BRIDGE BUILDERS 2025

Wednesday, April 16
JW Marriott Tampa Water St.

PRESENTING SPONSOR
Wednesday, April 16
JW Marriott Tampa Water St.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Dear Friends,
It is truly an honor for Valeri and I to join the long list of Bridge Builders volunteers who have used their voices and influence to bring hope to families in need across Tampa Bay. Personally, this will be my 19th Bridge Builders event, and with mixed emotions, it will also be my last as CEO of Metropolitan Ministries. As we shared with the community earlier this month, I notified the board that the year I turn 68 would be my final year in full-time service at Metro. However, this will not be the last year Val and I support Metro, nor the last year we care for families in crisis or attend Bridge Builders.
Whether this is your first year attending or you are a long-time supporter, we always like to talk about the why behind the what. This year, I’ve chosen the theme The Ripple Effect: Investing in the Lives of Teenagers Living in a Homeless Shelter – The Transformative Power of Hope.
When I first came to Metro in 2006, I was deeply moved thinking about raising teenagers in a homeless shelter, some of which have living spaces as small as 260 square feet. I thought about my own challenges as a teen, my children navigating their teenage years, and the unimaginable difficulties of being part of a homeless family who has lost everything – yet still strives to create hopeful outcomes for the mother and her children.
There is nothing more gratifying than helping to change the trajectory of a teenager emerging from homelessness. Your specialty sponsorship, table sponsorship, and the support of your associates will have a ripple effect, transforming the lives of countless teens. It is our highest honor to have you with us to create an impact that will be felt by homeless children in our community for years to come.
With Gratitude,
Tim and Valeri Marks Honorary Chair Couple
Bridge Builders Presenting Sponsors Carl and Dr. Lyda Lindell have long been known as philanthropists. They’ve supported numerous nonprofits, initiatives, and causes locally and across the globe throughout their careers in Tampa Bay. They got involved with Metropolitan Ministries and Bridge Builders to make a positive impact on their local community—and we are incredibly grateful for their ripple effect!
Much of the Lindell’s support has focused on communities where they’ve grown their successful businesses. Carl Lindell, Jr. is CEO of Lindell Investments, Inc., a Tampa-based real estate investment and development company. His wife, Dr. Lyda Lindell, is a pioneer in personal health optimization, and she leads a functional medicine practice in Tampa called URBestNow. The Lindell’s’ philanthropic efforts, as individuals, as a couple and as a family, are inspiring!
“If you give money to Metro, it’s going to work. It’s going to be used in the right way. That’s what I love about Metro. They’ll always figure out the right thing to do.”
-Carl Lindell
Lindell Investments Inc. is a family office tasked with deploying and managing capital on behalf of the Lindell family and its investors. The firm specializes in real estate investment, development, and lending, with a geographic focus on the highgrowth I-4 & I-75 corridors of West and Central Florida. The Lindell team prides itself on its longstanding relationships with honest, quality sponsors with track records of successful value creation.
Kelly Ring has been a special, long-time friend of Metropolitan Ministries throughout her time as a reporter and anchor at FOX 13 News. We are thrilled to have her serve as our emcee today. Over the years, Kelly has used her platform to help spread the word about the need at Metro Ministries and has shared countless stories of hope with the Tampa Bay community.
She has spent time volunteering at our holiday tent and is always willing to lend a helping hand with a smile for a child who needs it most. Kelly also serves as a member of our Board of Directors.
Jeff Marple, Board Chair
Corporate Executive, Rooms To Go
William Schifino, Secretary
Managing Partner, Gunster Law
Carlos Baldor, Jr., Past Chair
President & Chief Technology Officer, BST Global
Eric Bailey, Vice Chair of Advancement
Principal & Financial Advisor, CAPTRUST
David Beshears, Vice Chair of Facilities
Executive Director, Cushman & Wakefield of FL, Inc.
