Skip to main content

SRQ Magazine | May/June 2026: Giving Coast Donors' Giving Guide

Page 1


YOUR GUIDE TO GIVING OPPORTUNITIES BOOSTS THE IMPACT FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS WORKING IN OUR REGION. BECOME A PART OF THE REGIONAL PHILANTHROPIC STORY BY FULFILLING THEIR GIVING BACK WISH LISTS.

ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK | BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE SUN COAST | BIG CAT HABITAT | BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES

CAT DEPOT | CENTERSTONE | CHILDREN FIRST FAMILY PROMISE OF SOUTH SARASOTA | FLORIDA WEST COAST AVIAN SOCIETY INC. | HUMANE SOCIETY OF SARASOTA COUNTY | IMPACT100 SRQ | MANATEE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION | MANATEE COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY | MOTE MARINE LABORATORY

NEW COLLEGE FOUNDATION | PARENTING MATTERS ROWLETT ACADEMY | SAMARITAN COUNSELING SERVICES OF THE GULF COAST | SARASOTA PARROT CONSERVATORY SARASOTA PERFORMING ARTS FOUNDATION SARASOTA POLICE FOUNDATION | SAVE OUR SEABIRDS TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN MANATEE COUNTY

THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Centerstone

EVERY DAY, PEOPLE AROUND US ARE QUIETLY CARRYING THE WEIGHT OF MENTAL HEALTH OR SUBSTANCE USE CHALLENGES. It can take tremendous courage to ask for support—and when they do, Centerstone is here to meet them with compassion, respect, and real pathways to recovery. FOR NEARLY SEVEN DECADES, Centerstone has been part of the fabric of Florida’s communities, delivering care that changes lives. Our services span from outpatient counseling to inpatient treatment at our Behavioral Hospital and Addiction Center and community-based programs. Together, these resources help children, teens, adults, and older adults find stability, connection, and hope. Each year, more than 250,000 people nationwide turn to Centerstone, including over 15,000 individuals and families right here in Florida. With locations throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties and across southwest Florida, our commitment to those we serve is deep and enduring. IF YOU’D LIKE TO MAKE A DIRECT IMPACT TODAY, we invite you to explore our Wish List, which highlights items that immediately support our clients’ wellbeing. YOU CAN ALSO UPLIFT OUR MISSION through two signature annual events. On May 16, we’ll host the 2nd Annual Fairway to Recovery Golf Tournament, created by the father of a former client and held at Heritage Oaks Golf & Country Club. Proceeds strengthen our recovery programs. Then, on September 19, join us for the 24th Annual Life;Story Run and Walk for Suicide Prevention at Nathan Benderson Park. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE. Together, we can open doors to healing—and help even more people find their way forward.

Our Wish List

$2,500 allows access to mental health/addiction care for individuals and families

$1,000 serves meals for patients in our behavioral hospital and addictions center

$500 provides medication for patients with little or no resources

$100 helps to provide art or play therapy supplies for a child recovering from trauma or abuse

CENTERSTONE

391 6TH AVENUE WEST, BRADENTON, FL 34205 1-877-HOPE123 (1-877-467-3123) FOUNDATION@CENTERSTONE.ORG CENTERSTONE.ORG/FOUNDATION

