About Us

History of the Florida Association of Volunteer Centers (FAVC)

The Florida Association of Volunteer Centers, Inc. (FAVC) was formed in July 1983, and the Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Florida Secretary of State on November 29, 1983. The first president was Judy Merritt from Volunteer Pensacola. There were 12 original members of the board of directors representing Centers from the following communities: Ft. Lauderdale, St. Petersburg, Jacksonville, Gainesville, Ocala, Pensacola, Daytona Beach, Tallahassee, Cape Coral, Sarasota, Orlando and Tampa.

The purpose of the organization, as stated in the Articles, was:

1. To strengthen and increase the growth of volunteerism in Florida
2. To provide a network of support and professional development among directors of Volunteer Centers in Florida
3. To conduct educational training programs
4. To dispense all funds exclusively for charitable or educational purposes

The formation of FAVC some 22 years ago was visionary on the part of those 12 directors. As a result of our long history and strong membership, we have one of the strongest state associations in the country. The names of the players may have changed over time, but the dedication toward volunteerism in the state of Florida has remained a constant.

Betty Tribble
FAVC member since 1986