SRQ DAILY May 7, 2025
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"When we started, everybody said it couldn't be done. And so sitting here today, having it accomplished is a really great feeling, but it's a feeling that has to be shared because nothing like this happens in isolation."
Gulf Coast Community Foundation celebrated the opening of Heroes’ Village, Sarasota’s first affordable housing project dedicated to veterans, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, April 30. Located on 25th Street, west of Orange Avenue and near the bus line, Heroes’ Village offers ten rental units for low-income veterans.
The vision for Heroes’ Village prioritized housing North Sarasota County veterans near existing support services, explained Gulf Coast’s Director of Policy and Advocacy, Jon Thaxton. While the units are compact, they include laundry facilities and communal outdoor space, and with donated features from Home Depot, such as tiled floors and wood cabinets, the units feature all the comforts of home. Residents will pay only thirty percent of their income for rent and sign annual leases, fostering responsibility and security. The units will be managed by St. Vincent de Paul CARES, a nonprofit with a successful track record of building and operating affordable housing for veterans. Navigators from the organization will also be available to help veterans access services.
The ceremony commenced with a presentation by the Sarasota Military Academy and a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Jazzmin Carson of the West Coast Black Theater Troupe. In his opening remarks, Thaxton acknowledged the collaborative effort that transformed the initial vision into a reality. “When we started, everybody said it couldn't be done. And so sitting here today, having it accomplished is a really great feeling, but it's a feeling that has to be shared because nothing like this happens in isolation.” He gave thanks to donors, including the city of Sarasota, which donated the land.
Gulf Coast President/CEO Phillip Lanham underscored the community’s duty to support veterans. He noted that affordable housing is a key priority for the foundation and that Heroes’ Village was inspired by donors Peter Soderberg and Skip Sack, both passionate about assisting veterans. This project represents a convergence of priorities: affordable housing and support for veterans.
Lanham shared that the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. Neighbors have expressed gratitude for the project’s thoughtful approach, including the aesthetically pleasing design and a striking 35-foot mural honoring veterans painted by Tim Jaeger. “The nearby residents appreciate the approach we took with this project, and they are incredibly grateful that we made sure it was something that would add to this community, not take away from it,” he said.
Applications for veteran and family housing are still being accepted through St. Vincent de Paul CARES (https://www.svdpsp.org/). Move-ins are anticipated to begin in May or June of this year. 
Pictured: Students from Sarasota Military Academy presented the colors at the Heroes’ Village ceremony last week. Photo by Barbie Heit.
The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation has elected community leader Ilene Denton to its board of directors for her first term beginning June 1, 2025. Denton joins board members Susan Hines, Chair; Clolita Vitale, Vice Chair; Carolyn Johnson, Secretary and Treasurer; Keith DuBose, Laura Spencer; and Tom Tryon. Susie Bowie is President/CEO of the Selby Foundation. Denton, a Sarasota resident since 1972, is vice president of the Library Foundation for Sarasota County, currently chairing its community advocacy team. Ilene and her husband, David, a retired estate planning attorney, are active volunteers with All Faiths Food Bank. Now in its 70th year, the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation continues to help students and nonprofits gain access to opportunity through renewable four-year scholarships and impactful capital grants in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties.
The Rock ’n’ Support relief fund is now fully distributed. Between November 21, 2024, and April 7, 2025, 781 hospitality and tourism workers across Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Cortez, and Longboat Key received direct financial assistance totaling $355,250. Grants were distributed through the nonprofits Shuckin’ Good Cause and the Women's Resource Center to provide fast and flexible support to those facing storm-related hardship.
On November 15, 2024, more than 3,500 people came together for Rock ’n’ Support, a one night only benefit concert starring Lynyrd Skynyrd and Marcus King at the Bradenton Area Convention Center. Just six weeks after the storms hit, this unforgettable night raised more than $350,000 for the people who serve the Bradenton Area’s Gulf Islands every day.
Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is proud to announce it has received two of the nonprofit sector’s highest honors: a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator and the 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid. These independent accolades reflect SPARCC’s ongoing commitment to integrity, accountability and transparency - practices that strengthen the organization’s capacity to provide a safe haven and promote empowerment, awareness, and social change to end domestic and sexual violence.
The Glenridge at Palmer Ranch is marking a milestone—15 years of investing in its community—by awarding scholarships to exceptional staff members and their families. Since launching the initiative in 2010 with two $600 awards, The Glenridge has distributed more than $400,000 in scholarship funds to support employees and their children in pursuing higher education. The program was founded by the late Mary Nesbit, former dean of The Glenridge Academy, the community’s lifelong learning program.
Provided photo.
Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is proud to announce that Mary Ellen Mancini, Vice President of Philanthropy, has been recertified as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) by CFRE International. First awarded the designation in 2022, this recertification recognizes Mary Ellen’s continued commitment to ethical, effective fundraising and professional excellence. Mary Ellen is one of approximately 8,200 fundraising professionals worldwide who hold the CFRE designation. The certification, valid for three years, requires demonstrated fundraising performance, continued professional education, and a commitment to uphold the highest standards in philanthropic practice. Mary Ellen joined SPARCC in 2015 and now serves as Vice President of Philanthropy. A graduate of the 2019 Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Leadership Institute, she holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising, public relations, and applied communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Central Florida.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat announces its return to Hermitage Beach on Manasota Key on Thursday, June 26. This will be the first public program presented on the Hermitage Beach since the devastating impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The Hermitage campus, along with many neighbors and friends on Manasota Key and throughout the region, experienced an unprecedented storm surge from Hurricane Helene in September, followed by even greater damages caused by Hurricane Milton less than two weeks later. This newly announced program – “Key Change: A Return to the Beach!” – marks a significant milestone for the Hermitage’s recovery efforts and a return to beach programming on Manasota Key. For more information, visit HermitageArtistRetreat.org.
On May 31, Project Pride SRQ will kick off Pride Month in "grand" style, with its annual fundraising gala, Grand Carnival: Palm Royale. The LGBTQ+ advocacy organization has announced American singer/songwriter John Duff as the headliner for the event. Duff, who has cultivated a significant presence on social media, posting videos addressing LGBTQ political issues and messages of positivity for the LGBTQ community, has numerous singles, an EP and a recent (2024) full-length album to his credit.
For more about Project Pride SRQ and its Pride Month events, visit ppsrq.org.
At Children First, our mission is “Strengthening children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to education, development, health, and well-being.” Our award-winning Families First Institute offers parenting classes, career readiness, financial literacy, and mental health support to help families achieve self-sufficiency. Thanks to Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation’s transformational investment, we’ve expanded these services to reach more than 350 parents in the past school year. Through their continued partnership, we received a $900,000 grant to open three new classrooms, increasing access to high-quality care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in need. This support has made a meaningful difference for families like Amber Teed’s. While navigating the challenges of an aggressive cancer diagnosis, Amber found strength through our services—and a safe, nurturing space for her young son to thrive. Learn how we’re helping families move forward—one child, one parent at a time.
This year, during National Nurses Week and Mother’s Day, HCA Florida Englewood Hospital is celebrating a special bond between two of its own: registered nurses Molly Bakulski and her daughter, Lily Bakulski. Both work in the hospital’s medical-surgical unit, where their shared passion for patient care is rooted in personal experiences. Molly, a nurse for 20 years, is the Englewood Hospital recipient of the 2025 Excellence in Nursing Award for Compassionate Care and a DAISY Award — a national recognition for nurses who go above and beyond to provide not only excellent clinical care, but also compassion. She was inspired to become a nurse by the care she witnessed during her own mother’s hospitalization.Find out more of the latest news at HCAHealthcare.com or follow the hospital on Facebook.
Step into the charming world of A Year with Frog and Toad, a Tony-nominated musical that brings Arnold Lobel’s beloved characters to life through delightful songs and heartwarming storytelling. This enchanting production follows two best friends, Frog and Toad, as they navigate the four seasons, learning lessons of friendship, perseverance, and joy along the way.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243
This time of year had a special significance in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, and the term originates from their studies of astrology. Nowadays, the term has taken on new meanings as pet parents associate it with lazy days when dogs are so hot they just want to lay in the shade and sip an ice-cold Puppuccino. Artists are invited to share their favorite fur-baby creations of dogs and cats.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Tom Hulce) is a remarkably talented young Viennese composer who unwittingly finds a fierce rival in the disciplined and determined Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham). Resenting Mozart for both his hedonistic lifestyle and his undeniable talent, the highly religious Salieri is gradually consumed by his jealousy and becomes obsessed with Mozart's downfall, leading to a devious scheme that has dire consequences for both men.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236
This half-day experience is designed to equip you with the tools, strategies, and connections to elevate your career and amplify your impact. Through dynamic speakers and interactive sessions, you’ll gain the confidence to step beyond self-doubt, embrace new opportunities, and take ownership of your success.
Carlisle Inn and Conference Center – Sarasota, 3727 Bahia Vista Street Sarasota, FL 34232
The 34th National Juried Exhibition showcases the best representational paintings produced across North America. With nearly 200 juried artists and many invited Master Signature artists, it serves as a showcase for both up-and-coming talent and some of the most celebrated artists working today. The exhibition does not focus on a single style or theme but instead celebrates the diversity and art produced within the representational oil painting tradition. The exhibition & opening is in conjunction with the OPA National Convention, which features numerous lectures, painting demonstrations, and social events geared to artists and collectors.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
This 2nd Annual Art & Health Fair event will be one you don't want to miss! There will be something for everyone! Not only will you get a chance to learn about MCR Health and The Ringling Museum, you'll also have an opportunity to learn more about your local community partners. What's more is there will be FREE admission as to The Ringling, LIVE music, great food, entertainment for the kids and beautiful surroundings!
The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Alan Dershowitz and Steven Donziger have spent their legal careers standing up for the unfairly targeted. Both have seen the government and private industries manipulate the legal system as a way to punish their adversaries. Donziger himself was disbarred and incarcerated after his international legal victories over Chevron, and his conviction has drawn calls for a pardon from leaders across the political spectrum. Two grizzled courtroom veterans relive their toughest fights, both in triumph and defeat, while conveying just how easy it can be to find the target landing on your own back.