FB: FACEBOOK.COM/CENTERSTONEHEALTH IG: CENTERSTONEHEALTH

Family Promise of South Sarasota County

FAMILY PROMISE OF SOUTH SARASOTA COUNTY is dedicated to providing housing support to children and their families, ensuring every child has a safe, stable place to call home. We believe that housing is the foundation for a child’s success in school, emotional well-being, and longterm stability—and our work is centered on breaking the cycle of homelessness for families in our community. THROUGH OUR BRIDGE HOUSING PROGRAM, families with children experiencing homelessness receive temporary shelter alongside intensive case management, financial coaching, and employment support to help them regain independence. Our Open Doors program provides rent and move-in assistance to prevent families from becoming homeless in the first place, while also offering ongoing support to promote long-term stability. Through housing subsidies, the Pathways Home program removes financial barriers and helps families with minor children secure safe, stable homes. FPSSC ADDRESSES CRITICAL NEEDS IN OUR COMMUNITY by combining immediate housing assistance with wrap-around services that focus on economic mobility. We work closely with each family to build sustainable plans that increase income, reduce barriers, and support children in maintaining consistent school a endance and performance. AS WE CONTINUE TO GROW TO MEET THE INCREASING DEMAND FOR SERVICES, WE ARE ALSO INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE. Expanding our programs requires strengthening our operational capacity, increasing financial reserves, and maintaining the properties that house our families. From major repairs to long-term capital improvements such as roofs and air conditioning systems, these investments ensure we can continue providing safe, reliable housing for years to come. COMMUNITY SUPPORT MAKES THIS WORK POSSIBLE helping us create brighter futures for children and families across South Sarasota County.

Our Wish List

Growth & Sustainability

Support our capital campaign, daily operations, and growing reserve fund to ensure we can expand our impact and serve more families sustainably.

Housing & Infrastructure

Invest in our capital maintenance fund to keep our homes safe and reliable through essential repairs and long-term improvements like roofs and HVAC systems.

Direct Family Support

Provide immediate relief to families through gift cards for essentials and by volunteering your time to support and uplift those on their journey to stability.

WHEN WILLIE THE COCKATIEL WAS RESCUED BY THE FLORIDA WEST COAST AVIAN SOCIETY (FWCAS) in 2007, he was 17 years old, cage-bound, and paralyzed by fear. To the world, he was another surrendered pet. To Willie, his world had sha ered. Parrots can possess the emotional complexity of a human toddler, yet they’re o en discarded when "life changes.” Because many species live over 50 years, they frequently outlive their homes, cycling through owners and repeated displacement. For parrots, a human owner isn’t just a keeper; they are their "flock." When that bond is severed, parrots experience a silent grief, o en turning to self-harm. Parrots are intelligent enough to feel terror, but unable to understand their abandonment. WILLIE DIDN’T JUST LOSE HIS FAMILY; HE LOST HIS SENSE OF SECURITY. Today, however, at an incredible 36 years old, Willie is a testament to the power of trust. He no longer fears hands; he asks for baths and "purrs" during head scritches, returning the love he was finally given. AT FWCAS, A 501(C)(3) RESCUE SERVING SARASOTA AND MANATEE COUNTIES, abandonment isn’t the end. FWCAS provides the specialized rehabilitation and stable environment that parrots deserve. We bridge the gap between heartbreak and healing. Because every bird has unique needs, we offer tailored alternatives to traditional sanctuary placement, including:

• Individualized medical care by specialized veterinarians.

• Nutritious diets far beyond unhealthy seed.

• Toys for activities such as chewing and foraging.

• And most importantly: A loving forever home.

WHILE SOCIETY OPENS ITS HEART TO DOGS AND CATS, PARROTS ARE OFTEN THE FORGOTTEN SOULS OF PET RESCUE. They receive zero funding from national or county organizations; to many, they are invisible. For these brilliant, sensitive creatures, your private kindness isn’t just a gi —it is their only lifeline. SUPPORT THE FWCAS TODAY: PARROT LIVES DEPEND ON YOUR GENEROSITY.

“You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed.” — Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Florida West Coast Avian Society Inc.

Our Wish List

Critical Medical Fund:

Donations for life-saving surgeries, bloodwork, and diagnostic X-rays.

Digital Outreach: Website development help to feature adoptable birds, success stories, and upcoming events. Assistance with current platforms such as YouTube, X, and Instagram.

Education Sponsorship: Funding for our Parrot Symposium to teach proper care, behavior, and conservation to current and prospective parrot owners. Compassionate Foster Homes: Parrot-friendly homes to provide stable environments for traumatized parrots. We provide all food, supplies, and training.

