SRQ DAILY Oct 7, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"At the Sarasota City YMCA, we believe every family deserves a place where they feel welcomed, valued and connected."
Get ready to Carry Pride Forward at Sarasota’s 2026 Gulfcoast Pride Festival and Street Party,–a free, all-ages celebration taking over the Rosemary District on October 24.
This year’s event brings Pride Plaza and Overton Square to life with a new Community Stage near the vendor marketplace. From 4–8pm, enjoy local vendors, resources, food, live entertainment and a Pup Pride Pit Stop. Big Waters Land Trust will present “Rooted in Pride,” celebrating joy, courage, belonging and resilience through native plants, while FAB Arts brings its 0–99 exhibit to the festivities. A dedicated Family Zone, led by the Sarasota City YMCA and ALSO Youth, will offer family-focused activities.
“At the Sarasota City YMCA, we believe every family deserves a place where they feel welcomed, valued and connected," says Paul Raker, senior vice president of operations at the YMCA of Southwest Florida. "Through the Family Zone at Gulfcoast Pride, we’re excited to create a joyful, family-centered space where children and caregivers can have fun, build relationships and experience the sense of belonging that is at the heart of the Y.”
There will be no shortage of entertainment, with performances by Azara Ballet, The Sarasota Players, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and local drag queens. Adriana Sparkle will host the afternoon festivities and introduce featured talent. Project Pride SRQ will also announce its inaugural Gulfcoast Pride Honoree and bring back last year’s interactive Pride Arch Installation. From 8–11pm, SRQ Beats will produce the DJ-led Pride Street Party in Pride Plaza, the parking area at Project Pride SRQ headquarters on Central Avenue.
Project Pride SRQ Executive Director Justyn Hunter-Ceruti explains that although June is better known for being Pride Month, October is LGBT History Month and, on October 11, we recognize National Coming Out Day, making this the perfect time to celebrate. “Our goal is not simply to produce one successful day. Gulfcoast Pride should create relationships and momentum that continue after the music ends—in our workplaces, schools, neighborhoods and everyday civic life,” he says. "That is how a celebration becomes lasting community progress.”
Gulfcoast Pride is presented by Project Pride SRQ, with Gulf Coast Community Foundation serving as Lead Community Partner.
“Gulfcoast Pride reflects the kind of community we’re working to build: one where belonging isn’t something you have to earn, where people can show up fully as themselves, and where our differences make us stronger,” said Gulf Coast Community Foundation's Vice President, Community Leadership, Erin Minor. “We’re proud to stand alongside Project Pride SRQ because strong communities are built when all people feel valued and know they have a place here.” 
Photo by Bekah Horsley Photo.
This December, local businesses, construction professionals and community members will come together for a holiday competition with a much bigger purpose. The Great Gingerbread Build-Off is a live team competition where teams have just two hours to transform gingerbread, icing, sweets and imagination into extraordinary edible creations. With up to 40 teams competing, the pressure is on to build, decorate and innovate before the clock runs out! Celebrity judges will select the top three creations, with $1,500 awarded to first place, $1,000 to second and $750 to third. Proceeds benefit Manatee County Habitat for Humanity’s 2027 Women Build, helping a single mother and her family achieve safe, affordable homeownership. A portion also supports the National Association of Women in Construction’s (NAWIC) NSFS scholarship program. Ready to build, compete and give back? Tickets, sponsorships and team registration are available at wbgingerbread.org.
Lead community based care / child welfare organization Safe Children Coalition has named its board of directors for 2026-2027. The new board chair is Rob Goldstein; Adrian Cline joins the SCC board this year. The volunteer leadership body is charged with providing expertise in relevant areas such as child welfare, fostering, adopting, education, finance and accounting, and mental/behavioral health, and assisting the organization in achieving its organizational directives. This year, the SCC board will continue its focus on providing safe, stable, and nurturing homes for children and teens in our community, and continue its work to: reduce the number of children entering the child welfare system by expanding SCC’s prevention and diversion services; expand community partnerships with government agencies, schools, nonprofits, healthcare providers, and philanthropic entities; continue to work toward reuniting vulnerable and homeless youths with their families; and help SCC grow its private donor and corporate philanthropic support. The organization will also celebrate the grand opening of its new Youth Shelter, which has been funded by a nearly $10 million capital campaign.
