Bonita Springs Non-Profit Institute Defends Freedom at Local Level

Bonita Springs, FL, December 13, 2009 --(PR.com)-- The board of directors of the Freedom & Virtue Institute announced today the formation of a new not-for-profit organization that will work in the local community to champion the virtues of individual freedom, limited government, and human dignity at the heart of America’s founding.

The mission of FVI is to promote the principles of free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, and traditional values through local initiatives based right here in Southwest Florida.

“The foundation of our Institute is a love for America, love of neighbor, concern for the poor, and a desire to build a society that respects human dignity,” said Ismael Hernandez, the executive director of the Freedom & Virtue Institute. “We believe that human freedom and private initiative in local communities is the best way to effect positive change and our goal is to educate the residents of Southwest Florida on the richness of America’s founding principles and inspire them to action.”

The Freedom & Virtue Institute will create opportunities to learn, dialogue and live out the principles of a free and virtuous society through relevant and practical outlets. Through effective workshops, consultation, and educational conferences the Freedom & Virtue Institute will bridge the gap between thinkers and doers and develop local networks of “activists for freedom.” Additionally, hands-on opportunities will be offered for young people to discover if they have an entrepreneurial vocation that will enable them to create avenues for creativity and prosperity.

“We are off to a promising start,” says Hernandez. “Our initial programs have been met with eager acceptance and we have several more in development.” Current active initiatives include:

The Education in Freedom Students Center which offer hands-on educational opportunities for undergraduate students at local community colleges and high schools to learn about the personal and societal benefits of free enterprise and entrepreneurship.

· Basic Communities Center which offers training for non-profit, government, businesses and church staff on effective compassion and energizes people of faith to become active participants in their churches and community and transform institutional programs using the principles of the Institute.
· Townhalls for Freedom Center which offer workshops, classes, discussion sessions, and media presentations for volunteers and individuals that address the critical issues facing our society today.

“The assumption about social justice in America today is that the government is the first and best source in assuring the common good,” says Hernandez. “We believe that human freedom and private initiative in local communities are better instruments in effecting lasting positive change in our society and FVI’s programs will offer relevant and effective solutions to address those issues for the betterment of our local community.”

The Freedom & Virtue Institute is non-partisan and non-denominational. Everyone interested in preserving and enjoying the freedom that has made our country great is invited to participate. More information can be found at www.FVInstitute.org or by calling 239-390-1286.

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