Gerry Coughlin, Metropolitan Ministries Foundation Liaison
Managing Partner, Oak Point Advisors
Elizabeth Dvorak, Vice Chair of Programs
Chief Executive Officer, Workscapes
Keri Eisenbeis, Vice Chair of Human Resources
Chief of Staff, BayCare Health System
Chad Keller, Vice Chair of Strategic Planning
Chief Operating Officer, Clover Investment
Andrew (Drew) Pittman, Vice Chair of Finance & Audit
Co-Owner, ASAP Capital Partners, Inc.
Dan Rodriguez, Vice Chair of Governance
President & Executive Advisor, Next Path Career Partners
DIRECTORS
Reverend Stanley Evan Burrows
Pastor, First Baptist Church of College Hill
Michelle Clapper
Assurance Partner, Ernst and Young
Jamie Egasti
Retired
Scott Fink
Chief Executive Officer
Fink Auto Group, Subaru & Volkswagen of Wesley Chapel
Nicholas Glover
Vice President, Build to Zero Environmental Defense Fund
Frank Hancock
Managing Director, Raymond James
Josh Helms
Chief Executive Officer
Physician Partners of America
Rose Hester
Registered Nurse, BayCare Hospital
Client Advocate
Kurt H. Hull
President, Diversified Asset Funding
Laura Maddalon
President, LAMPLighters
Tony March
Chief Executive Officer
Pay It Backward Foundation
Co-Founder, March Hodge
Master Management
Andy May
Executive
Managing Director
Cushman & Wakefield of FL, Inc.
Kéto Nord, BS/MIS, MBA/MIS
Youth Success Grants Reviewer
United Way Suncoast Consultant
Big Ideas Learning/Math, FL
Advisory Panel, and Client Advocate
Willy Nunn
President, Homes by WestBay
Kelly Ring (Bulleit)
Retired, FOX 13 Tampa Bay
Jerome Ryans
President & Chief Executive Officer
Tampa Housing Authority
Laura Sherman
Founding Partner
The Baldwin Group
Pedro Suriel
Senior Vice President
Diversity & Inclusion
Raymond James Financial, Inc
As the year draws to a close, our CEO, Tim Marks, is preparing to retire, capping nearly two decades of extraordinary leadership. Under Tim’s stewardship, Metropolitan Ministries has evolved from a struggling shelter into a dynamic, multifaceted organization with over $100 million in assets, now serving thousands of families annually. But for Tim, success is measured beyond numbers; it lies in the trust and resilience of the community he has passionately supported for nearly two decades.
Tim’s journey with Metro was driven by a deep belief in the organization’s potential to make a lasting impact. He credits his early years to the mentorship of Reverend Morris Hintzman, Metro’s founding CEO.
Under Tim’s leadership, Metropolitan Ministries has reached significant milestones, from expansive campus and program developments across Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties to the creation of two affordable housing communities. He also led the expansion of our Holiday Tent operations in multiple counties. Initiatives like The NeighborHOPE Project and Pathways to Hope placed critical resources directly within underserved neighborhoods and schools, intervening in crises before they could escalate.
Tim’s success wasn’t without its challenges. The relentless demands— particularly during times of crisis such as the 2008 economic downturn, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent devastation from back-to-back hurricanes—tested his leadership. Yet,
Together, they formed a perfect partnership—Morris offered bold visionary leadership, while Tim brought the strategic and business expertise to bring that vision to life.
these challenges only strengthened the culture of resilience and compassion that defines Metropolitan Ministries, allowing the organization to broaden its reach while staying true to its core mission.
As Tim reflects on his time at Metropolitan Ministries, one thing remains clear: his deep love for this community and his unwavering commitment to giving back. “Metro has been built on the trust and generosity of this community,” Tim says. “That’s what I’m most proud of—the way this community has come together to support those in need.”
Tim’s parting words echo his enduring optimism: “Metro will be just fine.” But while we know the organization will continue to thrive, his leadership and presence will surely be missed.
‘Marks of Transformation’ used with permission and inspired by an article from Tampa Bay Business & Wealth magazine. Select photos by PamElla Lee.
