Article
The Charity Register
Agape Flights
Resource center for more than 300 missionary families, providing logistic support, including weekly flights for mail and critical and emergency supplies, short-term volunteer teams, distribution of medical and other ministry supplies.
Executive Director: Charles Gardner
Address: 7990 15th St. E., Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.agapeflights.com
Mission Statement: Help missionaries bridge the gap between what their sending organizations can provide and what they need to accomplish their call to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet the needs of the people they serve.
Volunteer Opportunities: Sort and package medicine and supplies, aircraft maintenance, computer entry, office work, Web page design and maintenance.
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 355-5099
All Children’s Hospital Guild—Sarasota Branch
All-volunteer organization to render volunteer service and assistance, to raise funds and further community relations for All Children’s Hospital.
President: Erin Lazo
Address: P.O. Box 3142, St. Petersburg, FL 33731-3142
Web site: www.allkids.org
Mission Statement: To enhance the quality of care and availability of services to the children of All Children’s Hospital and Specialty Care of Sarasota through fund-raising activities, promotion of community awareness and volunteer services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: For the Love of All Children
Date: Nov. 5, 2005
Location: Sarasota University Club
Ticket Price: $75
Event Chair: Peggy Albano
Contact Telephone: (727) 767-4199
All Faiths Food Bank
Solicits, warehouses, processes and distributes food to nonprofit agency partners offering hunger relief.
Executive Director: Daniel E. Dunn
Address: 717 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.allfaithsfoodbank.org
Mission Statement: Feed those in need, reduce food waste and educate the community about the issues of hunger in Sarasota and DeSoto counties.
Volunteer Opportunities: Sorters and events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Empty Bowls—Thanksgiving Day-related program. 2) Taste of the Nation—Evening of sampling food and wine from numerous Sarasota restaurants, along with music, exercise and laughter. 3) Giving Hunger the Blues—Daylong festival featuring area bands, games, food and beverages.
Date: 1) Nov. 13, 2005. 2) March 2006. 3) April 2006.
Location: 1) Phillippi Estate Mansion. 2) Robarts Arena. 3) Hillview Street.
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: 1) Ann Darling. 2) LandMark Bank. 3) George Generosa.
Contact Telephone: (941) 379-6333, Aundria Shootes
ALSO Out Youth
Providing a drop-in center, outreach support groups, HIV education, a youth speak-out panel and diversity training.
Executive Director: Lori Stephens Tomlinson
Address: 1470 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.alsoyouth.org
Mission Statement: Promote the health and safety of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, intersex and questioning youth.
Volunteer Opportunities: Support group facilitators, office work, special events, program presenters.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual banquet and awards ceremony—Dinner with awards presented to national and local personalities in recognition of their contributions to ALSO and its mission.
Date, Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 951-2576
Alzheimer’s Association—Florida Gulf Coast Chapter
As an area chapter of the National Alzheimer’s Association, the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter addresses the educational and support needs of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a memory-related disorder.
Executive Director: Gloria J.T. Smith
Address: 1230 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.alz-tbc.org
Mission Statement: Provide a support system for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease through patient and family services, education, advocacy and research.
Volunteer Opportunities: Special events committees, support group facilitation, leadership council, office support and special projects.
Main Fund-raising Event: Memory Walk—Annual national walkathon.
Date: March 2006
Location: TBA
Ticket Price: Free admission, participating walkers collect donations prior to walk.
Event Chair: Cindy Marino
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-8883
American Cancer Society—Sarasota Unit
Executive Director: Cynthia Dunlap
Address: 2801 Fruitville Road, Suite 250, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.cancer.org
Mission Statement: The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.
Volunteer Opportunities: Road to Recovery coordinator and drivers; various events (committees, teams, etc.).
Main Fund-raising Event: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Date: Oct. 8, 2005
Location: Sarasota Polo Club
Ticket Price: Free
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-2858
American Cancer Society—South Sarasota Unit (Venice)
Provides free patient services and cancer education in the community and promotes advocacy efforts in Florida and fund national cancer research.
Executive Director: Amy Tougaw
Address: 333 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 375, Venice, FL 34285
Web site: www.cancer.org
Mission Statement: Eliminate cancer as a major health problem through prevention and diminish suffering through research, education, advocacy and service.
Volunteer Opportunities: Patient services, working in our community resource room, physician outreach, volunteer driver, cancer education speaker, fund-raising committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Cattle Baron’s Ball—Dress in your denim and diamonds for a Western-themed good time. 2) Relay for Life—Teams walk, jog or run relay-style for 18 hours, plus a cancer survivor dinner and candle-lighting ceremony.
Date: 1) Nov. 12, 2005. 2) Spring 2006.
Location: 1) Venice Community Center. 2) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) $75. 2) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Kristen Heiden; Lynn F. Lewis, honorary chair. 2) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 497-4309 ext. 23
American Heart Association
Executive Director: Jimmy Tsagaris
Address: 2975 Bee Ridge Road, Suite B, Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.americanheart.org
Mission Statement: Reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Volunteer Opportunities: Heart Walk, Heart Ball, community advocacy.
Main Fund-raising Event: American Heart Walk
Date: Oct. 22, 2005
Location: Siesta Key Beach
Ticket Price: Pledge event
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 927-4997
American Jewish Committee—West Coast Florida Chapter
Established in 1906 to work towards a world in which all peoples are accorded respect and dignity.
Executive Director: Edda Sara Post
Address: 2055 Wood St., Suite 218, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.ajc.org
Mission Statement: Safeguard the welfare and security of Jews in the United States, in Israel and throughout the world; strengthen the basic principles of pluralism around the world as the best defense against anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry; enhance the quality of American Jewish life by helping to ensure Jewish continuity and deepen ties between American and Israeli Jews.
Volunteer Opportunities: Standing committees related to programs, membership, development, community relations, education and pluralism and ad hoc committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: Human Relations Award Event
Date: Feb. 7, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $250
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-4955
American Red Cross—Southwest Florida Chapter
Local chapter of the nationwide volunteer agency that helps individuals and families in need as a result of disasters.
Executive Director: Kevin Lindberg
Address: 2001 Cantu Court, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.southwestflorida.redcross.org
Mission Statement: Provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Volunteer Opportunities: Disaster mitigation, disaster relief, health and safety instruction, clerical, data entry and reception.
Main Fund-raising Event: A Taste for Life—Area restaurants donate proceeds from one day’s food sales.
Date: Jan. 6, 2006
Location: Local area restaurants
Ticket Price: Dinner purchase
Event Chairs: Shelley Lister and Jennifer Compton
Contact Telephone: (941) 379-9300 ext. 223
American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Florida West Coast Chapter/Sarasota
Professional organization of interior designers and related industries.
Executive Director: Carol Field
Address: 7557 Tamiami Trail S., Sarasota, FL 34231
E-mail: [email protected]
Mission Statement: Promote professional development and education, increase public awareness of ASID, support community service, encourage and improve participation of membership while attracting new members.
Volunteer Opportunities: Showhouse tour guides.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual ASID Designer Showhouse—Member designers re-create a bayfront residence, then invite the public to tour the home. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs, Ringling School of Art and Design and University of South Florida.
Date: January 2006
Location: TBA
Ticket Price: $20
Contact Telephone: (941) 926-7794
Animal Rescue Coalition
Advocacy group for adoptable animals and spay and neuter programs.
Executive Director: Mary Lee Richey
Address: 47 S. Palm Ave., Suite 209, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.animalrescuecoalition.org
Mission Statement: End the killing of adoptable cats and dogs in Sarasota County, and promote and support programs involving beneficial relationships between people and companion animals.
Volunteer Opportunities: Events, office and clerical, feral cat program and mobile spay/neuter clinic.
Main Fund-raising Event: Gala 2006, Best in Show—An evening of dinner and dancing.
Date: Feb. 18, 2006
Location: Hyatt Sarasota
Ticket Price: $250
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 957-1955
Aquarian Quest
Provides hands-on marine/ecology education for young people.
Executive Director: Jan Kirchner
Address: P.O. Box 550, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.aquarianquest.org
Mission Statement: Celebrate life and create caretakers of the earth through school ship sailing adventures.
Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer and sail on the schooner helping with school sails. Call (941) 587-9313 for details.
Main Fund-raising Event: Wooden Boat Festival—Celebrating community water resources.
Date: March 2006
Location: Sarasota Sailing Squadron
Ticket Price: Free
Event Chair: Jan Kirchner
Contact Telephone: (941) 809-7700
Art Center Sarasota
Sarasota’s oldest arts and cultural organization.
Office Administrator: Jackie Cory
Address: 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236-4050
Web site: www.artsarasota.org
Mission Statement: Develop, promote and sustain a vital, thriving visual arts climate throughout the community and initiate support and enhance the arts in Sarasota through education and exhibition programs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Greeters for receptions and exhibitions, youth and adult class monitors and reception desk greeter.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Holiday Boat Parade—Participate in Sarasota’s annual holiday boat parade aboard the luxurious Lady Sarasota yacht. 2) Annual Fashion Show—Art-themed fashion show in collaboration with Designing Women.
Date: 1) Dec. 10, 2005. 2) Feb. 7, 2006.
Location: 1) Depart from Hyatt Sarasota pier. 2) Michael’s On East.
Ticket Price: 1) TBA 2) $65/members, $75/non-members.
Event Chairs: 1) Joan Wood. 2) Jane Smiley.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-2032
Arthritis Foundation/Southwest Region
Provides patient education, program services and research funding for those with arthritis.
Executive Director: Jay K. Burnell
Address: 402-412 Old Main St., Bradenton, FL 34205
Web site: www.arthritis.org
Mission Statement: The Arthritis Foundation improves lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases.
Volunteer Opportunities: Arthritis education, special projects/events, community advocate, clerical duties, fund raising and volunteer instructors to be trained for Aquacize, Tai Chi for Arthritis and the Arthritis Self-Help course.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Jingle Bell Run/Walk—Manatee’s largest 5k run. 2) Arthritis Walk/Run—5k walk/run for individuals, teams and pets. (One mile option and Doggie Walk for both events.)
Date: 1) TBA 2) Bradenton, May 18, 2006 (also: Venice and Naples, May 2006).
Location: 1) Bradenton. 2) Bradenton, Venice, Naples.
Ticket Price: 1) Pre-registration (through Nov. 25), $20/adult, $15/child under 12; registration, $25/adult, $20/child under 12. 2) Free registration—individual and team donations are requested. (Pets welcome to participate in both events.)
Event Chairs: 1) Jay Burnell. 2) Varies by location.
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 794-1400 ext. 227, Jay Burnell. 2) (800) 741-4008 ext. 227.
Asolo Theatre Company
Professional theater company performing with a resident company in rotating repertory.
Executive Director: Howard J. Millman
Address: 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.asolo.org
Mission Statement: To produce high-quality professional theater in a fiscally responsible manner for its community; to perform primarily in rotating repertory with a resident company celebrating the actor-artist; to attract regional, national and international audiences of all ages and backgrounds; and to provide a training ground for FSU graduate students.
Volunteer Opportunities: Ushers, tour guides, gift shop, administrative and special events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Season Gala—Dinner, dance, show benefiting the Asolo artistic and educational programs. 2) Purely “Howard”—Dinner, dance, show honoring outgoing producing artistic director Howard J. Millman and benefiting the artistic and educational programs. 3) Sneak Preview—NYC agent showcase presented by FSU/Asolo Conservatory graduating class of 2006 benefiting the scholarship program.
Date: 1) Jan. 28, 2006. 2) April 23, 2006. 3) TBA.
Location: 1) TBA 2) Michael’s On East. 3) FSU Center for the Performing Arts.
Ticket Price: 1) $250, $500 and $1,000. 2) TBA 3) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Nikki Feldbaum and Leslie Sharp-Ralph. 2) Carolyn Michel 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 351-9010
Backlot Arts, Inc. (The Backlot)
A new cooperative arts and education facility providing accessibility to the arts, sports and education for underserved audiences and children of all ages.
Executive Director: Mark Marvell
Address: 2211 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.backlotarts.com
Mission Statement: Facilitate, promote and advance creative community collaborations that open the mind and feed the soul through accessibility to the arts and education.
Volunteer Opportunities: Administrative, events, marketing, ushers.
Contact Telephone: (941) 400-8401
Banyan Theater Company
Professional theater company performing in the summer months.
