Noteworthy SeptemberOctober 2025 by greaterriverviewchamberofcommerce

From The Chair From The Chair

BRCC Office

6437 Watson Road

6437 Watson Road Lower Level Riverview, FL 33578

Lower Level Riverview, FL 33578

www.centralhillsboroughchamber.com

813-234-5944

A Season of Gratitude and Growth

Office Hours

Mon. -Thurs. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Fri. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Mon.-Thurs. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Fri. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Mission Statement

As we celebrate this season of Thanksgiving, I am filled with immense gratitude for the strength, unity, and spirit of the Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce. The past three months have been a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we come together with purpose—and as we reflect on our accomplishments, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member, volunteer, sponsor, and partner who makes our Chamber thrive.

Our mission is to empower and foster a vibrant and thriving business community by having a commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, excellence, and advocacy for all businesses.

This fall has been marked by three outstanding events, each showcasing the dedication and passion within our community:

Business & Education Partnership Event - We began the season by honoring the educators who shape the future of our community. I am deeply thankful for the businesses that joined us in celebrating their work and building meaningful partnerships that support our students and schools.

Stay informed of the latest Chamber news and happenings

From The Chair From The Chair

Trick or Treat Street - Our annual Halloween tradition brought joy to families and an opportunity for local businesses to shine. Seeing our community come together in a safe, festive environment reminded me how fortunate we are to have businesses that care about connecting and giving back.

Annual Golf Tournament - We wrapped up the season with camaraderie on the course—strengthening relationships, fostering friendly competition, and giving employers a special way to show appreciation to their teams. I am grateful for the engagement, teamwork, and goodwill that define this event year after year. Each of these successes reflects the heart of our Chamber: collaboration, community, and commitment.

As we prepare for the coming year, I am thankful for the strong foundation we’ve built together and the bright future ahead. This season reminds us to pause and appreciate the relationships that sustain us and I am sincerely grateful for each of you. Thank you for your support, your engagement, and your belief in the mission of the Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce.

Wishing you a blessed, joyful, and thankful Thanksgiving season.

Steve Manning, Chair of the Board Master Garage Door Co.

BRCC Board of Directors BRCC Board of Directors

Chair of the Board

Steve Manning Master Garage Door Co.

Incoming Chair

Treasurer

Past Chair

Tammy See OEL Heating & Cooling

Ron Akers FruxPay

Secretary Tina Blount ARISE Church

Annette Bilyeu Spectrum Reach Dr. Vanity Barr-Little VANBAR Holdings

Artie Wright Suncoast Credit Union

Jim Johnson Board Emeritus

Dave Boyle

Ben Bard Adams & Reese LLP

Edward Briggs B & B Capitol Strategies

Major Nikki Bosley HCSO

Tad Denham Gasparilla Music

Patrick Downes St. Joseph Hospital South

BRCC Board of Directors BRCC Board of Directors

Luiz Garcia Just Love Coffee Cafe

Deborah Kish-Stephan Hillsborough College

Danae Gilliam AdventHealth Riverview

Dave Lechuga Florida Executive Realty

Ted Martin 2nd Amendment Armory

David Poulter Rivard Buick GMC

John Mayhew Mayhew Mediations

Brad Gregory A Kid’s Place

Kristin Lisi Livingstone Academies

India Boyd Presley Wanderlust

Gabriel Mbulo Edward Jones

Dan Raulerson Raulerson Castillo & Co

David Isaacson Beach Geeks

Patricia Magruder Magruder Agency

Moreno After Glow Aesthetics & Wellness

Rendon Hillsborough County Public Schools

Sunni

Patricia

BRCC Board of Directors BRCC Board of Directors

Michael Senft-Greenberg Bivins & Hemenway, P.A.

Jada Spano High 5, Inc.

Andy Taylor TECO

Board of Directors Board of Directors Get to know your Board Members!

Dr. Vanity Barr-Little, CEO of VANBAR Holdings

Dr. Vanity Barr-Little is a dynamic entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of VANBAR Holdings, overseeing a diverse portfolio of successful businesses, including the CNA Training & Testing Center, Reliable Livescan, and multiple Sylvan Learning Centers. Under her leadership, these ventures have been recognized for business excellence by their respective Chambers of Commerce, reflecting her commitment to quality and community impact.

