CLEARWATER, Fla., Aug. 06, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Charity Coalition hosted its seventh networking luncheon in the historic Fort Harrison, uniting 118 humanitarian representatives of 60 organizations in the name of social betterment.
Jennifer Webb, Community Affairs Director for the Church of Scientology, welcomed guests who represented 60 diverse organizations, amongst them: Citizens Alliance for Progress, Friends of Joshua House, Clearwater Audobon Society, the Florida Orchestra, Suncoast Hospice Foundation, Selah Freedom and Juvenile Welfare Board.
Ms. Webb welcomed guests and gave a video presentation of the Church’s seven new facilities in the heart of Clearwater, each dedicated to humanitarian initiatives that curb human rights violations, drug abuse, crime and social unrest.
Mark Sharmen, former district executive of the Florida West Coast Boys Scouts Council, gave a 10-minute presentation on the structure of the Boy Scouts and its impact on the participating youth. Mr. Sharman referenced the Church’s founder, L. Ron Hubbard, and his accomplishment as the nation’s youngest Eagle Scout as an example of world leaders who grew up in the Scout program.
Another guest speaker was Emily Benham, CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Center of Tampa Bay (NLC), who gave a short talk on how the NLC assists nonprofit organizations to succeed with their consulting and training programs. Mrs. Benham introduced the educational speaker, Ms. Michelle Turman, Chief Consultant from Catalyst Consulting Services, who presented tips on management of board members and volunteers, which was well received by attendees.
The luncheon was followed with tours of the Church’s new humanitarian program centers.
Ms. Webb announced that the next Charity Coalition will be a Gala in celebration of the Coalition’s one-year anniversary, scheduled for September 30th in the Fort Harrison Auditorium.
The Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization
The Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization is the international religious retreat for Scientologists from all over the world. This Clearwater Church makes its historic Fort Harrison available free of charge to non-profit organizations to hold community events and supports area non-profits. Scientology’s founder, L. Ron Hubbard serves as the example for the Church’s humanitarian efforts. Mr. Hubbard once said, “A community that pulls together can make a better society for all.”