MELISSA BONAROS

I’ve been a Florida resident  for over 12 years and was blessed to have met my husband here as well as being closer to my family who moved here before I did. My husband Paul and I have lived in Boca Raton since 2007 and have three beautiful  girls, Alexa, Julia and Gabriella as well as two adopted dogs. I am a wife, a mother, a Physical Therapist and a Health Coach. Despite having much of what I have dreamed of, I felt a void in my life. I was raised in a family where my parents and grandparents contributed to their community  by volunteering or being part of charitable organizations for as long as I can remember. It naturally instilled a sense of responsibility to give back to the community that gives us so much. Life gets busy as we all know but I was reminded of how important involvement in our community is as I watched my husband become very involved here in Boca Raton. I felt that I also needed to set my roots here and wanted my children to see both parents helping others just like I did growing up. I was so intrigued by the leadership at Place of Hope and the servant spirit that they put into helping children, which made it an easy decision to jump in and get involved. Not only can I be part of this amazing group but I get to set the example for my children at a young age. In fact, I try to involve my children as much as I can when appropriate. They understand what Place of Hope is about and we are growing with them as a family.

Why I Serve

Ultimately to help be a voice and advocate for those who are unable to speak up. Place of Hope is more than a roof over these children and young adults. It is a place for them to receive opportunity to do good for themselves and with the coaxing of the staff, therapists, leadership and volunteers they will allow us to guide them in such a way. I admire that we are teaching them vs just giving them material items.