Note from the Director

This building represents more than history — it represents the grit, vision and community spirit that built Indian River County. The Heritage Center was Vero’s first community building, and 90 years later it is still serving that same purpose because of you. It is not government funding or outside forces that keep these doors open — it is this community.

As we prepare to celebrate a new generation of pioneer family leaders on April 11th, I invite you to join us not only as a guest, but as a sponsor. Sponsorship opportunities for Deeply Rooted are still available, and your support directly sustains this historic landmark and the programs that keep our shared story alive.

Thank you for standing with us and ensuring that Vero’s first community gathering place continues to serve generations to come.

The Heritage Center went into a sort of frenzy on January 28th when we got a call from the Governor’s office asking if he and his team could use the building for a press conference regarding the State's America 250 Celebration two days later, on January 30th. 

They were looking for a site that is historic with a patriotic history. Vero's original community building and WWII NAS Vero Beach Servicemen's Center fit the bill.

Naturally, we agreed! 

Still, we asked around and no one in town seemed aware of the visit. Was this a prank, we wondered?

Nope. Thursday night, we were asked to meet the forward team for security planning and setup.

On Friday morning, The Heritage Center was swarming with IRCSO, VBPD, state agents, SUVs, and the governor’s tactical and planning team. 

After sampling some Indian River grapefruit and orange juice in the museum, the governor walked into an excited and full house of community member and press to thundering applause. 

His visit was expressly to kick off the state’s year-long celebration of the country’s semi-quincentennial. The governor’s team chose The Heritage Center because of its historic and patriotic importance as a Serviceman's Center during WWII and long history of serving as a community gathering place.

The Heritage Center is listed on the National Register of Historic places. County Commissioner Laura Moss was quoted by a local news outlet as saying “I’m glad we celebrated here in this building.”

So are we.

(Images provided by local news outlets)

VERO HERITAGE BOARD PRESIDENT TO BE INDUCTED INTO FLORIDA CITRUS HALL OF FAME

Deeply Rooted Next Generation Gala to be Held April 11th

Get you tickets now for the soon-to-be sold out Deeply Rooted gala at the Heritage Center on April 11.

This year, the board of directors will celebrate 23 young people in the county who are still operating their pioneer families’ businesses or civic endeavors. In Indian River County, a pioneer is someone in residence here before 1925.



These 23 young people are all outstanding in their particular fields and fiercely loyal to their forebears and to Indian River County.  It is significant that half of them are actively pursuing agriculture as their career.

Dan Richey will engage with five selected young pioneers in a provocative conversation about various issues in the county.  Our own property appraiser, Wesley Davis, will orchestrate our live auction. There will be an open bar, al fresco dining provided by Wild Thyme, and plenty of good old camaraderie.

March Historic Downtown Walking Tour SOLD OUT

Local historian and Vero Heritage Vice President Barbara Secor brings Vero’s early days to life, from pioneers to architecture.

March 11 at 10:00 AM

90-minute tour begins at the Indian River Citrus Museum. 

The March tour is sold out but stay tuned for additional dates.

Audrey's Feed and Tack Monthly Barn Dance on March 16th

Featuring live music by Sandy Feet Bluegrass Pickers with Caller - John Rogers, this monthly family-friendly barn dance series brings the community together for lively, easy-to-follow folk dancing and unforgettable evenings of music and fun.

Doors open at 5:30 for lessons and dance begins at 6:00.

Admission is $10 adults/$1 kids

For more details and family/group discounts, please call Mary Rose-Weston (317) 445-9941.

Sound Bath Meditation with Anthony Profeta

Join us as meditation teacher, Anthony Profeta, uses the sounds of Crystal Bowls, Himalayan Singing Bowls, and other instruments to wash away our stress, fill us with inner peace, and allow us to bring healing to your body, mind & soul. Don’t wait to experience this unique and powerful form of meditation. Give yourself the gift of peace! Sign up today and step into the tranquility you’ve been seeking.

April 22nd

May 15th

WHAT TO BRING: Yoga Mat, Pillow, Blankets, anything else you might need to get comfortable. Chairs will be provided. 

TICKETS: Can be purchased ahead of time through ticket link.

TICKETS: Adult $25 (Prepaid) / Adult $30 at the door / Child (Ages 5-15): $10

QUESTIONS:Email: AnthonyProfetaMeditation@outlook.com

Call or Text: (914) 319-3477

The Paddle Board Finds it's Forever Home

We wrote about the lucky winner of our bespoke Dragonfly Boatworks paddle board Louis Schacht in our last newsletter. Here is the photo of the lucky winner with his prize.