Each year, SRQ Media invites the community to nominate individuals with hearts of giving who have made a significant impact with local nonprofit organizations — from volunteers and board members to individual staff members and donors. Tuesday, December 5, attendees happily joined together to recognize our annual Good Hero Philanthropic Award recipients at the SB2: Philanthropic Agenda and Good Hero Awards Luncheon at Michael’s on East in Sarasota. We are delighted to feature each of the twelve honorees in our Wednesday Philanthropic edition of SRQ Daily.

Today we are recognizing Scott Libertore, President of The Libertore Fund for Children, Inc. Scott has been an active member of numerous charity boards in Sarasota since 2010. What stands out most is his passion for helping disadvantaged children overcome obstacles so they can realize a better future. He sees a need and jumps into action by donating and raising funds to help. He began his giving journey by coordinating and chairing golf tournaments and tennis matches for various children's charities, raising over $1.5 million over a three-year period. In 2015 he formed The Libertore Fund for Children, Inc. with his dad, Doug Libertore, as a vehicle to be more connected and make a bigger impact on at-risk children and families. Scott’s vision for The Libertore Fund for Children has always been, and continues to be, to provide grants for services that benefit at-risk children as well as grants that are difficult to attain, like marketing, staff increases, and technology that are needed for growth and sustainability. He not only contributes to The Libertore Fund for Children but also to other non-profits in the area. Congratulations, Scott. 

Pictured: Bart Lowther (left) of Mariash Lowther Wealth Management with Scott Libertore, President of The Libertore Fund for Children, Inc. Photo by Wyatt Kostygan.

The Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation (PAF) proudly announces the return of the 2024 Transformation Gala on Friday, March 22, 2024 at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Featuring Kristin Chenoweth, New York Times best-selling author and Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer, the 2024 Transformation Gala promises an incredible evening dedicated to experiencing the transformative power of the arts. Set along the beautiful waterfront of Sarasota Bay, the 22nd annual event supports the PAF’s vision for a new Performing Arts Center and their transformative arts education work that touches the lives of more than 33,000 educators, military families, and students. Led by co-chairs Kathy Martella and Susan Travers, the night begins with a bayside cocktail celebration and exceptional dining catered by Michael’s on East, followed by a thrilling concert featuring Tony Award-winning artist Kristin Chenoweth in the Van Wezel Hall. The celebration concludes with a rocking private afterparty in the grand foyer. The gala stands as a tribute to artistic excellence, spotlighting the distinguished career of Kristin Chenoweth, an accomplished artist with work spanning film, television, voiceover, and the performing arts stage. Chenoweth's resume includes Emmy and Tony Awards, a coveted star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and iconic roles in Broadway productions like "Wicked" and "You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown." Since 2002, the Gala has served as the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation’s annual fundraising event. Contributions play a crucial role in the Foundation’s mission to build a world-class performing arts center that will enhance the community, support arts education and inspire young minds for children and families throughout the region. Proceeds from the gala help to fund the PAF’s educational programs, support our partnered educational programs at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, contribute to the planning of the new Sarasota Performing Arts Center, and solidifies the future of the arts in Sarasota. Don't miss your chance to be part of this special night. Tickets and table sponsorships are now available. For more information about table sponsorships, benefits, and tickets, visit www.PerformingArtsFoundation.org or contact Nicole Hancock at nhancock@performingartsfoundation.org.  

The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation (SAHP) recently received two grants from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. The first, a $20,000 grant issued from the Community Foundation’s Edward K. Roberts Emerging Needs Fund, the Two-Generation Approach Fund and the Affordable/Transitional Housing Fund, will support a SAHP initiative that offers low-cost loans to historic property owners in the Newtown district, enabling them to make renovations and improvements to their buildings. The second, a $10,000 grant, was also issued from the Community Foundation’s Edward K Roberts Emerging Needs Fund and will help the organization engage a fundraising consultant to expand access to funding sources. 

Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation (PAF) will present a free panel discussion on January 24, 2024 from 6-7pm at the Bayfront Community Center (803 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL). Experts in the field of arts & disability will highlight the importance of accessibility in the arts, exploring both local and national initiatives, and envisioning the future of accessible arts in our community. This event is one of several activities organized in collaboration with  Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall (VWPAH). T The panel features classical violinist and PAF Artist in Residence Adrian Anantawan; Dwayne Scheuneman Founder of REVolutions Dance Tampa; author and Integrated Dance Specialist Silva Laukkanen; and Dr. Roger Ideishi, Program Director of Occupational Therapy at George Washington University. Together, this distinguished panel will define what accessibility in the arts truly entails: What does it take to create accessible programs and spaces for artists, audiences, in the years to come? This discussion will spotlight current initiatives in our community as part of “Accessibility Week” for PAF and VWPAH. On January 23, Adrian Anantawan will deliver a keynote address, highlighting his work as a Sarasota Artist in Residence, in Gainesville, FL for the Institute for Small and Rural Districts Winter Institute, an organization whose mission is to support positive outcomes for students with disabilities.  Also on January 23, REVolutions Dance will also premiere a Schooltime Performance, produced and presented by the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Education & Community Engagement Department. This program, featuring dancers with and without disabilities will reach more than 2,000 local students including students from Oak Park, the Haven, and Easter Seals of Florida. The final event of “Accessibility Week” takes place on January 25, as Dr. Roger Ideishi headlines a professional development workshop for classroom teachers from 5-6pm at David Cohen Hall at the Sarasota Orchestra, exploring the multiple avenues for student engagement in the arts, focusing on reaching neurodiverse children through accessible arts practices. Classroom teachers interested in attending may register here. The panel discussion is free and open to the public and will include an audience question and answer session with panelists. Reservations are requested via EventBrite. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/arts-disability-panel-discussion-tickets-784566889687?aff=oddtdtcreator. 

