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2021 AMBASSADORS
SPIRIT OF GIVING CHAMPIONS SHARE THEIR STORIES Philanthropically-minded companies and individuals engage with an incredibly vibrant and diverse ecosystem of nonprofit organizations powering good in Sarasota and Manatee.
ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE BIG CAT HABITAT THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES CAT DEPOT CHILDREN FIRST CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE HUMANE SOCIETY OF MANATEE COUNTY IMPACT100 SRQ JFCS OF THE SUNCOAST LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM NAMI SARASOTA NATE’S HONOR ANIMAL RESCUE RESILIENT RETREAT RINGLING COLLEGE FOUNDATION SARASOTA BALLET SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF SARASOTA-MANATEE TIDEWELL FOUNDATION YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
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at Depot is Sarasota’s leading feline-only free-roaming rescue, adoption, and education center recognized for excellence in ser ving the community and leadership in rescuing and finding homes for more than 18,500 homeless and abandoned cats and kittens since 2003. Cat Depot believes in treating ever y cat with humane kindness, love, and care.
TOGETHER – WE ARE CAT DEPOT! Cat Depot saves lives, finds loving homes, and provides resources and education needed to improve the destiny of homeless cats. Simply put – we help cats and the people who love them. With your help, our priority focus is to keep cats safe and healthy, in their homes, and our lifesaving programs running at full capacity: • RESCUE Cat Depot works daily to rescue abandoned, abused, injured, and free-roaming community/ feral cats and kittens. In 2021, Cat Depot assisted with local and national rescues due to both natural and man-made disasters. • ADOPTION Our goal is to find a good match and loving home for every cat who enters Cat Depot. Nearly 1,200 cats and kittens found forever homes this year through Cat Depot’s adoption program. • COMMUNITY FOOD BANK Cat Depot provides food for over 500 community cats and underserved personal pets each month. • CAT CARE CLINIC In an effort to care for sick and injured cats and their distressed owners, Cat Depot opened an affordable care clinic in November 2014. Over 4,000 cats and kittens receive treatment each year in the Cat Care Clinic. • HUMANE EDUCATION Cat Depot is continually working to offer and develop pertinent educational programs and activities that will meet the needs of both homeless cats and members of the community. Claudia A. Harden Director of Communications and Development
2542 17TH STREET SARASOTA, FL 34234 DIRECT: 941-366-2404 X302 CLAUDIAH@CATDEPOT.ORG CATDEPOT.ORG
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CHILDREN FIRST AT CHILDREN FIRST, WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD DESERVES THE OPPORTUNITY TO ACHIEVE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL. Ranked in the top 1 percent of over 1,800 Head Start programs in the country, our agency has provided high-quality early childhood education and family strengthening services to pregnant women, children ages birth to five, and their families for 60 years. As a Head Start Program of Excellence, Children First is one of nine agencies nationwide to receive this coveted designation, and one of just two to be named so four consecutive times. The education, care, and comprehensive services we offer ensure a healthy and strong foundation for success. Through Children First, children develop the social, emotional, and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten on track, and receive nutritious meals and an array of services to support their overall health. Every family works with a Family Advocate to set and meet financial, educational, and occupational goals. Advocates provide the encouragement and resources families need to move out of poverty. We support parents as the primary educators for their children and aim to assist parents in learning new skills as they work to accomplish goals and achieve self-sufficiency. An investment in children at their earliest age will pay social, educational, and economic dividends over the course of a child’s lifetime now, and for generations to come. As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, your philanthropy enables us to offer what every child and family deserves—access to the services they need to thrive and opportunities for success.
hildren First’s mission is to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. As the exclusive Early Head Start and Head Start provider for Sarasota County, our agency offers services at 15 locations across North Port, Sarasota, and Venice. We envision a vibrant community that cherishes education, provides opportunities for children and families to grow and thrive, and encourages and empowers families in supporting their children. Our award-winning Families First Institute offers free courses to parents and the public including parenting, budgeting, and career readiness to help families achieve self-sufficiency. Nearly 89 percent of families enrolled at Children First live at or below the Federal Poverty Level. The generosity of our community ensures children and families receive comprehensive services at little or no cost. Thank you to our families, staff, board of directors, volunteers, and supporters!