Veterinary Mentorship: Active or retired veterinarians to assist with volunteer training and/or serve as guest speakers.

Mote Marine Laboratory

FOR OVER SEVEN DECADES, MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM has advanced marine science, conservation, and education to protect our oceans and the lives and livelihoods that depend on them. Our mission is driven by a simple truth: the challenges our oceans face are increasing, and meaningful change requires all of us working together. FROM RESTORING CORAL REEFS AND SEAGRASS MEADOWS to pioneering innovative solutions that mitigate impacts from harmful algal blooms like Florida red tide, Mote scientists lead cu ing-edge research with real-world impact. Our teams explore new frontiers in marine biomedical science, studying naturally occurring marine compounds that may help identify potential therapies for cancer. We also work to restore, wild fisheries and increase global food security by advancing land-based, recirculating aquaculture technology and conducting breakthrough research in sustainable seafood development. MOTE’S MISSION REACHES FAR BEYOND THE LAB. Our Stranding Investigations Program responds to sick and injured marine animals, providing lifesaving care and critical data that improve species protection. Through dynamic education programs for learners of all ages, we translate complex science into meaningful, accessible experiences that inspire future ocean leaders. SINCE 1955, when pioneering scientist Dr. Eugenie Clark received early support from Anne and William Vanderbilt and later transformational backing from William R. Mote, our organization has been shaped by visionary philanthropists who believe in the power of marine science. Today, with more than 38 diverse research programs and centers of excellence across a global enterprise, Mote continues to push the boundaries of discovery to address the ocean’s most urgent challenges. BY SUPPORTING MOTE, you join a legacy of individuals who are driving lasting, positive impact for our blue planet. Together, we can safeguard marine ecosystems, protect threatened species, and forge a sustainable future for our oceans and our community.

Our Wish List

YOU CAN HELP US:

Nurture the talents of early career scientists whose passion for the oceans is fueling innovative scientific research

Mitigate the impacts of Florida red tide through the development of cutting-edge technologies

Restore seagrass meadows and coastal habitat by identifying and propagating resilient seagrasses

Protect and conserve keystone species like sharks that sustain ocean ecosystems

Increase access to marine STEM education for local students in the community and at Mote Science Education Aquarium

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM 1600 KEN THOMPSON PARKWAY, SARASOTA, FL 34236 OFFICE: 941-388-4441 X352

APIEKARZ@MOTE.ORG MOTE.ORG/SUPPORT INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, AND TIKTOK: @MOTEMARINELAB LINKEDIN: MOTE-MARINE-LABORATORY

New College Foundation

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA EXISTS TO PROVIDE A PERSONALIZED, INTELLECTUALLY RIGOROUS EDUCATION

that empowers students to think critically, act boldly, and create meaningful change. As Florida’s public honors college, New College is nationally recognized for academic innovation, fearless dialogue, and transformative student experiences. Founded in Sarasota in 1960, the College has deep roots in the local community and a growing reputation across the state and nation. It is ranked the #1 public liberal arts college in the United States by Washington Monthly—a distinction it has held for three consecutive years —and is also the top liberal arts college in Florida, reflecting leadership in civic engagement, academic freedom, and student success. The College also holds national recognition from The Princeton Review, including: Best U.S. Public College for Value & Small Size (#1 of 391); Best Small Public College in the South (#1 of 109); and Top Public College with Lowest In-State Tuition (#1 of 19). The New College Foundation serves as the philanthropic partner of the College, advancing this mission through strategic investment and community support. Through donor partnership, the Foundation provides scholarships that open doors for talented students, fuels faculty research and academic innovation, expands athletics, arts, and student life programming, and creates life-changing experiential learning opportunities. TOGETHER, NEW COLLEGE AND ITS FOUNDATION ADDRESS CRITICAL COMMUNITY NEEDS by preparing thoughtful, engaged graduates who contribute to the Gulf Coast and beyond—strengthening the region’s intellectual, cultural, and economic vitality while shaping the next generation of leaders.