A multi-passionate business owner, Dr. Barr-Little thrives on creating opportunities, fostering growth, and driving excellence. Before her entrepreneurial journey, she served over a decade in the United States Air Force, earning numerous accolades, including two Air Force Achievement Medals with four oak leaf clusters, two Air Force Commendation Medals, an Iraqi Campaign Medal with a bronze star, an Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, an AF Longevity Service Medal, and a Korean Defense Service Medal.

Beyond her military and business achievements, she holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Business and is a certified BG5 consultant.

Her entrepreneurial success has earned her prestigious recognition, including the 2024 Enterprising Women of the Year Award, a global distinction celebrating influential women business leaders. She was also featured in the 2022 and 2023 Tampa Bay KNOW Women editions, as well as the 2024 Tampa Bay Business Journal’s People on the Move Dedication, highlighting her impact and leadership.

Dr. Barr-Little is a devoted wife and proud mother of four sons, embracing both family life and the excellence and impact she brings to business.

Ambassador Team Ambassador Team

Co-Leader

Allie Savvides Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay

Brittany Petrie Bank OZK

Melissa Canfield Grease Monkey

Andrew Graves Morsecom

Co-Leader

Lisa Tackus Align Right

Angie Anderson Stellar Notary Services

Dave Lechuga Florida Executive Realty

Annette Bilyeu Spectrum Reach

Elena Westrop Charity Clothing Pickup

Bryan Snyder Bock Mortgage Group Dawn Myers Myers Law PA

Craig Beckinger An ABC Event, Inc.

Daisy Vega Freedom to Walk Foundation

Ambassador Team Ambassador Team

Joe

Ambassador Team Ambassador Team

Tony Melchiorre Aim HigHR

Yolonda Young Relational Communication Coaching

Are you interested in becoming an Ambassador?

Ambassadors are highly visible, prestigious volunteers who serve as the Chamber's primary liaison to Chamber members. Considered the goodwill arm of the Chamber, the Ambassador Team plays an essential role in member recruitment, communication, and retention. If you are interested in being an Ambassador or would like more information, please contact the Chamber today at (813) 234-5944 or info@centralhillsboroughchamber.com

Ambassador Team Ambassador Team Ambassador Spotlight

Me’Lanie Munusami

G-Force Parking Lot

Striping of Tampa

Me’lanie Munusami is a first-generation American born in Germany and recently retired from a distinguished 24year career in the United States Army, serving across both Active Duty and the Army National Guard. While attending high school overseas, she initially took the ASVAB each year simply to get out of class. Yet in her senior year, amid personal challenges and a desire for greater opportunity, a conversation with a recruiter revealed what she believed was her only path forward: becoming a soldier and leaving Germany to build a new life.

She enlisted in September 2000, just one year before the world changed. In March 2002, her unit deployed, marking the beginning of a career defined by resilience, readiness, and service. Over the next two decades, Me’lanie provided leadership during pivotal moments, including post-9/11 operations throughout Europe, multiple hurricane response missions, and COVID-19 emergency operations. Concurrently, she built a diverse civilian résumé spanning education, healthcare, mental health, and business leadership.

A dedicated lifelong learner, Me’lanie holds an AS, BS, MSHCM, and EMBA, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Business and Executive Coaching. Since 2018, she has honed her skills as a professional speaker, delivering presentations on mental health, coaching, military resources, social media marketing, burnout, resilience, and most recently, AI education. Driven to serve her fellow Veterans, Me’lanie spent 15 years caring for patients at the James A. Haley VA Hospital. Today, she co-owns G-FORCE Parking Lot Striping of Tampa alongside her husband and remains an active community leader, supporting numerous Veteran organizations and serving on the board of Hillsborough County Veterans Helping Veterans.

Ambassador Team

Welcome New Members! Welcome New Members!

Member360:YourGuidetothe BrandonRiverview ChamberofCommerce

Next Session: Dec. 9

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Member360 is a monthly orientation class designed to help you unlock the full potential of your Chamber membership. Whether you’re a new member, a longtime supporter looking for a refresher, or someone interested in joining, this session is the perfect starting point.

During Member360, you’ll:

✅ Get an inside look at all things Chamber – from our programs and events to exclusive member benefits and resources.

✅ Learn how to engage with the Chamber community and take advantage of opportunities to grow your business.

✅ Receive practical tips and guidance on maximizing your membership investment.

✅ Connect with fellow business owners and community leaders.

