SRQ DAILY Jun 24, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"We know that children are far more likely to become lifelong readers when they have books of their own at home."
Reading is the single most important skill a child needs to succeed in life. Bernie’s Book Bank is helping to fuel that success by sourcing, processing and distributing free, high-quality books to children who need them most. Founded in 2009 by Brian Floriani and inspired by his father, Dr. Bernard P. Floriani, the organization believes better futures begin with books.
This summer, the organization’s Suncoast chapter has teamed up with Gecko’s Hospitality Group to expand access to books for local children through a community-wide summer book drive. The initiative launched June 15 at Gecko’s Sarasota restaurants and will extend to Manatee County locations beginning July 1. Donations of new or gently used children’s books for readers from birth through sixth grade will be accepted through July 31. Donation boxes are located near the front entrance of participating Gecko’s restaurants, making it easy for guests and community members to contribute.
The Summer Book Drive aligns with Gecko's Hospitality Group's long-standing commitment to supporting local schools, families and nonprofit organizations. By serving as convenient collection sites, Gecko's locations make it easy for guests and community members to support literacy efforts throughout the region.
"Some of my favorite childhood memories involve getting lost in a good book. That's part of what inspired me to pursue a future in library science. Knowing that a book sitting on someone's shelf could become a child's new favorite story makes this drive really special," shares Serena Pearsall, a server at Gecko's Hillview location.
"At Gecko's, we're fortunate to serve a community that genuinely cares about helping others," adds General Manager of Gecko's Fruitville location, Kyle Caledrone. "Whether someone donates one book or a whole box, every contribution has the potential to make a meaningful impact for a local child."
Books collected during the drive will be distributed to children throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. Bernie’s Book Bank Suncoast currently serves 25 Title I schools, along with organizations including Children First Head Start and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. Each child receives four books annually.
“We know that children are far more likely to become lifelong readers when they have books of their own at home,” said Amy Bott, executive director of Bernie’s Book Bank Suncoast. “Partnerships like this help ensure more children have access to books that inspire them to learn, dream and grow.” 
Pictured: Bernie's Book Bank has been hand-delivering free books to kids who need them most since 2009. Provided photo.
Forty Carrots Family Center welcomes new Board of Trustee members Melanie Nealis, James D. O’Donnell, and Barry Preston. Melanie, President and Chief Legal Officer of CLO Advisory Services, has over 25 years of executive experiences in both public and private global companies. James is a litigation Partner at Shumaker focusing on complex business litigation. Barry, Managing Director of Preston Giuliano Capital Partners, has experience as a CFO and an extensive background in restoration of historic properties. Melanie, James, and Barry will serve a three-year term supporting Forty Carrots' mission of nurturing healthy child and family development and preventing child abuse, neglect, and other childhood traumas. Officers include Board Chair Ben Jones, Managing Director at Mariner Wealth Advisors, Treasurer Anthony Glover, Retired Financial Services Executive, and Secretary Jackie Griese, Realtor with Michael Saunders & Company.
The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab has successfully met a fundraising challenge from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, unlocking a full $450,000 grant to support a three-year expansion of its Science Lending Library: a program that provides free, hands-on STEM kits to local classrooms and homeschool families. To learn more, visit www.suncoastscience.org
Pictured: Fruitville Elementary teacher Leah Pollard-Lane uses Lending Library kits in her classroom. Provided photo.
The Food Bank of Manatee, a PLUS program of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, has received a generous $50,000 matching gift commitment from local philanthropists Sara and Steve Bayard to help provide food for children and families facing hunger during the summer months. The matching gift comes at a critical time as The Food Bank of Manatee's Food4Families summer program is already experiencing a significant increase in demand. During the first week of summer distributions, participation was up 11% compared to the same period last year—an important trend, as demand typically grows throughout the summer.
The Gettel Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Gettel Automotive, has announced a landmark $1,000,000 investment in The Haven’s Community Center Project, bringing the organization significantly closer to realizing a transformative vision for individuals with physical and mental disabilities across Southwest Florida. The Haven’s mission is to enhance the quality of life for people with unique abilities by encouraging independence, championing inclusion, and advocating for individual rights.
This photo captures some of the amazing team from Sunshine from Darkness and Teen Court Sarasota on the final day of our Youth Coping Skills Workshop collaboration. Over the past week, we had the privilege of connecting with incredible young people, creating a safe space to explore emotional awareness, healthy coping strategies, resilience, and confidence. Together, we shared meaningful conversations, practical tools, and powerful moments of growth. We are so grateful for our collaboration with Teen Court Sarasota and for the opportunity to help empower youth with skills that support mental wellness now and into the future. When we invest in our youth, we invest in a brighter, stronger community.
Provided photo.
