Nonprofits Making a Difference in Ocala (That We’re Proud to Support)

Andrew Grunther
Jul 15
5 min read

Updated: Jul 25

If you’ve spent any time in Ocala, you know it’s more than just a beautiful place to visit; it’s a community full of people who care. No matter what your passion is, from preserving historic neighborhoods to supporting families, animals, and local businesses, there are so many valuable nonprofits working behind the scenes to make Ocala even better.

At Book’d, our own story began in Ocala’s Historic District, renovating historic homes and driving tourism to the town we fell in love with so many years ago. Giving back means a lot to us. Here are just a few of the local organizations we admire and encourage you to support too.

Historic Ocala Preservation Society (HOPS)

Keeping Ocala’s history alive, one home at a time.

This one is especially close to our hearts. The Historic Ocala Preservation Society works to preserve and protect the architectural heritage of Ocala, especially the beautiful old homes that give the Historic Districts their charm. Before Book’d was a fully realized plan, I started my nonprofit journey by joining the board at HOPS as a way to get more involved with the community and assist in revitalizing the annual Historic Home Tour (which subsequently turned into twice a year). The organization is filled with passionate members who are always looking for ways to raise awareness of our town’s history and help with its continued growth while still honoring the past that makes us such a destination. We strongly encourage everyone visiting to take an hour out of their trip to visit the Bryant House (HOPS headquarters on Fort King Street) to learn more about what the organization is doing to preserve our history and support homeowners in our districts through advocacy and education.

The annual Spring Home Tour and Holiday Tours are scheduled in advance, so definitely make sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram pages to find out when they’re being held. Plus, we recommend booking your stay at one of our homes in the district early because they fill up quickly during these events!

How to support: Become a member, attend a walking tour, or donate directly at historicocala.org

Junior League of Ocala

Empowering women. Strengthening our community.

The Junior League of Ocala is a powerhouse when it comes to civic leadership and volunteerism. Their members work on everything from diaper banks and school supply drives to mentorship programs and nonprofit partnerships. It’s all about women supporting women, and in turn, uplifting families and kids in Marion County. One of our best friends is heavily involved in the organization, and we can see firsthand that it’s not only doing amazing work for the community but also providing a fantastic space for women who want to make a difference and grow alongside a creative, driven network.

The Autumn Gift Market is always a huge event for the community and visitors alike. Dates are announced in advance, and we love the ease of finding thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

How to support: Attend one of their events, shop local during the Autumn Gift Market, or visit juniorleagueofocala.com

Humane Society of Marion County

Providing a safe haven for animals since 1964.

The Humane Society is one of the most trusted names in local animal care. They operate a no-kill shelter, offer adoption and surrender services, and run community education programs to promote responsible pet ownership. Their campus is always buzzing with volunteers, wagging tails, and heartwarming stories.

If you’re staying with us and missing your own pup, spending a few hours volunteering here might be just what you need.

How to support: Adopt, sponsor a kennel, or view their wish list at thehsmc.org

Ocala Main Street

Revitalizing the heart of our city.

Downtown Ocala’s charm doesn’t happen by accident. Ocala Main Street is the nonprofit behind many of the revitalization efforts, events, and beautification projects that make our downtown feel so alive. We remember years ago when Downtown Ocala was considered a ghost town. With support from community organizations like Ocala Main Street, and fierce advocacy from our City Council and local government, things have changed drastically. Ask someone who lived in Ocala in the early 2000s — they’ll definitely have some stories to share.

They’re currently restoring a building in Tuscawilla Park through their Heart of the Park initiative and transforming it into a new gathering space for the community.

From public art and pop-up markets to placemaking and small business support, they’re reimagining Ocala’s historic core in all the best ways.

How to support: Attend downtown events or get involved at ocalamainstreet.org

Voices of Change Animal League (VOCAL)

Helping animals and the people who love them.

It’s no surprise that a community so connected to the equestrian world would also care deeply about animal welfare. VOCAL is one of the most active animal organizations in the area, offering low-cost spay/neuter services, pet food assistance, and adoptable pets in need of forever homes. (One of those pups joined our family in 2020!) They also focus on education to help reduce overpopulation and neglect. If you’ve ever adopted, rescued, or fostered, you know how vital this kind of work is.

We especially appreciate that VOCAL helps keep pets with the people who love them, by offering support before things reach a crisis point.

How to support: Foster, adopt, donate, or volunteer at vocalforpets.org

Marion County Literacy Council

Changing lives, one word at a time.

Not everyone in Marion County has had equal access to education, and that’s where the Literacy Council steps in. They provide free tutoring in reading, writing, English as a second language, and even help adults prepare for GED exams and job applications. For so many, literacy is the first step toward independence, confidence, and opportunity.

We’re big believers in the idea that everyone deserves a fair shot, and we know how important access to education really is.

The Literacy Council also knows how to make fundraising fun. They’re the team behind Wiener Wars, an annual downtown event where local restaurants go head-to-head serving up creative takes on the classic hot dog. It’s a huge community hit and a great excuse to explore Ocala’s food scene while supporting a cause that changes lives.

How to support: Volunteer as a tutor, attend an event like Wiener Wars, or donate at marionliteracy.org

We’re constantly inspired by the people and organizations that make Ocala such a special place to call home. Whether you’re here for a weekend or staying a little longer in one of our Book’d properties, we hope you’ll take the time to explore the heart of this town and maybe even get involved with one of these incredible causes. Giving back, even in small ways, helps keep the community strong and growing. If you have a favorite nonprofit in the area that we should know about, we would love to hear from you.

Cheers!