SRQ DAILY Aug 26, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"I believe our longevity comes from creating an environment where people genuinely enjoy singing together while building lasting friendships. "
Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota is a choral group where every voice belongs. The group welcomes singers of every race, ethnicity, faith, age, occupation, culture, gender, sexual orientation and sexual identity.
Through songs of hope and inclusion, Diversity singers celebrate the beauty of humanity and encourage the community to embrace equality. Founded in 1997 as an LGBTQ+ choral group, the organization has grown to welcome members from all walks of life, performing a diverse repertoire of music. It presents two ticketed concerts annually, typically in December and May, while also engaging in community outreach at local events.
Vice President John Marth is marking his 10th year with Diversity this season. “I believe our longevity comes from creating an environment where people genuinely enjoy singing together while building lasting friendships. We’re proud that some members have been with the chorus since our founding, while new members continue to discover us every season. That blend of tradition and fresh energy keeps our chorus vibrant. Diversity makes sure every person feels welcomed, respected and encouraged from their very first rehearsal. “Whether someone has years of musical experience or is singing in a chorus for the first time, we want them to know their voice matters. Our members naturally support one another, creating an atmosphere where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy making music together,” he says.
For someone who’s interested in joining but feels nervous about auditioning or hasn’t sung in a chorus before, Marth encourages them to visit. “Many of our members were nervous before attending their first rehearsal, and many hadn’t sung in years,” he explains. “Our artistic staff and experienced members work hard to make newcomers feel comfortable and supported. You’ll quickly discover that Diversity is a welcoming chorus where people encourage one another every step of the way. This season’s concerts will feature meaningful repertoire performed with passion and heart, and we look forward to sharing those experiences with our audiences. We invite everyone to come hear us, get to know us, and discover what makes Diversity such a special chorus.”
Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota's rehearsals take place on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 pm in Sarasota.
To learn more:diversitysarasota.org 
Photo by Peter Acker.
Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) has announced its 2026–2027 signature event season, offering community members and local businesses several opportunities to come together in support of survivors of domestic and sexual violence. From SPARCC’s signature gala and holiday luncheon to golf tournaments and its annual fashion show, the upcoming season features a variety of events that raise critical funds and awareness for SPARCC’s free and confidential programs and services. For event information, tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.sparcc.net/events or contact Mary Ellen Mancini at 941-365-0208, ext. 106.
In recent years, the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation’s long history of awarding grants to established local nonprofits has been enhanced with investments in smaller and newer organizations. Four nonprofits serving Sarasota and Manatee counties are receiving grants for capital needs including technology, physical structures, and medical equipment. Each is making an impact through partnerships, family engagement, community connections, health equity, or building the economic strength of neighborhoods. The “Small and Mighty” (or SAM) grant process opens three times each year for results-focused nonprofits that have annual budgets of $300,000 or less. Grantees are: Inclusion Revolution , Friends of Manatee County Agricultural Museum, Newtown Business Council and One Check Away. The Selby Foundation is the legacy of Bill and Marie Selby, two caring people who focused their giving on providing access to opportunity for others. Learn more online at SelbyFdn.org.
Pictured: Daniel, Cody and Kevin at the Sunnyside Village weekly market with Inclusion Revolution. Provided photo.
Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) is pleased to announce the hiring of Melissa Ehrhardt as Director, Capacity Building. In this position, Ehrhardt leads the strategic direction of Invest in Incredible (I3), Gulf Coast’s nonprofit capacity-building initiative, which strengthens nonprofit governance, leadership, fundraising, and operational excellence through workshops, consulting engagements, and digital learning resources. She is responsible for content building, consultant cohort management, regional expansion, operational oversight, and impact measurement of the program, which serves nonprofits across Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties. Since its inception in 2016, I3 has provided hundreds of opportunities designed to strengthen nonprofit organizations across the region. The creation of Ehrhardt's role reflects Gulf Coast's continued commitment to expanding the initiative in response to the evolving needs of the region's nonprofit community.
Provided photo.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties will host their annual “Champions for Children” Gala beginning with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by a delicious gourmet 3-course dinner, catered by Michael’s on East, Nov. 21 at the Ora, 578 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232. There will be live auctions and raffles, and inspiring performances by Boys & Girls Club members. Black tie is optional. This annual, crucial and instrumental fundraising event will provide the necessary tools the organization needs to help empower local youth achieve their full potential. Individual tickets are $500. Various sponsorships are available. For detailed information, visit https://bgcsdc.org/event/cfc2026 or call 941-366-3911.