This summer, Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation is welcoming a talented local student for a hands-on internship to gain professional experience, learn about the community, and help shape a path for future interns to follow. Milordjie Cassion, a recent Booker High School graduate who will head to Duquesne University this fall, started her internship with Barancik Foundation on June 1. She’ll continue working there through mid-July. During her time with the Foundation, Cassion is learning about and contributing to its work, visiting community organizations, meeting professionals and leaders in a variety of roles, and exploring areas connected to her academic and professional aspirations.
Oyster River Ecology (ORE), a Manatee County-based nonprofit dedicated to large-scale ecological restoration, has secured more than $750,000 in funding and equipment investments over the past year, including more than $650,000 awarded during May 2026. The organization has also received approval for additional restoration sites that will expand oyster reef restoration efforts across Florida's Suncoast. For more information, visit www.oysterriverecology.org
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) is proud to announce grant support from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation to help equip a new, state-of-the-art teen center at the recently dedicated Gene Matthews Boys & Girls Club on the Steven and Marjolaine Townsend Campus in North Port. For more information, visit bgcsdc.org or call 941-366-3911.
As the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins, The Patterson Foundation is strengthening our region’s resilience by committing $500,000 to the Community Foundation of Sarasota County’s Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund. The funding will support ongoing and future recovery efforts in areas of Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties impacted by hurricanes or other disasters. People can help our region prepare for this hurricane season by donating to the SuncoastDisasterRecoveryFund online at cfsarasota.org/donors/support-our-community#donateor by sending a check (payable to Community Foundation of Sarasota County) to Attn: SuncoastDisasterRecoveryFund or Season of Sharing, 2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237. All donations are tax-deductible.
Dunkin’ restaurants in Sarasota and greater Tampa Bay are once again teaming up with Shriners Children’s for an in-store fundraiser running Monday, June 22 through Friday, June 26. Proceeds will help provide life-changing pediatric specialty care to children and families in need. Guests can support the effort by making a donation at any participating Dunkin’ location throughout Sarasota and surrounding areas. For more information about Shriners, including the full range of care available, please visit shrinerschildrens.org.
Provided photo.
Celebrate the America250 Semiquincentennial with a dazzling display of fireworks at Siesta Beach. Join community members, friends and family in one of Siesta Key's most cherished traditions under a July 4th night sky. Fireworks are scheduled to begin after sunset and are launched north of the public beach volleyball courts. Set up blankets and chairs and watch from the main beach, or enjoy the view from the water by boat. Pets are prohibited.
Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Rd., Siesta Key
Try a new hobby, hand knitting, and create your own sand dollar pillow. At this Knit and Sip workshop, choose from three yarn colors and follow along with Deb of TDog ChunkHandKnits as she provides step-by-step instructions for crafting your pillow. This beginner-friendly experience will teach you the fundamentals of hand knitting so you can create other items, too. Tickets include a glass of wine, and small plates are available for purchase throughout the session. Act fast, because ticket sales close June 29.
GROVE, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch
Start preparing early for hurricane season at Operation Sandbag, a free drive-thru sandbag distribution event at Bradenton's Public Safety Complex. Attendees can receive up to 10 pre-filled sandbags per household and must be residents of Manatee County. Home deliveries are available to residents 60 years or older and those who are living in Flood Zones A or B. Eligible residents can request delivery through an online form on Manatee County's website. Take this step now to ensure you have the necessary resources in case of a storm.
Manatee County Public Safety Department and Community and Veterans Services (CVS), 2101 47th Terrace E., Bradenton
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
Think while you drink! Gather your friends, co-workers or family and join us for a fun-filled evening. Prizes and specials each night. Monday – Wednesday at 7:30pm. Gecko’s on Clark – Monday ; Gecko’s on SR64 & Stickney Point – Tuesday ; Gecko’s on Hillview – Wednesday.
Featuring works by such acclaimed modern and contemporary artists as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, Yoko Ono, David Hockney, Ai Weiwei, and more, this never-before-seen exhibition offers a rare glimpse into private collections held throughout Southwest Florida.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Senior Friendship Centers will host a Shelf-Stable Meal Distribution and Hurricane Expo on Friday, June 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at its Sarasota Campus, 1888 Brother Geenen Way. The event will feature local organizations and emergency preparedness experts offering guidance on storm safety, health, recovery planning, and community resources. Attendees can also receive shelf-stable meals and preparedness supplies while they last. The free event is designed to help older adults and caregivers prepare for hurricane season with confidence.