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1723 N. ORANGE AVENUE SARASOTA, FL 34234 941-953-3877 CHILDRENFIRST.NET
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EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY THE EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY BELIEVES THAT EDUCATION IS TRANSFORMATIVE, and we unite the community to prepare each and every student for life. These words frame our story of giving. What started over 30 years ago as teacher grants for classroom supplies has transformed into a comprehensive effort to ensure students graduate prepared to succeed. Today, 45% of high school seniors in Sarasota County Schools graduate without a plan. Yet in our high schools, the counselor-to-student ratio is 1:387. Today, only 42.5% of local workers ages 25 – 64 hold an associate degree or higher, but in 2025, according to the Florida College Access Network, 60% of Florida jobs will require education beyond high school. To ensure students can access one-on-one expert college, career, and life advising, we partnered with Sarasota County Schools to open Student Success Centers in four area high schools and at our community resource center, LaunchPad4U. We staff these centers with expert College Career Advisors who help students develop a plan. Students can access mentoring, college- and career-planning software, workshops, and many other valuable resources that empower them. We give back by honoring our amazing educators through our Ignite Education Teacher of the Year Awards. We empower teachers to transform their classrooms and innovate education through EducateSRQ Teacher and Schoolwide Grants. We convene teacher leaders so they can collaborate and network, solving problems in education. Giving back to our students and teachers is the best investment we can make—and we are committed to preparing students for life.
he Education Foundation’s mission is to enhance the potential of students, promote excellence in teaching, and inspire innovation in education, guided by strategic philanthropy. Our vision is to unite the community to prepare each and ever y student for life. Today, in the face of our fastchanging world, the urgency to empower students and teachers—and to innovate education—could not be greater. Students must progress through their K – 12 journey intentionally, with a college-, career-, and life-readiness mindset. A dynamic nonprofit, we are uniquely positioned to harness the collective power of community and education partners to support students and teachers across the education continuum. We can pivot when challenges appear in education’s changing landscape. With your help, we can deliver more innovative resources that empower our students and teachers. We invite all champions of education to partner with us in supporting our children today and for generations to come.
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HEADQUARTERS: 1960 LANDINGS BLVD. #120, SARASOTA, FL 34231 LAUNCHPAD4U RESOURCE CENTER: 1413 BLVD OF THE ARTS, SARASOTA, FL 34236 941-927-0965 | EDFOUNDATIONSRQ.ORG
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umane Society of Manatee County is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit animal welfare organization and is the lead animal welfare agency in Manatee County. The Humane Society of Manatee County operates the Second Chance Adoption Center located at 2515 14th Street W. and a veterinary clinic / high volume spay and neuter clinic at 2415 14th Street W. in Bradenton. Each year the Second Chance Adoption Center re-homes more than 700 dogs and cats that truly needed a second chance. In September of 2015, Humane Society of Manatee County opened a 10,000 sq. foot state of the art veterinary clinic that includes a high volume spay and neuter clinic, wellness services, x-ray, dentals, dermatology services and vaccines. The veterinary clinic provides high quality, low-to-moderate cost veterinary care for cats and dogs in Manatee County and neighboring counties. HSMC Veterinary Clinic is now a full service veterinary clinic that is open to the public by appointment.
HUMANE SOCIETY OF MANATEE COUNTY PHILANTHROPY ABOUNDS IN MANATEE COUNTY and Sarasota County year after year as donors, supporters and the business community continue to support hundreds of area non-profits. This support has not only allowed the Humane Society of Manatee County to continue our life saving work on behalf of the animals, but has also allowed for an expansion of our veterinar y clinic ser vices. In addition to re-homing more than 700 cats and dogs each year through our Second Chance Adoption Program, Humane Society of Manatee County’s Pet Retention Program works to keep animal companions and their human families together. Pet retention programs include a cat and dog food pantr y, behavioral training assistance and low-to-moderate cost veterinar y ser vices. Two great programs that need your support are the Angel Fund, which provides funding to help financially challenged owners get their animals the veterinar y care they deser ve and need for emergency cases. The Animal Cruelty Victims Fund has been established to fund veterinar y care needed for animals who have suffered from neglect or cruelty and are being cared for by our medical team. Online donations can be made by going to www.humanemanatee.org or donations can be mailed to 2515 14th Street W. Bradenton, Florida 34205. Humane Society of Manatee County’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency have earned it a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for five consecutive years. 2515 14TH STREET W. BRADENTON, FL 34205 | 941-747-8808 | HUMANEMANATEE.ORG CREATIVE MARKETING SECTION :: SRQ MAGAZINE DEC 2021 IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
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IMPACT100 SRQ IS ONE OF MORE THAN SIXTY CHAPTERS WORLDWIDE and joins its sister chapters in embracing the local collective giving model. Formed in 2018, Impact100 SRQ brings together a diverse group of women that annually funds transformational grants to local nonprofits in both Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The model is simple. At least 100 women, each give a $1,000 tax deductible donation, and together they collectively award grants in increments of at least $100,000 to local nonprofits in five focus areas: Arts & Culture, Education, Environment & Recreation, Family and Health & Wellness. Each member’s annual donation multiplies the power of giving and funds the innovative projects that make a high “impact” and a sustainable difference in our community. Impact100 SRQ has just completed its third giving year with 404 dedicated and passionate women who are committed to joining together to solve problems in our community. Since 2019, we have awarded 9 grants totaling an astounding $974,000 delivering durable initiatives that are transforming our community. Although it remains difficult year after year to narrow down our grant applicant finalists from so many deserving nonprofits in the community, the silver lining is that each nonprofit that submits a grant application receives greater visibility among hundreds of generous women who may individually consider lending their time, talent and treasure where needed.