Our Wish List

Annual Donations

Join alumni, parents, and friends in supporting New College’s most immediate needs, including scholarships, career services, faculty research, athletics, and student life initiatives.

Event Sponsorships

Sponsor signature events such as the Clambake, Golf Tournament, and Socratic Stage to bring the community together while generating critical funds for students and programs.

Endowed Gi s

Establish a lasting legacy through endowed scholarships, faculty chairs, or program funds that provide sustainable, long-term support for generations of students.

FOUNDATION@NCF.EDU

INSTAGRAM: NEWCOLLEGEFOUNDATION

FACEBOOK: NEWCOLLEGEFOUNDATION

Rowlett Academy

ROWLETT ACADEMY K–8 HAS SERVED MANATEE COUNTY FAMILIES SINCE 2000, and as a highperforming, tuition-free public charter school since 2014. At Rowle , we focus on developing creative, confident leaders who excel in academics, the arts, and communication. ACROSS OUR K–8 MODEL, students benefit from a student-centered experience that blends strong academic with the arts, technology, and leadership. Beginning in elementary school, students receive Spanish instruction along with expanded arts opportunities such as drama, dance, and theater. From elementary through middle school, students engage in award-winning film and technology programs, including producing daily, live, student-run morning news broadcasts on both campuses. Middle school students extend these skills by competing in national media competitions such as the Student Television Network and earning recognition at the All American High School Film Festival. Advanced coursework, including high school credit opportunities at the middle school level, ensures students are challenged and prepared for what comes next. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IS WOVEN INTO THE SCHOOL DAY through the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Young People. Elementary students build leadership skills through initiatives like DEAL Time (Drop Everything And Lead) and Student Lighthouse Team, recognizing community heroes and leading campus efforts. These opportunities continue in middle school through Student Council, National Junior Honor Society, Kiwanis Builders Club, and a competitive speech and debate program. A wide range of middle school athletic offerings further supports teamwork and discipline. WE SUPPORT BOTH STUDENTS AND FAMILIES by addressing critical community needs. Through free enrichment programs and initiatives like Families Helping Families, we provide food and resources to those facing insecurity. With continued community support, we can expand these opportunities, reach more families, and ensure every child has access to experiences that shape confident, capable leaders. Your support directly fuels these programs and creates lasting impact for students and our community.

Our Wish List

Middle Campus News Studio update

Middle Campus Science Lab improvements

Elementary Campus Playground refresh

Elementary Campus Office portable

Donor-directed projects aligned to school needs: Naming opportunities available to create a lasting legacy!

QUESTIONS?

REACH OUT TO OUR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION DIRECTOR, ERICA LEVEY. LEVEYE@ROWLETTACADEMY.ORG ROWLETTACADEMY.ORG

ELEMENTARY CAMPUS: 3500 9TH STREET EAST BRADENTON, FL 34208 PHONE: 941-708-6100

FACEBOOK.COM/ROWLETTACADEMY

MIDDLE CAMPUS:

