SRQ DAILY Sep 2, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"We know these are projects that are qualified, sustainable, important and impactful."
This year, Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) launched The Giving Gallery, a new online catalog on MCF’s website featuring vetted capital projects and program needs. The gallery gives donors a clear view of tangible opportunities to invest in the community, to encourage collaboration and co-investment. It will be refreshed quarterly to showcase a rotating selection of funding opportunities.
Grounded in the belief that philanthropy should be personal, transparent and local, The Giving Gallery highlights initiatives that strengthen education, culture, animal welfare, health and human services. Each opportunity reflects the mission and dedication of the organizations working to serve our community. Projects and causes align with MCF’s current giving priorities and undergo a careful selection and vetting process to ensure they offer meaningful, timely opportunities for impact.
“We are already getting great feedback from our fund holders and the public at large,” shares MCF’s Vice President of Philanthropy, Yolanda Mancha. “Someone might want to make an investment and not know where to make that donation so this is a simple way for them to see the things that are happening in our community, not just needs-based, but some of them are also very innovative in their approach. We know these are projects that are qualified, sustainable, important and impactful. We're investing ourselves, which gives it the credibility to come alongside us and make these things happen for our community.“
Currently in its pilot phase, The Giving Gallery will feature opportunities that qualify through one of two pathways: Competitive Grant Cycle: MCF conducts quarterly competitive grant cycles, with each cycle focused on a specific area of service, such as animals, arts and culture, or education. Because funding requests exceed available resources, the Community Investment Committee identifies select projects that remain underfunded and may benefit from additional support through The Giving Gallery. Long-Term Capital Projects: On a rolling basis, MCF invites nonprofit organizations with active capital campaigns to apply for inclusion in The Giving Gallery. Requests must be specifically related to capital needs and are subject to MCF approval. 
Caring Collective (formerly The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center) announces the Third Annual Chief Executive Peer Circles (CEPC) Program. The CEPC Program is designed for nonprofit leaders committed to enhancing their leadership skills, expanding their network, and implementing innovative solutions to organizational challenges. Chief executive nonprofit professionals serving Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties can apply now through the extended deadline of Tuesday, September 15, 2026. To review the program Announcement, FAQ document, and apply, please visit www.caring-collective.org.
A $1-million community matching campaign has been launched to continue rewilding the Quad Parcels at the Celery Fields. With matching support from local foundations and generous donors, Big Waters Land Trust is seeking additional gifts from the community to fully fund the rewilding of the Southwest Quad, adding native habitat for wildlife and eco-friendly amenities for community access and enjoyment. The effort brings together funders Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation and Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) and 3 local philanthropic families. “This is an important opportunity to enhance one of our region’s most environmentally significant places at a time when the chance to restore land like this is becoming increasingly rare,” said Jon Thaxton, Director, Policy and Advocacy at Gulf Coast.
Provided photo.
As Sarasota County continues to grow and evolve, the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation (SAHP) is expanding its capacity to ensure the region’s history remains part of its future. The 41-year-old nonprofit has adopted a new three-year strategic plan aimed at strengthening the organization and expanding its reach. The plan marks a significant shift for SAHP, including a move from an all-volunteer working board to a professionally staffed organization and the hiring of its first full-time executive director. Erin DiFazio, SAHP’s first paid employee, currently serves as managing director of the Sarasota Preservation Program (SP2), overseeing its low-cost revolving loan and preservation easement programs. As SAHP expands its leadership team, the executive director will oversee organization-wide operations—including SP2 and SAHP’s core advocacy and education missions—and guide expanded programming and community impact.
Tom McArdle, secretary and treasurer of the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation, leads a tour of historic Vamo Drive. Provided photo.
A work of art can do more than demonstrate a student’s creativity. It can give that student a voice. That idea is at the heart of Embracing Our Differences (EOD)’s year-round educational initiatives and annual outdoor art exhibition. Through EOD’s programs, students and educators use art to explore ideas of kindness, respect and inclusion and discover the value of their own creative expression. With a $50,000 Empowering Arts Grant, Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) is helping EOD continue those efforts. Visit EmbracingOurDifferences.org and GulfCoastCF.org to learn more.
Pictured: Kelly Borgia, director of Brand Engagement at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, visits students at Alta Vista Elementary School. Gulf Coast’s $50,000 Empowering Arts Grant supports Embracing Our Differences’ efforts to use art and education t
The Wilson-Wood Foundation recently awarded a grant of $15,000 to Safe Children Coalition (SCC) for its HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters) program. The grant will help area families with young children to prepare their children for success in school … and beyond. This is the eighth year that the Wilson-Wood Foundation has provided support – totaling $120,000 – for the HIPPY program. The HIPPY program helps parents to provide educational enrichment for preschool-age children and is designed to remove barriers to participation in education. The program is offered to all participants free of charge so that disadvantaged children can enjoy future success; the goals of HIPPY are consistent with the mission of the Wilson-Wood Foundation, which aims to do good deeds in health, education, and human services.
Safe Children Coalition VP Jacqueline House (right) with longtime HIPPY supporter Susan Wood from the Wilson-Wood Foundation. Provided photo.
Sarasota Opera has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County in support of Sarasota Youth Operaand Education programs and the company’s Aficionado Dinner. The funding will help expand access to high-quality arts education, live opera experiences, and meaningful engagement opportunities for young people, families, educators, and community supporters throughout Sarasota County.For more information, visit cfsarasota.org or call 941-955-3000.