IMPACT100 SRQ
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mpact100 SRQ empowers women to collectively fund transformational grants to local nonprofits in Sarasota & Manatee counties. Together, we make a sustainable impact one grant at a time. IMPACT100 SRQ AT A GLANCE: • We invite women of all backgrounds, diverse and dynamic, to join us in awarding life changing grants to local nonprofits. • We are a 100% volunteer organization which allows 100% of member dues to be awarded to local nonprofits. • Each grant awarded is minimum of $100,000. • By leveraging their individual donations, the women of Impact are creating lasting change in the Sarasota/Manatee community while developing member leaders who will continue to be instruments for positive change. • All local 501c3 public nonprofit organizations are invited to complete our Letter of Eligibility form as the first step in our grant application process. • A ripple effect is being felt throughout the community with more women learning about nonprofit needs and addressing them with their time, talent, and treasure. • One Woman – One Vote – One Mission. For women feeling inspired by the Impact100 SRQ mission, now is the time to join. The Membership Drive for the 2022 giving year is open until February 28th, 2022. If you would like to learn more about Impact100 SRQ and how to become a member please go to www.Impact100SRQ.org/membership.php
COMMUNICATIONS@IMPACT100SRQ.ORG | P.O. BOX 49887 SARASOTA, FL 34230 | IMPACT100SRQ.ORG
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LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES CREATING A COMMUNITY BUILT TO LAST, LIKE A LEE WETHERINGTON HOME. For more than four decades, Lee Wetherington Homes has taken pride in its forward-thinking, quality residential construction that places Suncoast customers’ wants and needs at the forefront. That same level of consideration is displayed through the longtime homebuilder’s reputation of charitable work and commitment to creating a community built to last like its homes. Giving back is a vital piece of the mission Lee Wetherington, the firm’s founder who remains personally involved in customer projects, has strived to fulfill through high-caliber construction. That includes his involvement, since 1991, in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County – even chairing the building committee tasked with funding and constructing three clubs in Sarasota, Venice and North Port. He’s contributed more than $600,000, through the success of Lee Wetherington Homes, to children via the Kids in College Scholarship Fund and the Boys & Girls Clubs Capital Endowment. This passion for charitable giving – among longtime support for programs like United Way of Sarasota County, Harvest House and more – spurred the creation of the Lee Wetherington Foundation, which awards grants focused toward disadvantaged youth that went unassisted by governmental or charitable organizations. The organization seeks to help children build lasting friendships, improve academics and critical skills ranging from leadership to service, entrepreneurial training and college and career prep.
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o share the blessings we have received with those in our community who are less fortunate, and help where we can when others cannot.
• Since its inception, the Lee Wetherington Foundation has donated over $2 million in grants to deserving non-profit organizations throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. • Lee Wetherington, the local homebuilder’s longtime founder who remains involved in customer projects, has supported the Boys & Girls Clubs across the Suncoast since 1991. • Through the success of Lee Wetherington Homes, its founder and firm have built or refurbished Boys & Girls Clubs at various locations in Sarasota and Manatee counties. • Since establishing the Lee Wetherington Foundation in 2002 with an initial gift of $1 million, the fund has expanded its focus on impacting less-fortunate, disadvantaged youth. • Lee Wetherington Homes has championed Harvest House since 2016, when it helped buy nine duplexes now utilized as transitional residences for 18 formerly homeless families. • United Way of Sarasota County has been supported by Lee Wetherington Homes since 1992.
7590 FRUITVILLE RD., SARASOTA, FL 34240 | 941-922-3480 | LWHOMES.COM
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t Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, we are scientists, explorers and stewards of the ocean. We are an independent, nonprofit marine research institution comprising world-class marine scientists committed to the belief that the conservation and sustainable use of our oceans begins with research and education. Through our working labs, various research programs, public Aquarium and outreach & educational programs, we work together to create a better environment for ourselves and our children. The ocean is our passion. Science is our catalyst to help the ocean heal, thrive and continue to be a haven of sustainable life, life-improving science and life-giving solutions.
