SRQ DAILY Sep 16, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"Most of us have experienced some type of trauma in our lives, or we are close to someone who has experienced trauma or works with trauma victims. We have seen how it affects people in their daily lives and we want to help support their healing."
Resilient Retreat, a local nonprofit, offers free, confidential, evidence-based programs to help individuals heal from the effects of trauma and abuse. Its innovative, holistic approach nurtures mind, body and spirit through services including neurofeedback, trauma-informed yoga, equine therapy, massage, nutrition education and art and music therapy. Its programs are tailored for adult survivors of abuse and professionals—including first responders—exposed to secondary trauma.
Programs take place on an 84-acre conservation property, home to a welcoming community center and dedicated retreat hub that provide a peaceful, immersive setting for healing. Resilient Retreat’s trauma-trained staff are also available to offer a compassionate listening ear, guidance, and connections to additional resources.
Homes by Westbay, the largest privately owned new-home building company in the Greater Tampa Bay market, and its CFO, Beth Bradburn, share a commitment to Resilient Retreat. For several years, they have actively supported the organization through various avenues, including event sponsorships, regular attendance, and dedicated volunteer days. Beth has been a vocal advocate, speaking to large audiences about Resilient Retreat’s vital mission and the critical work it performs for trauma survivors, helping professionals, and first responders in the community.
Because Homes by WestBay is a local company, the business has chosen to partner with local charities where it can truly make a difference within the community. “We don’t just build homes; we strive to deliver a better way of life to homebuyers in Tampa Bay. We give back monetarily to the local community with every one of our home closings,” explains Bradburn. “We chose Resilient Retreat as one of those organizations because it is special to several of our executive committee members. Most of us have experienced some type of trauma in our lives, or we are close to someone who has experienced trauma or works with trauma victims. We have seen how it affects people in their daily lives and we want to help support their healing.”
For more information about Resilient Retreat, visit https://www.resilientretreat.org. To learn more about Homes by Westbay, visit homesbywestbay.com. 
Pictured: Beth Bradburn of Westbay Homes. Photo by Wes Roberts.
Children First has received more than $80,000 in recent grant support to expand opportunities for children and families across Sarasota County. Leading this support is a $30,000 grant from the Jerome & Mildred Paddock Foundation for family strengthening services, helping parents and caregivers build skills and access resources that support parenting, personal growth, education, employment, financial stability, and overall family well-being. Additional support for comprehensive services includes $15,000 from the Wilson-Wood Foundation, $15,000 from the Bernard & Mildred Doyle Charitable Trust, $10,000 from the Evalyn Sadlier Jones Foundation, $10,000 from The Libertore Fund for Children, and $1,884 from the MSC Foundation. These investments help provide infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with high-quality early childhood education, nutritious meals, health and developmental services, scholarship support, and individualized care.
Provided photo.
On September 26, local leaders will trade the boardroom for the runway during the Men Wear Pink Sarasota-Manatee Fashion Show at UTC Mall. Beginning at 6 p.m. in Macy’s Courtyard, this inspiring evening will bring our community together for fashion, fun, and an important purpose: helping end breast cancer as we know it, for everyone. Watch Sarasota and Manatee leaders sport their brightest pink and show that making a difference is always in style. Every dollar raised through Men Wear Pink helps the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research, promote early detection and prevention, and provide vital support for people facing breast cancer. In fact, the American Cancer Society has invested more than $600 million in breast cancer research over the past 30 years. Join us, cheer on our community’s leaders, and help make a lifesaving difference. Show your strength. Sport your pink. Join the movement!
Second Heart Homes has received a $15,000 Capacity Building Grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to strengthen the organization’s ability to track and evaluate the progress of residents who have experienced homelessness and live with mental illness. Funding for this grant was made possible by the Zella I. and Junius F. Allen Fund. The grant will fund new case management software, replacing much of the manual documentation and data collection Second Heart Homes currently relies on. The new system will allow staff to more efficiently track residents’ housing stability, participation in case management and progress toward individualized goals. “A beautiful, healthy home is important, but it’s only part of what it takes to help someone build a stable life,” said Megan Howell, executive director and founder of Second Heart Homes.
Provided photo.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) will hold its SCF Weather Ready: New Weather Monitoring Station Installation Celebration on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to noon at SCF Venice, 8000 S. Tamiami Trail. This free event, held during National Preparedness Month, will begin with a special presentation of the official unveiling of the new weather monitoring station (affectionately named Dorothy) inside the Dr. Bill Jervey, Jr. Library, Building 300, in the auditorium. Following the presentation, there will be science building tours with science demonstrations and children's activities, photo opportunities, community vendors, hurricane preparedness resources, and information about SCF's meteorology class and other educational programs. Community members of all ages are invited to attend.