Executive Director: Jerry M. Finn
Address: P.O. Box 49483, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.banyantheatercompany.com
Mission Statement: To produce theater in the summer, to showcase outstanding actors performing in plays of high literary merit—including works by playwrights such as Shaw, Chekhov, Ibsen, Pinter and Tennessee Williams; and to maintain a summer theater festival in Sarasota to rival similar attractions in other areas of the country.
Volunteer Opportunities: Box office, prop search, backstage, ushers.
Main Fund-raising Event: Golf tournament.
Date: Sep. 19, 2005
Location: Prestancia Country Club
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Stephen Johnson
Contact Telephone: (941) 358-5330
Bethesda House
A ministry of Catholic Charities that provides counseling, group support, case management, a food pantry, laundry, shower, assistance with housing and benefits to those infected with and affected by the HIV/AIDS virus.
Executive Director: Derick Fabien, M.S., P.M.P.
Address: 1670 Fourth St., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.catholiccharitiesdov.org/NeedHelp/HIVAIDSMinistry
Mission Statement: Respond to the physical, social and spiritual needs of HIV-infected and affected people.
Volunteer Opportunities: Receptionist, transportation, food pantry, food shipping, food drive, fund-raising, education support groups, prayer advocates, home and hospital visits.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Musical Night. 2) Giant Rummage Sale.
Date: 1) Dec. 1, 2005. 2) Jan. 28–29, 2006.
Location: 1) Bishop Nevins Academy. 2) St. Thomas More Church.
Ticket Price: 1) $20. 2) Free.
Event Chairs: 1) Dr. Janice Leroux, Derick Fabie.n 2) Dr. Janice Leroux, Dr. Ed Nemeth.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-1886
Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Inc.
Provides one-to-one mentoring to area children to empower youth to develop self-worth and responsibility.
President and CEO: Joy Mahler
Address: 2831 Ringling Blvd., A-201, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.bbbssun.org
Mission Statement: Provide one-to-one mentoring to children throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Volunteer Opportunities: Adult volunteer mentors for children.
Main Fund-raising Event: Venice Comedy and Lively Arts Auction.
Date: Nov. 5, 2005
Location: Plantation Golf and Country Club
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 331-4376
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota
Works with boys and girls to develop responsible, caring and productive citizens.
President and CEO: J. Mack Reid
Address: P.O. Box 4068, Sarasota, FL 34230-4068
Web site: www.boysandgirlsclubs.com
Mission Statement: To inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Kids’ Night Out dinner and auction.
Date: Nov. 17, 2005
Location: Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Christine Davis
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-3911
Breast Health Sarasota, Inc.
Raises funds for Sarasota women and their families in need.
Chairs: Deanna Doyle-Vallery, M.D., Suellen Kaeb
Address: 3663 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
Web site: www.breasthealthsarasota.org
Mission Statement: Facilitate breast cancer prevention and early detection for women of Sarasota County in need.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Golf Tournament. 2) 3k Walk for Awareness.
Dates, Locations, Ticket Prices: TBA
Event Chair: Suellen Kaeb
Contact Telephone: (941) 927-2226
Camp Florida Fish Tales
A week-long, barrier-free wheelchair-accessible camp for children with medical or physical disabilities.
Executive Director: Muffet Einwag
Address: P.O. Box 21682, Sarasota, FL 34276
Web site: www.campflafishtales.com
Mission Statement: Provide a unique camping atmosphere for those with special challenges.
Volunteer Opportunities: Camp counselors, EMTs, lifeguards, nurses, physical and occupational therapists.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Annual golf tournament. 2) Springfest Block Party.
Date: 1) Dec. 2005. 2) April 2006.
Location: 1) TBA 2) Superior Avenue, Gulf Gate.
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Muffet Einwag
Contact Telephone: (941) 921-9182
Cardinal Mooney High School
The area’s only Catholic, independent college prep school offering a broad range of advanced academics, sports and arts in a safe, family-friendly environment.
President: Sister Mary Lucia Haas
Address: 4171 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.cmhs-sarasota.org
Mission Statement: Provide an excellent, values-based education in a small, family-oriented environment while emphasizing service to God and the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Event coordination, donation solicitation, ticket sales, mailings, computer entry, decorating, hospitality.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) 33rd Annual Dinner Auction, featuring more than 250 silent and live auction items, entertainment and dinner. 2) Golf tournament.
Date: 1) April 8, 2006. 2) Oct. 29, 2005.
Location: 1) Longboat Key Club. 2) Bent Tree Country Club.
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Michele Ruane and Michelle Hazeltine. 2) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 379-2647
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc.
Part of the nation’s largest network of agencies, institutions and individuals who aim to reduce poverty, support families and empower communities.
Executive Director: Peter Routsis-Arroyo, LCSW
Address: 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285
Web site: www.catholiccharitiesdov.org
Mission Statement: Provide direct services for, advocate on behalf of, and convene the people of Southwest Florida to ensure human dignity, enhance the quality of life for all people, and emulate the teachings of Jesus.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Catholic Charities Ball.
Date: Jan. 21, 2006
Location: Hyatt Sarasota
Ticket Price: $175
Event Chairs: Jack Thompson and Beverly Ryan
Contact Telephone: (941) 379-5119
Charis Center, Inc.
Offers professional counseling and family-life education for all ages.
Executive Director: Glen Denlinger, LCSW, BCD
Address: 4041 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.chariscenterfl.org
Mission Statement: Provide professional counseling and family-life education services to meet the emotional, relational and spiritual needs of individuals and families.
Child Protection Center Inc.
Works toward the prevention of child abuse.
Executive Director: Harold H. Hedley, Ed.D.
Address: 1750 17th St., Building L, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.childprotectioncenter.org
Mission Statement: Child abuse prevention, intervention and treatment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Supervise court-ordered visits between non-custodial parents and children; numerous opportunities also available to assist with special events and fund-raising activities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Sarasota Comedy Festival—Stand-up comedians and nationally syndicated cartoonists.
Date: March 20–25, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East and TBA
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-1277 ext. 118
Children First, Inc.
Provides comprehensive services to more than 550 of Sarasota County’s lowest-income families and their children from birth to five years.
Executive Director: Philip D. Tavill
Address: 1723 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.childrenfirst.net
Mission Statement: Strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health and well-being.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call Hope Kinney, program director at (941) 953-3877 for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Children First Celebration—Series of events bringing attention to and support for very young children and families living in poverty.
Date: Feb. 23–26, 2006
Location: Events throughout Sarasota County
Ticket Price: $10–$100
Event Chair: Committee-chaired
Contact Telephone: (941) 953-3877
Children’s Haven and Adult Community Services, Inc. (CHAC)
Creates solutions and makes changes in the lives of children, teens and adults with disabilities through education, occupational training, skill training, employment services and community living programs.
President and CEO: Peggy J. Connell
Address: 4405 Desoto Road, Sarasota, FL 34235
Web site: www.chachaven.com
Mission Statement: Empower the lives of children, teens and adults with disabilities, one person at a time.
Volunteer Opportunities: Selby preschool, plant nursery, CHAC farm project, Treasure House thrift shop, administration, maintenance, occupational training program, Active Arts.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Fourth Annual “Handi-capable Award & Celebration”—Showcasing an individual with disabilities who has exemplified courage in their own life, as well as the lives of others. 2) 8th Annual Jingle and Jog 5k Road Race.
Date: 1) April 2006. 2) Dec. 3, 2005.
Location: 1) Lakewood Ranch, John Cannon model home. 2) 4405 Desoto Road.
Ticket Price: 1) TBA 2) $17 in advance; $20 day of.
Event Chair: Marla Doss
Contact Telephone: (941) 355-8808 ext. 224
Circus Sarasota
Produces a month-long show in February and has education and human service programs throughout the year.
Executive Director: Pedro Reis
Address: P.O. Box 1836, Sarasota, FL 34276
Web site: www.circussarasota.org
Mission Statement: Circus Sarasota provides programs at the highest level through education, human service and the performing arts.
Volunteer Opportunities: Ushers, administrative, box office and gala committee.
Main Fund-raising Event: The Art of Circus—Dining, dancing and circus entertainment.
Date: Jan. 14, 2006
Location: Under the Big Top at Tuttle Avenue and Ringling Boulevard
Ticket Price: $150–$250/person; $1,000–$2,250/tables.
Event Chairs: Mary Ann Robinson and Lee Peterson, co-chairs
Contact Telephone: (941) 355-9335
Coastal Behavioral Healthcare, Inc.
Provides more than 50 substance abuse, mental health, criminal justice, prevention, intervention and treatment programs in Manatee, Sarasota, DeSoto, Charlotte, Lee and Hendry counties.
Executive Director: Dr. Christine Cauffield
Address: 1565 State St., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.coastalbh.org
Mission Statement: Offer affordable behavioral healthcare services that exceed customer expectations for quality, availability and satisfaction.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Caring for Our Community Breakfast
Date: Oct. 26, 2005
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 927-8900 ext. 3328
Coastal Resources Foundation, Inc.
Raises funds for youth-oriented projects and gives grants to teachers for special projects about the environment, state and country.
Executive Director: R. Earl Warren
Address: 359 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, FL 34295-1207
E-mail: [email protected]
Mission Statement: Help youth achieve their goals with grants and scholarships.
Volunteer Opportunities: Coordinate and run local events. Manage and operate Cora Stroh Environmental Youth Park on Beach Road in Englewood.
Contact Telephone: (941) 474-7768
Community AIDS Network
HIV medical, dental and case management services.
Executive Director: Susan Terry
Address: 1231 N. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.cansrq.org
Mission Statement: To provide service to HIV-positive people including medical, dental and case management.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, administrative, HIV testing.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) CAN Dance—Ballroom championship dancing event. 2) All That Glitters.
Date: 1) Oct. 22, 2005. 2) March 20, 2006
Location: 1) Chelsea Center. 2) Golden Apple Dinner Theatre.
Ticket Price: 1) $175. 2) $125.
Event Chairs: 1) Renee Sheade. 2) Mary Ann Robinson.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-0461
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County The Community Foundation is a public charity that helps people support the causes they care about the most. For more than 25 years, the Foundation has encouraged individuals and organizations in Sarasota County to create permanent charitable funds that are for good, forever. It partners with others to make charitable giving work in our area. Annual grants and scholarships from permanent funds support the arts, education, civic engagement, health and human services, animal welfare and the environment. The Foundation is also the home of the Nonprofit Resource Center, which has a new volunteer consulting program, an additional resource that strengthens the capacity of nonprofits to serve our community.
As of June 1, 2005
Assets: $121.6 million
Total Grants: $6 million
Total Scholarships: $700,000
Number of Grants and Scholarships: 839
Range of Grants: $100 to $349,540
President and CEO: Stewart W. Stearns
Board Chair: Sophia LaRusso
Address: 2635 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.sarasota-foundation.org
Mission Statement: Stewardship to our community by encouraging and enabling caring individuals to easily and effectively support the charitable causes that they care about in perpetuity.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office mailings and special events.
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-3000
Community Mobile Meals of Sarasota County, Inc.
All-volunteer meal delivery service to shut-ins living in Sarasota.
Executive Director: Stanley Jeffers
Address: P.O. Box 178, Sarasota, FL 34230
Mission Statement: Deliver noon meals six days a week, holidays included, 52 weeks a year to shut-ins in Sarasota.
Volunteer Opportunities: Drivers, kitchen workers. Call 330-8683 for details.
Main Fund-raising Event: Once-a-year private mailing.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-6693
The Community Music School of Southwest Florida
Individual and group music instruction in all instruments and voice. More than half the school’s students are on scholarship or are in no-fee group programs.
Executive Director: Mary C. Geldi
Address: 2477 Stickney Point Road, #315B, Sarasota, FL 34231
Mission Statement: Provide individual and group music instruction to anyone who wants to learn, regardless of age, experience or ability to play.
Volunteer Opportunities: Teaching, office, fund raising, events, program assistance, newsletter, publicity, grant writing, board of trustees and community advisory board.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Direct from Carnegie Hall”—Sumptuous dinner with silent auction, followed by a Grieg and Shostakovich concert by a trio of renowned musicians direct from their Carnegie Hall performance.
Date: Nov. 9, 2005
Location: Chelsea Center and St. Thomas More Church
Ticket Price: $125 dinner and performance; $20 performance only
Event Chairs: Eleanor and Bert Schweigaard-Olsen, Gale and Tom MacCabe
Contact Telephone: (941) 929-1859
Community Video Archives (CVA)
Produces a living (video) history of the Sarasota community and its outstanding people.
