SRQ DAILY Nov 11, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"Tito is a perfect example that where you start in life doesn't have to determine where you end up."
What started as a simple way to share her dog Tito's adventures has turned into something local resident Christina Koogler never really anticipated.
Discovered roaming the streets in 2025, Tito was filthy, severely matted, infested with bugs and battling pneumonia. With a lot of love and care, he gradually regained his strength. As his eyes brightened and his fur grew back, his vibrant (sometimes bossy) personality began to emerge, prompting Koogler to refer to him as “Tito 2.0”.
This holiday season, Koogler and Tito are looking for twelve dogs with 2.0 second-chance stories—tales honoring fresh starts and new beginnings. Through their contest, “Tito’s 12 Days of Christmas,” dog owners are invited to submit a 300-word story to compete in a free, judged contest competing for one $500 grand prize. Twelve selected finalists will be highlighted from Dec. 8–19, with the single winner announced on Dec. 20. Judging is based entirely on the story rather than votes or likes and submissions close on Nov. 28. The stories are not limited to rescue dogs. “A second chance can mean a lot of different things,” Koogler explains. “Maybe a dog overcame an illness, found a new home or helped somebody through a really difficult time. Sometimes the dog is the one getting the second chance, and sometimes it's the person.”
Koogler comes from a family that always made a point of giving to those in need during the holidays. This year, she wanted to do something fun and meaningful for Christmas. “We all think our dogs are the cutest, funniest, most amazing creatures on the planet. I'm certainly guilty of that,” she says. “But there's usually more to the story than just an adorable picture. Some dogs have been through quite a bit. Others have helped their owners through some pretty tough times. I wanted to give people a chance to tell those stories.”
Koogler shares that Tito's name has taken on a whole new meaning for her. “TITO stands for Trust In The Outcome— and that's really what I hope people take away from our story. Tito is a perfect example that where you start in life doesn't have to determine where you end up.”
To learn more and enter Tito’s 12 Days of Christmas, visit thetinytito20.com. 
Pictured: Tito living his best life in Sarasota. Photo courtesy of Christina Koogler.
Experience an extraordinary evening of dance as The Sarasota Ballet presents Program Two, featuring the distinctive choreographic voices of Sir Kenneth MacMillan, Jessica Lang, and Alexei Ratmansky. This captivating triple bill includes two Company premieres: MacMillan's Solitaire, a poignant and elegant work set to music by Malcolm Arnold, and Ratmansky's vibrant Pictures at an Exhibition, inspired by Mussorgsky's celebrated score and the colorful imagery of Wassily Kandinsky. Completing the program is Jessica Lang's Lyric Pieces, a collection of poetic, beautifully crafted scenes brought to life through an ever-changing set and the music of Edvard Grieg. Performed with live music by the Sarasota Orchestra, Program Two offers a remarkable blend of storytelling, imagination, and artistic innovation. Join us at the Sarasota Opera House for a weekend of world-class ballet showcasing the exceptional talent and versatility of The Sarasota Ballet.
The Suncoast Foundation for Handicapped Children, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that was founded to support local nonprofits that provide services for people with disabilities, recently announced it raised $85,766.66 during its annual Clays for Kids Shoot, almost doubling the amount raised during last year’s event.m Now in its 14th year, this year’s shoot was held at the Sarasota Gun Club on Friday, October 9. 41 teams consisting of 164 shooters traveled from 24 stations to shoot clay pigeons, with a goal of hitting more than anyone else. The event also included a breakfast of Brew Za Bagels, a barbecue lunch catered by GitChewSum BBQ, awards, raffle drawings and camaraderie with fellow supporters.
On November 8, our Sarasota-based LGBTQ+ and all-welcoming chorus was honored with two 2026 Sarasota OUT Awards: "Favorite Musicians" and "Favorite LGBTQ Group." These awards celebrate both the musical contributions of our chorus and our commitment to building a welcoming community through friendship, inclusion and the shared joy of singing. For Diversity's singers, the recognition reinforces a belief at the heart of our mission: We are more than a chorus. We are a family of voices. Heartfelt congratulations to every singer, artistic leader, musician, volunteer and supporter who makes Diversity special. Come experience the warmth and joy in person at our concert, "Close to the Heart," on Siesta Key on December 13!
