The Community Foundation for Brevard Board of Directors bestowed its annual award, The Philanthropist, to John K. Roach of Indialantic at a special luncheon held on December 10th at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club.
The Philanthropist award recognizes Brevard residents who have a demonstrated record of outstanding civic and community impact through exemplary leadership, financial support, and volunteerism.
“John’s impact has been exponential,” began President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Brevard, Theresa Grimison. “His gifts of time, talent and treasure have truly activated the flywheel, ensuring a better shared story for all of us now, and brighter futures for generations to come. He is The Philanthropist 2025.”
With his family, John Roach moved to Brevard in 1973 when he joined Harris Corporation. Over the years, he and his late wife Judy became highly engaged in the community, active and generous with many different organizations, particularly those in the spheres of arts and culture, education, health and basic needs.
In 2015, John stepped in to advise the couple’s donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation. While continuing to contribute directly to his favorite charities, he also designated funding to effective, thoroughly vetted local nonprofit organizations through the Foundation’s annual Competitive Grants-Brevard program and other strategic initiatives. His investments have seeded innovative programs and strengthened anchor institutions for three decades. The list includes over 56 groups in Brevard, including Club Esteem, Daily Bread/Providence Connects, Links of Hope, Brevard Women’s Center, Rolling Readers of the Space Coast, Ways for Life Brevard, Brevard Schools Foundation, and many more.
“All matter and energy are fundamentally connected, so creating a better community requires us to know each other and work together,” said John Roach. “Starting with Health First Foundation and partnering with the Community Foundation, I have really enjoyed the journey. Through our conversations, process and data, I know I’m giving to the most critical causes and to organizations who will use it well.”