We’re thrilled to announce the completion of Phase 1 of MiraclePlace Pasco! Our Volunteer/Family Services facility and Residential Housing are now fully operational, doubling our capacity to support even more children, families, and individuals.
Phase 2 is almost complete, and it introduces the CREATE Learning Center, featuring:
· Vibrant classrooms · A secure infant room · A new playground
This space will serve 48 families on campus and many more in the community, providing a nurturing environment for children to grow and thrive.
The campus is also designed with sustainability in mind, featuring energyefficient buildings that reduce costs and benefit the environment. Plus, there will be even more volunteer opportunities to support Metro’s mission.
Thank you to all who’ve helped make this vision a reality! We can’t wait to see the impact of these new facilities in our community.
Project funded in party by the State of Florida Department of Children and Families, Pasco County, and our amazing donors.
THANK YOU TO OUR PASCO COUNCIL FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP & SUPPORT
Connie Bladon
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel
Shane Donaldson
Donaldson Family Foundation
Scott Fink
Fink Auto Group
Subaru & Volkswagen of Wesley Chapel
Kurt Hull
Diversified Asset Funding
Kathy Hunt
Founder of Restored Hope
George Mitchell
AdventHealth Center Ice
Dewey Mitchell
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Properties
Willy Nunn Homes by WestBay
Drew Pittman
ASAP Capital Partners, Inc.
Kathryn Starkey
Commissioner Pasco District 3
Gary and Nikki Ubaldini
Keller Williams
South Florida Region
Metropolitan Ministries and St. Petersburg Free Clinic (SPFC) are partnering to provide housing, food, and more to families experiencing homelessness in Pinellas County, with SPFC providing the housing facilities and Metropolitan Ministries overseeing programming and offering additional services.
22 family units at the David and Virginia Baldwin
Family Residence
8 family units at Lealman Family Housing
Housing search and placement
Case management
Additionally, Metro Ministries will offer essential trauma-informed childcare and educational programming to children in our family shelter in partnership with R’Club and the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg.
With over 3,500 children in Pinellas County lacking stable housing, these strategic partnerships (launching in June 2025) represent a powerful step forward in addressing family homelessness in Pinellas County.
Children's Recreation, Educational, Arts, and Therapeutic Experience
The CREATE Teen Program at Metropolitan Ministries is designed to empower middle and high school students by enhancing their motivation, skills, and mental wellbeing. Through a structured afterschool program, seasonal camps, field trips, and special events, the program fosters positive social behaviors, provides educational and therapeutic experiences, and helps teens explore career and higher education opportunities. Serving youth who live on our residential campuses at MiraclePlace Tampa and MiraclePlace Pasco, our SabalPlace
affordable housing community, and the surrounding community, the program integrates mindfulness practices, cooperative games, and personalized interventions to support students’ unique needs. Parents and caregivers are also engaged through classes and activities to ensure continued involvement in their teen’s growth and development. By providing advocacy, education, and emotional support, the CREATE Teen Program strives to break the cycle of poverty and trauma, equipping students with the tools for a brighter future.
• Computer and STEAM classes
• Educational field trips
• College tours
• Winter and summer camps
• Employment bootcamp
• Public speaking
• Corporate partner tours
• Character building workshops
• Art and talent shows
• Movie and game nights
Carl and Lyda Lindell with Lindell Investments, Inc.
The Andrews Family Trust AssuranceAmerica
BayCare
Coastal Construction
Roy and Mary Edgerton
Analgesic Healthcare
Scott and Kathy Fink
Fink Five Foundation
VW & Subaru of Wesley Chapel Triad Foundation
Brian and Monique Dionne
Tony March
Pay It Backward Foundation
David and Millie Redmond
Chris and Lauren Schellman
Signature Aviation
Adams Corp.