400 30TH AVENUE WEST BRADENTON, FL 34205 PHONE: 941-462-4001

FACEBOOK.COM/ROWLETTMIDDLEACADEMY

SINCE JANUARY 2013 SARASOTA PARROT CONSERVATORY HAS BEEN GIVING RELINQUISHED PARROTS A FOREVER HOME. The large number of parrots that need a home in South Florida is a problem yet many people are only aware of dog and cat rescues. We regularly hold community events bringing awareness to this community issue. PARROTS LIVE UP TO 80 YEARS OLD so on average they will live in seven homes during their lives. We do not rehome parrots but give them a forever home giving families the peace of mind that their beloved parrot they gave security to for decades will not go from home to home. GIVING RELINQUISHED PARROTS A HOME IN A NATURAL SETTING IS ONLY PART OF WHAT WE DO. Many parrots have been socialized and require more stimulation which makes them great candidates for our hallmark programs. Our community outreach programs find us bringing joy with our parrots to senior assisted living facilities with our program “We’re All Young at Heart”, conducting avian therapy for combat veterans and sexual assault survivors with our program “Freedom to Fly”, and community events educating the public about responsible parrot care. WE RESPONSIBLY WORK WITH OTHER PARROT RESCUES making sure those looking to surrender a parrot, adopt a parrot or needing transportation for medical emergencies get their requirements met. WE ALSO WORK WITH THE COMMUNITY offering volunteer opportunities to help students meet requirements for Bright Futures to a end college, those in the court system needing volunteer hours, and those interested in making a difference. Our program “A Place to Perch” teaches our youth life skills like carpentry, landscaping, animal care, concrete work, painting and proper use of many types of tools. FINALLY, WE OFFER BOARDING SERVICES, daily tours and parrot wing and nail clipping.

Sarasota Parrot Conservatory Inc.

Our Wish List

$1500.00

Buys all materials to build an aviary for parrots

$500.00

Buys feed, fruits/vegetables for two weeks

$200.00

Buys industrial weatherproof fans for aviaries

$100.00

Helps with our medical vet expenses

$50.00

Buys enrichment toys necessary for health Our Mission

To rescue, rehabilitate and care for parrots; To inspire and nurture the human spirit by connecting people with parrots and each other in joyful, immersive ways.

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation

THE SARASOTA PERFORMING ARTS FOUNDATION shapes moments that upli hearts and strengthen our community by advancing the power of the arts to educate, connect, and inspire through impactful and interactive learning experiences. SINCE 1987, THE FOUNDATION HAS INVESTED MORE THAN $18 MILLION into arts education programs at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, bringing world-class performances, teaching artists, and creative opportunities to thousands of students and families annually. THROUGH TEACHER WORKSHOPS, schooltime performances, classroom residencies, family nights, and wellness programming, the Foundation in partnership with the Van Wezel Education Department reaches 40,000 participants annually - students, educators, families, and lifelong learners. These programs are made possible through private support, which helps the Foundation bring art, culture and inspiration to all. IN 2022, THE FOUNDATION EXPANDED ITS MISSION, working with the City of Sarasota through a public-private partnership to design a new Performing Arts Center that embodies resilience, world-class acoustics, and community vision at the heart of Sarasota. THE NEW CENTER WILL BE ABLE TO ACCOMMODATE larger productions, a racting new world-class performances to the area and building on the rich history of Florida’s Cultural Coast. The Center will serve as a gathering place for generations to come, ensuring Sarasota remains a destination for the best in music, theater, dance, and more.

Our Mission

To create and sustain a vibrant performing arts center, advance education, and enrich communities by inspiring minds through the power of the arts.

MISSION MOMENT

This past year, thousands of local students experienced live theater at the Van Wezel through our Schooltime Performances, many for the very fi rst time. For one young student, the experience was transformative: “I felt like the show was made for me. I never thought I’d see something like this in real life.”

That moment of wonder is why we exist: to ensure that every child and every neighbor have access to the joy, inspiration, and connection that only the arts can provide.

