The Community Foundation of Sarasota County will host its 10th online giving day from noon to noon, April 15-16, 2026. The Giving Challenge is a 24-hour giving event that supports hundreds of nonprofits in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.
SRQ MEDIA, THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY AND THE GIVING CHALLENGE
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County started the Giving Challenge in 2012 with a few simple goals: to generate excitement about charitable giving, to heighten awareness about local causes and to connect philanthropists of all means with local nonprofits to create enduring impact. It has done that, and then some.
Across the nine Giving Challenges held over the last 13 years, our community has collectively donated $92 million, with key support from The Patterson Foundation, which has contributed $37 million in matching funds. Those unrestricted dollars have gone to hundreds of participating nonprofits, bolstering their missions and improving the lives of the people they serve.
That impact couldn’t happen without the support of media partners like SRQ MEDIA, which has been a key collaborator with the foundation over the years. This month’s special section in the magazine focuses on how past Giving Challenges have boosted nonprofits by helping them reach new donors, enhance their marketing e orts and increase awareness and understanding of their impor-
tant work. Their stories illustrate how our community can flourish when we come together with purpose and generosity. The story also points the way to next year’s Giving Challenge, which takes place from noon to noon, April 15-16, 2026. That may sound like a long way o , but excitement around our 10th Giving Challenge is already building, as nonprofits begin to shape their fundraising strategies, recruit ambassadors and spread the word. In that first Giving Challenge in 2012, 109 nonprofits raised $2.4 million through 10,700 gifts; in 2024, 724 nonprofits raised $17.2 million through 90,227 gifts. While it’s impossible to know what 2026 will bring, I’m confident that our community will once again rally to support the nonprofits that work hard every day to make this a place where everyone can thrive.
At the foundation, our motto is “Be The One,” a saying that is rooted in our belief that everyone can be a philanthropist, and the Giving Challenge shows how true that is. Please join us April 15-16, 2026.
MISCHA KIRBY Vice President of Strategy and Communications Community Foundation of Sarasota County
$92 MILLION
Total amount raised for nonprofits through the Giving Challenge since 2012
NOW IN ITS 10TH YEAR, THE GIVING CHALLENGE, AND ITS IMPACT, CONTINUE TO GROW.
THIS SPRING, THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SARASOTA COUNTY IS GEARING UP FOR ITS 10TH ANNUAL GIVING CHALLENGE. The 24-hour online giving extravaganza for 2026 kicks o at noon on April 15 and runs straight through to noon on April 16, and supports hundreds of nonprofits in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. Throughout its history, participation in the event has grown tremendously. The very first challenge in 2012 raised $2.4 million for 109 local nonprofit organizations in 36 hours. The most recent Giving Challenge in 2024 raised $17.2 million in 24 hours, benefiting 724 nonprofit organizations. Nationally, the Giving Challenge is recognized as one of the top 10 largest giving days, even when compared to those in larger metropolitan cities, highlighting our uniquely philanthropic community. WRITTEN BY BARBIE HEIT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WES ROBERTS
WHAT SETS THE GIVING CHALLENGE APART FROM OTHER GIVING DAYS ACROSS THE COUNTRY is the Community Foundation’s partnership with The Patterson Foundation, which o ers a 1:1 match—from $25 to $100 per donor, per nonprofit. This means donors can double their impact, with no limit on the number of nonprofits they can support.
Over nine Giving Challenges, more than $92 million in unrestricted funding has been raised for local nonprofits, thanks to over 50,000 donors making more than 90,000 gifts. Since 2012, The Patterson Foundation has contributed nearly $37 million and will continue its match in 2026. In 2024, four donors each gave $100 to all 724 participating nonprofits—turning $72,400 into $144,800 per donor—providing an incredible boost to the community. The Giving Challenge allows every person to be a philanthropist, whatever their means, and donations go directly to the organization that a donor wants to support. The match from The Patterson Foundation magnifies their support.
“The Giving Challenge embodies the spirit of wide participation at the heart of all that The Patterson Foundation does. Each gift is an invitation for people to a rm their passion and be a philanthropist. The Patterson Foundation amplifies this generosity through its match, creating a ripple e ect that inspires thousands of donors to take part. Because the funds are unrestricted, nonprofits have the flexibility to apply them where they are needed most—without the limits of restricted grants or reporting requirements,” says President and CEO of The Patterson Foundation, Debra Jacobs. “Every nonprofit participating in the Giving Challenge can optimize it to fit their unique fundraising strategy. Some may want to re-engage long-time supporters in a concentrated 24-hour e ort. For others, it may be the perfect way to experiment with messaging, marketing campaigns or digital outreach. The online leaderboard introduces donors to organizations focused on the causes they care about, which opens the door for fresh connections and relationships. When an organization nurtures these new relationships, they can evolve into long-term support that strengthens the nonprofit’s impact well beyond the Giving Challenge. Each iteration of the Giving Challenge provides a new opportunity for nonprofits to dream bigger, connect creatively with donors and act boldly.”
Total amount of unrestricted support contributed by The Patterson Foundation to Giving Challenge participants through matching dollars and donor incentives since 2012. In 2026, like it has in past years, The Patterson Foundation will contribute a 1:1 match for all unique donations, from $25 to $100 per donor, per nonprofit.
