SRQ DAILY Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"The upcoming luncheon is an opportunity to not only celebrate the impact of Harvest House but to deepen our collective commitment to those we serve."
On February 20, Harvest House will host its 13th annual Home Again Luncheon at Michael's On East, with matching funds from the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation and Jerry and Fay Bainbridge. The goal is to match or surpass last year's $250,000 raised. Proceeds benefit programs supporting over 800 individuals annually facing challenges like mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, poverty, and insecure housing. In 2024, Harvest House served 576 households through housing and case management services.
The luncheon also marks a significant leadership transition. After 21 years with Harvest House, including eight years as executive director and seven as CEO, Erin Minor will step down, with her brother, Dan Minor, assuming the dual roles of President and CEO. Dan expresses his gratitude for Erin's leadership: "Harvest House would not be where it is today without the vision and dedication of my sister. Her leadership has been a guiding force in expanding our reach and ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, feels safe and supported."
Dan adds, "The upcoming luncheon is an opportunity to not only celebrate the impact of Harvest House but to deepen our collective commitment to those we serve. I encourage anyone who believes in the power of hope and second chances to join us."
Dan emphasizes the organization’s core mission: "At Harvest House, we are committed to maintaining integrity in everything we do, putting people before profit. Our ability to evolve allows us to meet the changing needs of our community, ensuring safe, affordable housing remains accessible. The strength of Harvest House comes from the belief that second chances matter, and our supporters make this work possible." 
Pictured: Current Harvest House President Dan Minor will be elevated to serve in the dual role of President and CEO as of later this month. Photo courtesy of Harvest House.
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. This year, attendees were thrilled to be together as we recognized these individuals at our annual Giving Coast and Good Hero Awards luncheon and panel discussion on Tuesday, January 28 at Michael’s on East in Sarasota. In the coming weeks, we are happy to feature each of the ten honorees in our Wednesday Philanthropic edition of SRQ Daily.
Today, we are recognizing Greg Linehan, board member of Suncoast Charities for Children. Linehan has served as a board member of Suncoast Charities for Children for eight years, and currently as Board President. During his involvement he has worked closely with other board members and staff to help grow the brand of the charity and increase net revenue. This in turn has resulted in a record amount of funding allocations made to seven local non-profits during the 2023/2024 fiscal year in support of local children, teens and adults with special needs. Linean genuinely cares about making a difference and a positive impact here in our local community. Born and raised in Sarasota, he has raised his family here as well. It is important to him, not only as a personal mission but also as a mission of his firm, Greg Linehan Law, to give back to the community in as many ways as possible. Through volunteering and donating to various local charities and organizations, Linehan fulfills his mission of giving back to the community that has given him so much over the years.
Pictured: (l-r) Greg Linehan with Wes Roberts, Executive Publisher, SRQ Magazine. Photo by Wyatt Kostygan.
The Sea Horse Beach Resort is more than just a place to stay; it’s a slice of old Florida charm, known for its quaint ambiance, breathtaking gulf front views and a team as diverse as it is dedicated. Over the past three months, both the resort and the Longboat Key community have faced unprecedented challenges, enduring the wrath of two devastating hurricanes within the span of two weeks. Yet, through determination, hard work, and a shared commitment to their guests and community, they have not only rebuilt but also come a long way toward reclaiming our place as a beloved destination. The Sea Horse Beach Resort is a testament to the enduring spirit of boutique hospitality and the strength of a community bound by its love for this unique corner of Florida.
On January 27, 2025, Baby Basics of Sarasota County, Inc was presented with a check for $23,750 by the group 100 Women Who Care. 100 Women Who Care is a local chapter of a worldwide grassroots movement that serves the local Greater Sarasota community. The group meets twice a year and collectively selects a local charity to support financially. Baby Basics was selected at their meeting on November 13, 2024. Baby Basics of Sarasota County, Inc. is an all-volunteer, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that provides diapers, wipes and kindness to working, low-income families who do not receive any governmental assistance and that promotes literacy through a partnership with the Library Foundation for Sarasota County.