Season of Sharing, the annual campaign providing temporary financial assistance to families and individuals in crisis in Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties, returns for its 27th year Sunday, Nov. 8. Created by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County in partnership with the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, the campaign helps residents cover basic expenses such as housing, utilities, child care and transportation. The Patterson Foundation will continue to support community giving throughout Season of Sharing, contributing $100,000 for every $500,000 raised by the community through Jan. 31, 2027. The Foundation has given more than $11 million in matching funds and other contributions to Season of Sharing since 2010, including $700,000 during last year’s campaign, which raised $4.2 million. Donations to Season of Sharing can be made online at cfsarasota.org, by calling 941-556-2399, or by mailing a check addressed to Season of Sharing, Community Foundation of Sarasota County, 2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237.
Arts Advocates is pleased to announce its schedule of December events, which includes an afternoon of creating 4 x 4-inch artworks free of charge, an exhibit by Helena Poto showing many paintings for the first time, and the Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage tour. Unless otherwise indicated, registration is required at ArtsAdvocates.org.
For many years, in addition to its regular food distributions, All Faiths Food Bank has held large-scale turkey distributions across Sarasota and DeSoto counties, providing turkeys and all the trimmings to neighbors experiencing or at risk of hunger in advance of Thanksgiving. These distributions are part of the annual ThankFULL campaign, a three-month community effort to raise funds for 14,500 turkeys and 4.1 million holiday meals for families across Sarasota and DeSoto counties. This year's large-scale distributions for Sarasota County residents take place at the following locations and times: Veterans Pantry at Church of the Palms (3224 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota) on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 9-10:30 a.m.; Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall (777 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota) on Saturday, Nov. 14, 9-11 a.m.; Ed Smith Stadium (2700 12th St., Sarasota), in partnership with the Baltimore Orioles, on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 4-6 p.m.; and in South County, community members can find turkey dinners at the Englewood Sports Complex (1300 S River Rd., Englewood) on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 5-7 p.m. or at Venice Middle School (1900 Center Rd., Venice) on Thursday, Nov. 12, 5-6:30 p.m.
Pictured: All Faiths Food Bank expects to distribute 14,500 complete turkey dinners and 4.1 million holiday meals through December. Photo courtesy of All Faiths Food Bank.
Parenting Matters announced today that Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation will match up to $25,000 in gifts made during the Gift from the Heart Paddle Raise at the 10th Annual Sangarita Showdown. The match means every dollar pledged that evening goes twice as far for children and families in Manatee and Sarasota counties. The 10th Annual Sangarita Showdown takes place Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, from 7 to 10 p.m. in Veterans Hall at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto. Local restaurants and bars will compete for Best Sangria, Best Margarita, and Best Bites on the Suncoast, with winners chosen by guests. The evening also features live music, raffles, and silent and live auctions. Attendees must be 21 or older.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat (Sarasota County, Florida) raised over $500,000 at the 2026 Hermitage Artful Lobster on Saturday, November 7. This annual event raises valuable funds for the Hermitage’s internationally renowned artist residency program, supporting the creative process of artists from around the world in the fields of music, theater, visual art, literature, dance, and more. This year’s event was hosted on the Hermitage’s historic beachfront campus on Manasota Key. Over 200 guests attended the sold-out luncheon, where Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg served as the master of ceremonies.
Pictured: Hermitage Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg and Artsy the Artful Lobster. Provided photo.
The Venice Symphony is proud to announce a landmark $3 million planned gift from Edmund "Ed" Campbell Jr., a foundational pillar of the organization and a founding member of its Legacy Circle. This extraordinary philanthropic commitment will establish a permanent endowment fund dedicated to underwriting world-class guest artists, securing the orchestra's artistic future for generations to com. For more information about The Venice Symphony’s 2026–27 season, upcoming performances, or to learn how you can join Ed Campbell in supporting the Legacy Circle, please contact Holly Anderson at handerson@thevenicesymphoy.org or (941) 303-5738.
Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) recently celebrated 20 dynamic graduates of the Fall 2026 Gulf Coast Board Institute (GCBI), the organization’s long-standing board development initiative. Marking its twenty-first cohort, the Institute continues its longstanding work of providing interactive, high-level training for new and veteran nonprofit board members in the region to build their understanding of effective leadership, oversight, and organizational best practices. The program is part of Gulf Coast’s Invest in Incredible (i3) initiative, which provides resources to help regional nonprofits build organizational capacity and operate more effectively. Applications are open now for Gulf Coast’s Spring 2027 GCBI and will close on Monday, December 28. More information can be found at www.gulfcoastcf.org/GCBI. Led by certified i3 consultants, session topics will include fundamentals of nonprofit board governance, becoming an ambassador for your organization, financial and legal oversight responsibilities, fundraising and resource development, and more.
Pictured: The Fall 2026 class of the Gulf Coast Board Institute. Provided photo.