THE PATTERSON FOUNDATION MATCH HAS BEEN A VERY POWERFUL MOTIVATOR FOR DONORS. Recognizing the chance to double their impact, Sarasota philanthropists Joe and Mary Kay Henson donated $100 to each of the 667 nonprofits in the 2022 Giving Challenge—contributing $66,700, which was matched to become $133,400. Hoping to inspire others, the Hensons pledged $100 again to all nonprofits in the 2024 Giving Challenge. Their renewed commitment expanded the generous group of what the Community Foundation calls the “100 Percent Club.”
Joining the Hensons in 2024 were advisors to the Frank G. Berlin Foundation—a component fund of the Community Foundation—and trustees of the H. Gladstone McKeon Trust also pledged $100 to every participating nonprofit. Combined with the match from The Patterson Foundation, these gifts totaled $436,800, marking a record-breaking kicko before the Giving Challenge o cially began. Je rey Troiano, an attorney with Williams Parker and trustee of the Berlin Foundation, explains that Mr. Berlin, a longtime client, had a deep love for Sarasota and a desire to help it grow into a beautiful city. While the foundation traditionally focused on targeted gifts and entrepreneurial growth through the Chamber of Commerce, its participation in the 100 Percent Club for that year allowed the fund to benefit a broader range of community needs. For the 2026 Giving Challenge, the fund has pledged to be a prize sponsor to recognize the e orts of organizations focused on engagement and momentum building. This aligns with Mr. Berlin’s vision of a thriving community. The Community Foundation, says Troiano, helps manage the foundation’s annual requirements and ensures its e orts reflect Mr. Berlin’s wishes. “We are happy to do what we can to see that Mr. Berlin’s legacy is brought forward in a way that would have made him proud— that’s our goal,” says Troiano. “Mr. Berlin loved the city and loved helping it grow,” he adds, sharing a decades-old quote from Berlin himself: “Sarasota was like my 4-year-old daughter. We would never enjoy her more than when she was this age, but we knew inevitably she would grow up. Nothing that we would do would stop Sarasota from growing, so we wanted to help it grow into a beautiful city, much like you would have a 4-year-old girl grow into a lady.”
SINCE 2018, THE VENICE PIER GROUP—owners of beloved local spots including Sharky’s on the Pier, Fins at Sharky’s, Snook Haven, Siesta Beach Eats and The Nest at The Bay— has hosted a special Giving Challenge Fair to spotlight about 25 participating nonprofits. Committed to giving back to the community they serve, the group organizes this one-day event ahead of the Giving Challenge to boost awareness and support for local causes. The fair invites nonprofits to set up booths at Sharky’s and Fins, where they connect with restaurant guests, beachgoers and visitors to the Venice Fishing Pier. From noon to 7 p.m., community members are encouraged to stop by and engage with the organizations making a di erence in the region. Justin Pachota, President of Venice Pier Group, shares the heart behind the e ort: “We’ve been part of the Venice community since 1987. It’s a phenomenal community and probably one of the not-for-profit capitals of Florida. There are so many great organizations—many close to our sta ’s hearts—so it’s something we’ve always tried to support.” He adds that the group’s involvement takes many forms, from participating in food-focused events to hosting their own. “We’ve got almost 400 employees—a big part of the Sarasota County workforce—so we also focus on communicating these e orts internally.” Pachota credits his parents for instilling a quiet commitment to giving. “They never liked the spotlight or wanted credit. I’ve taken that same attitude—it’s just part of being a good member of a great community. It’s not about recognition or return. It’s just a nice feeling.” He and his wife also involve their children each year: “We give them a budget and have them talk to each nonprofit and decide where they want to give. It’s something we want to see continue.”
With their prize contest—Best 2024 Giving Challenge Story—Community Foundation of Sarasota County invited nonprofit organizations to share their most heartwarming and powerful Giving Challenge stories—through blog posts, new letters or email campaigns. Here are just some of the stories that will have you cheering for the amazing work happening right here in our community. To see a list of o cial prize winners, visit GivingChallenge.com.
“Girls already have incredible strength and potential,” says Mary Anne Servian, CEO of Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida. “Girl Scout programs give them the chance to discover it—by trying new things, building skills, and being surrounded by safe, supportive adults who believe in them.”
The One to Struggle Quietly Mackenzie joined Girl Scouts in the first grade to make new friends. The first time we met Mackenzie, she was just 7 years old. Bright, imaginative and eager to try new things, she also carried invisible struggles—the restless grip of social anxiety and depression that sometimes kept her home from school. Her mental health challenges intensified in eighth grade. “I was constantly sad and anxious,” she said. “It was a ecting my grades at school and my friendships.” Sadly, Mackenzie is not alone. The State of the Florida Girl Report shows that girls face
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida Thanks to the 2024 Giving Challenge, Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida was able to commission a groundbreaking study on the emotional, physical, academic and mental wellness of girls in Florida: The State of the Florida Girl Report. Lifetime Girl Scout Mackenzie S. shared her story to show how Girl Scouts transforms girls’ lives and supports mental health.
worse outcomes than boys across academics, health, safety and especially mental health. Nearly half of Florida girls report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Thankfully, the report also points the way forward: Programs designed specifically for girls, like Girl Scouts, dramatically improve outcomes across every area studied.