AGW Capital
Akerman, LLP
Applied Image Group
Arbitration Forums
Jim Moran & Associates
Eric and Gina Bailey
Carlos and Kiki Baldor
The Baldwin Group
Bank of America
BayHope Church
Bayshore Title
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Florida Properties Group
David and Michelle Beshears
Blue Sky Communities
Calhoun, Collister & Parham, Inc.
Bob Campbell
Mike and Anne Carney
Judy Christy
Homes by WestBay
M. Ryan Homes
New York Life
Amscot Financial
Ernst & Young
Hyde Park Capital
JPMorganChase
MicroLumen, Inc.
Evolution Contracting, LLC
Frank and Tricia Hancock
M.E. Wilson
Tim and Valeri Marks
Medical Technology Associates
McNichols Co.
Clover Investment Properties
Ferman Motor Car Company
Tom and Diana Cornett
Cigna
Cox Media Group
Creative Sign Designs
Danker Basham Foundation
Donaldson Family Foundation
Jane and Jamie Egasti
Fifth Third Bank
First Baptist Church of College Hill
Florida Blue
Forever Lawn
Tampa Bay Lightning Foundation
The Gary & Nikki Ubaldini Team at Keller Williams Realty
Generations Christian Church
GTE Financial
Hancock Whitney
HealthEdge Investment Partners
Josh and Jamie Helms
Kurt and Amy Hull
IC Mechanical
Hunt and Molly James
Hyde Park United Methodist Church
Johnson & Johnson
JW Marriott Tampa Water Street
Bryce Kenny
Rob and Kim Lamke
LAMPLighters
Jerry and Christine Long
Jeff and Nancy Marple
Masterworks
Matcon
Andy and Maritza May
MBS Capital Markets, LLC
Jason McCormick
Industrial Real Estate Advisor
McKibbon Equities
McKibbon Hospitality
Joy Melton
Professional EOS Implementer
Merc Surgical
Metropolitan Ministries Ambassadors
Metropolitan Ministries Foundation
Chris Mickey and Stephanie Woods
NextPath Career Partners
Nu Vista Foods
Oakpoint Advisors
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
The Pantaleo Family
Drew and Anne Pittman
PPK
PwC
Raymond James
Rays Baseball Foundation and Rowdies Soccer Fund
Rivero, Gordimer & Company, P.A.
SaraMana Business Solutions
& Nic Glover
Bill and Paola Schifino
Chris and Cindy Sofarelli
Source 1 Solutions
Spectrum
Mary Stock
Ed and Teresa Sutton
Sysco
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Electric Company
Tampa Bay Business & Wealth
Magazine (TBBW)
Tampa Steel Erecting Company
Tampa United Bikerz Jamboree
Matt and Keri Thatcher
Barbara S. Thomas
USAA
The Valdes Group Merrill
Private Wealth Management
Vernon and Stacy Wagner
Weatherford Capital
Steve and Maria Wilson Workscapes
*Donor/Sponsor list as of 4/9/25 THANK YOU
Be an Annual Partner $100k, $50k, $25k or $15k Provides food, shelter, education, and wraparound services
Be a Bridge Builder Multi-year pledge at $15k/yr or more for 3 years Provides nights of shelter
Be a Hope Force Monthly Sustainer $20/month Provides 123 hot meals
ANY NEW OR UPGRADED GIFT YOU GIVE TODAY WILL BE MATCHED 3 TO 1
CREATE A RIPPLE EFFECT OF LIFE CHANGE AND HOPE FOR A TEEN EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
$10,000 Provides shelter and therapeutic support sessions
$5,000 Provides educational materials and experiences for middle and high school students
$1,000 Provides healthy meals and wellness services for teens
$________A Gift of Your Choosing
For the past 10 years, Jean has been a dedicated force within CREATE and a Holiday Volunteer Leader, contributing over 1,900 hours of service. Described as a constant source of kindness, dedication, and grace, Jean’s impact isn’t defined by a single moment but by the way she shows up—day after day—fully invested in the children, staff, and our mission. Her unwavering presence has made her an invaluable part of the team and a beloved member of the Metro family.