President: Annette Scherman
Address: 1235 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239
Mission Statement: Record and preserve a living history of the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Everyone in this organization is a volunteer, except for professional video producers, who are paid per project.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual Hall of Fame Luncheon—Honorees are inducted into Hall of Fame.
Date: April 12, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $60
Event Chair: Roberta Hamilton
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-7052
Community Youth Development Project
Identifies needs of teens and develops positive substance-free activities to meet those needs.
Executive Director: Karen Bogues
Address: 4409 Sawyer Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
Web site: www.cydonline.org
Mission Statement: Enrich the lives of teens through partnerships with adults to create opportunities for youth to make positive choices.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office work, event planning.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Starry, Starry Night” Prom
Date: June 3, 2006
Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 922-5126
Construction Technology Careers Preapprenticeship Partnership for Youth
Started as a drop-out prevention program that has now expanded. Fifty youths in the program in 2005.
Coordinator: Kristey Richardson
Address: 1750 17th St., Building J2, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.constructiontechnologycareers.org
Mission Statement: Preapprenticeship partnership to provide career exploration coursework and services to disadvantaged youth in Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Volunteer Opportunities: Speaker’s bureau, mentors, grant writers, clerical.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual fund-raising event
Date: March 16, 2006
Location: TBA
Ticket Price: $35
Event Chair: Blythe McDonough
Contact Telephone: (941) 361-6090 ext. 113
Consumer Credit Counseling Services of Central Florida and the Florida Gulf Coast, Inc.
Provides confidential, financial, housing and debt management counseling. Conducts cash flow management and wise use of credit education programs and first-time homebuyer workshops.
Division President: William R. Potter
Address: 1750 17th St., Unit D, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.cccsfl.org
Mission Statement: Help people achieve financial wellness.
Volunteer Opportunities: Education presenters
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual golf tournament
Date: May 2006
Location: Odessa, FL
Ticket Price: $75
Event Chair: William R. Potter
Contact Telephone: (813) 287-8915
Crowley Museum and Nature Center
Nature conservancy of 190 acres with nature trails, pioneer history buildings and weekly education programs.
Executive Director: Debbie Dixon
Address: 16405 Myakka Road, Sarasota, FL 34240
Web site: www.crowleymuseumnaturectr.org
Mission Statement: Preserve a natural site where today’s and tomorrow’s generations learn about, appreciate and enjoy the environment and cultural history of the rural Gulf Coast of Florida.
Volunteer Opportunities: Land and building maintenance, office, computer admissions, trail guides, school programs, museum collections and exhibits, building restoration.
Main Fund-raising Event: Starry Nite—Gourmet dinner and silent auction with amazing celestial sights via powerful telescopes.
Date: January 2006
Location: Crowley Museum and Nature Center
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 322-1000
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
Raises awareness about cystic fibrosis and funds to fight the disease.
Executive Director: April Johnson
Address: 677 Washington Blvd. N., Suite 15, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.cff.org
Mission Statement: Assure development of the means to cure and control cystic fibrosis and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office work, volunteering at events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Black & White Ball “Gone Mad.” 2) Fifth Annual Cystic Fibrosis Celebrity Golf Classic.
Date: 1) Nov. 11, 2005. 2) Nov. 15, 2005.
Location: 1) Michael’s On East. 2) Laurel Oak Country Club.
Ticket Price: 1) $150. 2) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Kathy Hirsch, Sarah Morgan, Leslie Sharp-Ralph, Lisa Skirball. 2) Knickole Barger and Darin Landis.
Contact Telephone: (941) 952-5836
Dattoli Cancer Foundation
Fund-raising organization for prostate cancer research.
Executive Director: Don Kaltenbach
Address: 2803 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.pcrn.org
Mission Statement: Raise awareness of prostate cancer and the need for early and annual screening, provide information and support to newly diagnosed patients and foster research into better diagnostic tools and treatment options.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Contact Telephone: (800) 915-1001
Designing Women Boutique
High-style, not-for-profit boutique for consigned and new designer fashion and accessories plus collectibles and imported antique furniture.
President: Jean Weidner
Address: 1226 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Mission Statement: Meaningfully grow the funding for our community’s art, endowment and human services through innovative marketing of unique couture apparel and fine home furnishings.
Volunteer Opportunities: Year-round or seasonal—sales, computer work, event coordination and support (dressers, hostesses, etc.), administrative support, speaker’s bureau, handyman. Call Vicky at (941) 343-9646.
Main Fund-raising Event: Designing Women Fashion Week 2005.
Date: Nov. 7–12, 2005
Location: Designing Women Boutique
Ticket Price: $50–$500
Event Chairs: Shelley Lister, Brian Wiggins, Margaret Wise
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-5293
Domestic Abuse Shelter Homes, Inc. (DASH)
Offers services and referrals to victims of abuse.
Executive Director: Donna M. Leclerc
Address: P.O. Box 1484, Englewood, FL 34295-1484
Web site: www.dashinc.org
Mission Statement: Serving Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto and Manatee counties, DASH, Inc. provides transitional housing and direct services to primary victims and their families (men, women and children/teens). Services are at no charge and include food, transportation, mandatory psycho-counseling referrals relating to domestic abuse, substance abuse and anger management, as well as life management and parenting skills.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office help, fund raising, receptionist duties, speaking.
Main Fund-raising Event: Fashion show/luncheon featuring an FBI profiler and the state attorney general.
Date: November 2005
Location: Boca Royale Country Club
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 475-8722
Dreams are Free at Bishop Nevins Academy
School for children ages six to 15 with learning disabilities.
Interim Principal: Dorothy Novak
Address: 4380 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34232-1623
Web site: www.dreamsarefree.org
Mission Statement: A faith-friendly Catholic school designed to nurture the spiritual and academic growth and development of students with special learning needs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Dinner auction—Silent and live auction, live music, dinner and professional dancing performance.
Date, Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-4010
Ear Research Foundation
Foundation formed by Dr. Herbert Silverstein to provide support for research, education and community service.
President and Founder: Herbert Silverstein, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Executive Director: Jessica Stevens
Address: 1901 Floyd St., Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.earsinus.org
Mission Statement: Train physicians and educate the public about the subspecialty of otologic surgery and perform clinical research into the treatment of diseases affecting the ear and balance systems.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Hear and Now fund raiser—Dinner, live music, silent auction and world-renowned jazz musicians.
Date: Nov. 3, 2005
Location: Longboat Key Club
Ticket Price: $150
Event Chairs: Seth Rosenberg, M.D. and Gregory Band, Esq.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-0367
Easter Seals Southwest Florida, Inc.
Providing educational and therapeutic services to disabled children and adults.
President and CEO: Mary Hitchcock
Address: 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.swfl.easterseals.org
Mission Statement: Create solutions that change lives through high-quality therapeutic, educational and support services for children, adults and families.
Volunteer Opportunities: Assisting disabled or special needs children and adults.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Annual Meadows Cup Pro-Am Golf Tournament. 2) Easter Seals “Walk With Me” walkathon.
Date: 1) April 2006. 2) May 2006.
Location: 1) Meadows County Club. 2) New College of Florida campus.
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Cheryl Kopman
Contact Telephone: (941) 355-7637 ext. 412
Education Foundation of Sarasota County, Inc.
Provides private funds to ensure educational opportunities that public dollars cannot provide for more than 41,000 children in local schools.
Executive Director: Dorothy B. Stuart
Address: 1960 Landings Blvd., Suite 326, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.EdFoundation.net
Mission Statement: Support, promote and provide opportunities for educational excellence for all students in Sarasota County public schools.
Volunteer Opportunities: Grant readers, science fair judges, scholarship selection and event fund raiser committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: Evening of Excellence—Elegant dinner and spirited student art auction showcasing outstanding high school talent.
Date: Feb. 24, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $175, $250, sponsorships available.
Event Chair: Libby Early
Contact Telephone: (941) 927-0965
Englewood Helping Hand, Inc.
A community-supported social services agency that provides short-term immediate assistance, prescription medication and coordination of services with other appropriate agencies. Referrals are also made to agencies that can serve clients in need of ongoing assistance.
Executive Director: Kathryn Roach
Address: P.O. Box 791/700 E. Dearborn St., Englewood, FL 34223
Web site: www.ewol.com/helpinghand
Mission Statement: Provide short-term emergency service to Englewood residents.
Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteers are scheduled through their churches.
Main Fund-raising Event: Englewood Crop Walk—Five-mile walk.
Date: February 2006
Location: Community Presbyterian Church
Ticket Price: Free. Sponsors pledge funds.
Event Chair: Kathryn Roach
Contact Telephone: (941) 474-5864
Every Child, Inc.
Volunteers who work together to help needy kids stay in school.
Executive Director: Judy Alexander
Address: 1700 North Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239-5017
Mission Statement: Encourage those children who live in Sarasota’s five housing projects to stay in school by providing necessary school supplies, holiday parties and supporting after-school programs and summer camps.
Volunteer Opportunities: Donations of school supplies, new books, holiday gifts. Distribution of school supplies and holiday gifts.
Main Fund-raising Event: “School Daze, Sophomore Year”—Fashion show by Willow 506, dancing after curfew, specialty drinks and voting for an adult prom king and queen.
Date: June 17, 2006
Location: Payne Park Auditorium
Ticket Price: $75, open bar and food.
Event Chair: Kim Livengood
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-5506
FACE of Sarasota, Inc.
Advocacy organization for people with craniofacial disorders.
Executive Director: Brooksie Bergen
Address: P.O. Box 1424, Sarasota, FL 34230
Mission Statement: Enhance the lives of people with craniofacial disorders, offer solace and guidance, create public awareness and fight prejudice.
Volunteer Opportunities: Secretaries, case history workers, visitation, mentoring, grant writing.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Cars and Rods Pumpkin Run—Car show, silent and live auctions and flea market benefiting FACE. 2)Dinner with all proceeds going to FACE.
Date: 1) Oct. 29, 2005. 2) TBA
Location: 1) Hampton Inn, Venice. 2) Ophelia’s on the Bay.
Ticket Price: 1) Donations, items for purchase. 2) TBA
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-9250
The Family Law Connection, Inc
Helps qualified individuals with minor children obtain legal representation in family law matters.
Executive Director: Denise Roberts
Address: 1750 17th St., B3, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.familylawconnection.org
Mission Statement: Help qualified individuals with minor children obtain free legal representation in family law matters.
Volunteer Opportunities: Pro-bono attorneys, volunteer intake specialists.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual Advocacy Luncheon
Date: TBA
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $50
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 952-9899
Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota, Inc.
A local alliance of families, community organizations and businesses committed to offering support and a variety of services to children with special needs, disabilities and the community at large.
Executive Director: Mary Smith
Address: P.O. Box 10707, Bradenton, FL 34282
Mission Statement: Provide support, training, education, information and advocacy to parents and families of individuals with disabilities, special needs and the community at large.
Volunteer Opportunities: Annual disability conference, workshops, special projects and fund-raising events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) 100 Holes for Charity Golf-a-Thon. 2) Christmas wreath sales—Fresh live Wisconsin Christmas wreaths. 3) Hunsader Farms pumpkin festival—Children’s area, game booths and prizes.
Date: 1) June 2006. 2) August–September 2005. 3) October 2005.
Location: 1) Pinebrook/Ironwood Golf Course, Bradenton. 2) Call (941) 358-0275 to place order. 3) Hunsader Farms.
Ticket Price: 1) Pledges per hole. 2) $25–$30. 3) Call for admission price.
Event Chairs: Nancy Marsh or Mary Smith
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 378-2295. 2) (941) 727-9905. 3) (941) 928-0682
Fine Arts Society of Sarasota, Inc.
Executive Director: Nancy Zemon and Marcia Sandground, co-presidents
Address: P.O. Box 1432, Sarasota, FL 34230
Mission Statement: To promote and stimulate appreciation of the arts of Sarasota County. To establish a permanent collection of Florida artists. To provide scholarships to Sarasota County students.
Volunteer Opportunities: Backstage and art tours at Van Wezel; hostesses for home tour.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) The Creators and Collectors Tour—Since 1970, a two-day tour of artists’ and art collectors’ homes and studios. 2) Celebrate the Arts Luncheon.
Date: 1) March 17–18 and April 21–22, 2006. 2) Dec. 5, 2005.
Location: 1) Sarasota County. 2) Michael’s On East.
Ticket Price: 1) $20. 2) $45.
Event Chairs: 1) Sylvia Reed. 2) Pat Whetstone-Foltz.
Contact Telephone: (941) 330-0680
First Step of Sarasota
A licensed, CARF-accredited, not-for-profit corporation promoting fully functioning, productive individuals whose lives are positive.
