Center.

Under the guidance and leadership of its new board officers and directors, Hibiscus Children’s Center looks forward to continuing to fulfill its mission of saving children’s lives and making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families in our community.

About Hibiscus Children’s Center

Hibiscus is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing life-saving services to children and youth across the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee County since 1985. The mission of Hibiscus is to provide safe haven, mental health, preventative care and life skills.