For eight years, Irvena has been a dedicated volunteer at the Family Support Center and Holiday Tent, logging over 1,100 hours. Despite facing personal challenges, she remains committed, showing up twice a week to assist families in need. Even during the pandemic and hurricane recovery, she continued to serve, offering hope through intentional listening and connecting guests to vital resources. During the holidays, she plays a key role in registration and check-in, inspiring others with her warmth and dedication. Her impact on our guests, volunteers, and staff is immeasurable.
For nearly two years, Robert has been a dedicated weekly volunteer, generously giving his time to assist clients with food shopping. With over 55 hours logged, he has also supported our West Pasco Campus. Rob’s kindness and compassion shine through in every interaction, as he treats each client with dignity and respect, creating a welcoming environment. His ability to connect with families ensures they leave not just with essentials, but with a smile.
Since 2016, Patty has dedicated over 700 hours to serving others. As a Volunteer Leader at Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Petersburg, our Central St. Pete Meal Site partner, she gives her time three days a week to support families in need. Before moving to Pinellas County in 2023, Patty was a Red Apron Volunteer, assisting in Donor Lane and at our Tampa Holiday Tent. Her passion for serving others and unwavering commitment to Metropolitan is truly inspiring.
Dear Friends,
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10
At Metropolitan Ministries Foundation, we are humbled by the responsibility to steward the gifts entrusted to us, ensuring that they create lasting hope for those in need. This year, as we celebrate being named Partner of the Year, we recognize that this honor belongs to our legacy donors, especially the nearly 600 members of our Legacy Society who have included Metropolitan Ministries in their wills. Their generosity ensures that families in crisis will always have a place to turn for shelter, nourishment, and a path forward.
We stand on the shoulders of visionaries like Rev. Morris Hintzman and Tim Marks, whose leadership has built bridges of hope that will endure for generations. Their legacies remind us that the ripples we make today will shape tomorrow. As you reflect on your own legacy, we invite you to join us in ensuring that love, faith, and compassion continue to change lives long into the future.
With gratitude,
Molly James CEO, Metropolitan Ministries Foundation
Nearly 600 compassionate individuals have joined the Metropolitan Ministries Legacy Society, ensuring that hope never fades for children and families in crisis. By including Metropolitan Ministries in their wills or estate plans, they are leaving a legacy of love and transformation. We are deeply grateful for this remarkable group, whom we proudly call family! Scan the QR code to meet the inspiring members of our Legacy Society!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Gerry Coughlin, Chair
Robert Basham
Preston Farrior
Elizabeth Fowler
David Redmond
Martin Silbiger, MD
Keebler Straz
Ashley Thomas
FOUNDATION STAFF
Molly James Chief Executive Officer
Janet Pantaleo
Legacy Advisor
Rain Siswanto
Special Events Coordinator and Donor Liaison
Scan the QR code to learn more about joining the Legacy Society and view the list of nearly 600 Legacy Society members.
In Memory of Rev. Morris E. Hintzman
Guiding Light of Metropolitan Ministries 1941-2024
Yo u r D r e a m . O u r M i s s i o n .
A t H a n c o c k W h i t n e y, w e h e l p p e o p l e a c h i e v e t h e i r
d r e a m s b y p r o v i d i n g f i n a n c i a l s o l u t i o n s w i t h
e x p e r t i s e a n d w a r m 5 - s t a r s e r v i c e . We a r e
c o m m i t t e d t o c r e a t i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r p e o p l e a n d
s u p p o r t i n g o u r c o m m u n i t i e s . L e a r n h o w o u r m i s s i o n
c a n h e l p y o u b u i l d y o u r d r e a m s .
8 1 3 - 8 6 8 - 7 8 2 0
h a n c o c k w h i t n e y. c o m
Few artists have generated such immediate excitement as Alex Harris. His voice is reminiscent of soul music legends. Coupled with a radiant spirit and a completely natural authenticity, Alex is winning the hearts and minds of all who see him. Recorded in Nashville, TN, his Back To Us LP is a stunning 11-song collection featuring sparkling originals and a handful of impressive covers, some of which will be performed for you during our program.