This is more than just an orientation—it’s your roadmap to building strong relationships, gaining visibility, and making a lasting impact in the Central Hillsborough County business community.

�� Held monthly | �� Open to all members and prospective members Take the first step toward getting involved, staying informed, and growing with us!

Chamber Connections Chamber Connections

Networking groups are open to entire membership and members may attend for free. Visitors may attend twice for free.

INSPIRE Networking Group is a faith based networking group that meets weekly on Monday afternoons at 3:00 PM. Open to all Chamber members. Visitors are welcome to attend twice (2).

Co-Chairs:

RISE Networking Group is a relationship building group that meets weekly on Thursday mornings at 8:00 AM. Open to all Chamber members. Visitors are welcome to attend twice (2).

Chair:

Me’Lanie’ Munusami G-FORCE Parking Lot Striping of Tampa

Mikey Blewett Generations Church

Dave Lechuga Florida Executive Realty

Chamber Connections Chamber Connections

Networking groups are open to entire membership and members may attend for free. Visitors may attend twice for free.

Next Meeting: Dec. 19 - 8:30 AM

Networking@Noon is a relationship building group that meets weekly on Fridays at noon. Open to all Chamber members. Visitors are welcome to attend twice (2).

Co-Chairs:

For those in their first year of membership, we invite you to attend the Year One Club! In this smaller group setting, you will forge new connections, learn new business development skills from featured speakers, practice networking skills, and have fun! The Year One Club meets monthly at the Chamber office.

Co-Chairs:

Andrew Graves Morsecom

Sabrina Hoops AFLAC

ReneeScott ReneeScott

Chamber Connections Chamber Connections

Chair: Liz Brewer

Angel Foundation FL

These quarterly power hour breakfasts will include a program filled with immediate take-aways from local women leaders, features a market of vendor tables available for shopping, time to make connections, an opportunity to win door prizes, and a delicious breakfast!

Next Meeting: Wed., Feb. 11 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Leadership Brandon Riverview Class of 2026 Explores Education Day

On Thursday October 23rd, the Leadership Brandon Riverview Class of 2026 participated in Education Day, an engaging and eye-opening experience focused on the future of education in our community. The day began at Kingswood Elementary School, where breakfast was graciously provided by the HCPS Partnership Engagement Office. The class heard from Marcus Marillo, Chief of Innovation and Strategic Planning, who provided an insightful overview of Hillsborough County Public Schools and reviewed the district’s latest Impact Report.

During their visit, the class had the opportunity to shadow teachers across multiple grade levels, gaining a firsthand perspective on classroom dynamics. The Leadership Class was impressed by each teacher visited and all had exceptional classroom management and respectful, friendly students! After classroom visits, the group attended a panel discussion on partnerships and engagement within Hillsborough County Schools, highlighting the vital collaboration between schools, families, and community partners.

The day continued with a nostalgic ride on a school bus to the Moseley Homestead, a historic home built in 1886 and listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. There, the class explored Brandon’s rich educational and cultural heritage before heading to Brandon High School. At Brandon High, participants learned about student government, the student-run store, and campus food and clothing pantries. One standout moment came when students spoke passionately about normalizing the use of these pantries, with members of the Student Government Association being

Chamber Programs Chamber Programs

the advocates and leaders for these resources. The class also gained insight into adult education, magnet, and accelerated programs offered through Hillsborough County Schools. Lunch was kindly provided by Qdoba Brandon, fueling continued conversation and reflection.

As class member Shawn Eaton of Eaton Realty shared, “Not surprising that a group of educators did a great job teaching us the complexities of educating our future leaders. What was surprising is the "whole child" approach required to address basic needs far beyond the classroom, like food and clothing, in order to improve education outcomes.”

In the spirit of giving back, the Leadership Brandon Riverview Class of 2026 also organized a purse and food drive benefiting Hope for Her, a local nonprofit supporting women experiencing crisis and trauma. Hope for Her provides a safe, empowering space where women can rebuild confidence, develop essential life skills, and move toward stability and self-sufficiency.

Leadership Brandon Riverview extends sincere gratitude to all hosts, speakers, and partners who made Education Day a memorable and meaningful experience. We are so appreciative of the deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs shaping education in our community.

by:

Photos

Meeting: Dec. 12, 8:00 AM

The Government & Economic Affairs Council serves as the Chamber’s voice on public policy, legislation, and economic initiatives that impact our businesses and community.