To register click here

 In 2023 caregivers at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital donated more than 2,000 hours of their personal time to support local organizations. Caregivers participated in walk-a-thons, volunteered at local schools, served on community boards and were even puppy raisers for Southeastern Guide Dogs. In addition, the hospital continued a legacy of support with financial contributions, sponsorships and donations to almost 30 different community organizations and schools in Sarasota, Venice and Lakewood Ranch. “Our caregivers support the health and wellness of our community with the care they provide at the hospital and they go beyond that with donations of their time and resources when they are away from work. We have a strong culture of caring and it shows with this positive impact we are making,” said Bob Meade, CEO of HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital and longtime board member at Southeastern Guide Dogs. Some of the organizations receiving support from HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital in 2023 were: State College of Florida Foundation, Suncoast Technical College nursing program, Riverview High School, Venice High School, Lakewood Ranch High School, Braden River High School, Senior Friendship Centers, Florida Center for Early Childhood, NAMI, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, The LINKS Foundation Inc., American Cancer Society, American Heart Association and Rotary Club of Venice Suncoast. 

Harvest House, a leading nonprofit organization, has named John Walsh its  new Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, Walsh will lead a team of over 20 members and oversee the day to-day operations of the organization's residential programs, affordable housing, encompassing 380 beds, and  the Harvest Food Pantry.  With 29 years of experience in the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, Walsh brings with him a wealth of  knowledge and expertise in patrol, investigations, court services, and emergency response. His outstanding  service has earned him numerous awards, including the NAACP Freedom Award, Congressional Law  Enforcement Dedication and Professionalism Award, Life Saving Award, and Meritorious Achievement Award.  He holds a Bachelor's degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, a Master's in Criminal Justice  Administration from Hodges University, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Management in Executive  Leadership. With the addition of Walsh, Harvest House is poised to continue its vital work in providing health, wholeness,  and stability to those in need, and we look forward to the positive impact that his leadership will bring to this  vital organization.  

Senior Friendship Centers, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of older adults, will honor Jason Champion, Project Pride SRQ President, at their annual fundraiser, Blooming Friendships, on February 29, 2024, at Marie Selby Gardens.Champion’s collaboration with Senior Friendship Centers has been instrumental in addressing the unique needs of LGBT+ older adults in Sarasota, launching the first-ever Silver Pride, which drew over 500 seniors to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. According to SAGE (Services and Advocacy for LGBT Elders), by 2030, around 7 million Americans aged 50 and older will identify as LGBTQ+. Of those, 4.7 million will require senior care and services. Notably, 76 percent of LGBT adults express anxiety about having “adequate family and social supports to rely on as they age,” often due to potential estrangement from family because of their gender identity. With one-third of Sarasota County residents being seniors, the growing need for inclusive and welcoming spaces is evident. "Most LGBTQ+ older adults grew up in a generation where they weren’t supported,” says President/CEO Erin McLeod. “Senior Friendship Centers has always been an advocate for overlooked seniors. Honoring individuals like Jason exemplifies our commitment to ensuring that all seniors, regardless of their identity, age with dignity and never need to “go it alone.” The event will commence with a cocktail reception at 5:30 PM, followed by dinner and a program at 6:15 PM. The evening promises live entertainment from Sarasota Music Conservatory, dancing, and an opportunity for the community to support. Funds raised for the event will support inclusive programs for older adults including nutrition, adult day care, caregiver resources, economic assistance, wellness activities, socialization, etc. Tickets are $275 and available http://bit.ly/SFCBF24 or at www.friendshipcenters.org; RSVP by Wednesday, February 21, 2024 | Black tie attire optional; complimentary valet parking provided. Sponsorships opportunities are available at http://bit.ly/SFCBF24; Deadline is Thursday, February 8, 2024. For event or sponsorship details, contact Lynne Anast at (941) 556-3269 or at lanast@friendshipcenters.org.  

Embracing Our Differences celebrates the start of its 21 st anniversary with a free Grand Opening Celebration on Sunday, January 21, noon-3 p.m., in Sarasota’s downtown Bayfront Park. The event features three performances by Jah Movement. Local arts and education organizations, including The Ringling, Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College, CreArte Latino, Van Wezel, Asolo Rep, ALSO Youth and Suncoast Campaign for Grade Level Reading will have booths featuring interactive, kid-friendly activities. The Big Blue Grilled Cheese Company, “Q” Ice Cream and The Empanada Girl trucks will be stationed at the event. EOD will also recognize Best-in-Show winners and many of the artists and quoters who had their works selected for display. For more information, visit www.embracingourdifferences.org . 