The One to Ask for Help
At Girl Scouts, our mission has always been to build girls of courage, confidence and character. But while we ask girls to change the world, the world doesn’t always return the favor. We knew we had to step up to
help girls thrive. To better support members’ mental health, we partnered with HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital to deliver wellness programming, and collaborated with NAMI Sarasota and Manatee Counties and Children’s World for the 2024 Giving Challenge. Our goal was to empower girls like Mackenzie with tools for mental health awareness, self-care and resilience. “Seeing organizations like NAMI and Girl Scouts come together really gave me confidence that girls would grow up with these resources accessible to learn about mental health and manage everyday life,” Mackenzie says.
Through Girl Scouts, Mackenzie participated in initiatives that positively impacted her community and taught her the value of caring for others. On March 28, 2024, Girl Scouts earned their Mental Wellness and First Aid badges at HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital. NAMI educators led discussions on emotions and coping skills, while nurses guided first aid exercises, including bandaging teddy bears and touring the ER. During a badge workshop, Mackenzie focused on earning the Finding My Voice badge.
Keeping up With the Castaways Through heartwarming virtual events and life-changing donor support, Canine Castaways used the 2024 Giving Challenge to share powerful rescue stories—and rewrite them with hope, healing and second chances.
During the 2024 Giving Challenge, Canine Castaways invited the community to “Paws for Pups” and “Keep up With the Castaways.” Through live virtual events, supporters were able to step inside our world, meeting the dogs who inspire everything we do. Viewers laughed at the goofy antics of our puppies during our Canine Carnival, fell in love with shy dogs coming out of their shells at our Paw-jama Pawty, watched older dogs rediscover joy while having breakfast at Pancakes With Pups, and even got to witness the reality of two puppies very sick with parvovirus. These moments weren’t just entertaining—families actually adopted dogs they fell in love with on screen.
The 2024 Giving Challenge gave us more than a chance to share our stories—it gave us the resources to change them. Because donors chose to “Be The One” for Canine Castaways, we were able to: provide better isolation kennels for new arrivals, giving scared or sick dogs a secure place to rest and heal the moment they come through our doors; make improvements to our play yard, transforming it into a healthier, more engaging space where dogs can run, play and socialize— many for the very first time in their lives; and grow our reach on social media, connecting with new supporters and adopters who continue to follow and champion our mission.
The 2024 Giving Challenge proved what is possible when people step up to “Be The One.” But the work is never finished. New dogs are always out there with stories of neglect, abandonment or loss. They are counting on us—and we are counting on you. With renewed support during the 2026 Giving Challenge, we can continue ensuring that every dog
who enters our rescue not only survives but thrives. Thanks to The Patterson Foundation this is also an opportunity to have your generosity doubled up to $100. We invite you to once again “Paws for Pups” and join us for a new story beginning April 15, 2026, at noon. You can “Be The One” who helps us turn “Once Upon a Times” into “Happily Ever Afters.”
“Over the years, the Giving Challenge has provided not only vital fundraising support, but also a chance for our small group of volunteers to rediscover their why,” shares Kim Rinaldi of Canine Castaways. “We’re very excited for Giving Challenge 2026 and can’t wait to share our dogs and their stories in a fun and unique way with our supporters!”
Sarasota Rising In just 24 hours, a brand-new nonprofit turned hope into action—igniting a cultural movement that lit up Sarasota’s arts scene and captured the hearts of a community.
In 2024, Sarasota Rising took a leap of faith. As a brand-new nonprofit, they entered the 24-hour Giving Challenge for the first time, unsure of what to expect but driven by a shared dream: to transform Sarasota’s Cultural Coast into a vibrant, year-round arts destination. Their mission was a bold one— uniting local arts organizations and businesses to create events that inspire community pride,
celebrate artistic expression and fuel economic growth. But like any dream, it needed support to take flight. The Giving Challenge became more than just a fundraising event for the organization—it was a whirlwind of hope, connection and possibility. For 24 hours, Sarasota Rising poured our hearts into the e ort, crafting stories, creating videos and rallying our community through hourly social
“The Giving Challenge didn’t just help us raise funds; it helped us raise hope. It reminded us that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen. Sarasota Rising is more than a nonprofit—it’s a movement, and we’re just getting started,” says Board Chair of Sarasota Rising/Living Arts Festival, Sandi Wall. “As we look to the future, we carry the lessons and the love from that 24-hour whirlwind with us. Together, we can continue to elevate Sarasota’s cultural scene, inspire new fans, and create a legacy of collaboration and creativity.”
media posts. The response was overwhelming. In just one day, their fan base grew by 50 percent, and thanks to the generosity of donors and matching funds from The Patterson Foundation, they raised more than $15,000. With the unexpected funds, they were able to host two spectacular events that were free to the public. Despite the challenges of two hurricanes disrupting plans, they adapted and delivered an unforgettable opening night. Renesito, now a Broadway star with Buena Vista Social Club, set the tone for a festival that would leave a lasting impression.