Sarasota Campus, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
Known for his exceptional songwriting, world-class guitar playing, and warm, soaring tenor, Gill has built an extraordinary career defined by musical excellence and heartfelt storytelling. He achieved his breakthrough success in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” earning both the Country Music Association’s Single and Song of the Year Awards, along with a GRAMMY® Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. Tickets start at $85 and can be purchased at VanWezel.org, by calling 941-263-6799 or by visiting the Veteran Air Box Office at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.">
Known for his exceptional songwriting, world-class guitar playing, and warm, soaring tenor, Gill has built an extraordinary career defined by musical excellence and heartfelt storytelling. He achieved his breakthrough success in 1990 with “When I Call Your Name,” earning both the Country Music Association’s Single and Song of the Year Awards, along with a GRAMMY® Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. Tickets start at $85 and can be purchased at VanWezel.org, by calling 941-263-6799 or by visiting the Veteran Air Box Office at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall , 777 N Tamiami Trl. Sarasota
Thursdays, 10am. Discover with our expert guide, Kendra Cross, why Sarasota is the only place in the world that the Amish and Mennonite communities come to vacation en masse. In Pinecraft, enjoy the tour stops at Alma Sue’s Quilt Shop, The Carlisle Inn and Der Dutchman Amish Kitchen Cooking Restaurant for shopping and a pie shooter sample of their delicious pie!
Join Discover Sarasota Tours on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. for a fascinating 90-minute guided mainland tour exploring Sarasota’s rich architectural heritage. This tour highlights some of the area's most distinctive styles, including Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern design associated with the Sarasota School of Architecture, and the elegant Mediterranean Revival style. Participants will discover notable buildings, historic homes, and unique structures that have helped shape Sarasota’s identity over the years. Along the way, learn about the architects, design influences, and history behind these iconic landmarks while gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s architectural character.
Award-winning Hermitage Fellows offer a unique glimpse into their creative process, sharing original works in process with our Gulf Coast audiences. These free hour-long programs take the shape of musical performances, playreadings, concerts, visual art demonstrations, panel discussions, master classes, exhibitions, open studios,and more. The presentations are often works in process, giving Hermitage audiences a look into the creative process before these works go on to leading theaters, concert halls, and museums around the world.
Hermitage Artist Retreat, 6660 Manasota Key Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
Art immersion class for children ages 6-18. Small classes with fine arts materials. Visit linarinconart.com for more information and to register.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, Gallery & Creative Academy, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Come one, come all to the circus this summer at The Circus Arts Conservatory in Sarasota. Kids ages 6 to 15 are invited to learn circus skills and make new friends with attendees from all over the country. Try the trapeze, rolling globe, aerials, juggling and more. Each Friday, friends and families are invited to a costumed showcase performance where campers share the skills they developed throughout the week. Pre-registration is required, and walk-ins are not accepted.
Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota
Unwind at the end of the day with Sunset Pilates, a free outdoor fitness experience hosted by PULSEHAUS. Set against the backdrop of a beautiful evening in the park, this mat Pilates class focuses on building strength, flexibility, balance, and overall wellness. Designed for all fitness levels and abilities, the session offers a welcoming environment where participants can move at their own pace while enjoying the benefits of exercising outdoors. Bring a mat, invite a friend, and enjoy an hour dedicated to movement, mindfulness, and community connection.
Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd, Bradenton
Curious about the Mediterranean Way of Eating? Join us for Cooking Up Health: The Mediterranean Way, an engaging, educational series that will transform your approach to food! Discover seven simple steps to healthier meals, learn easy recipes, and pick up practical tips that fit right into your everyday life. Registration includes a recipe book. 6-Week Program, Mondays: 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24, and 8/31 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will be virtual and will have a cost of $10 per person. Zoom link for the class will be emailed to participants before the start of class.
Virtual, Virtual
Discover Sarasota Tours offers first Bradenton Trolley Tour running twice this summer called Bar Bites Trolley. This fun three-hour happy-hour themed tour is perfect for beating the summer heat and features stops at two restaurants: enRich Bistro and Oak & Stone for savory appetizers, summer-soaked cocktails, and beautiful water views. Along the route, singer Michelle Pruyn and owner Tammy Hauser will entertain guests with sing-along songs, trivia, and Bradenton history. Drinks can be purchased separately and are not part of the ticket price of $89.99. This savory Bradenton tour runs on Thursdays from 4-6:30PM on June 25 and July 23.
Doors open at 5 pm for drinks & mingling, artist talk starts at 5:30 pm
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Explore the growing evidence that supports different behaviors which optimize creative thinking for innovation processes: high-focus work and restorative activities. Learn how space design can cultivate the creativity necessary to spark innovation.
Architecture Sarasota, 265 S Orange Ave, Sarasota
This summer, Selby Gardens is excited to present an indoor and outdoor exhibition featuring the work of legendary American photographer, Lynn Goldsmith, who is renowned for both her celebrity portraits and fine art images. Goldsmith’s exhibition at the Downtown Sarasota campus will combine stunning images of flowers with intimate portraits of Selby Gardens’ artist in residence – Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota
Get ready to move this summer with Sarasota Contemporary Dance and guest teachers in sunny Sarasota for a week-long dance intensive, unlike any other! You have three weeks to choose from-or do all three!
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts Suite 300, Sarasota, FL 34236
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