Alex Harris was born in Manchester, Georgia (population 2500) one of eight children born to Pentecostal Pastor and schoolteacher Rev. Dr. James Harris and Dr. Carolyn Harris, a dedicated educator. His intriguing life story and multi-faceted achievements as musical artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, make him a very special artist. We are delighted to have him join us today.
LUNCH SPONSOR
Scott and Kathy Fink Fink Five Foundation
VW and Suburu of Wesley Chapel
AV SPONSOR Baycare
DESSERT SPONSOR
The Otte Family
NETWORKING SPONSOR
Ellison Development
VALET/PARKING SPONSOR
Spectrum
PROGRAM SPONSOR USAA
ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR
Not Your Mother’s Haircare Brand
CENTERPIECE AND HOPE ROCKS SPONSOR
Tim and Valeri Marks Medical Technology Associates
We express our gratitude for the generous in-kind services and media support valued at over $1 million from our partners.
Effinity is a professional training program of Metropolitan Ministries that provides customized virtual and in-person trainings, retreats, and consultation for nonprofits, schools, governmental agencies, faithbased organizations, and businesses. We empower a more mindful community by supporting organizational efforts to become trauma informed and build a resilient workforce.
Thanks to the Metropolitan Ministries leadership, staff and all the volunteers for what you do everyday to help others!
“When I joined the teen program, it helped me a lot because when I came here, I was a real angry person. They helped me be able to control my emotions more. And they helped me learn a lot about myself that I never knew. Without their guidance, I probably never would have finished school. Metro’s dedication to my growth and success has made a lasting impact on my life, and I am forever thankful for their support.”
–Jeremiah
We care for the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless in our community through services that alleviate suffering, promote dignity and instill selfsufficiency… as an expression of the ongoing ministry of Jesus Christ.
Metropolitan Ministries will be America’s most effective caregiver to poor and homeless people.
• Our programs will be known for their compassion and innovation in helping struggling families and individuals achieve their highest potential for self-sufficiency.
• Our approach to involving citizens in understanding and caring for their disadvantaged neighbors will serve as a replicable model.
• Our caregiving will be supported by an exemplary staff, high-quality facilities, dedicated volunteers, donors and collaborative partners.
• Above all, our witness will be to the power of love in healing broken lives and building strong, caring communities.
#HopeDoesMore
Anonymous
Roy and Mary Edgerton
Barbara and Franklin Carson Family Foundation, Inc.
Robert Campbell
Ellen Cotton and Kate Tiedemann
Ernest and Ellen DeIntinis
Scott and Kathy Fink Fink Five Foundation, Inc.
Hettinger Foundation
Willy Nunn
Jack and Kathleen Hunt
Nancy and David Iben
James M. Cox Foundation
Meed Foundation, Inc.
Brett Morgan
The Ounce of Prevention Fund of Florida
Outback Presents
Doug Ostrover and Marc Lipschultz Families
Lightning Foundation
James and Jean Palermo
Shane Donaldson
Tara J. Ruberg
The Spurlino Foundation
Straz Family Foundation
Reid and Gail Anderson
William and Lynn Andrews
Anonymous
Barrett Family Foundation
Thomas and Diana Belcher
Campbell and Donald Burton
Calvin H. Reed Family Foundation, Inc.
DeMert Brands, Inc.
Monique and Brian Dionne
Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg
Kurt and Amy Hull
MacKinnon Family Foundation, Inc.
McKnight Family Foundation
William T. Morgan, III
Tina Murdock
Pagliarulo Family Foundation
Steven and Victoria Petersen
Marian Purcifull
Christopher and Lauren Schellman
Eileen Shapiro and Reuben Eaves
Thomas A and Mary S
James Foundation, Inc.
Michael and Candace Valdes
Robert M. Ward, II and Lynelle K. Gable
Wright National Flood Insurance Services, LLC