Executive Director: David J. Beesley, M.P.H.
Address: 1970 Main St., 5th floor, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.fsos.org
Mission Statement: A not-for-profit corporation whose mission is to treat and prevent alcohol/drug addiction and associated behavioral disorders, promoting fully functioning, productive individuals whose lives are positive.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Dinner and a Movie—Dinner followed by a movie in conjunction with the Sarasota Film Festival. 2) Third Annual Golf Classic—Tournament/scramble.
Date: 1) April 4, 2006. 2) April 10, 2006.
Location: 1) Sarasota University Club and Hollywood 20 Theaters. 2) TPC at Prestancia.
Ticket Price: 1) $100. 2) $150.
Event Chairs: 1) Lynne Ross. 2) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-5333
Flanzer Jewish Community Center
Open to everyone, the Flanzer JCC offers free and low-cost activities for people of all ages, from infants to older adults. Early childhood education, cultural arts, adult social and educational activities, Elderhostel, fitness programs, after-school programs and summer camps are all part of the Suncoast’s most active community center.
President and CEO: Marshall Klein
Address: 582 S. McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.flanzerjcc.org
Mission Statement: The Flanzer Jewish Community Center is founded on Jewish values and traditions. We are committed to enriching the quality of life of individuals and families within the entire community by providing social, educational, recreational and cultural programs, services, partnerships and leadership development.
Volunteer Opportunities: Coordinate social activities, serve as ushers, coach sports, assist with mailings, give tours and much more. Contact Brian Lipton at (941) 378-5569 ext. 206.
Contact Telephone: (941) 378-5568
The Florida Center for Child and Family Development, Inc
Works to strengthen and support families by providing prevention and early intervention services and mental health counseling expertise.
Executive Director: Peter D. Howard
Address: 4620 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34235
Web site: www.thefloridacenter.org
Mission Statement: Provide quality programs and services that focus on strengthening relationships within the family and the community, and that support the healthy development of children.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call Donnie at (941) 371-8820 ext. 1123.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) 18th Annual Festival of Trees, Lights and Holiday Gifts—Black-tie-optional dinner, drinks, auction and dancing. 2) Eighth Annual Thunder by the Bay Motorcycle Festival—three-day event featuring the Born To Be Wild kickoff party, music concert, poker run and downtown bike festival. 3) 22nd Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival.
Date: 1) Dec. 2, 2005. 2) Jan. 6–8, 2006. 3) June 24–July 2, 2006.
Location: 1) Michael’s On East. 2) Michael’s On East, Robarts Arena, downtown Sarasota. 3) Info: www.suncoastoffshore.org
Ticket Price: 1) $150. 2) $20.
Event Chairs: 1) Pam Erb and Eva Seger
Contact Telephone: (941) 371-8820 ext. 1030
Florida Restaurant Association (FRA), Sarasota Chapter
Association of restaurateurs, who, with the Sarasota Association of Realtors, donate their time and resources to a variety of charity programs.
President: Don McGee
Address: 1780 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34235
Web site: www.sarasotataste.com
Mission Statement: Foster goodwill in the community, encourage fraternal spirit and promote the restaurant/food service and home-building industries.
Volunteer Opportunities: Special event involvement
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Taste of Sarasota Chef’s Competition—Local chefs create their signature dishes. Both events benefit local children’s charities and affordable housing programs. 2) 20th Annual “Taste of Sarasota”—Showcasing restaurants from around the city presenting samples of their cuisine.
Date: 1) Oct. 10, 2005. 2) Oct. 23, 2005.
Location: 1) Hyatt Sarasota. 2) Downtown Sarasota.
Ticket Price: 1) $50/person; $75/couple. 2) $5/adult; free for children 14 and under.
Event Chairs: 1) Susan Brooks. 2) May Jang.
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 360-7777. 2) (941) 320-3775.
Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranch, Bradenton/Sarasota campus
Residential program to nurture needy, neglected boys and girls and provide a warm sense of security, guidance and tenderness.
Program Director: Dawn Edwards
Address: 751 Rye Wilderness Road, Bradenton, FL 34212
Web site: www.youthranches.org
Mission Statement: Prevent juvenile delinquency and develop lawful, productive citizens through a broad range of family-centered activities.
Volunteer Opportunities: Tutors
Main Fund-raising Event: 21st Annual Michelle Wells Memorial Golf Tournament
Date: June 2005
Location, Ticket price: TBA
Event Chair: Charla Eberly
Contact Telephone: (941) 776-1777
Florida Studio Theatre, Inc.
Professional theater that presents the finest in contemporary American theater.
Executive Director: Richard Hopkins
Address: 1241 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.fst2000.org
Mission Statement: To make theater accessible and affordable to as many people as possible; to present theater that challenges with as much gusto as it entertains; to be a positive, vital change agent in the community; to operate within and for the public trust with fiscal responsibility.
Volunteer Opportunities: Parking concierge, ushering, administration and production.
Main Fund-raising Event: Row Party—A black-tie gala event celebrating the opening of FST’s winter mainstage season.
Date, Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-9017
Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc.
Symphony orchestra and music education provider.
Executive Director: Joseph McKenna
Address: 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.fwcs.org
Mission Statement: Promote chamber and symphonic music locally, statewide and nationally by presenting performances of the highest artistic excellence, providing broad-based educational programs of the highest quality, and making both available to the broadest possible constituency.
Volunteer Opportunities: Ushering, receptionist, mailings, volunteer auxiliaries, special events and planning committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Celebrating the Nifty Fifties with the Maestro Gala. 2) Designer Showcase—Sponsored by the Symphony Association. 3) The Florida West Coast Symphony is “Off to See the Wizard…” Reception.
Date: 1) Dec. 4, 2005. 2) Feb. 2–26, 2006. 3) April 5, 2006.
Location: 1) Michael’s On East. 2) Phillippi Landings. 3) Van Wezel Performing Hall.
Ticket Price: 1) $275 and up. 2) $20. 3) TBA
Event Chair: 1) Anne Folsom Smith, George Allison and Vivian Kouvant. 2) Dee Forsyth, Joan Garret, Jan Rodriguez. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 953-4252 ext. 29. 2) (941) 685-0425. 3) (941) 953-4252.
Florida Winefest and Auction, Inc.
A premier food and wine event that funds grants for disadvantaged children’s programs and at-risk youth in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
For 2005:
Total Grants: $410,000
Number of Grants: 24
Range of Grants: $5,000 to $50,000
President: Sandy W. Loevner
Address: P.O. Box 4193, Sarasota, FL 34230-4193
Web site: www.floridawinefest.com
Mission Statement: Fund grants for disadvantaged children and at-risk youth in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Charity Auction—Wine auction. 2) Wall Street Live—Gala dinner and show.
Date: 1) April 27–30, 2006 2) Nov. 3–4, 2005
Location: 1) Primarily on the grounds of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. 2) Private residence and The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
Ticket Price: 1) $15–$300 2) $300 dinner; $75 event.
Event Chair: 1) TBA 2) Kim and Charles Githler.
Contact Telephone: (941) 952-1109
Forty Carrots Family Center
Parenting center, outreach parenting education program, accredited preschool and professional training facility.
Executive Directors: Betsy Kane-Hartnett and Diane Weiss
Address: 1500 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.fortycarrots.org
Mission Statement: Strengthen families through educational programs for parents, their children and professionals in the field.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mass mailings, fund raising.
Main Fund-raising Event: carrotcakes 2006: The Enchanted Forest—Dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions.
Date: March 17, 2006
Location: Hyatt Sarasota
Ticket Price: $100–$200
Event Chairs: Katherine and Brian Leaver
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-7716
Foundation for Dreams, Inc.
Funds and operates Dream Oaks Camp, a camp for children with developmental disabilities or chronic illnesses, located in Manatee County.
Founder and President: Eddie Mulock, Esq.
Address: 2620 Manatee Ave. W., #D, Bradenton, FL 34205
Web site: www.foundationfordreams.org
Mission Statement: To provide fun, educational and recreational experiences in an outdoor camp environment; to enhance the lives of children ages seven to 17 with physical and developmental disabilities and serious illnesses.
Volunteer Opportunities: Camp activities, office, special projects and events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 2006 Tournament Fore Dreams
Date: March 5–6, 2006
Location: Bradenton Country Club
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chairs: Jim Brand; Paul Azinger, Tony Jacklin, Graeme Edge, honorary chairs.
Contact Telephone: (941) 748-8809
The Foundation for Manatee Community College, Inc.
Provides financial education assistance for students.
Executive Director: Peg Lowery
Address: 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34206
Web site: www.mccfoundation.net
Mission Statement: Secure and manage private resources to enhance educational opportunities for Manatee Community College.
Volunteer Opportunities: Special events committee, scholarship committee, Legacy Society and investment committee.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Women’s Board Fashion Show. 2) Men’s Charity Golf Tournament. 3) Evening Under the Stars featuring the Venice Symphony. 4) Evening Under the Stars featuring the Florida West Coast Symphony.
Date: 1) Oct. 13, 2005. 2) March 6, 2006. 3) April 22, 2006. 4) May 6, 2006.
Location: 1) Plantation Golf and Country Club. 2) Mission Valley Country Club. 3) MCC Venice campus. 4) Polo Club.
Ticket Price: 1) TBA 2) $225. 3) TBA 4) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Jean Pickhardt. 2) Ron Ihrig. 3) Linda Bradway. 4) Rex Jensen.
Contact Telephone: (941) 752-5390 or (941) 408-1418
Friends of the Selby Public Library, Inc.
Administrative Coordinator: Marianne E. Cowger
Address: P.O. Box 2255, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.selbylibraryfriends.org
Mission Statement: Support and coordinate with Selby Public Library and the community in the development of services by raising funds, providing a volunteer base to assist library staff and advocating the use and growth of library services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Friends Bookstore, Selby Public Library.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Spring Book & Author Luncheon. 2) Co-direct Sarasota Reading Festival—Annual downtown event with booksellers, book signings and author panel discussions.
Date: 1) TBA 2) Nov. 5, 2005.
Location: 1) TBA 2) Five Points Park, downtown Sarasota.
Ticket Price: 1) TBA 2) Free.
Event Chairs: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-5228
The Glenridge Performing Arts Center
A 267-seat professional theater—the only one of its kind on the premises of a retirement community—GPAC both presents and rents to arts organizations and individuals for performances of chamber music, jazz, recitals, films, lectures, dance, orchestral concerts and live theater. GPAC is the new home of the Banyan Theater Company.
Executive Director: June LaBell
Address: 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota, FL 34238
Web site: www.glenridge.com/gpac
Mission Statement: To present the finest and highest quality entertainment possible to members of the Glenridge and greater Sarasota community in a variety of productions ranging from classical music and jazz to Broadway, comedy, drama, lectures, films and dance.
Volunteer Opportunities: Ushers, ticket takers; occasional opportunities for volunteers to learn about and work as stage and house managers; also openings for volunteers to work in the GPAC management office.
Main Fund-raising Event: Gala concert
Date, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Location: GPAC
Contact Telephone: (941) 925-3183
G.WIZ—The Hands-On Science Museum
Hands-on learning center for science and technology.
Address: 1001 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236-4807
Web site: www.gwiz.org
Mission Statement: Make science relevant, technology understandable, and learning an interactive adventure for people of all ages.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Butterfly Ball—Black-tie event, dinner, dancing and auction.
Date: March 18, 2006
Location: G.WIZ
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 309-4949 ext. 102, Donna Wolski
Gifts From God of Sarasota, Inc.
Provides basic need practical assistance to Sarasota County poor and homeless, including food, clothing, furniture, donated automobiles and emergency finances.
Executive Director: Michael Butterfield
Address: P.O. Box 1300, Osprey, FL 34229
Web site: www.gifts-from-god.org
Mission Statement: Reach the needy for Christ.
Volunteer Opportunities: Serve meals to the poor and homeless every Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Donate good condition used furniture, household items and running automobiles for free distribution to Sarasota County’s poor.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Hope for the Hurting”—Dinner gala.
Date: Oct. 7, 2005
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: Free; love offering will be taken.
Event Chair: Deborah Kurtyka
Contact Telephone: (941) 485-4707
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc.
Designed to meet the needs and interests of girls ages five through 17 and help them reach their full potential in a supportive, all-girl environment.
CEO: Sandi Stewart
Address: 4780 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
Web site: www.girlscoutsgulfcoastfl.org
Mission Statement: To inspire girls with the highest ideals of character, conduct, patriotism and service that they may become happy and resourceful citizens.