One of the most meaningful events was the Indigenous Experience, where children learned about Indigenous dance rituals and their cultural significance. The festival’s closing event was a moment of pure magic. More than 300 performers from organizations
like Sarasota Opera, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, Urbanite Theatre and Sarasota Cuban Ballet came together to create something extraordinary. Thanks to the Giving Challenge, Sarasota Rising was also able to support smaller organizations like Tree Fort Productions and Sarasota Contemporary Dance, providing them with financial awards to help them grow and thrive. Over a year later, people still talk about the 2024 Living Arts Festival. They remember the joy, the inspiration and the sense of community it fostered.
Friends of the Lakewood Ranch Library created a video and posted it on their Facebook page, shared it with email contacts and presented it on YouTube. The organization’s strategy was to sincerely thank its 2024 donors and provide awareness of the 2026 Giving Challenge in an entertaining and motivating format.
“We sincerely want to thank our 2024 donors and share how their contributions support the library. Plus we want everyone to be aware the 2026 Giving Challenge is just around the corner,” shares President and Team Leader for the organization, Sue Ann Miller, Ed.D. “With the Federal cuts made to the Institute for Museum and Library Services, Manatee County Library System is losing $200,000 to $250,000 annually. This impacts
collections, programs and services and the Friends will work to fill that gap.” During the 2024 Giving Challenge, our community showed up in a big way: online donations, Slim Chickens partnership, library fun for all ages. Every $25-$100 donation was doubled, thanks to the generosity of The Patterson Foundation—84 donors participated with the goal of $7,000. Total raised: $13,470. Our donors’ gifts funded Big Blue Blocks, Legos
and Duplos, creativity and play. Challenges ahead include budget cuts and population growth. Library use is increasing, and county funds don’t cover everything. Community support fills the gap. Do you remember your first trip to the library? Discovery. Joy. A place for everyone. Support library magic for the next generation. Together, we keep our library vibrant and inclusive.
The Literacy Council of Manatee County One woman’s inspiring journey with Manatee Literacy Council shows how investing in language access creates lasting change for individuals and entire communities.
Two years ago, during the 2024 Giving Challenge, our community rallied around Manatee Literacy Council. With your support, we were able to expand programs for our Haitian Creole learners, one of the fastest-growing populations in Manatee County.
That investment quickly changed lives. One of those lives is Joane’s. Joane first came to us as a learner, eager to improve her English while balancing the demands of working on an assembly line at a local manufacturing plant. On paper, Joane already had remarkable accomplishments: She spoke five languages fluently and held an MBA
from a French university. But here in Manatee County, she needed help to connect fully, grow her opportunities and feel at home.
Because of your gifts, we were able to launch more Haitian Creole programming, and Joane stepped into our classrooms. That’s when we realized something powerful: To truly serve our Haitian community, we needed sta who could communicate directly in Haitian Creole. And the best place to look for talent was among our own learners.
Joane was the perfect fit. We were able to bring her on sta , where she became a vital bridge for Haitian families enter-
ing our programs. Her skills, her compassion and her lived experience made it possible for many more learners to feel welcomed, understood and supported.
But life threw Joane a challenge none of us could control. Due to sudden changes in immigration policy, her work visa was revoked, and she could no longer remain in her sta role. For many, that might have been the end of the story. But not for Joane.
Today, Joane continues to serve as a volunteer with the Manatee Literacy Council, conducting intakes for Haitian learners and ensuring they feel a sense of
belonging. Her resilience and dedication inspire us every day, and remind us why our work matters. Your support during the 2024 Giving Challenge made this story possible. You created a pathway for Joane to grow as a learner, step up as a leader and continue as a champion for others in her community.
In 2026, we have the chance to do even more. With your help, we can expand programs, lift up new voices and ensure that no adult in Manatee County is left behind because of language barriers. Together, we can write the next chapter of this story—one of resilience, opportunity and hope.
“Joane’s story shows the resilience of our learners and the impact of your generosity. Even when life changed her path, she chose to give back,” says Michelle Desveaux McLean, director of the organization. “That spirit is what makes our community stronger.”
CreArte Latino Fueled by community generosity and a shared passion for culture, CreArte Latino Cultural Center has become a vibrant stage for Latino/Hispanic pride, creativity and connection in Sarasota-Manatee.
The CreArte Latino Cultural Center — and every concert, play, community event and celebration of Latino/Hispanic pride presented in our space over the past two years—stands as a living tribute to our supporters. That includes the 192 donors who contributed to CreArte during the 2024 Giving Challenge.
The impact of their generosity, multiplied by matching gifts from The Patterson Foundation to a total of more than $30,000, echoes through every note of music, every performance on our stage, every class in our studios and every gathering that draws Latino/Hispanic and other residents of the Sarasota –Manatee community together. Earlier this year, we moved into a more accessible location near the county line, opening new doors for even greater connection.
With donor support, CreArte, powered mostly by volunteers, has built a lineup of programming that both celebrates Latino and Hispanic culture and creates bridges with the wider community. That includes arts classes for children, often funded by scholarships, where local artists teach theater, music, comedy and dance. Students show o their skills in festive capstone performances for family and friends including: VOCES de Inmigración, staged readings of local immigrants’ powerful testimonies, presented in Spanish with English subtitles; VOCES de mentes escondidas, exploring the hidden struggles of mental health; theater productions, including Fuga, a comedy by Catalan playwright Jordi Galcerán; community celebrations, like the Fiesta Latina, filled with music, dance and art as part of The Patterson Foundation’s Suncoast
“Being a single teenage mom of two, I honestly felt like I was drowning at times. When I got connected with a family navigator, everything started to shift. They didn’t just throw resources at me–they walked with me. They helped me find stable housing, childcare and even someone to talk to when I felt alone. It made me feel like I wasn’t failing, just figuring things out with support. I learned how to advocate for myself and my kids, and that’s huge. It gave me space to breathe and focus on being the mom I want to be.” Alana, Mother of Two
Remake Learning Days; book clubs; Spanish conversation lessons; concerts; and even a first ever summer camp for preschoolers.
