Ocean's Harbor House: Comprehensive Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Ocean's Harbor House is a nonprofit organization based in Toms River, New Jersey, dedicated to providing shelter, support, and services to homeless and at-risk youth and families. Established in 1985 by community leaders, the organization has grown from a single emergency shelter to a multifaceted service provider addressing the complex needs of vulnerable populations in the Jersey Shore area.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Ocean's Harbor House is to empower youth and families in need to build successful pathways, relationships, and futures. Their vision is that all young people are safe, housed, healthy, and equipped for successful futures.

Primary Area of Focus

The organization focuses on providing shelter and housing for homeless youth, offering counseling and case management for youth and families in crisis, and delivering education and training on issues such as homelessness, bullying, trafficking, and exploitation.

Industry Significance

Operating in the nonprofit sector, Ocean's Harbor House plays a crucial role in addressing youth homelessness and family crises in New Jersey. By offering comprehensive support services, the organization contributes significantly to community welfare and the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Shelter and Housing: Provide safe, stable, and supervised housing for homeless and at-risk youth and families.

Counseling and Case Management: Offer individualized support to address mental health, educational, and vocational needs.

Education and Training: Conduct programs to raise awareness and prevent issues related to homelessness, bullying, trafficking, and exploitation.

Areas of Specialization

Emergency Shelter Services: Offering immediate refuge for youth in crisis.

Transitional Living Programs: Supporting young adults aged 16-21 in their journey toward independent living.

Family Support Services: Assisting families in crisis to rebuild relationships and achieve stability.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technological platforms are not detailed, the organization employs various tools to manage case records, coordinate services, and engage with the community effectively.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Ocean's Harbor House primarily serves youth and families in Ocean and Monmouth counties, New Jersey, focusing on those experiencing homelessness, family crises, and related challenges.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a nonprofit entity, Ocean's Harbor House relies on a combination of government grants, private donations, and fundraising events to support its operations. Specific details regarding total funds raised and recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

The organization receives support from various community partners and donors, including Open Arms/Extended Arms of New Jersey.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds are utilized to maintain and expand shelter facilities, enhance counseling and case management services, develop educational programs, and support operational costs. The organization is also embarking on "The Future is Now Campaign" to address critical needs across safety, stability, and sustainability.

Pipeline Development

Key Programs and Services

Emergency Youth Shelter: Provides immediate housing and support for homeless youth.

Transitional Living Program (The SHORE House): Offers supervised housing and life skills training for young adults aged 16-21.

Code Blue Warming Center: Opened in January 2024, this program offers shelter to families during extreme cold weather conditions.

Family Shelter (Safe at Home): Scheduled to open in the fall of 2024, this facility aims to break the cycle of homelessness for single-parent, female-led families.

Stages of Development

The organization is in the implementation phase for the Code Blue Warming Center and the Safe at Home Family Shelter, with both programs addressing immediate community needs.

Target Conditions

These programs target homelessness, family crises, and the need for emergency shelter during extreme weather conditions.

Anticipated Milestones

Code Blue Warming Center: Operational since January 2024, providing immediate shelter during cold weather.

Safe at Home Family Shelter: Expected to open in the fall of 2024, offering long-term support for families.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Specific proprietary technologies are not detailed in the available information.

Significant Scientific Methods

The organization employs trauma-informed care approaches and Positive Youth Development (PYD) principles in its programs. The Life Success Program utilizes a curriculum informed by established workforce readiness frameworks and healing-centered education practices.

AI-Driven Capabilities

There is no specific information indicating the use of AI-driven capabilities within the organization's operations.

Leadership Team

Executive Leadership

Donna Carlson: Co-Executive Director, joined in November 2022 as Grant Writer/Development Associate. Holds an Associate's Degree in Nursing and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Dawn Samaritano: Co-Executive Director, with over 30 years of financial expertise. Holds a BS in Accounting with a minor in Business Administration.

Key Contributions

Both leaders have been instrumental in expanding the organization's programs and services, including the development of the Code Blue Warming Center and the upcoming Safe at Home Family Shelter.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The nonprofit sector addressing youth homelessness and family crises is characterized by a growing demand for services, especially in regions experiencing economic challenges. Organizations like Safe Horizon, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Covenant House International are key players in this space.

Competitor Analysis

Safe Horizon: A leading nonprofit providing support to victims of crime and abuse, including youth services.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Offers a range of programs for youth development, including those at risk.

Covenant House International: Provides shelter and support services to homeless youth across multiple countries.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Ocean's Harbor House collaborates with community organizations such as Just Believe Inc. for the Code Blue Warming Center and Open Arms/Extended Arms of New Jersey.

Operational Insights

The organization differentiates itself through its comprehensive approach, offering both immediate shelter and long-term support services, including life skills training and educational programs.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The upcoming Safe at Home Family Shelter presents an opportunity to expand services to single-parent, female-led families, addressing a critical need in the community. Continued collaboration with local organizations and stakeholders will enhance service delivery and community impact.