SARASOTA PERFORMING ARTS FOUNDATION 201 COCOANUT AVE., SARASOTA, FL 34236

INFO@PERFORMINGARTSFOUNDATION.ORG PERFORMINGARTSFOUNDATION.ORG

LINKEDIN: @SARASOTAPERFORMINGARTS

FACEBOOK: @SARASOTAPERFORMINGARTS INSTAGRAM: @SARASOTAPERFORMINGARTS YOUTUBE: @PERFORMINGARTSFOUNDATION

Sarasota Police Foundation

THE SARASOTA POLICE FOUNDATION plays a vital role in strengthening the connection between law enforcement and the community it serves. As a nonprofit organization, the Foundation provides critical funding and support for initiatives, equipment, and programs that enhance the capabilities of local officers and help them serve at the highest level. THROUGH COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDRAISING EFFORTS, the Foundation helps advance public safety by supporting specialized equipment, advanced training, and innovative technology for the Sarasota Police Department. These resources allow officers to respond more effectively to evolving challenges and be er protect the residents and visitors of Sarasota. BEYOND EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING, the Foundation is deeply commi ed to the well-being of officers and their families. It provides emergency financial assistance during times of hardship and supports programs that promote officer wellness, resilience, and mental health. In doing so, it ensures those who protect the community are also cared for in meaningful and lasting ways. THE FOUNDATION ALSO INVESTS IN THE FUTURE by supporting youth engagement initiatives and community outreach programs that build trust and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community. From local events to hands-on interactions, these efforts help create a safer, more connected Sarasota. AT ITS CORE, THE SARASOTA POLICE FOUNDATION IS ABOUT PARTNERSHIP. Bringing together citizens, businesses, and law enforcement to make a lasting impact. Through generosity and community involvement, it continues to elevate public safety and support those who serve with dedication and integrity every day.

Our Wish List

The Sarasota Police Foundation’s current wish list includes funding to support our retired K9 heroes, helping cover essential needs such as boarding expenses, specialized food, and wellness support after years of dedicated service to our community. These loyal partners often face significant health expenses in retirement. Additionally, we are seeking contributions to grow our Emergency Relief Fund, which provides immediate fi nancial assistance to officers and their families during unexpected hardships, including medical emergencies, natural disasters, or critical incidents. These critical funds ensure we can respond quickly and provide meaningful support when it is needed most.

SARASOTA POLICE FOUNDATION PO BOX 10 | SARASOTA, FL 34230 ANDREA@SRQPF.ORG 941-468-1611

INSTAGRAM: SRQPOLICEFDTN FACEBOOK: SARASOTA POLICE FOUNDATION

YMCA of Southwest Florida

FOR OVER 59 YEARS, YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA HAS STRENGTHENED COMMUNITIES by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other. Serving Manatee, Sarasota, Charlo e, Lee, DeSoto, Hendry and Glades counties, the Y operates ten facilities, two charter middle schools, five early learning academies and various summer camps and a erschool programs. THE MISSION OF THE YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. As an inclusive, cause-driven organization, the Y is commi ed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. BY UNITING PEOPLE FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS AND GENERATIONS, we ensure access to opportunities, relationships and resources for all to learn, grow and thrive. GIVING BACK AND SUPPORTING OUR NEIGHBORS is at the heart of the Y. Meeting the emerging needs of our communities is where we are o en needed most. Our programs and services focus on areas of impact that help people achieve their goals and strengthen communities. From reducing senior isolation and fighting food insecurity to promoting health initiatives, preventing drowning, supporting grade-level reading and responding to disasters, the Y is commi ed to providing essential support where it’s needed most. WE CREATE OPPORTUNITIES for individuals to improve their lives and their communities. By empowering young people, enhancing well-being and inspiring action, the Y drives meaningful change across Southwest Florida. WITH A STRONG PRESENCE AND MEANINGFUL PARTNERSHIPS, the Y doesn’t just promise change — we deliver lasting impact. Partner with us and make a difference that endures.

Our

Wish List

Send a Kid to Camp: Support YMCA Summer Camp and give children the Best Summer Ever, creating lifelong memories.

Prepare Children for Kindergarten: Support YMCA Early Learning programs to equip kids with essential school readiness skills.

Create Healthy Families & Communities: Support YMCA Health Innovations for life-changing programs that promote well-being, fi ght chronic disease, and empower healthier lives.

Prevent Childhood Drowning: Support YMCA water safety and swim lessons, helping children develop life-saving skills to reduce drowning risks.