Chamber Councils Chamber Councils

Chair:

Next Meeting: Jan. 22 - 3:00 PM

BRCC Office

The Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit Coalition’s mission is to foster collaboration, innovation, and impact among a diverse network of nonprofit organizations. We strive to create a dynamic platform for resource sharing, knowledge exchange, and collective action.

Angie Kagey Impact Program, Inc.

Chamber Councils Chamber Councils

Co-Chairs:

Joe Eletto, Century 21 Beggins

Mikey Blewett

Generations

Church

Are you, or a member of your organization, a military veteran? We want to recognize you! Please click here to submit your information. Each month a military veteran is recognized at the CHCC Monthly Luncheon. We also encourage you to participate in the Military Affairs Committee!

Next Meeting:

Jan. 21 -

12:00 PM

The Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce (BRCC) Military Affairs Council is dedicated to serving and supporting our military (past, present and families) in the community through advocating and educating the Chamber and community in how they can assist and participate in enriching the lives of our military community.

Military Recognition - September Military Recognition - September

Major Angie Anderson, United States Army (ret.)

Major (Retired) Angela M. Anderson is a native of the Bronx, New York, and earned her commission from the Temple University Army ROTC program in 2005 as a Transportation Officer. Her first assignment was to the 546th Transportation Company, Fort Bragg, NC, where she served as a Platoon Leader and later Company Executive Officer, deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2006–2007. Following completion of the Transportation Captain’s Career Course in 2009, she assumed command of the Long Island Recruiting Company in New York, where she led recruiting operations from 2009–2011.

In 2011, Major Anderson was assigned to Fort Polk, LA, where she served as Battalion S-1, Brigade S-1, and later Deputy Brigade S-1, before deploying to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2013–2014. She continued her career at Fort Stewart, GA in 2016, as Brigade S-1 for the 188th Infantry Brigade, and then at Fort Bragg, NC, as Deputy G-1, 3rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC) in 2018. Her culminating assignment was at the University of Rhode Island ROTC Battalion, where she served as an Assistant Professor of Military Science from 2020 until her retirement in 2025.

Her awards and decorations include the Bronze Star al; Meritorious Service Medal (6th Award); Army mendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal (2nd rd); Meritorious Unit Commendation; Army erior Unit Award; National Defense Service Medal; al War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Global on Terrorism Service Medal; Humanitarian Service al; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon Award); NATO Medal; Parachutist Badge; Driver Mechanic Badge with Driver–Wheeled Vehicle p; and the Silver Recruiter Badge.

Major Anderson is married to Auzia Anderson, her wife of 15 years. Together they make their home in Riverview, Florida, with their two dogs, Dutchess and Duke. Angie is the owner of Stellar Notary Services.

Military Recognition - October Military Recognition - October

U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Ted W. Martin (ret.)

Ted Martin is a retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major (CSM) who entered military service in 1986 as an Infantryman and retired in 2016 as a Civil Affairs Specialist. During his military career he served in a variety of Conventional and Special Operations units and in every leadership level of Non-Commissioned Officer positions from Squad to Corps Level. In 2003 then SFC Martin was assigned to Charlie Company 96 Civil Affairs Battalion (Airborne), In 2004 he served as First Sergeant for HHC 96 , and then in 2006 as a MSG he served as CMOC NCOIC for Foxtrot Company 96 , later that year he would become First Sergeant Delta Company 96 as th th th th they began deployment to Afghanistan in what would end up being a 13 Month Deployment due to the serge for Iraq.

Upon 1SG Martin’s return from Afghanistan in late 2007 he was assigned as the S3 Ops SGM for the 96 . In 2009 he served as the 95 Civil Affairs Brigade S3 Ops SGM until his selection to CSM for the 96 in 2010 to 2015. Until his retirement in late 2016 he served as the 18 Airborne Corps G9 Sergeant Major, and key advisor to the Corps Commander on Civil Military Operations. After retirement in late 2016, CSM (Ret) Martin served as a Senior Joint Military Analyst for Booz Allen Hamilton in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, assisting the Saudi Ministry of Defense in establishing a Military Joint Operations Command and Senior Enlisted Academy for His Royal Highness Vision 2030.