For a woman returning home from incarceration, rebuilding her life means more than finding housing and employment. It also means reclaiming her independence, rebuilding her confidence, and beginning to recognize herself again. Through Her Next Chapter: The Choice Fund, your gift will help women entering Project 180’s Women’s Residential Program create their own Confidence Kits by choosing the personal care products that feel right for them. For many personal care items, one size does not fit all, and we want to let the women pick based on their needs. After years of having so many decisions made for you, the opportunity to walk into a store and choose something for yourself can mean more than we may realize. You can help give each woman the dignity of choice and a confident start to her next chapter.
Senior Friendship Centers equipped older adults and caregivers across Southwest Florida to prepare for hurricane season through a series of disaster preparedness events offering shelf-stable meals, emergency supplies, local resources, and one-on-one guidance. The events were held in Venice, Arcadia, Port Charlotte, and Sarasota, with support from community partners including Florida Power & Light, the Notre Dame Alumni Association, and the Salah Foundation. Select locations provided shelf-stable meals and preparedness items, such as flashlights, ponchos, radios, and other emergency kit basics, while supplies lasted. For more information about Senior Friendship Centers programs and upcoming events, call (941) 955-2122 or visit www.friendshipcenters.org
Pictured: Senior Friendship Centers client proudly display their new disaster preparedness bags. The kits were distributed to help local seniors stay safe during the hurricane season. Provided photo.
A grant from the James & Karen Hodgkinson Family Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation is supporting efforts to address two interconnected challenges—food insecurity and food waste—through the Florida Food Recovery Coalition (FFRC) and FoodRecovery.org. The grant will provide staff support from FoodRecovery.org to help lead the FFRC, with FoodRecovery.org Director of Florida Operations Emily Grant continuing to serve as co-chair of the statewide coalition. To learn more visit foodrecovery.org.
Sarasota attorney, businessman and philanthropist Hugh F. Culverhouse Jr. has launched a $1 million matching challenge for the University of Florida Fredric G. Levin College of Law, matching donations dollar for dollar through the end of the year. Under the Culverhouse Challenge, gifts made to UF Law through Dec. 31 will be matched up to a total of $1 million. If the full match is met, the effort will generate $2 million in additional support for the law school. To contribute or learn more about the Culverhouse Challenge, visit law.ufl.edu/alumni-giving/culverhouse-challenge/.
The Good Hero Philanthropic Awards honor the volunteers, nonprofit leaders, philanthropists, corporate changemakers and young heroes making a meaningful impact across our region. Through these awards, we’re proud to celebrate their stories and inspire locals to continue gathering for the greater good. Nominate a Good Hero by October 20, 2026 and help us recognize the individuals whose compassion and generosity are making our community stronger.
Nominations close October 20, 2026
The Annual Giving Coast Luncheon celebrates the independent sector in the Sarasota and Manatee region featuring the Philanthropic Agenda With Community Foundations and the Good Hero Awards Program. Join us on December 9, 2026 at Michael's on East to celebrate our local heros. Tickets and tables are now available!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
Delightfully Funky Since 1997, Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village has been Sarasota’s cozy, funky go-to for inventive food, handcrafted martinis, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s perfect for date nights or casual hangouts—offering bold flavors, expertly mixed drinks, and a setting that feels both relaxed and refreshingly unique. Join us for the launch of our Summer Pizza & Martini Menu, featuring hand-tossed specialty Pizzas, Pineapple Upside Down Vodka Martini for June, Siesta Suns Orange Vodka in July & Just Peachy Vodka Martini in August.
Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
The exhibition at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus celebrates childhood and the imagination of youth through the words and images of A Child’s Garden of Verses, the beloved book of poetry for children by the celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. The exhibition features photographs of pages from a vintage edition of the book, combining Stevenson’s poetry with illustrations by the notable American artist, Alexander Dobkin. Accompanying the photographs are simple interactives that draw their inspiration from Stevenson’s poems and enhance the visitor experience. Audio recordings enable visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence, Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey
Maria A. Guzman Capron explores the complexities of identity through vibrant figurative textiles. Drawing inspiration from her own multicultural heritage, the artist creates layered portraits of exuberant, multi-faceted characters.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
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
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.