Employees of the Manatee Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller filled a van with donations for HOPE Family Services during a monthlong drive for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout October, employees across the Clerk's office donated items for survivors. Hygiene items and pillows topped the list. HOPE Family Services representatives picked up the donations on Nov. 4. The Clerk's Violence Protection division organized the drive. Located in the Erin Craft Center, Violence Protection provides and processes injunction packets for domestic, repeat, dating and sexual violence, as well as stalking. The division also offers a private space, Jazmin’s Nook, where Violence Protection customers can fill out their forms. Anyone affected by domestic violence can call the HOPE Family Services 24-hour HelpLine at (941) 755-6805.
There is only one week left to nominate! 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.
Push your customers, clients and community to vote. This is the last chance for an opportunity to make it on the voting round ballot!
Nominations close November 18, 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
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
Think big on a small scale. This playful exhibition at Creative Liberties features imaginative, affordable original artworks that make memorable holiday gifts. An opening reception will be held on November 6 from 5-7pm.
Creative Liberties Artist Studios, 927 N Lime Ave., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Sarasota brings one of the most influential trailblazers to the city for a powerful series of experiences designed to inspire courage, character and civic engagement among youth and throughout the community. Local students will walk together in honor of Ruby's historic steps. A community town hall conversation, moderated by Charlayne Hunter-Gault, will reflect on Ms. Bridges' defining place in our nation's story and the enduring power of civic engagement, community dialogue and collective action.
Booker Visual and Performing Arts Center, 3201 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Join climate leaders, researchers, community partners, business professionals and students for the 6th Annual CAC Florida Climate Conference: From Climate Risk to Climate Resilience. Experience a full day of inspiring presentations, engaging discussions and networking with the exciting vision of the Living Laboratory for Coastal Resilience. This collaborative initiative brings together science, technology, education and community partnerships to build a stronger Suncoast. For an early bird bonus, register by August 15 to enjoy a complimentary catered lunch.
Selby Auditorium at the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus, 8350 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Florida Gulf Coast Chapter is proud to announce the upcoming Sarasota Design Conference, scheduled for November 12–14, 2026. This year’s highly anticipated event will take place at the iconic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sarasota, a mid-century masterpiece designed by legendary architect Victor Lundy. For the first time, this event will be held in conjunction with Architecture Sarasota, an organization dedicated to the stewardship of the globally renowned Sarasota School of Architecture. The conference coincides with the 13th annual Sarasota MOD Weekend and conference attendees will receive a discounted rate for tickets.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota
In this Joyful Journeys Author Series, learn how the Sarasota Audubon Society is dedicated to the protection, conservation and enjoyment of birds, wildlife and the environment. Discover the significant history of this organization and recognize the many volunteers who have dedicated a substantial amount of their time and effort in service. Their persistent efforts to preserve the Celery fields as a prime birding location have resulted in the area designated as part of the extensive Great Florida Birding Trail.
Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
This family-friendly celebration will spotlight young entrepreneurs alongside Black art, music, dance and soul food. Participating young business owners include Genesis Williams of Little Genny's Italian Ice, Zahi' Jennings of Jass Lemonade, Kay Gallego of Kay's Sweet Empire and more. The event gives young people a chance to introduce their ventures to neighbors, engage potential customers and see the wider community celebrate their ambitions.
The Historic Leonard Reid House, 2529 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
At this customer appreciation event, longtime customers and first-time visitors are invited to enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, appreciation gifts and exclusive showroom offers. The afternoon will also feature hourly raffles for Berlin Gardens chairs.
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Showroom, 3709 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota
This family-friendly event features local music, dance, theatre and arts groups performing all day. Kids can jump into hands-on art and theatre workshops for budding creatives of all ages, while food trucks keep everyone fueled. Bring the whole family and let your little ones discover what they love.
Civic Green, adjacent to the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Residents and visitors are invited to join the Walk to End Alzheimer's Sarasota County. Registration begins at 8am, followed by the flower ceremony at 8:45am before the walk commences at 9am. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, with each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
Nathan Benderson Park-Regatta Island, 5851 Nathan Benderson Park Cir, Sarasota
Shop local and support talented artists, independent businesses and the heart of the Sarasota community this holiday season at this art and gift showcase. Explore one-of-a-kind gifts, meet the artists, enjoy special signings and sip and savor while discovering something truly unique. Featured artists include Michelle Romine with Coastal Magpie Studios, Tia Kilduff with Stitch and Gather, Carolyn Nielubowicz with Created by Care and more. A portion of proceeds will be donated to the Payton Wright Foundation.