For many local Latinos and Hispanics, CreArte has become more than a cultural venue. It is a safe, trusted space. Programs like Nuestra Comunidad have brought nonprofit partners in to share resources in Spanish, meeting real needs at a time when the political climate feels unsettled.
As CreArte marks its eighth anniversary, demand for its programs continues to grow. Families want more classes, more performances, more opportunities for children to create and connect with their heritage. Meeting that demand requires support—
the kind of support that makes the 2026 Giving Challenge so important. Thanks to The Patterson Foundation, every individual donation up to $100 will be matched, doubling the impact. But the real return on that investment is measured in children gaining confidence on stage, in immigrants sharing their stories and in neighbors discovering how much they have in common. Supporting CreArte is about sustaining high-quality programming, expanding bilingual outreach, and ensuring Latino and Hispanic culture remains a vital part of Sarasota –Manatee life. Most of all, it is about a rming that every voice matters. With renewed support in the 2026 Giving Challenge, CreArte can continue to grow as a trusted, welcoming place where art, culture and community flourish side by side— and where every story finds a home.
Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation shared this blog post demonstrating the life-changing impact of community support through First 1,000 Days Suncoast.
A child’s first few years are critical–80 percent of brain development occurs by age 3. First 1,000 Days Suncoast supports and connects families with resources during pregnancy and throughout a child’s first 1,000 days. This initiative is philanthropically funded through Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation.
The e orts of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, with giving strengthened by The Patterson Foundation during he 2024 Giving Challenge, helped to support this important program. With an additional match from the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, every unique donation was matched again! More than 300 families receive support from First 1,000 Days annually. Here’s an
example of just one of those families: When Alana relocated to Sarasota with her 2-year-old toddler and another baby on the way, she had no support, no housing and no resources, having just aged out of the foster care system. Alana reached out to Sarasota Memorial’s Pregnancy Care Team, seeking help with prenatal care. The team quickly initiated referrals for obstetrical care and other local organizations for additional help. When Alana’s free nights at The Salvation Army ended, she was connected with the navigators at First 1,000 Days Suncoast. They worked tirelessly to find her a safe place to stay. After many calls, Safe Children Coalition stepped in to help fund a few more nights at The Salvation Army and later
paid for a hotel while she awaited housing approval. Throughout, the First 1,000 Days team became an invaluable support system for Alana. They have helped her reshape her and her children’s future into something spectacular. With a new apartment (furnished mostly with donations from the community), Alana has big plans for her future. She has been working to save money and plans to enroll in school. She serves on the First 1,000 Days Parent Advisory Committee, helping others like her flourish.
Save the date for the 2026 Giving Challenge—April 15-16, noon to noon. You’ll have the opportunity to be the one to help strengthen health care in our community.
“We are so thankful for the financial and other support that the Giving Challenge has generated for CreArte, which has allowed us to meet real and growing needs for cultural and educational programming in the Latino/Hispanic and larger communities,” says Carolina Franco, co-founder and producing artistic director. “It is gratifying, and humbling, to realize what we have accomplished with the support of our donors and friends. It would not have been possible without the Giving Challenge.”
$17.2 MILLION
Total amount raised during the 2024 Giving Challenge
“The 2024 Giving Challenge showed what happens when our community steps up: Young people gained professional training, audiences were moved and the arts thrived. Now imagine what we can do together in 2026. With your renewed support, we can open even more doors for young performers, create more magical productions and keep the flame of live theater burning brightly for the next generation. Join us again in the 2026 Giving Challenge. Be the spark that keeps Ovation Theatre shining,” shares Ovation Theatre President and Artistic Director Michelle McCord.
Ovation Theatre Thanks to generous donors, Ovation Theatre transformed passion into performance—giving young artists the chance to train like pros and shine like stars.
In 2024, the Ovation Theatre family came together in an extraordinary way. Because of the generosity of their donors during the Giving Challenge, they were able to bring to life unforgettable productions of Six, Hadestown, Shrek and A Chorus Line. These weren’t just shows. They were opportunities for young performers to step into the world of professional theater. With donor support, the organization was able to hire accomplished music directors like Jenny Kim-Godfrey, who guided students with the same expertise she brings to professional stages. For many of the organization’s young artists, this was their first chance to experience what it feels like to work with professionals at the highest level—an opportunity that sparked confidence, discipline and joy that they will carry with them for a lifetime. Donor support ensured that students didn’t just perform—they grew as artists and as people. The organization is once again asking for help as it enters the 2026 Giving Challenge.
Ovation Theatre is more than just a place where musicals are performed. It’s a place where children discover their voices, learn the value of teamwork and find belonging in a community that believes in them. Donations directly shape the experiences of these young performers. It ensures we can continue to produce professional-quality musicals, bring in directors and mentors who inspire and keep theater accessible to families who might not otherwise have this opportunity. Every dollar given is an investment in a child’s potential—on stage and beyond.
