In this edition of The Catalyst, we are honored to recognize Michael Raposa, the Chief Executive Officer of St. Vincent de Paul CARES (SVdP CARES), for his outstanding contributions to Charlotte County and his enduring commitment to eradicating homelessness. Michael's leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication have left a lasting impact on our community.
Michael’s career in public service and homeless advocacy is distinguished by over three decades of experience, with a significant portion of his work dedicated to transforming the landscape of homelessness in Florida. Before joining SVdP CARES, Michael spent 13 years working in neighborhood and community services for the City of Sarasota and Hillsborough County, where he developed a deep understanding of the complexities of homelessness and community dynamics. His long-standing involvement with the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg further enriched his perspective, enabling him to approach the issue of homelessness with a unique blend of compassion and pragmatism.
Since taking the helm at SVdP CARES in 2011, Michael has spearheaded the organization’s growth and expansion, positioning it as a leader in homeless services across Florida. Under his direction, SVdP CARES now serves 11 Continuums of Care across 19 counties, including the metropolitan areas of Tampa and Orlando. The organization has become a driving force in Rapid Re-Housing (RRH), directly influencing best practices nationwide and setting new benchmarks for success. Through the challenges of the pandemic, SVdP CARES successfully rehoused 3,700 households, both Veterans and non-Veterans, demonstrating the organization’s resilience and capacity for innovation.
One of Michael’s most notable achievements is his leadership in the Veterans Administration Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. SVdP CARES is now the largest SSVF provider in the nation, and under Michael’s guidance, the organization was selected as one of ten VA sites for the “Rapid Resolution” pilot project. This initiative focuses on diverting Veterans from homelessness by exploring safe, alternative housing options before they enter the shelter system. The success of this program, with over 10% of Veterans being diverted, has made SVdP CARES a model for similar programs nationwide, further solidifying Michael’s reputation as a thought leader in homeless services.
Michael’s commitment to Charlotte County is particularly evident in his recent decision to take over the operations of the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition and emergency shelter. This move was not only a testament to his dedication but also a reflection of his strategic vision for the future of homeless services in our community. By integrating the Coalition's operations under SVdP CARES, Michael has ensured that critical services will continue uninterrupted, providing stability and support to those who need it most. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating these transitions, and his influence has been felt across all levels of the organization.
Beyond his work in Florida, Michael’s expertise and passion for ending homelessness have garnered national and international recognition. As an Ambassador for SVdP International, Michael collaborates with global leaders to address homelessness on a worldwide scale. He played a key role in the creation of the 13 Houses Campaign, an initiative of the Famvin Homeless Alliance aimed at improving and transforming the lives of 10,000 homeless individuals around the globe. This international perspective enriches his work locally, bringing innovative solutions and a broader understanding of the issues at hand.
Michael’s approach to homelessness is grounded in a deep belief that housing is a fundamental human right. He consistently advocates for removing barriers that prevent individuals from accessing safe, stable housing and emphasizes the importance of connecting people with the resources they need to thrive. His work challenges conventional perceptions of homelessness, urging all of us to view those experiencing homelessness as integral members of our community deserving of dignity and respect.
Michael’s impact on the Charlotte County community, and indeed across the broader region, cannot be overstated. His leadership has not only strengthened the fabric of our local homeless services but has also inspired others to join the fight to end homelessness. His vision—that homelessness should be rare, brief, and a one-time experience—guides all his efforts and serves as a rallying call for all of us committed to this cause.
Iain De Jong, Founder and CEO of OrgCode, aptly summarized Michael's influence by stating, "Michael Raposa has a steadfast and unwavering commitment to prevent, reduce, and ultimately end homelessness that is both results-oriented and inspiring." These words encapsulate the drive and dedication that Michael brings to his work every day, making a tangible difference in the lives of those he serves.
As we honor Michael Raposa in this issue of The Catalyst, we extend our deepest gratitude for his partnership, his strategic leadership, and his commitment to making our community a better place for all. His work exemplifies the very best of what can be achieved when passion, vision, and dedication come together in the service of others. Thank you, Michael, for your extraordinary contributions to Charlotte County and beyond. Your impact will be felt for generations to come.