Fergeson Skipper is pleased to announce and celebrate its 50-year anniversary of serving clients throughout Southwest Florida.Founded in 1976, the Sarasota-based law firm has built its reputation on deep legal experience, board certified attorneys, and a commitment to providing thoughtful, effective counsel. For 50 years, the firm’s growth has been driven largely through referrals, results, trust, and professionalism. Serving individuals, businesses, and institutions facing serious consequential legal matters, the firm focuses on and values client relationships as long-term rather than transactional. As a local firm, Fergeson Skipper is able to develop lasting relationships and provide experienced legal counsel with clarity, efficiency, and candor.
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
Each year, SRQ MEIDA recognizes local leading women who have deeply contributed to our community through their business, philanthropic, health and wellness, entrepreneurial, cultural, science, technology and educational endeavors through the Women Who Roar Initiative. We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Gather with us on November 6, 2026 at Michael's on East. Reserve a spot today!
Michael's on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, FL
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
Win prizes while you think, drink and enjoy fresh seafood and signature cocktails at Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar when Trivia Nation hosts Trivia Tuesdays. Test your knowledge across a variety of categories, bring your friends, family and coworkers, or jump in and join a team when you arrive. Win a $100 gift card every week and the admiration of your smartest friends.
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota
At the Court Cabaret, Nancy Allen presents a powerful tribute to era-defining artists in the 1970s, featuring hits from Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Stevie Nicks, Linda Ronstadt and more. A singer trio of Victoria Boland, Samantha Duval and Madalyn McHugh deliver powerhouse vocals that capture the soul and strength of the female artists who wrote their own rules. This show is part of a three-show Summer Cabaret subscription that also includes Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey and Legacy: Motown and More!
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota
Ever wonder what goes into creating a circus? The Ringling's Canvas City exhibit offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make the spectacular entertainment venues come to life, from tentmakers and photographers to costume designers. See over 1,500 pieces, including circus costumes, leotards, band uniforms, animal blankets and more. Costumes on view will be rotated throughout the year as museum registrars review the collection and add notes and new photography to their records.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
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.
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
The summer 2026 exhibition at Selby Gardens will celebrate the creative collaboration between two legendary figures and longtime friends, photographer Lynn Goldsmith and singer-songwriter Patti Smith, who is Selby Gardens’ artist in residence. The exhibition will feature Goldsmith’s photographs of Smith, past and present, in the Museum of Botany & the Arts. The images will offer an intimate portrait of an iconic artist over the course of her remarkable career.
Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Set sail with the smooth sounds of the '70s and '80s in this feel-good celebration of Yacht Rock and beyond. Featuring favorites like Sailing, Margaritaville, Brandy, Escape (The Piña Colada Song), Arthur's Theme and more, this breezy musical revue charts a course through the songs that became the soundtrack to romance, adventure, heartbreak and endless summer nights. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
The Sarasota Orchestra Harmony Gallery collaborates with the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, the presenters of Voices of Color. This exhibit features the work of Jamaican-born artist Alicia Brown who works from her studio at SPAACES. Greg Cruz is a multidisciplinary artist and educator whose work bridges urban nostalgia and themes of healing and human connection. Ronnique Hawkins's work spans and supports peace initiatives, vulnerable communities and awareness of prostate and breast cancer. A reception will be held on October 7, and a meet-and-greet is scheduled for October 15.
Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Help protect Sarasota's coastal wildlife from one of the deadliest forms of marine debris. The cleanup welcomes boaters, kayakers, students and community volunteers to target discarded fishing lines, hooks, lures and other fishing debris that can entangle and kill seabirds and marine wildlife. Students can earn community service hours, and a light lunch will be provided to registered participants. Wear heavy, closed-toed shoes that can get wet, and opt for clothing that covers your arms and legs to ensure comfort and protection.
Sarasota Sailing Squadron, 1717 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota
Wish upon a star and follow Pinocchio on an unforgettable adventure! From curious encounters to daring escapades, this beloved tale springs to life with laughter and plenty of magic. As Pinocchio learns that honesty matters more than anything else, audiences of all ages will delight in this enchanting retelling of a timeless classic. The play runs 50 minutes with no intermission.
Keating Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Sketch, sip and socialize at Art Center Sarasota's Evening Figure Drawing, launching this September as part of the new Creative Happy Hour series. Spend a relaxed, inspiring evening sketching from a live, costumed model in a welcoming atmosphere. All experience levels are welcome. Beer, wine and other beverages will be available for purchase.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Join Keep Manatee Beautiful at River Club Golf Course for a tournament that brings together local businesses, community leaders and golfers. The event features 18 holes, on-course contests and prizes, food, refreshments and networking opportunities. Proceeds from the tournament will support Keep Manatee Beautiful's year-round programs, including community cleanups, tree plantings and environmental education.
The River Club, 6600 River Club Blvd, Lakewood Ranch
Play for a cause this September in support of the Venice YMCA with this charity golf classic. Golfers of all skill levels are invited to tee off with a shot gun start at 8:30am, with lunch to follow. Build community and camaraderie with fun games and prizes throughout the day. Proceeds support children, families and individuals in the Venice community.
Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd, Venice
SCS College Night brings together colleges, universities, technical programs and military representatives from across the country to help students and families explore postsecondary options. This event is open to all high school students, grades 9-12, and their families. Meet with admissions representatives, learn about financial aid, explore career and technical education pathways, discover careers in the military and ask questions about admissions, housing and campus life.
Suncoast Technical College, 4748 S Beneva Rd., Sarasota
Back for its seventh year, the 2026 Modern Works Festival is a two-week celebration of new play development and women in theater. With a festival pass, you gain all-access entry to the work in progress, including staged readings of finalist plays, a kickoff celebration, guest speaker events, artist performances and post-show conversations that bring audiences and creators into direct dialogue. Tea Time by Erika MacDonald is this year's headlining production.
Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd 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
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