CSM (Ret) Martin is a graduate of the Warrior Leader Course, Advanced Leaders Course, Senior Leaders Course, First Sergeant Course, Navy’s Senior Enlisted Academy, and the Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy. CSM (Ret) Martin holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Management from Bellevue University, Bellevue Nebraska. CSM (Ret) Martin is the owner of 2 Amendment Armory, located in Brandon, Florida, and works as a Director - Special Operations Forces Training for Sellers & Associates, LLC, a government contractor based in Chesapeake VA. nd

Chamber Luncheon - September Chamber Luncheon - September

The Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce held its Monthly Member Luncheon on Tuesday, September 23, at The Regent, bringing together business leaders, community partners, and new and longtime members for an afternoon of connection and celebration. The luncheon was proudly sponsored by The Mosaic Company, with Christopher Johnson, Philanthropy Executive & Nonprofit Strategist, serving as the keynote speaker.

Board Chair Tammy See of OEL Heating & Cooling opened the meeting with a warm welcome, setting the tone for a meaningful gathering. Steve Manning of Master Garage Door followed with an invocation. Mikey Blewett of Generations Church, and Co-Leader of the Military Affairs Council, led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and introduced the day’s Military Honoree, Angie Anderson with Stellar Notary Service. Her inspiring bio was read, and she received a heartfelt round of applause in recognition of her service.

Manning then recognized the 10 renewing members in attendance, celebrating their continued commitment to the Chamber community.

Christopher Johnson of Mosaic took the floor next, sharing impactful stories of Mosaic’s partnerships throughout the region and their ongoing efforts to support organizations serving local families and individuals in need.

The program continued with Dave Lechuga of Florida Executive Realty introducing the

Chamber Luncheon - September Chamber Luncheon - September

19 new members joining the Chamber, each welcomed with enthusiasm. The Member Spotlight, featuring Impact Program, included remarks from Angie Kagey, who shared the organization’s mission and programs. The Nonprofit Spotlight highlighted Sunrise Group, with Taylor Haggerty offering insight into the organization’s work to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Chamber President Amber Aaron provided updates on several major upcoming events, including Trick or Treat Street, the 31st Annual Golf Tournament, and the Brandon Parade of Lights, encouraging members to participate and stay engaged. The luncheon concluded with a lively assortment of door prizes and closing remarks. Attendees enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Qdoba.

A special thank you goes out to event partners—The Regent, Messer Productions, and PamElla Lee Photography for their continued support in helping bring Chamber events to life.

Chamber Luncheon - October Chamber Luncheon - October

The Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce hosted its Monthly Member Luncheon on Tuesday, October 21, at The Regent, bringing together business leaders, community partners, and volunteers for an afternoon of connection and community engagement. The luncheon was supported by four generous sponsors: Ace Heating & Cooling, Grease Monkey, AdventHealth Riverview, and St. Joseph’s Hospital South.

Chamber President Amber Aaron opened the program with a warm welcome to all attendees. LeAnne Crabtree of LeAnne’s Old Fashioned Cookies followed with a heartfelt invocation. Mikey Blewett of Generations Church, and Co-Leader of the Military Affairs Council, led the Pledge of Allegiance and introduced the day’s Military Honoree, Ted Martin, 2 Amendment Armory whose service was recognized with applause and sincere appreciation. nd

Steve Manning of Master Garage Door recognized the 18 renewing members, celebrating their continued involvement and support of the Chamber. The meeting then transitioned into the featured presentation by Workforce Development, led by speaker Yvonne Fry, who shared insights into the organization’s initiatives, school-based programs, and the critical role workforce development plays in preparing the next generation.

Fry invited several community partners to speak to their collaborations, including Dr. Deborah Kish-Stephan of Hillsborough Community College, Melissa Snively of State Farm, and Steve McKinnon of ECHO. Community volunteers also took the stage to

Chamber Luncheon - October Chamber Luncheon - October

share their experiences with Workforce Development, among them Andrew Graves of Morsecom, Tammy Dotson of Time 2 S.H.I.N.E. Consulting Services, and Mary Odum of Coldwell Banker.

Next, Dave Lechuga of Florida Executive Realty introduced the 20 new members, each welcomed into the Chamber community with enthusiasm. The Member Spotlight featured The GOAT Plumbing Company, with Heather Mershon sharing how her company serves and gives back to the local community. The Nonprofit Member Spotlight highlighted Parents & Children Advance Together (PCAT) Literacy Ministries, Inc., with Lynne Conlan providing an overview of their mission to support literacy and learning within families.

