Brightline, the only provider of modern, eco-friendly, high-speed rail in America, is celebrating World Car-Free Day by joining forces with one of the nation’s most recognizable non-profits, Habitat for Humanity. For the first time, Brightline and Habitat for Humanity affiliates in South Florida are inviting drivers to donate their vehicles to become eligible for a year of free rail travel on Brightline. In partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Broward, Greater Miami, Palm Beach County, and South Palm Beach County, Brightline will offer a free 2022 annual pass to any individual who donates a vehicle to Habitat’s Cars for Homes program between September 22 and December 31, 2021. Those who want to participate in the Brightline-Habitat World Car Free Day free travel pass promotion can learn more here. 

Every year on September 22nd, cities across the globe celebrate World Car-Free Day, encouraging motorists to give up their cars for a day. The event highlights the numerous benefits of going car-free to citizens—including reduced air pollution and the health benefits of walking and cycling in a safer environment. Habitat for Humanity’s Cars for Homes program takes this even further. All year long, Habitat accepts donations of vehicles from across the U.S. and dedicates the proceeds from their sale to help Habitat homeowners build strength, stability and self-reliance for their families.

“At its core, Brightline is about building a sustainable community,” said Patrick Goddard, president of Brightline. “We want to lead the change in modern rail travel while advocating for strong and self-reliant communities. Our partnership with the affiliates of Habitat for Humanity in South Florida to promote car donations symbolizes this endeavour and we are excited to be working together to achieve the greater purpose of helping those in need. We can’t wait to welcome riders back this November, including some who will be riding for free with this offer.”

Through Habitat for Humanity’s Cars for Homes program, individuals can donate a car, truck or other motor vehicle and proceeds from its sale will be distributed to one of the four participating local Habitat for Humanity affiliates, benefitting the donor’s community.  For donors, gifting a vehicle to Cars for Homes is fast, easy and free of charge. For local Habitat affiliates, the monthly receipt of funding can be used to help build new construction or to fund critical repairs, including after natural disasters.

“Cars for Homes provides a great opportunity to turn unwanted vehicles into affordable housing for our community,” said Nancy Robin, CEO and executive director of Habitat Broward. “We couldn’t be more excited to partner with Brightline, which is investing in our community in both a socially and environmentally responsible way.”

“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Brightline through this wonderful program,” said Mario Artecona, chief executive officer at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Miami. “A thriving community relies on affordable homeownership and strong transportation options. This relationship highlights both. We are most grateful to Brightline for focusing on Habitat’s mission of providing affordable home-ownership opportunities to South Florida’s working families.” 

On August 10, Brightline announced plans to resume service in the first half of November between Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. Brightline also announced multiple service enhancements and investments, including the introduction of its new mobility as a service platform that will address guests’ first and last-mile connections.

 For more information, visit www.gobrightline.com.

By Rachel Galvin

It was a beautiful day in Deerfield Beach for Jr. Angler’s Day on Saturday, Sept. 18. Kids and their parents lined the International Fishing Pier in hopes to catch the big one… and then throw it back; and, boy, were the fish being caught everywhere you looked! This event is always a treasured moment as kids reel in their line and pull their catch out of the water with big smiles on their faces. It makes a perfect photo opp (See photos on The Observer Facebook). Kids could get bait a fishing pole and more swag. There were also other booths, including arts & crafts and ice cream. There also was a coastal cleanup.

Broward Health North is hosting the Community Relations Council Meeting on Monday, September 27 from 8 to 9 a.m. in the conference center. It includes breakfast, speakers and networking.

By Rachel Galvin

On September 11, Zion Lutheran was the site of a Community Health & Wellness Fair. Tents took over the parking lot filled with plenty of health information and other information on everything from children’s services to Hospice care. The Kiwanis Club and their Key Club was there as well. Mayor Bill Ganz and Commissioner Drosky were among those in attendance at the opening ceremony as the event began. 

The event was held in memory of Alexis J. Marion, who took her life in February 2020. Her parents, Mari and Michael were at the fair. Mari said that when Alexis was struggling, the city and Broward Sheriff’s Office were there for them, something for which she is very thankful, but she found that certain other mental health organizations and services were not. That is something that they continue to bring up — the need for there to be services available when needed. “When kids need help, show up,” she said. “All kids just want to be heard.” She said they wanted to make sure this never happens to another family. 

That is a reason they support Deerfield Beach Community Cares. Executive Director of the group, Joel Smith, said his goal to be at events like this one is to listen to the community and determine what the people’s needs are and how he can match providers with those who need the services. He had people fill out a survey asking what types of programs they would like to see and how they handle situations like stress in their life.

See photos on the Observer Newspaper Online Facebook page.