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MOTE MARINE LABORATORY IN 1955, MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM started as a small, one-room laboratory in a southwest Florida town. Originally focused on sharks, Mote has grown to include more than 200 employees, including more than 30 Ph.D. scientists. Mote conducts groundbreaking research with more than 20 diverse research programs focusing on the challenges facing our oceans today while addressing future impacts. Knowing that our existence is tied to the fate of our oceans, the advancement of this kind of research is vital to unlocking potential solutions to some of today’s most daunting global challenges. The research and conservation efforts have expanded to include restoring hundreds of thousands of coral fragments onto degraded Florida reef; restocking populations of common snook, one of Florida’s most important sportfishes that contributes to our thriving tourism and outdoors economy; rescuing and rehabilitating hundreds of sea turtles and marine mammals entangled in fishing gear or struck by boats; using technology to find solutions to harmful algae blooms; protecting the ever-growing number of sea turtle nests on local beaches; and much more. The oceans support life as we know it, providing the food we eat, the recreation we enjoy, the very air we breathe. Oceans cover about 70% of Earth, and the challenges they face are equally vast. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is advancing research-based solutions to ensure our oceans can heal and thrive. Help us put leading-edge marine science and ocean conservation into action. 1600 KEN THOMPSON PKWY, SARASOTA, FL, 34232 | 941-388-4441 | MOTE.ORG/GIVE
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ince 2008, Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue has been dedicated to helping neglected, abandoned and mistreated dogs and cats find loving homes. Each year, with the help of countless volunteers and an incredibly suppor tive community, we are able to save thousands of at-risk animals and care for them at our eight-acre, no kill shelter and adoption facility on Lorraine Road in Lakewood Ranch. With your continued help, we can expand our campus and increase our scope of ser vices to save even more homeless animals ever y year. Not only will we be able to help more animals find a home, but we will also be able to help them stay in their loving homes by providing impor tant resources to pet owners, ranging from veterinar y care and training classes to assistance with food and essential supplies.
NATE’S HONOR ANIMAL RESCUE
MEET ROWLIE. She was about two weeks old when she was found critically injured in the parking lot of Rowlett Elementary School in Bradenton. Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue rushed in to help, providing the emergency medical treatment she needed to survive, lots of love and care, and eventually found her a forever home. Rowlie is just one of the thousands of helpless and homeless dogs and cats that we rescue each year. And we can save even more animals when we have the extra room and resources to do so. That’s why we embarked on a $10 million campus expansion plan, called Journey Home, that will double our current life-saving capacity, create an all-new kitty city and serve as a resource for pet owners in the community. The enhanced campus plans include a new 20,000-sq.-ft. adoption center, a 4,000-sq.-ft. behavior and training center, and a 5,000-sq.-ft. intake building that will allow us to house and treat sick and special needs animals being transferred from other shelters where they would have otherwise been euthanized. Other site improvements include an access to care veterinary clinic for our community, a children’s hands-on education room, a dog water play area, and a community event space. We have reached about 73% of our fundraising goal and hope that you’ll join us on this final stretch of our Journey Home. Together, we can expand to better serve our community – humans and animals alike. Our expansion allows for bigger capacity, better facilities and a broader scope of services for pet owners and their beloved pets.
4951 LORRAINE ROAD, BRADENTON, FLORIDA 34211 941.538.6206 | NATESHONORANIMALRESCUE.ORG
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ntertain, educate and engage the community through high-quality live theatre.
THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS
• For nearly a century, the area’s original performing arts organization has served as the foundation creating what’s now known as Florida’s Cultural Coast. • Support the creativity of an entire community by attending The Players Centre’s ongoing 92nd season of shows, which run through March 2022. • Volunteers are needed, ranging from auditioning for a role to assisting with the tech team, box office and more. • Generous donations to the Center Stage Capital Campaign help introduce the nation’s fastest-growing multi-generational community and the entire region to easily accessible arts and culture just minutes from I-75.
THE FUTURE, STARRING YOU. For 92 years, The Players Centre for Performing Arts has united people across the Suncoast by producing high-quality shows that entertain thousands of patrons annually throughout the area. That, at its core, is the purpose of community theatre – a judgement-free, inclusive stage designed to show locals the benefits of arts and culture regardless of personal background or economic status. The key piece is people, ranging from patrons to actors, ushers and other volunteers, who are dedicated to cultivating an inspirational and creative area for all to live, work and play. The Players Centre aims to shine the spotlight on Lakewood Ranch and provide easy, region-wide access to locally produced live theatre. It’s a plan achieved through the Center Stage Capital Campaign – the nonprofit organization’s ongoing initiative to raise $26.5 million to build a two-stage, multi-use facility in Waterside Place. The Players Centre’s new performing arts home, opening in 2025, will impact more than 60,000 people annually through exposure to high-quality shows that promote multi-generational creativity and broaden the reach of the arts into households previously untouched. The community’s future, ultimately, stars you. Visit theplayers.org to learn more about the Center Stage Capital Campaign, attending The Players Centre’s ongoing season of shows and more. THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS BOX OFFICE: 941-365-2494 | BOXOFFICE@THEPLAYERS.ORG STUDIO & MAILING | 1400 BLVD. OF THE ARTS, SUITE 200, SARASOTA, FL 34236
• The Center Stage Capital Campaign will fund the construction of The Players Centre’s new permanent home, which features a main stage, black box theatre and extension of The Players Studio. SCAN HERE AND DONATE TO THE CENTER STAGE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN.
