THE HESSEL FAMILY FOUNDATION

Turning Empathy Into Action.

Founded by Robert Hessel, fourth generation military veteran, devoted father, and CEO of Source 1 Solutions. Relationships over deals, people over everything.

OUR STORY

A Mission Born From Personal Experience.

The Foundation was born from the Hessel family’s own journey. Robert’s daughter Mia, who is autistic, showed the family firsthand the challenges faced by individuals like her, and inspired a commitment to building a more inclusive world for the autism community.

Robert’s background as a veteran shaped his perspective on service and dedication, and after losing his father to cancer, supporting families in that fight became personal too.

OUR CAUSES

Three Causes, One Commitment.

The Foundation donates to community based organizations that turn empathy into measurable impact.

Children With Autism

Helping children with autism and their families thrive, from sensory friendly environments to enhanced educational and therapeutic services.

Veterans

Standing with veterans and young adults with special support needs, including eco friendly housing through Hessel House.

Families Fighting Cancer

Supporting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, including its annual Fashion Funds the Cure event.

HESSEL HOUSE

A Home for Veterans Who Served.

In June 2025 the Foundation launched Hessel House, an eco friendly pilot housing project for homeless veterans in Clearwater, Florida, in partnership with the Community Service Foundation. Veterans are 50 percent more likely to experience homelessness. Hessel House exists to change that story, one family at a time.

  • Steel insulated panel construction donated by Structall: termite proof, wind resistant, flood resilient
  • Land donated by the City of Clearwater under a Land Use Restriction Agreement
  • A one year lease plus stipend gives families time to stabilize

“We went from not knowing where we’d land, to being given a place to call home.”

Alexander Jaworski, U.S. Army veteran and first resident of Hessel House

MARCH 31, 2026

The First Family Comes Home.

The completed home, approximately 900 square feet, was unveiled on March 31, 2026. Its first residents are the Jaworski family. Alexander Jaworski served in the United States Army, and after a period of housing uncertainty the family connected with St. Vincent de Paul CARES through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program.

The Mayor of Clearwater, Bruce Rector, welcomed the family at the dedication. The program pairs a one year lease with a stipend, giving veteran families time to stabilize financially and emotionally.

THE TEAM BEHIND THE BUILD

Community Is Our Strongest Partnership.

Hessel House was made possible by the City of Clearwater, Structall, St. Vincent de Paul CARES, the Community Service Foundation, and community members who gave their support, resources, and dedication.

Be Part of What Comes Next.

The Hessel Family Foundation, 16331 Bay Vista Dr, Clearwater, FL 33760