The Medical Staff of HCA Florida Englewood Hospital presented a $5,000 donation to the Englewood Community Care Clinic, helping the nonprofit provide free medical services to uninsured and working poor residents in the greater Englewood community. More than 50 volunteers support the clinic, serving residents of Charlotte and Sarasota counties who do not have health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid. As the region’s population continues to grow, so does the need for accessible healthcare services for those without coverage. For more information, visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.
Pictured: Thanks to All Faiths Food Bank’s BackPack program, students in Sarasota and DeSoto counties have access to fresh, healthy foods Provided photos/AFFB
The Humane Society of Manatee County (HSMC) is moving forward with a significant transformation of its two-and-a-half-acre campus, creating a more welcoming, efficient and compassionate environment for animals and the people who care for them. Central to the vision is a new 12,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art adoption center designed to improve the experience from surrender through adoption, support animal wellbeing and provide staff and volunteers with a more functional environment. The project will prepare HSMC to meet the community’s evolving animal-welfare needs while building upon the organization’s longstanding legacy of care.
Empath Tidewell Hospice announced the launch of the Tikvah Jewish Care & Support Program, a specialized hospice offering that helps Jewish patients and families stay connected to the faith traditions, rituals and community connections that bring comfort, meaning and support during the end-of-life journey. The program launched on Sept. 11, 2026, coinciding with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Tikvah, which means "hope," was first established through Empath Trustbridge Hospice in Palm Beach and Broward counties. The launch at Tidewell expands access to the program for Jewish patients and families on Florida's Gulf Coast while building on Empath's commitment to providing care that honors the unique needs, values and traditions of the communities it serves. For more information about the Tikvah Jewish Care & Support Program, contact TikvahTidewell@EmpathHealth.org.
In a highly unconventional and deeply effective approach to prison rehabilitation, Dr. Tyler Fisher and his undergraduate students at New College of Florida are utilizing purpose-built puppetry to teach vital job interview skills to incarcerated individuals. Funded by a Community Impact Grant from United Arts of Central Florida, Dr. Fisher is collaborating with the bilingual performing arts non-profit Open Scene to bring the program, "The Art of Interviewing: Voice, Vision, Vocation," to the Osceola County Corrections Department. Having recently concluded a highly successful series of puppetry workshops in English and Spanish with both male and female inmates, Dr. Fisher and his team are focusing the program this summer specifically on female inmates and the unique challenges they face during reentry. Visit ncf.edu to learn more.
Provided photo.
Pines of Sarasota Foundation is proud to announce it has received a $75,000 grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation to support The Mission Fund, allowing Manatee County seniors who have outlived their financial resources to continue living at Pines of Sarasota. For nearly 80 years, Pines has served our area’s seniors without consideration for their financial situation. The organization relies on donations to fill a shortfall annually of at least $1 million. For more information, visit pinesfoundation.org
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), and Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) is bringing the community together to raise awareness, share resources and stand with survivors. Throughout October, SPARCC will participate in events and activities across Sarasota and DeSoto counties, offering many ways for the community to get involved — from wearing purple and attending community events to supporting SPARCC’s mission.For more information about SPARCC’s free and confidential services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, or to find out how you can get involved, visit SPARCC.net.
Arts Advocates is accepting scholarship applications for the 2027-2028 academic year through February 15, 2027. Tuition awards are given to high school seniors and college students who will be or are pursuing undergraduate studies in visual and performing arts, including art, design, architecture, creative writing, dance, music, theater, film, and other art forms. Students who will major in these fields in the 2027-2028 academic year are eligible to apply. For more information about the scholarship program, including the application, visit ArtsAdvocates.org.
For more than a decade, Sarasota County Court Judge Erika Quartermaine has worked to improve the community’s response to people experiencing mental illness and homelessness. Now, her commitment to helping people rebuild stability and connection in their lives is being recognized in a lasting way. Second Heart Homes has named its newest residence, a men’s home in Manatee County, Erika’s House of Hope, in honor of Quartermaine, who has served on the nonprofit’s board of directors since 2021. During more than five years with Second Heart Homes, she has helped guide the organization as it has expanded its housing and support for adults experiencing homelessness and mental illness. Erika’s House of Hope is Second Heart Homes’ 14th residence. The nonprofit now provides housing and individualized support for 86 adults who have experienced homelessness and mental illness. Second Heart Homes does not accept government funding, relying instead on individuals, foundations, businesses and other community partners to support its homes and services.
Pictured: Sarasota County Court Judge Erika Quartermaine. Provided photo.