The Harvest Sarasota invites the community to come together for its annual celebration of inclusion, connection and love during the 4th annual Diverse Fest. The family-friendly event – which is free and open to the public – takes place on Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on the Harvest/Harvest House campus (3650 17th St., Sarasota). The first Diverse Fest launched in July 2023, welcoming local nonprofits, LGBTQ+ groups, BIPOC-owned businesses, artists, performers, and community organizations. The goal was clear: to create a free, accessible festival that felt safe, welcoming, and empowering for everyone. Highlights of this year’s celebration will include live performances by DJ Brianna Lee, The Harvest Band and Georgia Moore, with more acts to be added.
Community members of all ages will enjoy a variety of activities and entertainment during Diverse Fest 2026. Provided photo.
A child struggling with anxiety, trauma or overwhelming emotions doesn’t stop struggling when the school day begins. Drawing on more than 10 years of experience providing school-based mental health services, The Florida Center for Early Childhood launched a new program last year at Innovation Academy SRQ, a tuition-free public charter school serving VPK through fifth grade. Now, an $80,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County will expand that program and bring dedicated school-based mental health services to Star Lab, a private K-5 elementary school, for the first time. Funding for this grant was made possible by the Community Foundation’s Allen Wirtz Nobbe and Jo Bowen Nobbe Fund, Edward K. Roberts Fund and Leslie and Margaret Weller Fund.
Provided photo.
Satchel's Last Resort Animal Shelter and Sanctuary exceeded its $50,000 fundraising goal, raising $54,736 for the dogs and cats in its care during its annual Satchel's Giving Day celebration, held Saturday, September 12 at Big Top Brewery. The event brought in $29,736 through birthday cards sent to shelter dogs and cats, raffle basket sales, and beer sales, and a $25,000 matching gift from The Julie and Randy Shelton Foundation and an anonymous donor helped push the total past the goal. Held annually to commemorate the birthday of Satchel, the dog of the organization’s founder, Satchel's Giving Day has grown into one of the organization's most anticipated community events. “Satchel's Giving Day just keeps outdoing itself, and this year blew me away,” said Page Knoebel, Founder of Satchel's Last Resort.
Provided photo.
Creative Liberties heads into fall with new opportunities to see, make and share art, beginning with “Creative Connections,” a group exhibition bringing together more than 30 artists from across the Creative Liberties community. The exhibition showcases a wide range of media, styles and creative voices. Throughout the exhibition, visitors will have opportunities not only to view and purchase original artwork but also to encounter Creative Liberties artists at work. “Creative Connections” is at Creative Liberties at ARCOS, 340 Central Avenue, Sarasota, andcontinues through October 29. Creative Liberties will celebrate its 2026 featured artists with a Feature Artist Finale reception, Saturday, October 17, 5-7 p.m., at its two Limelight District locations, 901B Apricot Avenue and 927 N. Lime Avenue.
Creative Connections, on view at Creative Liberties at ARCOS through Oct. 29, brings together work by more than 30 Creative Liberties artists representing a range of media, styles and perspectives.
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
This long-term installation in Gallery 10 of the Museum of Art showcases five outstanding examples of 17th-century Dutch painting on loan from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Featuring a dramatic seascape, an expansive landscape, and captivating portraits set in detailed interiors, this exhibition offers a window into the vibrant artistic production of the Netherlands as the small nation rose to global prominence in the 17th century. The five exceptional paintings from the collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, complement The Ringling's holdings of Dutch art and provide additional perspective on the artistry, historical significance, and continuing appeal of Dutch painting from this period.
Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
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
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
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
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
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
More than 30 Creative Liberties artists come together for a group exhibition showcasing the range of talent, styles and perspectives within the Creative Liberties community. An opening reception will be held on September 16 from 5pm-7pm.
Creative Liberties at ARCOS, 340 Central Ave., 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
From the smooth soul of Motown to the irresistible hooks of pop and R&B, this dynamic tribute spans the greatest classics from the 1960s through today. Relive beloved hits made famous by icons like The Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Four Seasons and The Temptations. Featuring tight harmonies and charismatic showmanship, this energetic revue delivers constant hits and fresh takes on old favorites.
Goldstein Cabaret, 1239 N Palm Ave., 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
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
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
This two-week dining event at University Town Center features delicious deals from your favorite restaurants and dessert shops. Enjoy three-course prix fixe lunch and dinner menus, plus sweet specials you won't want to miss. Participating restaurants include Anna Maria Oyster Bar, Blu Kouzina, Florence and The Spice Boys, Mademoiselle Paris, Selva Grill, Norman Love Confections and more.
University Town Center Sarasota, 210 N Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Get up close and personal with some adorable capybaras—meet them, feed them and snap some photos! Enjoy a free coffee or beverage served by Rise N Grind Coffee Co., as well as a free pastry or breakfast treat. This event has limited availability and sells out fast.
Big Cat Habitat, 7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota
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