Changing Homelessness marks 50th anniversary with Sneaker Ball

Changing Homelessness celebrated its 50th Anniversary June 20 with a “Home for All Sneaker Ball” that raised $225,000 for the organization’s services for those experiencing homelessness.

Hosted by NFL Hall of Fame member LeRoy Butler, the gala saw guests including Mayor Donna Deegan and former Sheriff Nat Glover don everything from evening gowns and tuxedos to track suits with their favorite sneakers. The evening also served as an anniversary celebration for the organization, which was founded in 1974 by a group of local ministers and residents to help Jacksonville’s homeless. Today, Changing Homelessness is the lead agency for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Continuum of Care grant, providing training for 40 member agencies that serve residents in need.