“Bob was very shy, but he was open and friendly once you got to know him,” said his sister, Carol Wolf. “Toward the end, he was looking for meaningful ways to leave his money. He loved music, and WSMR meant a great deal to him. So that’s what he did.”
Rise Above Performing Arts Thanks to the generosity of donors during the 2024 Giving Challenge, Rise Above Performing Arts empowered more young performers than ever—funding an entire season of Broadway shows and creating a safe, inclusive space where every child could shine.
Because of your generosity, more dreams came true last season! In 2024, you showed us how much you cared. It’s been over a year and we are still overwhelmed by the generosity you showed us during the Giving Challenge in 2024! The donations came in over a 24-hour period, with each notification giving us hope that we would reach our goal and because of you, we did! Rise Above fills the need for a safe, inclusive environment for our local youth to hone their skills and express their talents, onstage and
behind the scenes, and we are always working to better serve them with the high-caliber instruction and theatrical setting that they deserve.
Before the beginning of the 2024/2025 year, we planned our ninth season with thought and care. Not only do our directors choose shows that are relevant and that will help our students grow in their artistry, but the season is curated by taking into account all the factors that go into a successful production: music, sets, costumes, lighting. All of these things, as well as the actu-
al royalties for shows, do not come cheap. The rights to perform a Broadway show can cost anywhere from $1,000 to tens of thousands of dollars, and the more funds needed to produce a show, the less is available to pay for the remainder of costs, such as costumes and props. During the 2024 Giving Challenge we asked you to “Be The One” to donate and support our cause, and you delivered. More than 140 of you donated, and with the generous matching donations from The Patterson Foundation, a
“The Giving Challenge 2024, presented by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, and the amazing generosity of the matching donations from The Patterson Foundation, were so helpful for our organization, and being able to pay for all the royalties for that season with the funds raised was incredibly impactful,” shares Artistic Director and Chairman of the Board is Dr. Jacob Ruscoe. “Rise Above is extremely excited for Giving Challenge 2026, during our 10th season! As the cost of show rights has increased by an average of 75 percent, fundraisers like this are even more important to organizations like ours. Being able to share Giving Challenge with our community here in Sarasota and beyond allows us to reach even more potential donors who are encouraged by the fact that the impact of their gift is doubled by the matching donations from The Patterson Foundation.”
In the final weeks of his life, Bob Euwema spent quiet days inside his modest assisted-living home in Sarasota, playing computer solitaire and listening to the classical music he loved on WUSF’s station, WSMR. It may have looked like a solitary life, but he was far from alone—connected to a world of beauty and comfort through the music of Beethoven, Mozart, Brahms and more.
Euwema, 88, was known for his quiet manner, but his final act made a bold statement: a $1 million gift in his will to support WSMR and keep its music flowing. “Bob was very shy, but he was open and friendly
total of $30,920 was raised! With those funds, Rise Above was able to pay for the royalties for all six full-length Broadway shows in season nine! At Rise Above, we focus on making the myriad benefits of the performing arts accessible to any child, no matter their background, gender or socioeconomic status. Children should not be excluded from the joys of the arts because their families cannot a ord to pay for training, and in that same vein, we believe that facilitating high-caliber performance opportunities for students is just as important as instruction.
We know that with your support, we can help more of our young people find their voice. Now, as we look forward to celebrating the 10th Giving Challenge during Season 10 of Rise Above Performing Arts, we ask that you join us in setting the stage, literally and figuratively, to continue providing a haven for our students.
WUSF’s Classical Station Bob Euwema lived a quiet life filled with classical music—but his parting gift of $1 million to WSMR spoke volumes about the deep impact that music had on his soul.
once you got to know him,” said his sister, Carol Wolf. “Toward the end, he was looking for meaningful ways to leave his money. He loved music, and WSMR meant a great deal to him. So that’s what he did.” The Giving Challenge was the catalyst for Bob to give more generously.
The gift came as a surprise to WUSF Public Media and the USF Foundation. While Euwema had donated to WSMR 23 times over eight years, he avoided public attention, never attending station events or meetings. Discussions had occurred with his attorney, Cathryn Girard, but the size of the bequest was unknown until after
his death on March 27, 2021. Euwema was born in 1933 in State College, Pennsylvania, where his father, a self-taught pianist, was a dean at Penn State. A baritone player in the school band, Bob focused on academics and graduated valedictorian from Penn State in 1954. He earned his Ph.D. in physics from Princeton in 1959, taught at Swarthmore and later worked in the early computer industry. After retiring at 57, he moved to Sarasota to care for his mother. He volunteered with local nonprofits, helping update their computer systems and sometimes buying them new equipment.
He also kept a 30-year tradition of emailing his sister each morning before 6 a.m. When no message arrived the day after his birthday in 2021, she knew something was wrong. In 2019, wanting to revise his will, he contacted Girard. During their first meeting, he passed out in the elevator. “Bob was a very focused, determined person. He knew exactly what he wanted and how to set things up.” His quiet generosity left a lasting legacy—a gift that ensures the music he loved will continue to play on.