Cheer on Olympic-level riders and horses every weekend from February 15 to March 16! Join us as a VIP on Saturdays at 11am, with your table in the beautiful pavilion. Enjoy panoramic views of the competition and a gourmet brunch buffet from our all-new Executive Chef, Christopher Capstick. Experience the best in Grand Prix Show Jumping with the $65,000 International Grand Prix on Weeks 1-4, and the Split Rock Jumping Tour $100,000 Grand Prix on Week 5 for an incredible finale! Come back on Sundays for Family Breakfast in the Pavilion at from 8am to 11am during the $25,000 TerraNova Prix and bring the kids for a hands-on experience at Mini Horsemanship Camp. Family Breakfast tickets are sold at the door. Mini Camp and VIP require reservations. General admission is free with bleacher seating and food trucks for your enjoyment!
February 10, 2025, Sisterhood For Good is proud to announce that its Annual Community Grant Cycle is open. All area nonprofits are invited to apply before the submission deadline of Friday, April 25, 2025, by 5:00 PM. This year is an increased grant request amount of $7,500, up $2,500 from the previous limit of $5,000 per request. The nonprofits, with their applications submitted by February 14, 2025, will enter a drawing for the opportunity for six applicants to speak before the Sisterhood For Good Spring Annual Meeting. Additionally, organizations that submit their Application by March 28th will be entered into a lottery drawing to attend SFG’s GRANT APPLICANT EXPO on May 8th to showcase their organization and program to the Sisterhood For Good membership before the grant voting period.
Huge news! Sarasota Orchestra has received a $60 million investment from an anonymous donor to advance the planning and construction of a new Music Center at 5701 Fruitville Road. The gift is the largest in Sarasota Orchestra’s history, one of the top gifts across the symphony-orchestra sector, and a record-setting philanthropic investment in a Florida-based performing arts organization. Expected to open in 2029, the Music Center will introduce Southwest Florida’s first concert hall purpose-built for acoustic music, elevating the region’s reputation among world-class arts destinations.
Tuesday, January 28th, SRQ Magazine hosted the annual Giving Coast and Good Hero Philanthropic Awards Luncheon. Local nonprofits, foundations, corporate donors, individuals and civic leaders came together to celebrate the community's spirit of giving and recognize leaders in philanthropy. Attendees were invited to share their “giving wishes” on behalf of area nonprofits by writing their wishes on gift tags and hanging them for display on the SRQ Giving Wish Tree.
Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School wishes for modular furniture for their classrooms to allow more project-based learning and flexibility for all learners. To implement this wish, reach out to Leah Mihm (lmihm@cmhs-sarasota.org).
The Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota and Desoto Counties wishes for you to invest in our community's future leaders who are emerging at their organization. To fulfill this wish, reach out to Sarah Howe (showe@bgcsdc.org).
Sarasota Teen Court wishes to see their organization's continuous success. To support their journey, reach out to Heather Todd (heather@sarasotateencourt.org).
Second Heart Homes wishes to have their utilities paid for the entire year. To make this happen reach out to Megan Howell (megan@secondhearthomes.org).
NAMI wishes to start building a space in Manatee County to house a drop-in center. To help them get this started Jake Hartvigsen (941-650-6043).
As these organizations call on the community to fulfill their wishes, click on each organization to learn more and find ways to give back. The spirit of giving is for all who want to give back to our local community!
Lily Evans uses photography to evoke deeper conversations about historical events, current issues, and race. The exhibit is part of “Beyond Regional Boundaries,” an initiative created to amplify the voices of Black artists across the Sarasota- Manatee region.
Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center, 525 Kumquat Ct, Sarasota, FL 34236
Spearheaded by community advocate Sheila Birnbaum, the agency will be collecting donations of new books for children ages 5 and under to promote the importance of literacy. The books will be distributed to the children and families enrolled with Children First, as well as distributed to the agency’s local nonprofit and education partners.Children First, Inc., the exclusive provider of Head Start and Early Head Start services for Sarasota County, kicked off its second annual “Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader” book drive on February 1. Spearheaded by community advocate Sheila Birnbaum, the agency will be collecting donations of new books for children ages 5 and under to promote the importance of literacy. The books will be distributed to the children and families enrolled with Children First, as well as distributed to the agency’s local nonprofit and education partners.
Children First, 1723 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34234
Suncoast Black Arts Collaborative’s (SBAC) “Beyond Regional Boundaries” initiative continues its powerful exploration of Black artistry with a dynamic exhibition, “Interpretations, Perceptions & Realities,” showcasing the bold, evocative creations of three Gulf Coast artists: Gwendolyn Aqui-Brooks, Dwight Rose, and Allen Pettigrew.
Wellen Park is dedicating Valentine’s Day weekend to the arts. The inaugural Weekend of Art, encompassing a performing arts showcase and fine arts festival, on the Great Lawn and the Solis Hall stage in Downtown Wellen. The event is free to the public and includes performances by local performing arts organizations. Guests will also enjoy an outdoor gallery of original and handmade art, including paintings, sculpture photography, jewelry, woodworking, glass, fiber, ceramics and mixed-media works by artists from Florida and around the U.S.
Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice FL 343293
Our annual Lakewood Ranch Community Campout at Greenbrook Adventure Park offers a range of activities for families and friends! From Saturday, February 15th to Sunday, February 16th, you'll enjoy: Campfire perfect for roasting s'mores, Family-friendly movie showing, Food truck dinner for purchase, Live music by Justin Layman, Complimentary donuts & coffee for breakfast and much more! This overnight event will begin on Saturday at 3 PM and end Sunday morning at 9 AM. Tickets are for ages 3+. Children under 3 are free.
Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Place Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) announces “Creating Your Success,” a dynamic six-part workshop series designed to empower women with personal and professional growth tools. From mastering stress and improving communication to developing negotiation skills and building better relationships, this free series is a comprehensive roadmap for achieving success and balance in life.
Women's Resource Center Sarasota, 340 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237
Join us for a magical evening at our FIRST annual "Garden In Bloom" Fundraiser Gala! Get ready to enjoy a night filled with fashion, live art, dancing, live music, delicious food, giving back, and mingling with your local community.
The Meadows, 5041 Ringwood Meadow Sarasota, FL 34235
Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) is pleased to announce its annual Spirit of Manatee Awards Celebration, set for Wednesday, March 13, 2025, at the new Palmetto Marriot Resort, presented by The Milestone Financial Group at Morgan Stanley. This year’s special event will honor the generosity and resilience that define Manatee County. Departing from the traditional awards format, it will celebrate the unsung heroes who stepped up to meet the challenges of the past year.
Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, 600 US Highway 41, Palmetto, FL 34221
Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated annual SPARCC Runway Fashion Show, "Sarasota Seascape – Tides and Trends," set to take place on Friday, March 28, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. This premier fundraiser combines style and purpose, as all proceeds directly benefit SPARCC's mission to provide a safe haven and promote empowerment, awareness, and social change to end domestic and sexual violence.
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
After stormy weather postponed its January grand opening, Embracing Our Differences has reimagined the celebration as "Embracing Our Community: A Celebration of Kindness."; This free event takes place on Sunday, March 30, from noon to 3 p.m., at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. The celebration features three performances by the phenomenal musician, singer and songwriter, Shelby Sol. Local arts and education organizations will be in attendence.
Sarasota's Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Education Foundation of Sarasota County is proud to host a run across the iconic Ringling Bridge! There are several options for runners and families—5K, 10K, and a family fun run. The run supports student and teacher programming, helping students to get ready and go further.