Volunteer Opportunities: Leaders, mentors, event directors, trainers and workshop coordinators, consultants, fund raisers, drivers and speakers.
Main Fund-raising Event: Girl Scout Cook-ie-Off—The area’s top chefs create desserts using Girl Scout cookies; guests judge by taste.
Date: Jan. 22, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: By invitation only
Event Chair: Kathy Carol
Contact Telephone: (941) 921-5358 ext. 230
Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County
Operates programs uniquely designed for girls aged six to 16 to foster self-respect and self-determination, to nurture their ability and interest in math, science and technology as well as to build their athletic skills and competitive spirit.
Executive Director: Stephania Feltz
Address: 201 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.girlsincsrq.org
Mission Statement: Inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold.
Volunteer Opportunities: Tutoring, sports, program facilitation, reading and storytelling.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Celebration luncheon—Annual award luncheon honoring three outstanding women with the “She Knows Where She Is Going” award, and one exemplary visionary leader with a “Visionary Award.” 2) Angel Luncheon—Luncheon showcasing success stories and highlighting program areas.
Date: 1) Feb. 2006. 2) TBA
Location, Ticket Prices, Event Chairs: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-6646 ext 211
Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center
A 13-building complex housing 17 nonprofit social agencies that provide affordable and accessible preventive and treatment services to low-income individuals, children and families.
Chairman of the Board: Dr. Kay Glasser
Address: 1750 17th St., Building J1, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.lapiana.org/resources/cases/mso/7b.html
Mission Statement: Enhance the social service delivery system for underserved individuals and families so that they may access the services they need to become participating members of the community.
Main Fund-raising Event: Frequent tours of the facility and dedicatory recognition celebrations to create awareness of the center and promote support for the Dr. Kay E. Glasser Endowment Fund for the Human Services Center.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-4545
Goodwill Foundation
Fund-raising arm of Goodwill Industries-Manasota, which provides employment, housing and neighborhood services to more than 5,000 individuals annually throughout Manatee, Sarasota, Hardee and DeSoto counties.
President and CEO: Zoltan Karpathy
Address: 8490 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.goodwillindustries.org
Mission Statement: Turn donations into good jobs, good homes and good neighborhoods.
Main Fund-raising Event: Goodwill Gala—A high-energy, authentic Mardi Gras celebration with fabulous food and drink, sensational costumes and nonstop Cajun music.
Date: Feb. 28, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $150
Event Chairs: Michael Klauber and Phil Mancini
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-4483
The Great Outdoors Conservancy
Purchases land for conservation and recreation.
President: Bill LaMee
Address: 4311 Manatee Ave. W., Suite 210, Bradenton, FL 34209
Web site: www.TheGreatOutdoors.org
Mission Statement: Conserve wild, natural open and scenic land for the recreational enjoyment of present and future generations.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office administration, database management, development and fund raising, grant research and writing, land stewardship.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Oktoberfest Suncoast—Bavarian folk festival. 2) Conservation Celebration—Annual banquet, automobile raffle and auction.
Date: 1) Oct. 7–9 and 14–16, 2005. 2) Jan. 28, 2006.
Location: 1) Sarasota Fairgrounds 2) Bradenton Municipal Auditorium
Ticket Price: 1) $7/adult; free for children 12 and under. 2) $150.
Event Chairs: 1) Gaby Kloefkorn and Scott Rudacille. 2) Ken and Jan Oden.
Contact Telephone: (941) 708-3456 or www.oktoberfestsuncoast.com
Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice
With $163.6 million in assets, this foundation is the largest community foundation in Florida, using its resources to identify and respond to community needs and opportunities. It serves donors who wish to create a legacy in the community. Volunteer opportunities exist in screening grant and scholarship applications.
As of June 30, 2004:
Assets: $163.6 million
Total Grants: $6.1 million
Number of Grants: 493
Range of Grants: $65 to $881,143
Average Grant Size: $12,054
President and CEO: Teri A. Hansen
Address: 601 Tamiami Trail S., Venice, FL 34285
Web site: www.gulfcoastcf.org
Contact Telephone: (941) 486-4600
Gulf Coast Diabetes Foundation
Dedicated to helping people with diabetes in the Florida Gulf Coast region.
President: Sheree Boley
Address: 2100 Constitution Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34231
Mission Statement: Establish and administer funds to benefit people with diabetes in the Florida Gulf Coast region.
Volunteer Opportunities: Board members
Contact Telephone: (941) 957-5099
Gulfcoast Legal Services, Inc.
Provides free legal assistance to the poor and the elderly. Since 1979, GLS has served more than 130,000 clients in Pinellas, Manatee and Sarasota counties.
Executive Director: John P. Cunningham, Esq.
Address: 1750 17th St., Unit I, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.gulfcoastlegal.org
Mission Statement: Provide high-quality legal services to protect personal safety and to establish, advance and protect the rights and interests of low-income persons to health, basic shelter, income and quality of life.
Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer attorneys, internships, receptionist, secretarial assistance. Contact Elizabeth M. Boyle, Esq.
Main Fund-raising Event: Direct mail campaign—Annual appeal endowment campaign.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-1746
Gulf Coast Men’s Chorus
Chorus of over 30 gay and gay-friendly male voices that presents two major concerts per year.
Artistic Director: Philip Alexander
Address: P.O. Box 2453, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.gulfcoastmenschorus.org
Mission Statement: Enhance the musical and cultural lives of members and audiences and prompt the acceptance of diversity through the presentation of quality choral music.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, ticket and advertising sales, concert production.
Main Fund-raising Event: Holiday Concert—Holiday-inspired repertoire of full chorus and smaller ensemble pieces.
Date: Dec. 11, 2005
Location: Sarasota Opera House
Ticket Price: $20
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 957-0404
Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, Inc.
Builds homes for qualified, low-income families.
Executive Director: E. Neil Ruhlman
Address: 1757 N. East Ave., Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.sarasotahabitat.com
Mission Statement: Habitat for Humanity works in partnership with God and people from all walks of life to develop communities with people in need by building and renovating houses, so that there are decent houses in decent communities in which every person can experience God’s love and can live and grow into all that God intends.
Volunteer Opportunities: Construction, committees, office help, home improvement outlet and furniture store help and special events.
Main Fund-raising Event: Year-end appeal and small special events.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-0700
Habitat for Humanity Venice Area, Inc.
Builds homes for low-income workforce families in need.
Executive Director: Judith H. Wilcox
Address: 280 Alligator Drive, Venice, FL 34293
Web site: www.habitatvenice.org
Mission Statement: To build affordable housing for low-income workforce families and others. To eliminate substandard housing in south Sarasota County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Construction, office assistance, family selection, family support communities, church liaison, site selection, newsletter, speakers bureau, finance and development.
Main Fund-raising Event: Corporate campaign to engage businesses in south Sarasota County. Partnership with Home Builders Association of Sarasota to build a home for Habitat.
Date: Ongoing
Location: Ten drop-off locations throughout Venice.
Contact Telephone: (941) 493-6606
Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County, Inc.
Public-private partnership of agencies and individuals dedicated to improved pregnancy outcomes and the optimum growth and development of young children.
Executive Director: Sarah Gorman
Address: 1750 17th St., Building M, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.healthystartsarasota.org
Mission Statement: Promote and protect prenatal and infant health.
Volunteer Opportunities: Coalition and executive board membership, participation in design and implementation of initiatives to reduce fetal and infant deaths.
Main Fund-raising Event: Baby Steps Sunset Beach Walk—Beach walk to raise funds for emergency transportation for Healthy Start clients to access medical care and other services.
Date: Nov. 20, 2005
Location: Siesta Beach
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 373-7070
Hispanic Community Center
A program of the Diocese of Venice that helps newly arrived immigrants adapt to life in Sarasota through social service programs and spiritual guidance.
Executive Director: Father Celestino Gutierrez
Address: P.O. Box 1801, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.hispaniccenter-stjude.com
Mission Statement: Provide information and referral for social services, promote pride in heritage, foster cultural awareness and encourage meaningful participation in the wider community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Bilingual receptionists, fund-raising committee, holiday project, toys and food for the needy.
Main Fund-raising Event: Noche de Celebracion—Silent auction, dinner and dancing. Special Latino musical presentation.
Date: Oct. 28, 2005
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $150
Event Chairs: Carol Siegler and Kathy Schersten
Contact Telephone: (941) 377-5965
Historic Spanish Point
A 30-acre accredited museum on Little Sarasota Bay, Osprey. Open to the public daily. Historic buildings, gardens, nature trails, exhibits. Owned by Gulf Coast Heritage Association, Inc.
Executive Director: Linda W. Mansperger
Address: 337 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
Web site: www.historicspanishpoint.org
Mission Statement: Connect people of today with 5,000 years of human history in Southwest Florida by preserving and interpreting objects significant to our region’s past.
Volunteer Opportunities: Docents, tour guides, store clerks, receptionists and gardeners.
Main Fund-raising Event: From Salsa to Sorbet III—Luncheon.
Date: Feb. 8, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $75
Event Chair: Cornelia Matson
Contact Telephone: (941) 966-5214
Hospice of Southwest Florida
Independent organization serving patients with life-limiting illness in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.
President and CEO: Marge Maisto
Address: 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238
Web site: www.hospice-swf.org
Mission Statement: Total support system for patients and families dealing with a life-limiting illness, providing the highest level of care.
Volunteer Opportunities: Patient care, office, Hospice House, cooking, gardening.
Main Fund-raising Event: 25th Anniversary Gala
Date: Dec. 18, 2005
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $200
Event Chairs: Dick and Denby Smothers, honorary chairs
Contact Telephone: (941) 552-7502
Humane Society of Sarasota County, Inc.
Provides care, shelter and love to thousands of abandoned animals. In addition to pet adoption, it offers humane education, pet therapy, children’s programs, dog obedience training, volunteer opportunities and low-cost and free spaying and neutering.
Executive Director: Deborah Robbins Millman, A.P.R.
Address: 2331 15th St., Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.hssc.org
Mission Statement: To prevent cruelty, suffering and overpopulation of animals through education, housing and financial support.
Volunteer Opportunities: Matchmaking, cat cuddling, dog walking, pet therapy, special events, off-site adoption, administration and foster parents.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Hot Dogs and Cool Cats—Hollywood-themed gala featuring live and silent auctions, raffles, live entertainment, food, dancing and fun for all. 2) 14th Annual Pat Lonsdale Invitational Golf Tournament. 3) Pug Parade—Sponsored by SARASOTA Magazine and Lakewood Ranch, an afternoon celebration of area pugs and their owners at the Lakewood Ranch Adventure Park. Concessions, pug fashion show, area animal vendors.
Date: 1) Nov. 12, 2005. 2) Spring 2006. 3) Feb. 25, 2005.
Location: 1) Serendipity Ballroom. 2) TBA 3) Lakewood Ranch Adventure Park.
Ticket Price: 1) $175. 2) $200 for golf and party; $100 for “Party with Pat.” 3) Free.
Event Chairs: 1) State Rep. Donna Clarke and Dr. Christine Cauffield, honorary chairs; Catherine Gordon Ellis and Chris Voelker, co-chairs. 2) Pat Lonsdale, honorary chair. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-4131
Incarnation Catholic School
Elementary School, kindergarten through grade eight.
Principal: Sister Monicca Paul Fraser, O.P.
Address: 2911 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.incarnationschool.edu
Mission Statement: Provide a superior education in an environment grounded in the truths and values taught by Jesus Christ.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raisers, book fairs, classrooms, cafeteria bingo, school functions.
Main Fund-raising Event: $100,000 Raffle
Date: Tickets go on sale in August. Drawing takes place in March.
Location: Incarnation School and Incarnation Parish office
Ticket Price: Donation of $100 gives purchaser 10 chances to win $10,000. Only 2,000 tickets are sold.
Event Chair: Christine Adams
Contact Telephone: (941) 924-8588
Island Village Montessori School
The area’s only charter school offering free Montessori education.
Executive Director: Kym Elder
Address: 2001 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34292
Web site: www.islandvillage.org
Mission Statement: Provide high-quality Montessori education to elementary and middle school students at no cost.
Volunteer Opportunities: Reading tutors, surrogate grandparent program, community partners.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Jog-A-Thon. 2) Spring Social—Silent auction, family dance.
Date, Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 484-4999
Jazz Club of Sarasota
Provides jazz music to the community.
Executive Director: Gordon Garrett
Address: 330 S. Pineapple Ave., Suite 111, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.jazzclubsarasota.com
Mission Statement: Promote, perform and preserve jazz.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Sarasota Jazz Festival—Indoor and outdoor jazz events, some free to public.