Morton's Market, 1924 S Osprey Ave., Sarasota
Bring your pets in for photos with Santa and the Grinch on November 15 and 22, with no appointment needed. All proceeds benefit Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary. The sanctuary's mission is to offer continued care for the animals, giving them a place to feel safe, find forever homes for adoptable pets and to teach a new generation the joy of caring for animals through their Critter Connection Animal Outreach Bus program.
Leo and Lucky's, 8943 US Highway 301 N, Parrish
This kaleidoscopic closing performance wraps up the 2026 Living Arts Festival with a world of entertainment. You'll experience the sights and sounds of your favorite area performers, plus surprise appearances. Sit on the edge of your seat to hear awards including Best of the Festival, Small But Mighty and Creativity At Its Finest. Highlights include the 2nd annual presentation of the Teacher Tribute Awards to two area art teachers who inspire and motivate youth in music, art, theatre and dance.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The Sarasota Speaker Series presents Building an Unconventional Business, bringing together three local leaders at distinctly different stages of the journey: from a rapidly expanding young brand, to an established company navigating growth, to a Sarasota institution that has been making people laugh for nearly four decades. Hear Stacey Marks of Fly Dance Fitness, Bill Johnson of Brilliant Harvest and Les McCurdy of McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute. Networking opportunities and a VIP afterparty are included.
Community Center at The Bay, 803 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties will host their annual Champions for Children Gala, beginning with a reception at 6pm, followed by a delicious 3-course gourmet dinner catered by Michael's on East. There will be live auctions and raffles, along with inspiring performances by Boys and Girls Club members. Black tie is optional. Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties' award-winning slate of teen programs and provide transformational services to thousands of young individuals across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
One Stop Cares presents its annual Thanksgiving community event, Hope Starts Here, bringing neighbors together for a traditional Thanksgiving meal while connecting people with local nonprofits, community organizations, county agencies and employment opportunities. MCR Health will bring its Dental Mobile Unit to the event, expanding access to oral health resources directly within the community.
The NEST Apartments Parking Lot, 2111 1st St., Bradenton
This walkathon and community celebration benefits the Sarasota community through grant funding, leadership development and volunteer projects. After the 4pm walk, a community celebration will kick off at 5:30pm with a DJ, food trucks, local businesses and wellness vendors. Continue the fun with an after par-tee at PopStroke UTC from 8-10pm.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota
This family-friendly event benefits the Englewood Area Cancer Foundation and brings neighbors together on Thanksgiving morning for a meaningful start to the holiday. The Turkey Trot is a celebration of community and an opportunity to make a difference for our neighbors facing cancer. Check-in and registration begin at 6:30am.
Ann and Chuck Dever Regional Park, 6791 San Casa Dr., Englewood
This year's City of Venice Holiday Parade celebrates three milestones: the 50th anniversary of the parade, the City's 100th birthday and America's 250th birthday. Activities begin as early as 2pm in the downtown area. Enjoy a block party, Elf Dash Fun Run and many family activities. This year's holiday parade grand marshal is Old Betsy, who is also celebrating her 100th birthday.
West Venice Avenue and Park Boulevard, 401 W Venice Ave., Venice
Experience an unforgettable evening celebrating the limitless potential that emerges when children are surrounded by hope, expertise and unwavering support. The annual Wonder Gala shines a light on journeys of hope, turning generosity into possibility and helping every child discover their own moment of wonder. Enjoy a celebratory cocktail and an exceptional dining experience catered by Michael's on East, along with a silent and live auction. Allison Nash delivers heartfelt narratives and powerful vocals, and the evening culminates with dancing to music by The Soul Sensations.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
Gather the whole family for this unforgettable holiday celebration in downtown Wellen Park. Friday evening kicks off the festivities with a magical Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, a charming Christmas Market, ornament decorating, dazzling ice dancers, and live musical performances. Saturday brings even more holiday cheer with festive Dueling Pianos, a Glow Bike Ride, visits with Santa, and plenty of jolly fun.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd, Venice
Artists, artisans and makers are invited to reserve an outdoor booth to sell original artwork, handcrafted goods, jewelry, ceramics, home decor, holiday gifts and more. This festive market offers a wonderful opportunity to connect directly with the community and celebrate the creativity of Sarasota's local artists. The event will take place throughout the Sam and Sally Shapiro Sculpture Garden, the Andrew and Lathrop Ford Bayfront Sculpture Garden and the Bay Front Promenade. Applications close on November 1.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Browse and purchase fine arts and crafts from a diverse array of original, handmade works by artisans from across America. The festival features an impressive collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, candles, scented oils, ceramics, woodworking and much more. Meet the talented artisans behind these creations, and if you don't find exactly what you're looking for, consider commissioning a custom piece made just for you.
Main Street in Downtown Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton
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