Since 1974, Community Pregnancy Clinics (CPCI) has served women and their families with no-cost life-affirming medical care, including pregnancy tests, early OB ultrasounds, STI screenings, and counseling, alongside free baby supplies for up to three years. For over 50 years, CPCI has offered care, compassion, and real choices to families facing crisis pregnancies. Operating five clinic locations and three Mobile Medical Clinics across Florida, we meet women and families in their greatest moments of need. Together, we make hope possible - one mother, one father, and one precious baby at a time. To learn more or support our mission, visit supportcpci.com.
On November 13, 2026, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe will present its fall gala - one of the hottest event tickets in town; this year's theme is "Soul Explosion." During the event, longtime WBTT supporters Ali and Gloria Bahaj will be recognized as WBTT’s Heart & Soul Philanthropy honorees, guests will enjoy a catered dinner by Michael's On East, and there will be performances by / dancing to chart-busting soul hits performed by fan favorite WBTT artists, accompanied by a sizzling live band.
Argument of Time, a new Sarasota-based arts nonprofit founded by poet Teresa Carson and producer Cynthia Burnell, has received a $5,000 grant from the Johnson Singer Foundation to support an October 2026 residency bringing together six artists to develop “Visit to an Extinct City,” a multidisciplinary performance project inspired by the ancient Roman city of Ostia Antica. Visit ArgumentOfTime.org to learn more.
Sarasota’s biggest celebration of local businesses is back and nominations are now open!
The Best of SRQ Local Readers Competition celebrates the locally owned restaurants, shops, arts organizations, people, experiences and can't-miss spots that make our community one of a kind.
If your brand is ready to get on the ballot, now is the time to start rallying your customers, clients and community!
Nominations close November 11, 2026
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
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
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
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
This spirited musical ghost trolley tour with an historic bent returns for its 8th year with tour times at 7pm or 8:30pm. Talented cast members Kaylene McCaw and MariAnne Hernandez alternate as Lady Melody, the tour's ghost hostess, and tell stories of haunted buildings as they welcome aboard mystery spirits played by David Springer, Michael De Mocko, Olivia Turpening and Sarah Van Keuren. Prizes are awarded for best costume each night. Tickets include complimentary beer or wine before boarding and free parking.
Discover Sarasota Tours, 1826 4th St., Sarasota
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
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
The seventh year of the popular Hermitage Sunsets at Selby Gardens will feature six programs between the Selby Gardens Downtown and Historic Spanish Point campuses. See performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni. Dates include October 16, November 20, February 11, Feburary 25, March 18 and May 6. The first event, New Music Under the Old Oak, is at the Downtown Sarasota Campus at 5:30pm.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus and Historic Spanish Point campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
At The Ringling's third annual Wonder Symposium, guests will investigate the work of museums and cultural organizations as agents of wonder and the role that wonder can play in building and sustaining community. The opening keynote address by author and museum educator Claire Bown will be held on October 15 at the Historic Asolo Theater. Expect a full day of engaging sessions, presentations and experiences on October 16, followed by The Ringling Night of Wonder, a launch party for the upcoming season.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Over four days, Art Fair Tampa brings together 110 talented artists from across the country for creativity, inspiration and community. Explore stunning works across painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media and more. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering art for the first time, you'll find pieces that speak to you. Meet the artists, learn about their creative process and take home something truly special.
Tampa Convention Center, 333 S Franklin St., Tampa
Join Jorge Blanco for an intimate conversation as he explains the inspirations behind the work in his current exhibition, Joy in Motion. Blanco is a Venezuelan-American artist, internationally recognized for his public sculptures, graphic design and illustrations. An opening reception for his exhibition—a vibrant collection of drawings, prints and sculptures—will be held on October 8 from 5-7pm.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This rock musical adaptation of Stephen King's novel follows Carrie White, a shy, bullied teenage outcast with telekinetic powers. Dominatingly controlled by her religious fanatic mother at home and tormented by peers at school, Carrie unleashes her destructive powers on prom night after a cruel prank. Powerful vocals and raw storytelling will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W, Bradenton
Hear Duke Ellington's music as you've never heard it before with this Tony Award-winning theatrical journey. Directed by Jim Weaver, Sophisticated Ladies shares elegant and timeless hits including It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Every song tells its own story of the romance, humor and refined style of the time. Performances are offered at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Join Project Pride SRQ for a joyful day of Pride, community and celebration in Sarasota to bring together LGBTQ+ residents, families, allies, artists, local businesses, nonprofits, sponsors, volunteers and community partners. Explore a lively vendor marketplace, connect with local organizations and resources, enjoy delicious food, experience live performances and celebrate in an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere built around visibility, joy and belonging.