Fight Food Insecurity with the YMCA: Support the YMCA Food Program to ensure children and families have access to nutritious meals. YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA 200 NOKOMIS AVE. S., 3RD FLOOR VENICE, FL 34285 YMCASWFL.ORG | GIVE@YMCASWFL.ORG

All Faiths Food Bank

SUMMERTIME SHOULD BE CAREFREE FOR KIDS, but when school cafeterias close, thousands of children across Sarasota and DeSoto counties lose reliable access to meals. Through its Campaign Against Summer Hunger, All Faiths Food Bank works with local schools, non-profits and community partners to provide nutritious food for children all summer. Community support makes this effort possible. A gi today helps fund programs that keep kids nourished while school is out. Join All Faiths in ending summer hunger – and your gi will be matched through May 15! Together, we can ensure every child has the food they need. Our Mission

Together with our partners, we provide healthy solutions to end hunger in our community.

Make a donation A end an upcoming event Volunteer

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE SUN COAST creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Through its mentoring program, young people (“Li les”) are matched with screened, trained, and professionally supported volunteer mentors (“Bigs”) who provide guidance, encouragement, and consistency. These relationships help youth stay engaged in school, make positive choices, graduate high school, and build a path toward a self-sufficient future.

LIFE AND CAREER READINESS is woven throughout the mentoring experience, including financial literacy, wellness and resiliency, career exploration, workplace mentoring, scholarship and higher education preparation, and practical skills like résumé development and mock interviews. The organization also partners closely with families, connecting them with community resources to ensure every child has the support needed to reach their full potential.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF THE SUN COAST 5731 ROSIN WAY, SARASOTA, FL 34233 BBBSSUN.ORG | FB: FACEBOOK.COM/BBBSSUN |IG: NSTAGRAM.COM/BBBSSUN

Our Wish

List

Volunteer mentors for youth currently on our waiting list.

College readiness laundry baskets with essentials like Twin XL sheets, detergent, and toiletries.

Walmart gi cards to help Littles purchase attire for college visits and job interviews.

Big Cat Habitat

BIG CAT HABITAT CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION CENTER provides a safe, loving and permanent home to over 300 animals spanning more than 60 species including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, birds and more. We welcome guests from around the world to visit, encounter, experience and fall in love with our animals year-round. We believe that educating our guests on the importance of conservation and species preservation can cultivate a deeper understanding of the vital connection between humans and animals. We encourage everyone to help save animals from extinction and inspire community action for a be er tomorrow with EDUCATION, CONSERVATION AND CONNECTION. Through our outreach team we share our knowledge and passion for animals in the community at schools, libraries, festivals and events.

BIG CAT HABITAT

7101 PALMER BLVD. SARASOTA, FL 34240 941-371-6377 | BIGCATHABITAT.ORG

INFO@BIGCATHABITAT.ORG IG/FB/X/YOUTUBE/TIKTOK: @BIGCATHABITAT

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties

AT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES, thousands of youth are provided a safe place to learn, grow, and thrive across six Club locations and two counties. Through programs in leadership development, academic success, career readiness, and health and wellness, we are shaping the next generation of community leaders. By addressing real needs in our community, from mental health to workforce readiness, the Club ensures every young person has access to the support and opportunities they need to succeed. With your help, we can empower Club kids to become the leaders of tomorrow. Call to schedule a private Club tour and learn how you can join us in making an impact.

Our Wish List

Host An Event amongst the original party animals and have a wild birthday party, holiday party, rehearsal dinner, corporate or milestone event!

Become A Member and be a part of the BCH family!

Donate towards animal care, habitat construction and park improvements.

Volunteer opportunities in gardening, educational tours, construction and more.

Our Wish List

$1,000 ensures all members have academic support throughout the year.

$500 empowers teens to be active members of their community.

$250 enlists behavioral health professionals to provide wellness sessions to youth who need us most.