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his year, The Sarasota Ballet celebrates its 31st Season of infusing our community with the highest quality and diversity of dance in America. Since Director Iain Webb’s appointment as Director in 2007, the Company has received national and international attention, especially through preserving ballet history and bringing attention to the works of renowned British choreographer, Sir Frederick Ashton. In addition, The Sarasota Ballet School provides professional instruction for students of all ages, and The Margaret Barbieri Conservatory prepares pre-professional level students for a performing career in classical ballet. We invite you to join us this Season as we mark Director Iain Webb’s 15th Anniversary of Company leadership, along with our exciting return to live ballet performance in pursuit of our mission to enrich lives, captivate emotions, and strengthen our community through the art of dance.
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THE SARASOTA BALLET SHARING THE ARTISTRY OF BALLET WITH THE SARASOTA COMMUNITY has been integral to The Sarasota Ballet since our very beginning. In 1991, Dance–The Next Generation (DNG) was founded by Jean Weidner Goldstein and was designed as a dance program to directly impact underserved children in the local community. Each year DNG averages an enrollment of around 165 students, from third to twelfth grade, regardless of background, ability, or financial status. The Sarasota Ballet provides tuition free of charge to the families of children in Title 1 schools who are considered at risk of dropping out. Initially the focus was on classical ballet instruction, but the program has since expanded to include jazz, dance composition, and elements of dance. But DNG is more than a dance program. The goal was and remains to nurture the development of the entire individual with emphasis on discipline, self-esteem, and the desire for higher education. In recent years, The Sarasota Ballet has focused on expanding its Community Engagement programs, providing access and opportunity at little or no cost. These programs enable thousands of students, families, and people of all ages to explore the world of dance. The Sarasota Ballet partners with public schools in the Sarasota community to bring dance into schools and provide opportunities for students to attend ballet per formances, allowing thousands of students to experience dance, often for the first time. Also included among The Sarasota Ballet’s Community Engagement initiatives is Joyful Movement Through Parkinson’s, in partnership with the Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s; courses are designed for people living with Parkinson’s disease to help with range of motion, coordination, and mobility. The Sarasota Ballet believes that the gift of dance is for everyone to enjoy.
5555 N. TAMIAMI TRAIL, SARASOTA, FL 34243 | 941-359-0099 | SARASOTABALLET.ORG
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FOR OVER 45 YEARS, THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION has worked together with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System to ensure a healthy future for our community through meaningful grants. The Healthcare Foundation is currently fundraising for two major healthcare initiatives at Sarasota Memorial: Bringing hope to patients and families facing cancer: The Leading with Care campaign is generating support for the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute so that cancer patients can receive comprehensive care close to home. The first two phases are complete. The Radiation Oncology Center opened in 2020 and the Oncology Tower on the SMH-Sarasota Campus opened in November. Planning is under way for an outpatient pavilion on the SMH-Sarasota campus and a cancer care center on the SMH-Venice campus. Supporting those struggling with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues: The Healthcare Foundation recently announced a transformational gift to support the creation of the Cornell Family Behavioral Health Pavilion at SMH. Slated to begin construction early 2022, the new facility will enhance, expand and centralize care for people of all ages affected by mental and behavioral health challenges
SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
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arasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation is the philanthropic partner that helps Sarasota Memorial Health Care System bring world-class care to our community. Gifts to the Healthcare Foundation provide critical resources in the following areas:
• Patient Care Maintaining the highest standards in patient care is the cornerstone of our health system. • Education Continuing education guarantees healthcare providers receive the most current information available. • Technology Staying on the leading edge of today’s technology means patients benefit from the latest advances. • Research Ongoing clinical research is integral in offering lifesaving and life-improving advances.
1515 S. OSPREY AVE., SUITE B4, SARASOTA, FL 34239 941-917-1286 | SMHF.ORG
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• Facilities First-rate facilities are fundamental to the delivery of quality care and medical services.
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THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE HAS BEEN REHABILITATING WILD MANATEES since 1998 and was a founding member of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership in 2001. As one of only three Stage 2 rehabilitation facilities in Florida, The Bishop cares for recovering manatees, freeing much-needed emergency space so that seriously ill and injured manatees can be treated in critical-care units elsewhere. Spending time in our Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat allows manatees time to finish the recovery process, grow and prepare for their return to the wild. Florida’s wild manatees are facing more challenges than ever. This year, we’ve lost more manatees than any other year in our state’s history. Manatees need our help and your monthly support as a Bishop Foster Friend will make it possible. A monthly contribution of just $25 will help feed and care for rehabilitating manatees until they are healthy enough to go home. And any gift made today will be matched through Florida Power & Light Company’s charitable arm, the NextEra Energy Foundation, up to $20,000. You can become a BFF to The Bishop’s rehabilitating manatees by giving monthly to support their care and feeding, or, by supporting the manatee rehabilitation program with a one-time gift. However you decide to support the manatees, you will receive special gifts, invitations, and experiences based on your level of giving.