The Bay: Civic Green Lawn, 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join us on the Bolger Campiello for live music and dancing. Food and beverage will be available for purchase on the bayfront. One chair per person will be available. No outside food, drink, coolers, chairs or pets are permitted. Members please note: $20 tickets are limited to one for Individual Memberships and two for all other Membership levels.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Architecture Sarasota announces its 2025 program: “Downtown Sarasota: Beyond Our Borders.” Building on the momentum of last year’s discussions, which played a pivotal role in the City of Sarasota’s decision to move forward with a new downtown master plan, this year’s series will continue to explore fresh perspectives on Sarasota’s future. The lineup includes Gil Penalosa (February 11), Brent Toderain (February 25), and Paul Kalbfleish (March 11). Each speaker, celebrated for their expertise and engaging style, will share insights tailored to Sarasota, informed by their time spent in the city before their presentations.
Church of the Redeemer, 222 S Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Duke Ellington was one of the most impactful musical forces of the twentieth century, influencing classical music, popular music, and, of course, jazz. SCD joins forces with Shane Chalke B.E. Jazz, a 4-pc jazz band playing the legendary notes of Duke Ellington live alongside original choreography by SCD Artistic Director Leymis Bolaños Wilmott.
North Port High- Performing Arts, 6400 Price Blvd, North Port FL 34291
The Perlman Music Program Suncoast (PMP Suncoast) presents the Abeo Quartet. The program features a carefully curated selection of works by renowned composers, including W.A. Mozart, Reena Esmail, and Franz Schubert, with highlights such as Esmail's evocative quartet, “Ragamala,” a stunning fusion of Hindustani classical traditions and intricate ensemble interplay. Tickets for the February 11thperformance at First Presbyterian are $25 (general admission) and $35 (VIP; front rows). Tickets for the February 13th concert at Gold Coast Eagle are $30 and include adult beverages and desserts.
Gold Coast Eagle, 7051 Wireless Ct, Sarasota, FL 34240
Join us for the 43rd Annual Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival: Swamped but Never Sunk! This two-day event will take place on February 15 & 16, 2025 from 10am – 6pm. Admission is $5, kids 12 & under are FREE. There will be plenty of delicious seafood, live music, nautical and environmental art, community displays, an expanded kids area, touch tanks, and “Dock Talks” by University of Florida Fisheries Department & Florida Sea Grant. All proceeds benefit the Florida Institute for Saltwater Heritage.
Toss some fun into your Thursday! Join us at Waterside Place for a fun morning of Casual Cornhole! Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends! Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained!
Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 7500 Island Cove Terrace Lakewood Ranch , FL 34240
Experience a bit of Indian culture right here in Sarasota. This intimate event will include a fashion show with lenghas, shalwars, saris, and Indian jewelry. Learn how to wrap a sari and enjoy culturally traditional finger foods, desserts, and music. Door prizes and changes to win special clothing items.
Private Home in Bent Tree , (34241)
Gather your closest, wine loving friends for the 3rd Annual Galentine's Day Wine Dinner. Special entertainment will top off this incredible night of food, wine and friends! This year we chose wine ranked in the TOP 10 wines from Forks & Corks 2025! Truely the best of the best from around the world, paired with 4 great courses.
Pop's Sunset Grill, 112 Circuit Rd, Nokomis, FL 34275
The 27th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival is a three-day event held Feb. 14-16, 2025 at the Sarasota Fairgrounds that benefits Suncoast Charities for Children. National Headline Acts include Blue Öyster Cult (Friday – Feb. 14), Grand Funk Railroad (Saturday – Feb. 15), and Creed Fisher (Sunday – Feb. 16). The Festival features continuous live music, vendors, daredevil acts, a charity motorcycle ride, bike show, a motorcycle “sound off” competition, biker games, and much more! On-site camping is also available. Admission is $15 in advance and $20 at the gate (12 and under free). Limited VIP tickets are also available. Over the past 26 years, the Festival has raised over $2.8 Million for charity.
Sarasota Fairgrounds
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