Mildred Sainer Pavilion, 5313 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
The Manatee Chamber’s Headliners luncheons are designed to equip business leaders with key insights into critical community issues. They are also a great opportunity to make new connections while discussing important business and community topics. These events are informative and offer valuable networking. Whether you choose individual open seating or prefer the reserved, guaranteed group seating of full and half tables, you will be part of a dynamic and engaging experience.
Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, 7650 Legacy Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Enjoy Mother’s Day Brunch at Selby Gardens! Ticket price includes a hot and cold brunch buffet catered by Michael’s on East featuring an omelet and pancake station, carvings station, dessert bar, plus coffee, tea, and water. All other beverages will be available for purchase. Your brunch ticket also grants you full access to our Downtown Sarasota Campus to view the gardens and Spring Exhibition, George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life, before or after your seating time.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
On Saturday, May 10 Relay for Life is hosting a Charity Golf Outing at Sarasota National Golf Club in Venice to benefit the American Cancer Society. The event will be a Shotgun start at 8:30 with breakfast, luncheon, prizes and many fun add-ons including a chance to win a new Ford Mustang Convertible with a hole-in-one. The event is open to the public and the cost is $125/golfer which includes all golf, gratuities, breakfast, luncheon, prizes and a donation to the American Cancer Society. If you would like to register, call or text 941-218-3281. Please leave your contact info if we don't answer. Time: 8:30 tee off, Cost: $125.
Sarasota National Golf Club, 25510 National Blvd. Venice, FL 34293
VOICES is a creative project that, through the narratives of multiple voices, seeks to foster an open conversation about issues relevant to the community and realities we want to make visible through oral testimonies. It is based on conversations with members of the Hispanic community in Manatee and Sarasota County, whose stories are interwoven to create a narrative that will be performed in Spanish (with English subtitles) by actors and actresses on stage. The performance will conclude with a bilingual discussion between the audience, directors, testimonial participants, and actors.
CreArte Latino, 1913 Northgate Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34234
This year, we’re turning up the fun with Bourbons & Barks - Raising Spirits for Rescues! Join us on May 8th for a fantastic evening dedicated to supporting our furry friends in need. The event will include spirit tastings and raffles on the patio and a VIP dinner in the M&M lounge (limited availability). Join us for a night of tastings and cuddling with rescue pups, all for a good cause!
Gecko's Grill & Pub, 351 North Cattlemen Road Sarasota, FL 34232
Join us for a Bistro Pop-Up Night! Enjoy an after-hours gallery tour and a 4-course dinner curated by Executive Chef Peyton Leffingwell. The Bistro fare is inspired by Florida’s regional fruit stands and farmer’s markets, and emphasizes local produce, healthy proteins and artisanal specialty items.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236
The grand finale of the ‘Opera on the Bay’ series —Gioachino Rossini’s comic masterpiece, The Barber of Seville — will be screened from 7-9:30 p.m., Saturday, May 17. Determined to win the heart of the beautiful Rosina, Count Almaviva enlists the help of Figaro, the barber of Seville, to steal her away from her guardian, Dr. Bartolo. Hilarious complications ensue to some of opera's most delightful music, performed by an all-star cast that includes baritone Filippo Fontana, mezzo-soprano Lisa Marie Rogali, bass-baritone Andrew Gilstrap, and bass Young Bok Kim, with the Sarasota Opera orchestra conducted by Marcello Cormio.
The Bay, 1055 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL
ArtCenter Manatee once again joins with the School District of Manatee County to showcase the work of K-12 visual arts students. By partnering with ArtCenter Manatee, that commitment is furthered by giving these young artists a 'voice' - three museum-quality galleries, where their work can be professionally displayed and where the artists can receive positive recognition by a wider audience.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
If you are oyster curious or just craving the fresh coastal seafood & hand-crafted cocktails from your new Rosemary District favorite, join us at Lefty's for our daily Happy Hours Monday - Friday from 4 pm - 6 pm and our Late Night Happy Hours on Friday and Saturday from 10 pm - Midnight. With seafood offerings from the Steamer and Buck-A-Shucks on oysters plus our extensive wine, specialty and seasonal cocktails and draft beers, Lefty's has your recipe to get happier and explore our menus. Join us every day for Lunch, Happy Hours or Dinner and for our downtown neighbors and Hospitality industry colleagues, we'll have live music and keep the light on for you on the weekends!
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar
WBTT produces its first tap dance revue in this original, historical musical journey through the captivating and entertaining world of tap dance. The show takes us to an avenue where all things flourish with rhythm, style, and class. This innovative musical uses dance as a universal language and features an exciting repertoire of unique arrangements on popular jazz tunes by iconic composers such Duke Ellington's "Don't Mean A Thing', Eubie Blake's "I'm Just Full Of Jazz" and Irving Berlin's "Cheek To Cheek!" The show also offers new songs arranged and created by Nate Jacobs, Lamont Brown and Louis Danowsky.
The Donelly Theatre, 1012 N. Orange Ave Sarasota, FL 34236
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
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