201 10TH ST. WEST, BRADENTON, FL 34205 | 941-746-4131 BISHOPSCIENCE.ORG/BFF
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he Tidewell Foundation provides perpetual philanthropic support to sustain and grow the critically important programs and services provided through the not-for-profit mission of Tidewell Hospice and its family of companies. As the only not-for-profit hospice serving Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties, the success of Tidewell’s 40+ year mission depends on the support of Tidewell Foundation donors. Our services go far beyond hospice, extending to grief counseling for children, music therapy, professional development for nurses, special programs for veterans, and so much more. Driven by compassion, we care for those who need it most. We lift people up, no matter how challenging, one visit, one patient, one family at a time.
TIDEWELL FOUNDATION
ONE RELATIONSHIP AT A TIME, WE CONNECT OUR DONORS’ PASSIONS WITH OUR MISSION. We facilitate the magic of donors’ visions and legacies by creating life-changing opportunities to invest with us. These generous gifts open new possibilities for the world-class care nearly 10,000 patients receive each year, including the 8,000 people served through Tidewell Hospice’s grief services. People of all ages are eligible for grief services at no cost — whether or not their loved one was a Tidewell Hospice patient. Our donor-supported investments have fueled the expansion of Tidewell’s Blue Butterfly program for grieving children and families into underserved communities, as well as our new Tidewell Family Grief Center in Ellenton. This first-of-its-kind facility in our region is providing holistic grief support for individuals, families, and the community. Donors are also helping to provide hands-on training to develop the next generation of hospice nurses and home healthcare aides — roles that have proven essential to Tidewell Hospice’s exceptional care amid the pandemic — along with charity care for our patients who are too young to qualify for Medicare. Beyond these opportunities, our donors play a vital role in the expansion of programs such as Tidewell Honors Veterans, a comprehensive program focused on respectfully celebrating veterans and providing care that recognizes the unique challenges that may exist in military families. Music therapy, which harnesses the healing power of music to alleviate patients’ stress and pain, is another transformative program. Through your generosity, the Tidewell Foundation is advancing care and compassion for all.
5955 RAND BLVD., SARASOTA, FL 34238 | 941-552-7546 TIDEWELLFOUNDATION.ORG | GIVING@TIDEWELLFOUNDATION.ORG EIN 85-0729071
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WISHLIST • Send a Kid to Camp: By supporting YMCA Summer Camp, you are providing children the opportunity to have the Best Summer Ever™ where they will create memories that last a lifetime. • Prepare Children for Kindergarten: By supporting YMCA Early Learning programs, you are providing children the opportunity to gain school readiness skills to be prepared for kindergarten and beyond. • Create Healthy Families and Communities: By supporting YMCA Health Innovations programs, you are providing individuals access to life-changing programming that supports health and well-being, fights chronic disease and empowers people to lead healthier lives. • Nurture the Potential of Every Child: By supporting Before and After School Enrichment programs, you are providing children the opportunity to learn in a safe environment that allows them to thrive. • Help Prevent Childhood Drowning: By supporting YMCA Safety Around Water and swim lesson programs, you are providing children access to water safety programming that helps develop life-saving skills that reduce the potential for drowning.
YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA FOR 54 YEARS, YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA has been a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. YMCA of Southwest Florida operates eight YMCA facilities, two charter middle schools, four early learning academies and various camps and after school programs across Southwest Florida from Manatee County to Bonita Springs. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive. YMCA programs and services are focused on our primary areas of impact that help people achieve their goals and strengthen communities. As an inclusive, cause-driven organization, YMCA of Southwest Florida is committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Giving back and providing support to our neighbors is the heartbeat of the Y. The Y’s mission is to ensure life-changing programs, services and resources are available to all. In our communities, the Y has the presence and partnerships to not just promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. In partnering with the Y, you can feel confident your gift is making a positive impact.