Venice Theatre In 2024, Venice Theatre turned tragedy into triumph with a powerful campaign that raised more than $168,000 in 24 hours—proving that even without a building, the spirit of theater lives on through community, creativity and unwavering support.
In 2024, Venice Theatre embraced the Giving Challenge with the rallying cry “Be The One.” Our email campaign invited the community to be the one who kept theater alive after Hurricane Ian forced us out of our beloved Jervey Theatre. We didn’t just ask for gifts—we shared stories of resilience: students still finding their voices in borrowed classrooms, volunteers rebuilding sets by hand and actors performing in temporary spaces so the show could go on. The response was inspiring. More than $168,000 from 950-plus individual gifts was raised in just 24 hours, with donors proving that Venice Theatre is more than a building—it’s the beating heart of Venice. Every contribution, matched by The Patterson Foundation, ensured we could pay our teaching artists, expand outreach programs and continue serving as a cultural lifeline for our community. Looking toward the 2026 Giving Challenge April 15-16, from noon to noon, our work is far from finished. Rebuilding our theater and strengthening our reach takes continued belief and support. When donors choose to “Be The One” again, they aren’t just funding productions—they are preserving a creative home, a gathering space and a legacy of joy for generations to come.
90,227
Number of gifts made during the 2024 Giving Challenge
The five most popular causes for Giving Challenge donations in 2024 were education ($3.3 million), arts and culture ($3 million), youth ($2.2 million), health and wellness ($2.1 million) and animals ($1.6 million).
The Center of Anna Maria Island During the 2024 Giving Challenge, you showed us just how powerful generosity can be. Not long after, our island was hit hard by hurricanes.
The Center closed for regular business for nearly a month. But thanks to you, our doors never really closed. Our gymnasium became a hub of hope, filled with volunteers, food and supplies for neighbors in need. And when it was time to reopen, your Giving Challenge gifts made it possible. Because of you, families returned to safe childcare and after-school programs; kids kicked o games with brand new soccer goals; our camera system was upgraded, giving parents peace of mind; and, seniors, teens and families came back together for wellness, friendship and connection. Your 2024 Giving Challenge donation didn’t just help us recover, it kept the Center strong for every generation of our community. Now we need you again. Mark your calendars for the next Giving Challenge, April 15–16, 2026, from noon to noon. With your support, we can continue to be more than just a building. We’ll remain the heartbeat of Anna Maria Island. Your generosity fuels our mission to make the Center a place where everyone feels supported and part of a community. Together, we’ll keep that legacy alive.
Hope DeSoto Long-Term Recovery Group With Giving Challenge funds, Hope DeSoto turned $1,119 into lasting change—rebuilding homes, restoring hope and preparing families for the storms ahead.
In April 2024, Hope DeSoto LongTerm Recovery Group, a nonprofit just over a year old, raised $1,119.13 during the 2024 Giving Challenge. These funds fueled transformative disaster recovery and preparedness e orts in DeSoto County, directly impacting families and strengthening the community. Founded in 2023, Hope DeSoto quickly became a beacon of hope, tackling home repairs, disaster preparedness and nonprofit support. The 24-hour Giving Challenge amplified their mission,
turning donations into lifelines for families recovering from disasters.
Collaborating with Mennonite Disaster Service, Hope DeSoto completed critical home repairs. Their “Hurricane Ready” training, supported by Suncoast Remake Learning Days and The Patterson Foundation, empowered families with storm preparedness skills. Through the Suncoast Disaster Recovery Fund, they also bolstered other nonprofits, enhancing regional recovery efforts.The $1,119.13 raised had a pro-
found impact. Funds purchased tools for smoke detector installations, volunteer shirts and hardware for home repairs for three families. The Lewis family’s kitchen was restored with new sink hardware. The Smiths received window and flooring repairs, improving safety. The Ramos family’s walls were rebuilt, renewing their sense of home. The Giving Challenge funds celebrated volunteers with shirts symbolizing their dedication. Smoke detector installations underscored Hope
DeSoto’s focus on prevention, ensuring safer homes for families. The $1,119.13 reflected DeSoto County’s shared commitment. From individual donors to partners like Mennonite Disaster Service and The Patterson Foundation, the Giving Challenge showed the power of collective action. Every dollar expanded Hope DeSoto’s reach, supporting repairs, training and nonprofit collaboration.
CREATIVITY IS THE FUTURE. Celebrating its 95th anniversary, Ringling College of Art and Design has cultivated the creative spirit in students from around the globe, educating and inspiring the next generation of creative visionaries. We believe in fostering an inspiring and engaging environment for our students and community, but we know we cannot do it alone. Ringling College relies heavily on the support and generosity of our friends, partners, alumni, and community to continue advancing our industry-leading art and design education and initiatives. The value of your investment is undeniable—our students emerge as leaders who can effectively contribute their talents to the most recognized and innovative brands worldwide. You can help us make a difference in the lives of these talented creatives by providing scholarship support, quality academic programs, professional-level resources, and state-of-theart technology and facilities. SARASOTA HAS LONG BEEN A PLACE FOR ARTS AND CULTURE to flourish and this community plays a pivotal role. Through more than 100 programs offered annually at Sarasota Art Museum, the College’s Galleries and Exhibitions program, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), and Ringling’s TOWN HALL Speaker Series, Ringling College provides opportunities not only for our students, but for over 60,000 local residents and visitors from around the globe to gather, learn, and experience the power of creativity.