Date: April 2–8, 2006
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Ticket Price: Free–$40
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-1552
Jewish Family & Children’s Services
President and CEO: Rose Chapman
Address: 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.jfcs-cares.org
Mission Statement: Provide educational, preventive and counseling services to help individuals and families successfully confront life’s challenges.
Volunteer Opportunities: Hospital visitations, mentors, tutors, religious services, community resale warehouse, office and clerical. Call Caroline Zucker at 366-2224 for information.
Main Fund-raising Event: Cantorial Concert
Date: Jan. 23, 2006
Location: FSU Center for the Performing Arts
Ticket Price: $36
Event Chair: Sanford Milter
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-2224
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
Home to three spectacular attractions, including the internationally recognized Museum of Art, Cà d’Zan mansion and Circus Museum.
Executive Director: Dr. John Wetenhall
Address: 5401 Bayshore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.ringling.org
Mission Statement: Preserve, develop and enhance the legacy of John and Mable Ringling and engage and educate a large and diverse audience in a world-renowned collection of art, the Ringlings’ mansion and its historic contents, collections documenting the circus and its history, the historic Asolo Theater and the historic architecture, courtyard, gardens and grounds overlooking Sarasota Bay.
Volunteer Opportunities: Complex-wide for tour guides, info desk, special events, clerical, or tram driving on the grounds.
Main Fund-raising Event: UnGala Gala—Black-tie gala event.
Date: Oct. 15, 2005
Location: Ringling Museum
Ticket Price: $250
Event Chairs: Amie Shay and Emily Walsh
Contact Telephone: (941) 359-5733
Junior Achievement
Educates and inspires young people to value free enterprise, business and economies to improve the quality of their lives.
Executive Directors: Barb McKinney, Laura Haw
Address: 405 26th Ave. W., Suite A, Bradenton, FL 34205
Web site: www.ja-wcf.org
Mission Statement: Ensure that every child in America has a fundamental understanding of the free enterprise system.
Volunteer Opportunities: Teachers, grades K–12.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Bowl-A-Thon—Bowling tournament. 2) Dooley Mack Golf Tournament.
Date: 1) Oct. 22, 2005. 2) TBA
Location: 1) Sarasota Lanes. 2) University Park.
Ticket Price: 1) Donations only. 2) $500/foursome.
Event Chairs: 1) David Kramer, Stacey Romano. 2) Craig Campbell.
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 749-5301. 2) (941) 921-4636.
The Junior League of Sarasota, Inc.
For over 45 years, the league has been committed to service and volunteer training. Membership is open to all women. Current initiatives include school literacy, transitional housing and helping the homeless.
For 2004-2005
Total Grants: $7,775
Total Number of Grants: 5
Average Size of Grants: $1,500
President: Valerie Dorr
Address: 3300 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 3, Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.juniorleagueofsarasota.org
Mission Statement: Committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Holiday Tour of Homes. 2) Tinsels and Treasure. 3) Barely Blemished.
Date: 1) Dec. 2–4, 2005. 2) Dec. 2–4, 2005. 3) Feb. 8–12, 2006.
Location: 1) Various homes. 2) Chelsea Center. 3) Sarasota Fairgrounds.
Ticket Price: 1) $15/book (includes admission to Tinsels and Treasure). 2) $5. 3) $5.
Event Chairs: 1) Brigid Hewes, Francesca Duran. 2) Chandra Tribit, Dana Thompson. 3) Amanda Stutzman, Amy Remson.
Contact Telephone: (941) 953-5600
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
The world’s leading non-governmental funder of diabetes research.
Executive Director: Sara Rankin
Address: 3333 Clark Road, Suite 160, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.jdrf.org
Mission Statement: Find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research.
Volunteer Opportunities: “Walk to Cure Diabetes,” community outreach, advocacy, and participation in fund raisers.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Walk to Cure Diabetes”—Annual 5k walk on Siesta Key Beach that attracts more than 2,500 participants.
Date: March 2006, 8 a.m.
Location: Siesta Key Beach
Ticket Price: Free; walkers receive pledges to walk.
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 929-0621
Keep Sarasota Beautiful
A certified affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Inc.’s litter prevention programs.
Manager: Sandra Washington
Address: 2817 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.scgov.net
Mission Statement: Educate the public and promote interest and participation in the overall improvement and beautification of the environment throughout Sarasota County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Serve on committees, adopt a road, park, shore. Great American Cleanup and Coastal Cleanup.
Contact Telephone: (941) 861-6733
Key Chorale
Executive Director: Richard Storm
Address: P.O. Box 20613, Sarasota, FL 34276
Mission Statement: Dedicated to performance of great choral masterworks, bringing their historic and contemporary beauty to the community.
Main Fund-raising Event: The Legacy of Daniel Moe—Celebrating the 20th anniversary of Key Chorale and the leadership of Dr. Moe as both conductor and composer.
Location: St. Boniface Episcopal Church, Siesta Key
Date: Dec. 4, 2005
Ticket Price: $20
Contact Telephone: (941) 921-4845
La Musica Di Asolo, Inc.
International chamber music festival.
Executive Director: Sally R. Faron
Address: P.O. Box 5442, Sarasota, FL 34277
Web site: www.lamusicafestival.org
Mission Statement: Bring the finest musicians from Europe and the Americas to perform chamber works, both familiar and seldom-heard, to transmit the joy of performance.
Volunteer Opportunities: Box office, supervise rehearsals, mailings, computer work.
Main Fund-raising Event: Sonata a Due—Good music, good food and good company. An evening that starts with wine and hors d’oeuvres, followed by music recital and dinner.
Date: Dec. 6, 2005
Location: Charles Ringling House
Ticket Price: $150–$200
Event Chairs: Rachele Rivolta, Sally Islan and Janet Hunter.
Contact Telephone: (941) 346-1795
Laurel Civic Association, Inc.
Community-based nonprofit that serves low-income families with services not provided by any other organizations.
Executive Director: Sandra Terry
Address: 509 Collins Road, P.O. Box 511, Laurel, FL 34272
Web site: www.laurelcivic.org
Mission Statement: To combat community deterioration through education and social activities, provide support for the elderly and families, develop safe, decent and affordable housing and have an overall positive and permanent effect on the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Homework assistance, summer reading program, clerical, fund raising, grant writing, newsletter, archivist, librarian, Kid’s Café.
Main Fund-raising Event: Cool Caribbean Nights—Silent auction, dinner, dance.
Date: Oct. 29, 2005
Location: Venice Community Center
Ticket Price: $75
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 483-3338
Legal Aid of Manasota, Inc.
Provides free civil legal services to Sarasota and Manatee County residents using local volunteer attorneys.
Executive Director: Linda Harradine
Address: 1900 Main St., Suite 302, Sarasota, FL 34236
Mission Statement: Provide free civil legal services to income-qualified residents of Sarasota and Manatee counties and educate the public on legal rights and responsibilities.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mainly attorneys, but also some basic office work and volunteers for special projects.
Main Fund-raising Event: Justice is Served—A food and wine extravaganza.
Date: Oct. 23, 2005
Location: Serendipity at The Country Club of Sarasota
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Morgan Bentley, Esq.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-0038
Lemon Bay Conservancy, Inc.
Land trust focused on preserving lands in the greater Lemon Bay community.
Executive Director: N. Perry Clark
Address: P.O. Box 508, 1847 Englewood Road, Englewood, FL 34295-0508
Web site: www.lemonbayconservancy.org
Mission Statement: Forever protect and preserve the natural features of Lemon Bay, its surrounding water and uplands through property acquisition and management, comprehensive environmental education, and regional advocacy of appropriate land and water conservation policies, programs and practices.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising and preservation promotion.
Main Fund-raising Event: Fall Gala
Date, Location, Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: J. Gillespie
Contact Telephone: (941) 475-9021
Lemon Bay Playhouse, Inc.
President: Paul Hyatt
Address: 96 W. Dearborn St., Englewood, FL 34223
Web site: www.lemonbayplayhouse.com
Mission Statement: Provide a variety of high-quality, live theatrical productions, offer education and training in dramatic arts for people of all ages and play a vital cultural role in the greater Englewood community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Acting, stage managing, box office, back stage, house managing, lighting, wardrobe and set design.
Main Fund-raising Event: Ongoing performances—regular ticket sales and donations from patrons.
Date: Ongoing
Ticket Price: $12
Contact Telephone: (941) 475-6756
The Life of Riley Foundation
Fund-raising group that supports research for the cure of pediatric brain tumors and provides support for families of children with brain tumors.
Executive Director: Ron Saba
Address: 2050 Proctor Road, Suite A, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.lifeofrileyfoundation.org
Mission Statement: Promote awareness about pediatric brain tumors, raise money for a cure and provide support to and a voice for families whose children live with these tumors.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Riley’s Royal Gala—Sarasota’s first black-tie gala for children (pre-K to grade five) and their parents and/or grandparents. 2) Beach Run/Walk—5k run or one-mile fun run/walk.
Date: 1) March 18, 2006. 2) May 27, 2006.
Location: 1) Chelsea Center. 2) Siesta Key Beach.
Ticket Price: 1) $65/child; $85/adult. 2) $15/adult; $10/child.
Event Chairs: 1) Kelly R. Saba. 2) Kelly G. Saba.
Contact Telephone: (941) 923-3093
The Literacy Council of Sarasota
Free private instruction in reading and learning English as a second language.
Board President: Philip B. Pasho
Address: 1750 17th St., Building H, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.sarasotaliteracy.org
Mission Statement: Provide free private instruction to adults in English as a second language and basic literacy skills to empower them to become more productive members of the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Tutors, computer lab monitors, interviewers, data entry, special events, volunteer coordinators and project leaders.
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-0421, Amanda Dagg
Longboat Key Center for the Arts
Offers art classes and workshops and hosts art exhibitions.
Executive Director: Jennifer Glassmoyer
Address: 6860 Longboat Drive S., Longboat Key, FL 34228
Web site: www.lbkca.org
Mission Statement: Enhance and enrich the cultural life of Longboat Key and neighboring communities by providing art classes, exhibitions and performing arts.
Volunteer Opportunities: Docents, gallery sitters, events committees, exhibit committees
Main Fund-raising Event: “Off the Wall”—An exciting new way of taking home arts and collectibles. No auctioneer, no silent auction; everyone leaves with something wonderful.
Date: Feb. 27, 2006
Location: Longboat Key Center for the Arts
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Jeff Porterfield
Contact Telephone: (941) 383-2345
Lou Gehrig’s Disease Association of Southwest Florida, Inc.
All-volunteer organization offering support groups, equipment loan closet, resource library and respite care to those living with ALS in the greater Sarasota area.
Executive Director: Vicki Watkins
Address: P.O. Box 11104, Sarasota, FL 34278
Web site: www.lgda-als.org
Mission Statement: Promote public awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, raise funds to provide services to people with ALS and their families, and assist researchers in finding a cure for this disease.
Volunteer Opportunities: Patient coordination and services, support group facilitation, fund raising, administration, support and equipment inventory.
Main Fund-raising Event: Golf tournaments
Date, Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-4771
Loveland Center, Inc.
Provides adult day training, supported living, job coaching and community volunteer opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities.
Executive Director: Carl Penxa Jr.
Address: 157 S. Havana Road, Venice, FL 34292
Web site: www.lovelandcenter.com
Mission Statement: Help adults with developmental disabilities live their lives to the fullest.
Volunteer Opportunities: One-on-one tutoring in reading and math, quality control assistance in our workshop program, musical talents for student entertainment.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Jacaranda West Golf Tournament—Women’s and men’s golf tournament. 2) Boca Royale Golf Tournament. 3) Venice Golf & Country Club Black-Tie Gala. 4) Casino Night—Dinner with gaming.
Date: 1) March/April 2006. 2–3) TBA 4) Feb. 2006.
Location: 1) Jacaranda West Country Club. 2–3) TBA 4) Loveland Center.
Ticket Price: $85–$125
Event Chairs: 1) Steve Davis. 2–4) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 493-2664
Lutheran Services Florida
Human services agency with more than 60 programs throughout Florida, including the Guardianship Program, Child Care Food Program, Head Start Programs for at-risk preschool children, youth shelters and counseling programs for troubled teens and disaster relief.
Director: Anne Ridings
Address: P.O. Box 848, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.lsfnet.org
Mission Statement: Promote healing, help and hope to people in need and protect incapacitated individuals from abuse, neglect and exploitation while ensuring they live their lives with dignity and respect.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Sunset Silent Auction—Fun, casual evening with live entertainment, auction, food and drinks.