701 CENTER ROAD VENICE, FL 34285 | GIVE@YMCASWFL.ORG | YMCASWFL.ORG
CREATIVE MARKETING SECTION :: SRQ MAGAZINE DEC 2021 IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
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ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK
All Faiths Food Bank is the only food bank and largest hunger relief organization in Sarasota and DeSoto counties, providing millions of meals each year with nearly 200 agencies and programs throughout the community. All Faiths works not only to fight hunger today but also strives to end hunger – forever – by helping families and individuals gain long-term food security, enjoy better health outcomes, and achieve selfsufficiency. All Faiths is rated 4 stars by Charity Navigator. AS THE HOLIDAYS APPROACH, most of us are eagerly anticipating the joys of the season. But for those who are struggling, the holidays are a stark reminder of ongoing financial challenges and worry. You can make a difference for area children, families, veterans and seniors by helping All Faiths Food Bank turn empty plates into ThankFULL tummies and hearts. With a gift to the ThankFULL campaign, you can make it possible for our neighbors to enjoy a festive holiday celebration complete with a healthy, delicious meal. This year, our goal is to distribute more than 12,500 turkeys and sides, and a total of 3.2 million holiday meals. Let’s make it possible for everyone to be ThankFULL this holiday – please consider sharing the joy of the season by giving today. 8171 BLAIKIE COURT SARASOTA FL 34240 | 941-379-6333 ALLFAITHSFOODBANK.ORG
BIG CAT HABITAT & GULF COAST SANCTUARY A 501C3 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION, our mission is to provide a safe, loving and permanent home for exotic and domestic animals in need, and to educate our guests on the importance of species preservation to ensure the survival of these magnificent animals for future generations. We are firmly committed to keeping alive the Human-Animal connection in our world and in our community. Big Cat Habitat is able to provide care and support to over 300 animals thanks to the generous donations from our supporters, and from gate admission revenues. All of the funds that we receive directly impact the lives of the animals in our care: from our goats, tortoises and primates to our wolves, big cats and bears! Every animal is provided with special diets, enrichments and habitats that are specifically designed for their species’ needs. We share this community and the world with all these beautiful fauna, and it is important that we each do our part to secure their future existence; therefore we make it our goal to educate children and adults about the importance of conservation for animals and their habitats. 7101 PALMER BLVD. SARASOTA, FL 34240 | 941-371-6377 BIGCATHABITAT.ORG INFO@BIGCATHABITAT.ORG @BIGCATHABITAT IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING CREATIVE MARKETING SECTION :: SRQ MAGAZINE DEC 2021
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BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES
3130 FRUITVILLE ROAD, SARASOTA, FL 34237 941-366-3911 | BGCSDC.ORG To make a difference or leave your own legacy, please visit bgcsdc.org.
CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY
2075 BAHIA VISTA ST., SARASOTA, FL 34239 941-355-9335 | CIRCUSARTS.ORG
IMAGINE THE MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE WHEN YOU DISCOVERED A PASSION OR EXPLORED AN OPPORTUNITY. The time your eyes were opened to a world of possibilities. The instant the lightbulb turned on and the vision of your future became clear. The local youth found inside Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties are not unlike our younger selves – full of hope, optimism and potential. And with your help, our Club members can experience that moment every day at one of our six Club locations. We invite you to See Yourself Here and recognize the significant impact your support can have on a child’s life. The leaders of tomorrow are at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties today. Our area’s youth are destined for greatness, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties is ensuring they have the knowledge and tools they need to become the next generation of community leaders. You can give the gift of a great future this holiday season, and help our community’s future leaders discover their true potential.
The mission of The Circus Arts Conservatory is to engage and educate students using innovative learning programs; to measurably improve the quality of life for individuals in care facilities; and to advance the extraordinary legacy of the circus. This mission underscores The CAC’s commitment to sharing the entertainment, education, and enrichment that Circus Arts provide. GIVING IS A TWO-WAY STREET. When you give, you also receive. The Circus Arts Conservatory is in its 24th year of giving to our community. Acclaimed circus artists give performances Under the Big Top. Thousands of alumni have succeeded in their lives through the unique training of Sailor Circus Academy - The Greatest Little Show on Earth, and the longest running youth circus in America. The CAC is home to the first Circus Arts Magnet Programs for middle and high schools and has a history of teaching science in the classroom using an exceptional arts integrated curriculum. In return, the CAC is blessed with hundreds of faithful donors. Most importantly, our community’s support elevates the CAC as the epicenter of Circus in America. Photography by Daniel Perales.
CREATIVE MARKETING SECTION :: SRQ MAGAZINE DEC 2021 IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
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FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE
FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE (FST) IS SARASOTA’S CONTEMPORARY THEATRE. Founded in 1973, FST has grown to a village of five theatres. FST is the largest subscription theatre in the state and among the largest in the country, serving more than 230,000 live event attendees each year across its diverse programs. Hip and historical, entertaining and challenging, we are the theatre where everyone is welcome to engage in the art. It is FST’s mission to make theatre accessible and affordable to as many people as possible. In keeping with this mission, FST is committed to keeping our prices low, so that everyone, from all backgrounds and walks of life, can experience high quality, professional theatre. In addition, FST makes theatre accessible through its Scholarship Program, covering enrollment costs for 15% of FST School students every year. Here’s one parent’s story: “We were actually paying for FST theatre classes and then the pandemic hit and I couldn’t afford it anymore,” said Clau C. “I felt so bad that I could no longer provide these classes for my daughter. Then FST called me and offered her a full scholarship. It was such a blessing.” Please consider making a gift to FST this holiday season so we can touch even more hearts through the art of theatre.