President Amber Aaron followed with updates on several major Chamber events, including Trick or Treat Street, the 31st Annual Golf Tournament, and the Brandon Parade of Lights, encouraging all members to participate and stay engaged. The luncheon concluded with door prizes, networking, and closing remarks. Attendees enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Bahama Breeze. The Chamber extends its gratitude to event partners The Regent, Messer Productions, and PamElla Lee Photography—for their continued support in making the luncheon a success.

Trick or Treat Street Trick or Treat Street

The Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce hosted a wildly successful Trick or Treat Street on October 25 at Riverview High School, bringing together more than 3,000 attendees for an evening of family-friendly fun. Sponsored by Livingstone Academies and South Bay Academy, the event featured nearly 50 business vendors offering candy and treats to excited trick-ortreaters. Children enjoyed bounce houses, games, and even a visit from the impressive pirate ship of the Krewe of the South Shore Marauders, creating a festive atmosphere enjoyed by families throughout the community.

Trick or Treat Street Trick or Treat Street

31st Annual Golf Tournament 31st Annual Golf Tournament

The Brandon Riverview Chamber of Commerce wrapped up a fantastic day on the greens at the 31st Annual Golf Tournament, held November 14 at Club Renaissance. Sponsored by AdventHealth Riverview, the event brought multiple teams together for friendly competition under perfect skies. After the tournament, golfers enjoyed a delicious lunch, exciting prizes, silent auctions, and the always-popular “Wagon of Cheer,” which made for a fun and memorable finish to a great Chamber tradition. Many businesses were able to participate as sponsors of holes, contests, and more!

Upcoming Events Upcoming Events

In partnership with Hillsborough Co., the Brandon Riverview and the Valrico Fishhawk Chambers of Commerce are bringing our community together to share and celebrate holiday cheer. High school bands, businesses, non-profits, krewes and a special appearance at the end!

Nonprofit Spotlight - Sep

Sunrise Group

Founded over 60 years ago and headquartered in Miami, Sunrise Community, Inc. (also known as the Sunrise Group) is one of the nation’s largest nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What began as a small local effort has grown into a

network serving more than 1,400 people across seven states, with over 2,500 caring staff members.

Sunrise’s mission is simple yet powerful “Creating valued lives for people with disabilities.” They provide person-centered services that promote dignity, independence, and community inclusion, offering everything from residential homes and day programs to supported living, children’s services, and transportation. Sunrise offers a wide array of services, including community-based residential homes, family-model living arrangements, day programs and community options, supported living and drop-in services, children’s services, transportation, and summer camps.

With operations in Florida, Connecticut, Tennessee, Virginia, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Iowa, Sunrise continues to build on its legacy of compassion and excellence, empowering people with disabilities to lead fulfilling, connected lives in their communities. As an organization, Sunrise continues to build on its history while evolving to meet contemporary needs across multiple states, committed to helping those they serve live enriched, community-integrated lives.

Nonprofit Spotlight - October Nonprofit Spotlight -

Nonprofit Spotlight

Parents & Children Advance Together Literacy Ministries, Inc. (PCAT)

Founded in Tampa, Florida, PCAT Literacy Ministries is a mission-driven nonprofit devoted to transforming literacy outcomes in underserved communities. With a clear mission “to provide literacy programs to address the educational needs of children and families residing in underserved communities,” their work is deeply rooted in

educational equity.

Their vision is equally compelling: to “infuse the love of learning in order to break the intergenerational cycle of non-readers.”

PCAT’s programming centers on early-grade reading intervention, primarily targeting children in grades K–2 who are reading below grade level. These students are referred by their teachers and receive intensive one-on-one or small-group instruction from trained volunteers and staff. But their approach doesn’t stop with students: PCAT engages parents and families, encouraging their active participation in their child’s educational journey and offering supports to bolster academic and social success at home and in school.

All of PCAT’s services are offered at no cost to families, underscoring their commitment to remove barriers and create meaningful access to quality literacy support. Through this holistic, community-centered model, PCAT is making a measurable difference in the lives of young readers and their families ensuring that more children build strong foundations for lifelong learning and that families become empowered partners in that journey.

Education and Training

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Hillsborough County assists existing and emerging businesses in Hillsborough County, through no-cost confidential business consulting, information, and low-cost training. Appointments available at the BRCC office every Thursday between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Request an Appointment