iTHINK Community Foundation surprises Vero Beach family with fully furnished Habitat home

A Vero Beach family received more than the keys to a new home this week. They received a life-changing surprise.

Through the efforts of Indian River Habitat for Humanity, house sponsor Jetsons, and build sponsor Realtors Association of Indian River County, the family achieved the dream of homeownership. To help them begin this new chapter, the iTHINK Community Foundation, transformed the newly constructed house into a fully furnished and personalized home through its “Building Up” initiative.

The surprise was revealed on June 3 at the family's new home in Vero Beach. While the family knew they had achieved homeownership through Habitat for Humanity's program, they had no idea that the iTHINK Community Foundation had fully furnished and decorated the interior.

As the family entered their home for the first time, they were met with a surprise around every corner. The living room was fully furnished, the kitchen was stocked with cookware, dishes, and household essentials, and each child's bedroom had been thoughtfully designed to reflect their unique interests and personality. From superhero-themed rooms for the boys to a fairytale-inspired space for their young daughter, every detail was intended to make the family's new house feel like home from the moment they walked through the door.

"Homeownership is about more than having a roof over your head—it's about creating a place where families can build memories, find stability, and thrive," said Stephen Johnson, AVP Administration & Marketing at iTHINK Financial. "Through our ‘Building Up’ initiative, we created a home that was ready for the family to enjoy from day one. Seeing their reaction made every effort worthwhile."

iTHINK Community Foundation’s “Building Up” initiative is designed to support local families as they begin their homeownership journey by providing furnishings, household necessities, and touches that help turn a house into a home. Prior to the reveal, iTHINK Financial employees volunteered to furnish, decorate, and personalize every room in the home.

The “Building Up” initiative reflects iTHINK Community Foundation's ongoing commitment to improving the lives of children and families throughout the communities it serves. By partnering with organizations such as Indian River Habitat for Humanity, the Foundation helps create opportunities that strengthen families and build brighter futures.

For more information about iTHINK Community Foundation, visit ithinkfi.org/community/foundation.