$100 helps provide healthy snacks to fuel great futures.

Cat Depot

A CAT-FOCUSED MISSION Cat Depot is a feline-only rescue, adoption, and education center dedicated exclusively to helping cats and ki ens. Our focused mission allows us to tailor care and programs to meet cats’ unique needs.

EVERY DAY, HOMELESS AND ABANDONED CATS ARE GIVEN A SECOND CHANCE AT CAT DEPOT through urgent rescue, compassionate veterinary care, and loving adoptions.

EACH YEAR WE:

• Rescue and rehome 1,300 cats and ki ens

• Treat 2,700 feline patients through our Cat Care Clinic

• Provide vital spay/neuter services and community cat support

• Keep hundreds of families together through our food bank and safety net programs

• Build a more informed and compassionate community for cats through humane education and outreach

• Wet and dry cat and kitten food • Clumping and non-clumping cat litter

• Hard-sided cat carriers

• Cat toys and treats

• Kitten nursing supplies

Manatee County Habitat for Humanity

MANATEE COUNTY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY’S MISSION is to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope. Our vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to live. We partner with hardworking local families to construct safe, decent homes they can purchase with an affordable mortgage, creating long-term generational impact. As housing costs continue to rise in our community, we are scaling our mission to build 15 homes annually to meet the growing need. Our newest development, King’s Cross Place, will bring 27 affordable homes to Manatee County, expanding opportunities for families to thrive. Through volunteer engagement, donor support, and special campaigns and initiatives like Women Build, Advancing Black Homeownership, and Faith Build, we are addressing the affordable housing crisis headon, creating not just homes, but stronger, more resilient communities.

Our Wish List

Sponsors and corporate partners to help fund the construction of affordable homes

Volunteers of all skill levels, no experience needed, just a willingness to serve ReStore donations and shoppers to support our mission and keep materials out of landfi lls

Our Wish List

Despite how essential this work is, wildlife conservation receives less than 1% of charitable giving. With your support, we can keep showing up for these birds— and protect the systems we all depend on.

Save Our Seabirds

SAVE OUR SEABIRDS RESCUES AND REHABILITATES SICK AND INJURED WILD BIRDS, protecting species that keep our ecosystems in balance. Birds pollinate plants, control pests, and serve as early indicators of environmental health. When they struggle, it signals deeper issues that ultimately impact us all. OUR DEDICATED TEAM responds to 5,000+ calls about distressed birds annually, providing critical care through our on-site hospital and giving birds a second chance at life. We also believe connection drives conservation. Our free-admission Bird Walk is home to nearly 100 non-releasable resident birds whose stories advocate for their wild counterparts, helping people be er understand and care about wildlife. Through free educational programs and community outreach, we make learning accessible for all ages.

Take Stock in Children - Manatee County, Inc.

AT TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN OF MANATEE COUNTY, we transform the lives of students facing economic hardship by providing the tools, guidance, and support they need to thrive. Our scholarship programs do more than cover tuition, they create pathways to opportunity, paired with mentorship that lasts from middle school through graduation. Dedicated mentors guide students through challenges, celebrate achievements, and help them build the confidence to pursue their dreams. BEYOND FINANCIAL SUPPORT, we connect students to critical resources, including mental health services, and our Beyond Tuition initiative ensures alumni continue receiving assistance for housing, supplies, and other needs while in college. BY INVESTING IN EACH STUDENT’S GROWTH, we nurture academic success, personal development, and a stronger community for all. DONATE AT BIT.LY/TSICMDONATE.

Mission Moment

When Jose faced family separation and housing instability, Take Stock Manatee’s mentorship, coaching, and scholarships kept him on track. Now pursuing a nursing degree, he plans to give back to the community that supported him, showing how our program empowers students to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
SRQ Magazine | May/June 2026: Giving Coast Donors' Giving Guide by SRQ MEDIA - Issuu