Facilitated by poet Doug Knowlton, Bookstore1Sarasota hosts an advanced poetry writing workshop every Wednesday this September. Expect close reading, generative exercises and thoughtful critique in this five-session, five-week program. Participants should come ready to share work and engage seriously with others' writing in a collaborative and supportive space. Tickets include a writing journal.
Bookstore1Sarasota, 117 S Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Named after the mother of the Hubble Space Telescope, the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope will pair a large field of view with crisp infrared vision to scan vast, deep swaths of the sky and help astronomers explore dark matter, dark energy and exoplanets. This live launch event will include a live stream of the rocket launch on the planetarium dome, along with a NASA presentation titled Expanding Our View. Outreach tables, activities and prizes are available. Enjoy complimentary coffee and pastries.
The Planetarium at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W, Bradenton
Bringing laughter to the community since 2019, the Teenyboppers entertain audiences with fun, fast-paced, hilarious shows that tell a story without the safety net of a script. Troupe members explore and develop their improv, storytelling, acting and teamwork skills in a safe, supportive environment, working on acting exercises, short-form improv games and long-form improv activities. At the end of each semester, they entertain audiences with their mad skills in a performance directed by Daniel Dagesse.
Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W, Venice
See the historic relationship between fiery abolitionist and former slave Frederick Douglass and a cautious statesman, President Abraham Lincoln, who is determined to preserve the Union. Written by award-winning playwright Beth Duda with original spoken word poetry by Cedric Hameed, this play explores how two men with different perspectives found common ground during one of the most divided times in American history. This is a 90-minute production that includes a staged reading, followed by a panel discussion with the actors and playwrights.
Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota
Put on your favorite disco attire, gather your friends and enjoy an evening of classic hits, dancing and great company at Disco Dance Night in Solis Hall. Dress in your best disco-inspired costume for a chance to win the costume contest. Your ticket includes one complimentary wine or beer, light bites and access to the 360 photo booth.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Learn the basics of choosing the right plants to create a beautiful yard that beats the Florida heat. This workshop explores the nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping in a fun and informative environment. You'll learn how to save water and also create a haven for pollinators. At the end of the class, you can take home a copy of the new Florida-Friendly book.
UF/IFAS Manatee County Extension Office, 1303 17th St. W, Palmetto
Based on a ridiculous tabloid story, Bat Boy: The Musical is a comedy horror show about a half-boy, half-bat creature who is discovered in a cave near Hope Falls, West Virginia. As he learns to navigate human society and falls in love with a local veterinarian's daughter, Bat Boy discovers that fitting into a community can be far more complicated than simply learning how to act normal. The production will be performed in-the-round, placing audiences in the middle of the action and creating an immersive theatrical experience.
The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Visit The Bishop's Planetarium for a one-hour live presentation launching into the legacy of NASA's Space Shuttle Program! Discover why the world's first reusable spacecraft launched like a rocket but landed like a glider. Explore how the shuttle built a brand-new era of global space science collaboration, and witness how the launch of space telescopes brought a new view of our universe. Beer, wine and concessions are available for purchase. Doors open at 6:30pm.
The Planetarium at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. W, Bradenton
To commemorate the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment that granted many women in the United States the right to vote, a luncheon at the Grove will showcase women-owned businesses and celebrate Women's Equality Day. A guest panel will be moderated by Mercedes Solar, co-owner and president of Solmart Media. Attendees can learn about local women-owned businesses, participate in networking and hear from a multi-generational panel about the strides women have made and can continue to build.
The Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch
As Art Sarasota Center closes its centennial season and begins another century, it welcomes four artists and their works for the upcoming August and September season. Molly Duff-Clarke will showcase Home for Dinner, and curator Alecia Harper will present Shaping Sarasota: A Century of Art, which presents a chronological visual history spanning 100 years of creativity. Antoine Williams presents a new body of work that reimagines Black southern cultural folklore and traditions with Putting Breath in the Body. Finally, juror John Pirman presents the juried show, Icons.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This free summer program encourages guests to explore all six Anna Maria Oyster Bar locations while enjoying exclusive savings and creating memories along the way. Available while supplies last, each passport includes more than $100 in exclusive offers that can be redeemed throughout the promotion. The grand prize winner will be announced on September 8, and passport offers are valid through October 31. A bonus grand prize entry is available at Cafe on St. Armands.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar
Enjoy a delicious brunch offered every Sunday at Tripletail Seafood and Spirits on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent creme brulee French toast, steak and eggs, lobster benedict, crab and shrimp omelet and the Tripletail brunch burger. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa with the purchase of any entree.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Every Saturday and Sunday, Cask and Ale on Main Street lifts a toast and taps a toe to a delicious brunch with a diverse chef-prepared menu. Try the rotating chef's special menu, bottomless mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. On Sundays, hear live jazz music from 12pm-4pm.
Cask and Ale, 1548 Main St., Sarasota
FST's resident improv team returns with Out of Bounds, an audience-favorite competition where two teams battle for laughs in a fast-paced series of games. Every scene is inspired by audience suggestions, and the winning team is up to the spectators to decide–and the method of voting is applause! This no-holds-barred comedy showdown runs 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
Bowne's Lab, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
Don't miss William Shakespeare's timeless comedy of love, identity and finding yourself in unexpected places. The play delivers one of The Bard's most hopeful messages: people can change, grow and discover who they truly are. Experience wit, romance and how theatre can be a place where humanity explores itself.
The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
A pioneering artist, world traveler and champion of women in the arts, Yoshida Fujio was one of the first Japanese women to receive formal training in Western-style painting and build an international career. Yoshida Fujio: Secret Gardens is the first exhibition in the southeastern United States devoted to this remarkable artist. It brings together a selection of woodblock prints and one painting spanning key moments in Fujio's long career, from her early naturalistic works to the striking abstractions of her later decades.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
During the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities invites the community to this commemoration at the pavilion at Greenbrook Adventure Park. The event will honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and will pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and everyday heroes who answered the call. Nominations are encouraged for residents who served in response to the 9/11 events, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, medical professionals, military members and others.
Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Pl, Bradenton
This special benefit concert commemorates the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. Led by conductor Evan Roider, the program features iconic works including Aaron Copland's Fanfare for the Common Man, Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings and John Williams' Summon the Heroes. The performance will bring the community together through music while honoring those who served, sacrificed and supported others in the aftermath of 9/11.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Tee off for a great cause at the Communi-Tee Golf Classic, a day dedicated to golf, community, and connection. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or simply looking for a fun way to support local initiatives, this event offers an enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels. Participants will enjoy a beautiful day on the course while helping strengthen programs that bring neighbors together. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and organizations looking to make an impact. Gather your foursome, enjoy friendly competition, and help build a stronger, more connected community.
Calusa Country Club, 18812 Scallop Lp, Lakewood Ranch
Experience the Englewood Pioneer Days Parade on Dearborn Street this September, which runs from Obee's parking lot down W Cowels Street, to McCall Road to Dearborn Street and finishes at Veterans Memorial Pavilion. After the parade, family activities include a pie-eating contest, a watermelon-eating contest, children's games, crafts and live music. Snacks, water and food are provided by Florida Bible Church and Hippie Squeeze Lemonade.
Pioneer Plaza, 325 W Dearborn St., Englewood
Celebrating its 17th year, the Venice Craft Festival showcases vendors throughout Downtown Venice on Labor Day Weekend. Visitors can explore a wide array of handmade items from jewelry and ceramics to coastal decor and candles. You can also bring your pets to this family-friendly event.
Downtown Venice, 200 Miami Ave. W, Venice
Celebrate two decades of community leadership and the lasting impact of investing in young people at the 20th Annual IPG Leadership Breakfast. This event will honor the legacy of those who have helped shape great futures while looking ahead to the next generation of leaders who will continue to strengthen Sarasota and DeSoto Counties for years to come.
Lee Wetherington Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota, 3100 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota
Joseph Kesselring's classic comedy is coming to Bradenton this fall with a blend of mystery, mayhem and outrageous humor. Drama critic Mortimer Brewster discovers that the sweet, elderly aunts who raised him have an unsettling hobby: poisoning lonely old men with arsenic-laced elderberry wine. Brewster tries to manage his aunts and his psychotic brother while frantically attempting to cover up the crimes.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
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