FINANCIAL HARDSHIP SHOULD NOT BE A BARRIER IN THE PURSUIT OF A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE. MORE THAN 90% OF RINGLING STUDENTS QUALIFY FOR NEED- AND MERIT-BASED SUPPORT, AND MOST WOULD BE UNABLE TO ATTEND WITHOUT THIS ASSISTANCE. OUR SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS HELP ENSURE THAT THE COLLEGE ATTRACTS AND RETAINS THE MOST QUALIFIED AND TALENTED STUDENTS ACROSS ALL SOCIOECONOMIC BACKGROUNDS, AND ENABLES THEM TO FOCUS THEIR TIME AND ENERGY ON LEARNING AND CREATING.
2700 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34234-5895
941.309.4733
giving@ringling.edu | ringling.edu
“I was honored to lead Venice Theatre’s 2024 Giving Challenge, building on past successes of ranking in the top 10 of large organizations, with the guidance of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County,” says Advancement Associate Christine Pitts. “As we prepare for the 2026 Giving Challenge, I look forward to advancing the final phase of our $25 million capital campaign to rebuild the Jervey Theatre, damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022.”
“What moves me most about the Giving Challenge is seeing small gifts add up to create a big impact,” says Jillian Ptak, Director of Development, The Center of Anna Maria Island. “It’s incredible to be part of a 24-hour movement where the whole community comes together. For us, that means keeping programs strong for kids, families and seniors so the Center remains a place where everyone feels supported and part of a community.”
The $1,119.13 raised had a profound impact. Funds purchased tools for smoke detector installations, volunteer shirts and hardware for home repairs for three families. The Lewis family’s kitchen was restored with new sink hardware. The Smiths received window and flooring repairs, improving safety. The Ramos family’s walls were rebuilt, renewing their sense of home. For the Lewises, a functional kitchen meant cooking without worry. “It’s like getting our home’s heart back,” Mrs. Lewis shared. The Smiths’ new windows and floors made their home safer. For the Ramoses, rebuilt walls o ered a fresh start. “It’s more than walls,” Mr. Ramos said.
Number of nonprofits that participated in the 2024 Giving Challenge
Military Heritage Museum’s Pop-Up Giving Challenge raised nearly $146,000 through community collaboration, matching gifts and local support.
For 24 hours between noon April 9, 2024, and noon April 10, 2024, the Military Heritage Museum participated in the Giving Challenge with hundreds of other local nonprofits. We chose to have fun while raising money by hosting a large Pop-Up Giving Challenge Station. Our goal was to sponsor a community a air, where our emphasis for donors to “Be The One” would make a di erence to Charlotte County. Keys to our financial success were good planning and organization, community involvement, extensive marketing and publicity, volunteer and Board of Directors participation and most of all, generous donors and multiple matches. We encouraged local community involvement from businesses and the Punta Gorda city government. The city provided us with free bottles of drinking water. We came to the Pop-Up with computers and table displays and sta ready to take donations from donors as they entered the building. We provided entertainment throughout the Pop-Up in our Gulf Theatre, including dancing by the Calendar Girls, singing by the Gator Wilderness Camp School Choir and local singer Zarita Maddox, a K-9 demonstration and a bird show. We are so grateful to the Community Foundation and The Patterson Foundation as well as all the donors, who by their donations, helped to keep the doors open to our beloved museum.
“We wanted to present a microcosm of social purpose needs in Charlotte County in our Pop-Up,” shares the Military Heritage Museum. “Accordingly, we invited a diversity of nonprofits to join us in a large Pop-Up Giving Station at our museum.”
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens Giving is in full bloom at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens.
Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens is a 30-acre riverside sanctuary where diverse ecosystems, vibrant year-round blooms and striking sculptures come together along scenic boardwalks and tranquil waters. Here’s how participating in the 2024 Giving Challenge boosted our impact:
A Bushel of Support Garden givers: $21,810. Patterson match: $15,350. Total raised: $37,170.
Vitamin C for Our Programming
Free field trips, nonprofit partnerships and free memberships and passes to low-income families are just some of the ways that we foster appreciation and understanding, provide access to those less fortunate and inspire creativity in our community. Our cultural exhibitions and world-class sculptures create the perfect backdrop.
Adults With Disabilities Empowerment Whether it’s working side by side in our garden beds, participating in free, monthly therapeu-
tic horticulture sessions with our partners at The Loveland Center and Goodwill, or simply savoring a tranquil stroll through the gardens, connections are formed that transcend di erences and celebrate the unique qualities of each individual.
Senior Engagement We’re dedicated to supporting our senior community by o ering a diverse range of programs tailored to promote healthy aging. From yoga and leisurely strolls, which benefit cardiovascular health and mobility,
to engaging with the diverse flora and fauna that stimulate cognitive function, to o ering a vibrant volunteer program that brings purpose, seniors find fulfillment and enrichment in our tranquil surroundings.
Peel the Love, Share the Joy! If every one of our 16,000 newsletter readers donates just $25 in the upcoming 2026 Giving Challenge, our nonprofit could receive $800,000. That’s the sweetness of community.