Pictured: Colorful Conversation by Eric Appelquist, Moline, Illinois. Photo courtesy of EOD.

The third annual Polo for Parkinson’s fundraiser will be held at the Sarasota Polo grounds on Sunday, March 24, 2024.  This annual fundraising event presented by Parkinson Place raises awareness for Parkinson Place Center, where community members with Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders, as well as their caregivers, can come together for support and participate in over 85 classes and activities. “People are being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in record numbers in the United States, including the state of Florida,” said Founder and Chairman, Larry Hoffheimer.  “By supporting Polo for Parkinson’s 2024 fundraising event you will be helping thousands of members and their caregivers to fight these debilitating diseases with fitness classes, education and access to support in one location.  All classes and activities are offered free of charge because of our generous donors.” Companies, organizations and individuals have the opportunity to participate in this Luau themed event.  Sponsorships range from $10,000 to $1,000 with individual tickets priced at $100 per person.  Parkinson Place Center will welcome you to the Polo Pavilion on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 11am.  Lunch will be catered at Noon with the Polo match starting at 1pm. Sponsors as of January 15, 2024 include Star Asset Management, Macular Degeneration Association, Walters Advisors and Liberty Savings Bank. For more information about tickets and sponsorship opportunities please call Suzanne Hudson-Smith, CFRE at 941-210-6275 or shudsonsmith@parkinsonplace.org. 

The Eyewear Designers of the CFDA (edCFDA) is  pleased to announce the collective donation of $53,600 to the TransLatin@ Coalition, bringing the 2023 Pride Eyewear Initiative to its conclusion. The edCFDA is equally ex cited to announce the expansion of this charitable program from five to seven designers for 2024, all of whom will be announced shortly, along with an anticipated launch event  in New York City in March.  For 2023, the designers of Blake Kuwahara Eyewear, Christian Roth Eyewear, Krewe, l.a.Eyeworks and Selima Optique, each created a limited edition sunglass design, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Translatin@ Coalition, which is now the nation’s  largest service and advocacy organization providing for the needs of the transgender, gender nonconforming, and intersex community.  Of the donation, Translatin@ Coalition President and CEO Bamby Salcedo notes, "We  extend our deepest gratitude to l.a Eyeworks, Blake Kuwahara Eyewear, Christian Roth  Eyewear, Selima Optique, and Krewe Eyewear for their generous donations. These  funds empower us to strengthen our communities' infrastructure and advance our mis sion. It's heartening to see intentional companies like these recognize the significance of  supporting trans-led organizations. Together, we are building the power of our people.  Thank you for your invaluable contribution!" The edCFDA Pride Eyewear Initiative is an annual charitable venture driven by inde pendent eyewear designers of the CFDA to target and highlight specific needs within  the LGBT+ community. Of the Initiative’s expansion into its third iteration in 2024, Christ ian Roth notes, “We are grateful for the support of the retailers who embrace our collec tive efforts to support a charitable cause through design. A meaningful way to make a  positive impact on the community.“ Details regarding the designer participants for 2024 and the launch event are forthcom ing in February. For inquiries, please contact christianroth@opticalaffairs.com. To learn more about the TransLatin@ Coalition, please visit www.translatinacoalition.org. 

Child welfare organization Safe Children Coalition (SCC) has recently hired Sarah Hawk, Esq. as its new vice president of programs. In this role, Hawk will be responsible for providing leadership, supervision and management of the community-based care foster care programs in Florida’s Circuit 12 (Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties) and oversight of all contracted entities. She will also be responsible for ensuring programs achieve established outcomes, comply with related federal, state and local laws and rules, and meet all contractual requirements. Hawk has spent her entire career as an attorney in the child welfare realm: she comes to Safe Children Coalition after a decade with Children’s Legal Services, Department of Children & Families, where the bulk of her work was within Circuit 12 but her final role was serving as managing attorney for one of the largest Children’s Legal Services offices for the state: Florida’s Circuit 13 (Hillsborough County). Prior to that, she was an attorney with the Guardian ad Litem Program for Circuit 12. In addition to her child welfare-focused career path, Hawk has noted that “child welfare practice is in my blood.” Her father is a career civil servant who spent the majority of his career in child welfare. Additionally, her parents were foster parents for years, providing Hawk with valuable personal insight into the process and experience of fostering. She interned with Children’s Legal Services and the Guardian Ad Litem Program when she was 18 years old and also volunteered for SCC’s Angels program – which provides holiday gifts for children in foster care and other vulnerable children in Circuit 12 – for many years through college and law school. Hawk earned her law degree from the Stetson University College of Law and her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. Each year, SCC works to ensure the care and safety of thousands of children in Florida’s Circuit 12 who are in crisis. By providing needed programs and services – such as adoption and foster care, youth prevention and diversion services, a Youth Shelter for displaced teens, and more – the organization serves as a much-needed safety net and support system for children and families throughout the region.
For more information, visit sccfl.org.