1241 NORTH PALM AVENUE SARASOTA, FL 34236 | 941-366-9000 FLORIDASTUDIOTHEATRE.ORG Photo credit: Ryan Morales in “The Wanderers.” Photo by John Jones.
JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICES
2688 FRUITVILLE ROAD, SARASOTA, FL 34327 941-366-2224 | JFCS-CARES.ORG
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS OF SERVICE ON THE FLORIDA SUNCOAST, JFCS of the Suncoast continues the Jewish tradition of helping all people, regardless of their religious preference, by offering multi-faceted initiatives that support the individual needs of seniors, veterans, families, and vulnerable youth. This year, JFCS continued to support those deeply affected by COVID-19 in numerous ways. We continued to provide financial assistance to area families having distributed over $600,000 to over 400 families since the onset of the pandemic. We partnered with local churches and neighboring non-profits to distribute 1,800 free meals in Sarasota County and Manatee County. JFCS also collaborated with the Suncoast Women of Action and the Amaryllis Park Neighborhood Association to host a pop-up vaccination event at the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library, where over 25 people received their first dose of a vaccine, on Sat., July 24. Recently, we began offering free mental health counseling to veterans and healthcare workers. Lastly, JFCS has launched its Adopt-a-Family and Adopt-a-Senior campaigns to solicit donations for seniors and families who need help during the holiday season. More information about all of our programs is available on our website, www.JFCS-Cares.org.
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THE NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS (NAMI) SARASOTA AND MANATEE COUNTIES ONE IN 5 ADULTS IN THE UNITED STATES LIVE WITH A MENTAL ILLNESS and, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, that number has drastically increased – with 1 in 3 adults reporting experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. We expect the need for support to only rise as we hopefully come out of the pandemic sooner rather than later. NAMI peer volunteers bring programs to a wide variety of community settings and are focused on providing safe, welcoming, supportive and non-stigmatizing environments. With the unique understanding of people with lived experience, these programs and support groups provide outstanding free education, skills training and support for individuals living with mental illness, their families and caregivers. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties mission is to improve the lives of individuals with mental illness, as well as their families and caregivers, through support, education, awareness, and advocacy. Our vision is that Sarasota and Manatee Counties are communities in which people with mental illness can recover and lead productive lives free from stigma.
NAMI SARASOTA AND MANATEE COUNTIES | 2911 FRUITVILLE ROAD, SARASOTA, FL 34237 941-444-3428 | NAMISARASOTAMANATEE.ORG
RESILIENT RETREAT
1207 SARASOTA CENTER BLVD SARASOTA, FL 34240 | 941-343-0039 RESILIENTRETREAT.ORG
TRAUMA IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST PUBLIC HEALTH CRISES FACING OUR COUNTRY and is linked to mental health disorders, substance use, health problems, and homelessness. COVID-19 has exacerbated an already troubling situation with abuse rates on the rise and first responders/helping professionals working longer hours under heightened health risks. That is why we recently embarked on our Road to Resilience Capital Campaign to build a retreat center to host day programs, and multi-day retreats for trauma survivors and first responders/ helping professionals. Our goal is to have one location where community members not just survive their trauma, but thrive by participating in evidence-based programs that address the impact of trauma on the mind, body, and spirit, such as support groups, neurofeedback, meditation, equine therapy, art therapy, yoga, and more. Founded in 2018 Resilient Retreat is the leader in traumainformed care for abuse survivors and helping professionals in our community. We cultivate hope because we see the potential in each person so that the mind, body and spirit can thrive. The need for our services continues to grow with a 196% increase in participants served last year. Please join us on our Road to Resilience by scheduling a tour today! www. ResilientRetreat.org/roadtoresilience
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THE FLORIDA CENTER OF EARLY CHILDHOOD WHEN OLIVER, 5, FIRST CAME TO THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD, he was suffering from a “mirror movement disorder” that caused the one side of his body to mimic the actions of the other. He had limited mobility in his left hand and foot, both of which stayed in clenched positions. Oliver’s parents, Kaitlyn and Scott, enrolled him in The Florida Center’s Starfish Academy preschool where he received occupational and social-emotional therapies throughout his day. After two years of treatment, Oliver has achieved a full range of motion in his hand and almost completely overcome his physical disorder. He has also developed better social skills, coping mechanisms and independence. When you support The Florida Center, you help children like Oliver receive life-changing developmental services enabling them to reach their full potential. Donate today at www.thefloridacenter.org/donate. Over 90 percent of every dollar donated goes back into our programs. The Florida Center’s mission is to help build and foster strong families and expand the potential of young children. • 4620 17TH ST. SARASOTA, FL 34235 • 6929 OUTREACH WAY, NORTH PORT, FL34287 INFO@THEFLORIDACENTER.ORG THEFLORIDACENTER.ORG 941-371-8820