Date: Sept. 10, 2005
Location: Chelsea Center
Ticket Price: $30 in advance, $35 at the door
Event Chair: Carmen Scoma and Mary Sander
Contact Telephone: (941) 358-6330
Make-a-Wish Foundation of Sarasota/Tampa Bay, Inc.
Grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Sarasota Community Relations Manager: Joanne Bloom
Address: 2477 Stickney Point Road #307B, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.suncoast.wish.org
Mission Statement: Grant wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
Volunteer Opportunities: Wish granting, fund raising, speaker’s bureau.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Shining Star Award Celebration. 2) Wishfest/Auction—tennis tournament.
Date: 1) Oct. 21, 2005. 2) May 5–7, 2006.
Location: 1) Michael’s On East. 2) Chelsea Center.
Ticket Price: 1) $100. 2) $100 for gala, $40 for tennis entry.
Event Chairs: 1) Brenda Woolston and Kathy Galerman. 2) Laura Leeming, Liz McNelis and Beth Malden.
Contact Telephone: (941) 926-9474
Manasota Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC)
Provides day, residential and employment service programs for adults with disabilities in Sarasota and Manatee counties to develop employability and daily living skills.
CEO: Thomas Vorpahl
Address: 3659 Cortez Road W., Bradenton, FL 34210
Web site: www.manasotaarc.org
Mission Statement: Enhance the dignity and independence of adults with disabilities, enabling them to choose and realize their goals through participating in community-based opportunities and individualized programs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Family support groups, clerical assistance, committees of the board such as programs and planning, fiscal, resource development, government and community relations.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Ivan Canuteson Memorial Golf Tournament. 2) “A Taste of Motown 2.” 3) 6th Annual Celebration Dinner and Auction.
Date: 1) Sept. 16, 2005. 2) Oct. 21, 2005. 3) April 22, 2006.
Location: 1) El Conquistador Country Club. 2) Bradenton Municipal Auditorium. 3) TBA
Ticket Price: 1–2) TBA 3) $50–$75.
Event Chairs: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 752-2976
Mana-Sota Lighthouse for the Blind
Provides specialized services for the visually impaired.
Executive Director: Janice T. Felski
Address: 7318 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Mission Statement: Promote the individual growth and dignity of visually impaired and blind adults and children.
Volunteer Opportunities: Drivers for client classes
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Dr. James Morrish Sr. Memorial Golf Challenge. 2) 5th Annual Spring Fashion Show.
Date: 1) Sept. 10, 2005. 2) May 1, 2006.
Location: 1) El Conquistador Country Club. 2) Michael’s On East.
Ticket Price: 1) $150/player. 2) $70.
Event Chair: 1) David Cruikshank. 2) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 359-1404
Manasota SOLVE, Inc.
Supports young pregnant mothers and their babies from conception to birth and beyond, ensuring a healthy pregnancy and operating a community outreach giving closet and two Christian Maternity Homes at no cost to the mother.
Executive Director: Donna Vellenga
Address: 512 S. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.manasotasolve.com
Mission Statement: Provide a home for pregnant women who desire an alternative to abortion.
Volunteer Opportunities: Individuals and families who are interested in developing one-on-one relationships with young mothers, volunteers with professional business experience, mentoring, tutoring, general maintenance and yard work, and fund raising.
Main Fund-raising Event: SOLVE Gala—Elegant dinner with a keynote speaker.
Date: February 2006
Location, Ticket price: TBA
Event Chair: Judy Scott
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-9288
Manatee Community Foundation (and Lakewood Ranch Community Fund)
Philanthropic partner with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Established in 1998, MCF is dedicated to serving Manatee County’s donors by matching their charitable interests with the needs in the community. The Lakewood Ranch Community Fund focuses on increasing philanthropy and grantmaking in the Lakewood Ranch and east Manatee County areas.
Executive Director: Marilyn Howard
Address: 600 301 Blvd. W., Suite 148, Bradenton, FL 34205
Web site: www.manateecommunityfoundation.org
Volunteer Opportunities: Grant and scholarship selection committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: The Gala at Lakewood Ranch—A black-tie, elegant buffet dinner.
Date: Feb. 18, 2006
Location: Lakewood Ranch Country Club
Ticket Price: $200–$250
Event Chair: Lyn Griffiths
Contact Telephone: (941) 747-7765
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens
A world center for research, education and display of epiphytes, primarily orchids and bromeliads.
Executive Director: Roger Birkel
Address: 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.selby.org
Mission Statement: To understand and conserve tropical plants—with emphasis on epiphytes and their natural habitats—through programs of research, education and horticultural display that promote appreciation of plant life and provide enjoyment for all who visit the Gardens.
Volunteer Opportunities: Many, from garden docents to gardeners, special events and administrative.
Main Fund-raising Event: The Orchid Ball—An elegant evening of dinner and dancing amid the tropical splendor of Selby Gardens.
Date: April 1, 2006
Location: Selby Gardens
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-5731
Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program
Executive Director: Joel C. Swallow
Address: P.O. Box 1992, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.mayorsfeedthehungry.org
Mission Statement: Raise funds from the public and community organizations to provide food vouchers to feed the hungry during holiday seasons.
Volunteer Opportunities: Find out during weekly 11 a.m. meetings at City Hall August to January.
Main Fund-raising Event: Community mailing in October/November annually—Mail letter to community signed by mayors asking for donations to feed the hungry.
Date: October/November 2005
Location: Sarasota and Manatee counties
Event Chair: Joel Swallow
Contact Telephone: (941) 364-7440
Mental Health Community Centers, Inc.
Provides daily programs at four drop-in centers in Sarasota, Venice, Arcadia and North Port that bring members into the mainstream of society.
Executive Director: Jessica Ventimiglia
Address: 240-B S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.mhcci.com
Mission Statement: Provide support services to adults with mental illness and disabling emotional problems.
Volunteer Opportunities: Arts and crafts, office support, activity leadership and maintenance/gardening.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Celebrity Waiters Dinner—Celebrity waiters vie for the “Tarnished Spoon” award by getting the largest amount of tips from their table of guests. 2) High Hopes Gala—Elegant dinner dance with silent and live auction. 3) Annual Meeting and Awards Celebration.
Date: 1) March 2006. 2) May 2006. 3) Dec. 2005.
Location: 1) Village on the Isle. 2) Serendipity Country Club. 3) Michael’s On East.
Ticket Price: 1) $50. 2) $125. 3) $40.
Event Chairs: 1) Carolyn Eagen. 2) Nick Drizos. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 496-4934. 2) (941) 953-3477.
Miss Latina Program, Inc.
Empowering girls aged nine to 16 to be the women of the new millennium, focusing on being well-rounded citizens.
Founder and CEO: Elizabeth Cuevas-Neunder
Address: 9001 Huntington Pointe Drive, Sarasota, FL 34238
Web site: www.misslatinaflorida.org
Mission Statement: Combat community deterioration, juvenile delinquency, school dropout and teen pregnancy by promoting advancement in academia, entrepreneurial skills and self empowerment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Training in health issues, board of directors, chaperoning events, mentoring and scholarships for field trips to opera, ballet and more.
Main Fund-raising Event: Women of the Millennium Gala Dinner—Honoring Hispanic teachers, principals and an extraordinary woman.
Date: Sept. 24, 2005
Location: TBA
Ticket Price: $50
Event Chairs: Dennis Nazario, Wilma Thompson, Edris Talledo
Contact Telephone: (941) 966-2820
Mote Marine Laboratory
Marine research and education organization and aquarium that draws 400,000 visitors annually.
President: Dr. Kumar Mahadevan
Address: 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.mote.org
Mission Statement: Advancing the science of the sea.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call Andrea Davis for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Oceanic Evening—Black-tie gala to benefit Mote’s 50th anniversary capital campaign.
Date: Oct. 29, 2005
Location: Mote Aquarium Courtyard
Ticket Price: $200
Event Chair: Oceanic Evening Committee
Contact Telephone: (941) 388-4441 ext. 305
Mothers Helping Mothers
All-volunteer organization that provides donated basic necessities to families in need for free.
President: Madeline Brogan
Address: 2239 N. Washington Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34237
Mission Statement: Meet the resource needs of families in Sarasota County who are struggling to help themselves.
Volunteer Opportunities: Helping in Children’s Clothes Closet store on North Washington Boulevard, open Tuesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Contact Telephone: (941) 953-7572
Muscular Dystrophy Association, Inc.
National Healthcare services organization supporting families and individuals fighting over 43 neuromuscular diseases. Largest independent healthcare services organization working on a cure for ALS. Two local clinics based at HealthSouth.
District Director: Vicki J. Berkowitz
Address: 2801 Fruitville Road, Suite 140, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.mdausa.org
Volunteer Opportunities: In-house office support and event volunteers.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Stride & Ride Walk. 2) MDA Labor Day Telethon. 3) Lock-Up events, “Go Behind Bars for Good.”
Date: 1) March 11, 2006. 2) Sept. 4–5, 2005. 3) TBA
Location: Various
Ticket Price, Event Chairs: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 951-7890
NAACP Sarasota County Branch
Volunteer staff working for the preservation of civil rights.
President: Tony Cornish Jr.
Address: P.O. Box 1024, Sarasota, FL 34230-1024
Mission Statement: Protect the civil and voting rights of all citizens while working to improve the social, cultural, educational and economic status of our constituents.
Volunteer Opportunities: All areas.
Main Fund-raising Event: Freedom Awards Banquet—Annual recognition of citizens in various areas for their outstanding contributions.
Date: Oct. 6, 2005
Location: Hyatt Sarasota
Ticket Price: $100
Event Chairs: Kelley Cornish and Jacqueline Jones
Contact Telephone: (941) 355-2097
NAMI—The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Sarasota County, Inc.
A family advocacy, support and educational organization for those affected by mental illness.
President: Tammy L. Zappa
Address: 1750 17th St., Suite A, Sarasota, FL 34234
Mission Statement: A grassroots, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those suffering from mental illness.
Volunteer Opportunities: Advocacy, education, fund raising, grants, media, clerical.
Main Fund-raising Event: The Divine Mind—Poetry, music, dance and selections from new dramatic works to educate, advocate, enlighten and entertain.
Date: Dec. 12, 2005
Location: The Players Theatre
Ticket Price: $25
Event Chairs: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 957-3626
NARSAD—The National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia & Depression
Fund-raising organization for research into mental illness.
Liaison: Sarah Edwardson
Address: 5514 Modena Place, Sarasota, FL 34238
Web site: www.narsadflorida.org
Mission Statement: Raise funds for research to find the causes for and cures of mental illness.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Sunshine from Darkness Gala and Symposium—Free research symposium on the latest treatments for mental illness and gala dinner.
Date: Symposium, Jan. 7, 2006. Gala, Jan. 8, 2006.
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Ticket Price: Gala, $275.
Event Chairs: Lee Peterson and Joyce Tate
Contact Telephone: (941) 308-MIND
National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section
Administrative VP: Cookie Bloom
Address: 1709 Pine Harrier Circle, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.ncjw.org
Mission Statement: Improve the quality of life for women, children and families.
Volunteer Opportunities: Eye screening, advocacy, mentoring, hearing screening.
Main Fund-raising Event: Women in Power Luncheon—Honoring three outstanding local women who have made a difference.
Date: Jan. 18, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: $40
Event Chair: Sally Yanowitz
Contact Telephone: (941) 383-9394
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-Florida Chapter
Provides local programs that include emergency financial assistance, medical equipment, counseling, education seminars and family support services to people affected by Multiple Sclerosis.
President: Tami Caesar
Address: 5711 Johns Road, Suite 1301, Tampa, FL 33634
Web site: www.nationalmssociety.org/flc
Mission Statement: End the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis.
Volunteer Opportunities: Assist with annual MS Walk in Sarasota County and peer counselors for people with MS.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) MS Walk—Annual charity walk. 2) Celebrity Salon Series
Date: 1) March 2006. 2) February/March 2006.
Location: 1) Southside Sarasota. 2) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) N/A. 2) TBA
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (813) 889-8303 or (800) FIGHT-MS
The Nature Conservancy
Works locally to protect important landscapes and rare natural areas.
Executive Director: Lincoln Bormann
Address: 1413 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.nature.org/florida
Mission Statement: Preserve plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-3130
New College Foundation, Inc.
Provides opportunities to support students, faculty and the curriculum.