Project Pride SRQ, 1370 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota
Dress for the sock hop, dust off your dancing shoes and get ready for a 50s sock hop gone sour. This interactive murder mystery dinner is filled with clues, suspects, twists and plenty of laughs along the way. For attire, think poodle skirts, swing dresses, saddle shoes, cat-eye glasses or cuffed jeans, white tees, bowling shirts and slicked-back hair. Tickets include a three-course chef-curated dinner and a welcome cocktail.
GROVE, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch
To open Sarasota Ballet's upcoming season, hear a special selection of Sir Frederick Ashton's celebrated Divertissements, offering a suite of excerpts from some of his most renowned works. Meditation from Thais, Friday's Child from Jazz Calendar, Pas de Trois from Les Rendezvous and intricate ensemble patterns of Pas de Cinq from Illuminations will take the stage. Gemma Bond tests the limits of composure with Manner, a Company premiere that explores inherited and performed behaviors through intimate choreography.
FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This special Chilean Wine Dinner featuring Vina Concha y Toro offers guests an elevated evening of curated Chilean wine pairings paired with a four-course dinner, beginning with a welcome reception followed by a dinner service. Meet fellow wine lovers and enjoy a relaxed, fun atmosphere that promises great sips and good vibes. Regional manager for Vina Concha y Toro, Joe Consolo, will educate guests and help them enjoy these robust wines.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The only U.S. stop of the 2026 UCI World Cup brings the world's elite BMX Racing riders to Sarasota on the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Sarasota BMX was selected by the UCI to host two UCI World Cup final rounds in 2026 and two in 2027. The facility is home to a year-round local racing program with USA BMX-certified coaching for riders at every level.
Sarasota BMX Track, 1590 N Tuttle Ave., Sarasota
Across from Marina Jack's in downtown Sarasota, see a variety of original fine art pieces. Peruse and purchase drawings, fiber works, jewelry, photography, paintings, sculptures and other media. Hot Works focuses on visual arts that are juried by art professionals.
J.D. Hamel Park, 199 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
Experience a morning of fall fun at the Runaway Pumpkin 5K and free family festival. Food trucks, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, costume contest and PAWS therapy dogs are featured. Kids ages 12 and under can participate in the mini monster dash. Consider donating non-perishable food items that will be distributed to local families facing food insecurity through partnering organizations.
The Child Protection Center's Monda Campus, 5600 Peace River Rd., North Port
Get ready for a fang-tastic afternoon of fun at Wellen Park's Spooktacular Halloween! Bring family and friends for trick-or-treating, music, costumes and spooky good vibes.
Downtown Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Featuring a special performance by Sarasota Ballet's Dance: The Next Generation program, this high-energy concert highlights a delightfully spooky set list that fills the theater with eerie melodies, playful chills and family-friendly fun. Dancing is inspired by iconic hits like Thriller and The Monster Mash. Costumes, choreography and suprises at every turn make this Halloween-eve celebration truly unforgettable.
Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate The Orchid Show 2026 with an exclusive after-hours viewing of the exhibition along with a cocktail reception and live entertainment by the Sarasota Opera in Selby Gardens' Event Center. The evening is sponsored by Mike and Dee Bennett.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
Daring, mysterious and unforgettable—The Vampire Circus invites you into a world where the unexpected awaits. Featuring international performers, the show combines acrobatics, dance, comedy and illusion in a thrilling 90-minute immersive experience. Set in 19th-century Bohemia, Count Dracula uses a traveling circus as the perfect disguise for his sinister plan. This performance delivers a dark, high-energy spectacle inspired by Tim Burton and Cirque du Soleil.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Join Blase Martini Bar for its first dart tourney, prizes and to make a difference in the health of the community. Show off your skills on the new dart boards to benefit Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation's program to provide low-income women with diagnostic screenings. Enjoy Miller Lite's all day and the special martini of the month, the Boo-Hoo.
Blase Martini Bar, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
Experience an afternoon of local flavor, live music, waterfront views and some of Sarasota's favorite locally owned restaurants. You're invited to come hungry, bring your friends and celebrate the flavors of the local community and the delicious Gulf-coastal lifestyle. Admission is free, and food can be purchased with food tickets—each sold in $5 increments.
The Bay Park, 1055 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota
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