“All the believers were one in mind and heart. Selfishness was not a part of their community, for they shared everything they had with one another.”
Founders
-Kenneth & Madalyn Alvarez
Our work in Sanford began in 2006. Every Tuesday night we provided low-income families and those experiencing homelessness with basic necessities. We also helped our new friends get proper identification and prepare for job interviews. As we continued to see the effects of poverty on men, children, and single mothers, we realized that it would take more than a part-time role to transform lives in our city. It became clear we needed to invest more time in the community to see real life change and transformation.
In 2014 we joined Cru Inner City as full-time missionary staff. We partnered with local churches and other city-minded organizations to bring hope, seek justice, and change our community. These experiences were the foundation for ACT to ACT to be created in 2017.
Today, ACT to ACT uses a relational approach to address the root issues plaguing our city, not just the symptoms. We help others move past their circumstances through guidance and education.
Board Members
Nora Rios
Treasurer
Christopher LaBonte
Director
Hiroko Heyliger-Vargas
Secretary
Melissa (Misa) Mills
Director
Dawn Chubb-Sipley
Born and raised in Central Florida, Dawn is a 3rd generation Floridan. She married her prom date Jason Sipley and have 2 children. Dawn has worked diligently with Link Staffing Services for nearly 12 years going from part-time recruiter to minority owner.
Chris Labonte
Chris has been married for 27 years to his beautiful wife, Laura. Chris and Laura have 5 children together and love playing in the great outdoors. Chris is also passionate about helping the central Florida community to be the best place for all to enjoy.
Melissa (MIsa) Mills
Misa is the Manager of Community Involvement for Seminole County Public Schools. Interest include a passion for volunteerism and community outreach. Misa was recently awarded the Florida Adel Graham Award for her support of volunteer and community partnerships.
Nora Rios
Nora has a love for people, which leads to giving back to her community. As a Real Estate Professional with Berkshire Hathaway, Nora helps families achieve their dreams. "I am honored to be part of Act to ACT's mission in the Sanford community."
Since our start in 2017, A2a has collaborated with the following government and non-profit agencies to help families in crisis:
Schools Served
Pinecrest Elementary,
Layer Elementary
Heathrow Elementary
Hamilton Elementary
Idyllwilde Elementary
Bentley Elementary
Seminole High School
Winter Springs High School
Seminole County Community Assistance Division - Rapid Rehousing Program
Seminole County Housing Authority - Public Housing Program
Rescue Outreach Mission - Emergency Shelter
Seminole County Public Schools - Families In Need Program
Act to ACT has also led educational workshops to increase public awareness about human trafficking-an area of risk for children that are experiencing homelessness. To date, we’ve worked with Seminole County Council PTA (SCCPTA), Westside Community Center, and Journeys Academy.
OUR PARTNERS