President: John Cranor
Address: 5700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.ncf.edu/foundation
Mission Statement: Ensure New College of Florida has the financial resources to fulfill its mission of developing knowledge pioneers.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) New England Clambake—27th year. 2) Big Band Bash—Elegant Valentine’s dinner and dance with big band music. 3) Crissy Galleries and NCF Auction—Preview party auction estate sale on the bayfront.
Date: 1) Nov. 9, 2005. 2) Feb. 10, 2006. 3) March 17 and 19, 2006.
Location: 1) New College bayfront. 2) Michael’s On East. 3) New College bayfront.
Ticket Price: 1) $95. 2) $200. 3) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) TBA 2) Elaine Keating. 3) Crissy Galleries and New College Foundation.
Contact Telephone: (941) 359-4686, Mary Lou Wingerter
New College Library Association
Raises funds solely for the Jane Bancroft Cook Library at New College of Florida as an affiliate of the New College Foundation.
Executive Director: Jane S. Summerville
Address: 5700 N. Tamiami Trail, TKC, Sarasota, FL 34243
Mission Statement: Promote academic excellence by raising funds to purchase books, technology and other educational materials for the Jane Bancroft Cook Library at New College of Florida.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office, special projects, event committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: Mistletoe Ball—The oldest black-tie gala in Sarasota, signaling the start of the holiday season. Dinner, dancing and auction.
Date: Dec. 3, 2005
Location: Charles Ringling Mansion
Ticket Price: $200
Event Chairs: Christina Pfahler and Shawndra Baird
Contact Telephone: (941) 359-4600
New Gate School
An independent, co-educational nonprofit Montessori school, serving children from 18 months through high school. Also home to accredited teacher education program.
Head of School: Paul Wenninger
Address: 5237 Ashton Road, Sarasota, FL 34233
Web site: www.newgatesarasota.com
Mission Statement: Cultivate a love of life.
Volunteer Opportunities: Reading to children, gardening, committee membership, institutional development.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Celebration”—Annual dinner-dance with live and silent auction.
Date: Feb. 11, 2006
Location: Chelsea Center
Ticket Price: $125
Event Chair: Monique Miller
Contact Telephone: (941) 922-4949
North Port Area Art Guild
Organization that promotes all art forms through art shows and art in public places.
Executive Director: Tim Poisson
Address: P.O. Box 7523, North Port, FL 34287
Web site: www.npaag.org
Mission Statement: Promote art education and appreciation throughout the North Port area.
Volunteer Opportunities: Kids summer art program and monthly children’s art programs.
Main Fund-raising Event: Art and Jazz Gala II
Date: February 2006
Location: Lakeside Plantation
Ticket Price: Free
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 423-0555
Operation Serving Children
A domestic and global educational child relief agency.
Executive Director: Rich Vannucci
Address: 5317 Fruitville Road, #105, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.OSCrelief.org
Mission Statement: Call all to focus on children, provide basic needs, relief and education about the global village we live in.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Annual golf tournament. 2) Mother’s Day Gala. 3) Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament.
Date: 1) Nov. 12, 2005. 2) May 12, 2006. 3) Oct. 7, 2005.
Location: 1) Serenoa Golf Club. 2) The Colony Beach and Tennis Resort. 3) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) $100. 2) $150. 3) $200 plus rebuys.
Event Chairs: 1) Jim Owen. 2) Carol and Dick Angelotti. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 379-9755 or (941) 809-7780
Opportunity Closet, Inc.
Clothing service with locations in Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice.
Executive Director: Beverly Stockton
Address: 1750 17th St., Building J2, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.swdb.org
Mission Statement: Provide clean, gently worn business clothing to clients who are preparing for job interviews.
Volunteer Opportunities: Always in need of professional clothing.
Contact Telephone: (941) 361-6090 ext. 114
The Out-Of-Door Academy
Sarasota’s only independent, college-preparatory pre-K through grade-12 school.
Headmaster: David V. Mahler
Address: 444 Reid St. (pre-K to six) and 5950 Deer Drive (seven to 12), Sarasota, FL 34242 and 34240.
Web site: www.oda.edu
Mission Statement: Provide an environment in which students strive to achieve their highest academic goals and build character through a balanced program of academics, athletics and the arts.
Volunteer Opportunities: School fund raisers, art and music program assistants, office assistance, library aides.
Main Fund-raising Event: Extravaganza—A themed dinner gala featuring a live and silent auction.
Date: Nov. 5, 2005
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Ticket Price: $200
Event Chair: Mike Hayes
Contact Telephone: (941) 349-3223
PAL Sailor Circus
After-school youth circus for children in grades four through12.
Executive Director: Patty Campbell
Address: 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.sailorcircus.org
Mission Statement: Use circus arts as an alternative teaching method, providing an intervention program for youth at risk; enhance self-esteem and confidence in our leaders of tomorrow.
Volunteer Opportunities: Teachers, riggers, ushers, ticket sales, concessions, props and costume design, office assistant.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Holiday Spectacular. 2) 57th Spring Season.
Date: 1) Dec. 28–31, 2005. 2) March 29–April 1, April 5–8, 2006.
Location: PAL Sailor Circus Arena
Ticket Price: $10, $12, $14.
Event Chairs: Amanda Hansen and Patty Campbell
Contact Telephone: (941) 361-6350
Pelican Man’s Bird Sanctuary
Bird rescue, rehabilitation and education facility. Educational and specialized programs include school tours and group tours.
Education/Volunteer Director: Toni Borman
Address: 1708 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.pelicanman.org
Mission Statement: Help wildlife in distress, rehabilitate them, provide care for permanently disabled birds and educate the public about wildlife and the environment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Hospital clinic, welcome center, gift shop, thrift stores, baby bird house, kitchen and wildlife rescue.
Main Fund-raising Event: Baby Bird Shower—Gather donations for the 1,000 baby birds the center receives every year.
Date: 1) May 2006. 2) Year-round
Location: Pelican Man’s Bird Sanctuary
Ticket Price: Donations
Event Chairs: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 388-4444
Pet Therapy, Inc.
Pairs students with dogs to make weekly visits to nursing homes and assisted living facilities to brighten the lives of elders, the handicapped and those confined to facilities.
Executive Director: Kathy Alexander
Address: 3117 47th St., Sarasota, FL 34234-5011
Web site: www.pet-therapy.org
Mission Statement: Honor our elders and those confined within facilities and reduce loneliness, brighten their lives, instill confidence and respect, and increase social interaction among the youths and people whose lives they touch.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office help, fund raising and special events, dog washing/grooming and care, veterinary assistance and board members.
Main Fund-raising Event: Youth Awards Banquet and Annual Bichon Bash, yard sales and donations. Also available for “doggie and beautiful girls” fashion shows.
Date: Ongoing throughout the year. Call for information.
Contact Telephone: (941) 358-2225
Pierian Spring Academy
Executive Director: Robert V. Carlson
Address: P.O. Box 11012, Sarasota, FL 34278
Web site: www.pierianspringacademy.org
Mission Statement: Offer a wide range of non-credit adult education courses to Sarasota’s retirement community.
Volunteer Opportunities: A variety of administrative duties.
Contact Telephone: (941) 716-2471
Pines of Sarasota Foundation, Inc.
A separate supporting organization for Pines of Sarasota, a long-term multi-level nursing care facility. Provides care for those with limited financial resources.
President: Laurie Hagberg
Address: P.O. Box 4253, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.pinesofsarasota.org
Mission Statement: Raise funds that support the needs of Pines residents and build endowment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Transportation, entertainment, clerical, reading to residents.
Main Fund-raising Event: Joint event with Circus Sarasota—Food, fun, circus acts.
Date: December 2005
Location: Pines of Sarasota
Ticket Price: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-6293
Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, Inc.
Family planning, medical and educational services to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease.
Executive Director: Barbara A. Zdravecky
Address: 2055 Wood St., Suite 110, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.plannedparenthood.org
Mission Statement: Family planning for all, regardless of income, marital status, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, national origin or residence.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mailings, copying educational or clinical forms.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) 40th Annual Dinner. 2) High Tea—Luncheon and fashion show. 3) Safe Sax—Dinner, entertainment and dancing.
Date: 1) March 2006. 2) Nov. 17, 2005. 3) Nov. 17, 2005.
Location: 1) Municipal Auditorium. 2) Phillippi Estate. 3) Phillippi Estate.
Ticket Price: 1) TBA 2) $45. 3) $75.
Event Chairs: 1) TBA 2) Laura Proctor. 3) Suzette Jones.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-3913 ext. 101
Plantation Community Foundation
Foundation with 760 members who raise funds to improve the quality of life in south Sarasota County. All funds go to south Sarasota County not-for-profit agencies.
President: Henry Dallam
Address: 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice, FL 34293
Mission Statement: Improve the quality of life in south Sarasota County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Celebrity Golf Classic
Date: February 2006
Location: Plantation Golf and Country Club
Ticket Price: Free to public
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 497-4826
Players of Sarasota
Featuring its 76th Broadway musical season, year-round special events programming, a concert series, international cultural exchanges and The Players Performing Arts School.
Executive and Artistic Director: Burton H. Wolfe
Address: 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.theplayers.org
Mission Statement: To produce and to sponsor productions, projects and events related to local, national and international performing and cultural arts. Integral to this mission is to provide education in the arts and opportunities for multicultural community participation.
Volunteer Opportunities: Assisting backstage, in the scene shop, box office or costume department; usher or intern at The Players Performing Arts School.
Main Fund-raising Event: 76th Season Gala—Live entertainment, “palate pleasures, liquid treasures,” silent auction and Sarasota celebrities.
Date: March 2006
Location: The Players Theatre
Ticket Price: $45–$100
Event Chairs: Dr. Karol Cooperman
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-2494
Police Athletic League of Sarasota County, Inc.
Offers after-school programs throughout Sarasota County to provide a safe place for children to learn and achieve.
Executive Director: Lt. Keith Muncy
Address: 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.sarasotapal.org
Mission Statement: Provide a safe environment for kids to participate, learn and achieve while developing positive relationships with law enforcement.
Volunteer Opportunities: After-school programs at Newtown Estates, Englewood Recreational Center, Venice High School, McIntosh Middle School and the PAL Sailor Circus.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) PAL Bowl All-Star Football Game—All-Star high school football game between Manatee and Sarasota counties. 2) PAL Sailor Circus holiday performances. 3) Annual PAL Charity Gala.
Date: 1) Dec. 16, 2005. 2) Dec. 28–31, 2005. 3) Jan. 2006.
Location: 1) Cardinal Mooney High School. 2) PAL Sailor Circus Arena. 3) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) Free to watch. 2) $10, $12 and $14. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 316-8108
Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA)
The only national organization for children and adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome. Provides research funding, awareness, education and various support programs.
Executive Director: Janalee Heinemann
Address: 5700 Midnight Pass Road, Suite 6, Sarasota, FL 34242
Web site: www.pwsausa.org
Mission Statement: Through the teamwork of families and professionals, PWSA (USA) will improve and enhance the lives of everyone impacted by PWS and related conditions.
Volunteer Opportunities: Educational mailings, computer work, conference, speakers, fund raising and awareness support.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Angel Fund drive—Annual mailing to those who have helped or expressed interest in doing so. 2) Valentine Research Fund drive—Annual mailing to request funds used exclusively for research.
Date: 1) November 2005. 2) February 2006.
Contact Telephone: (941) 312-0400
Renaissance Manor
Assisted living for adults specializing in mental health.
Administrator: Heather Eller
Address: 1401 16th St., Sarasota, FL 34236
Mission Statement: Provide a stable, supportive and safe living environment for adults with mental health issues in order to encourage independence while also meeting social and educational needs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-8645
Resurrection House, Inc.
Street-level ministry supported entirely by private donations.
Executive Director: Robert P. Kyllonen
Address: 507 Kumquat Court, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.geocities.com/Resurrectionhouseinc.
Mission Statement: Provide the homeless with a day resource center offering free showers, laundry, restrooms, food, clothing, counseling and other support items.
Volunteer Opportunities: Counseling, clerical, computer, laundry, haircuts.
Main Fund-raising Event: “An Evening to Remember”—Dinner, cabaret performance, door prize drawings and desserts.
Date: TBA
Location: Florida Studio Theatre in the Goldstein Cabaret
Ticket Price: $85
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-3759
Ringling School of Art and Design
One of the country’s premier private art and design colleges.
President: Dr. Larry R. Thompson
Address: 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234-5895
Web site: www.ringling.edu
Mission Statement: Provide an intensive professional education in the visual arts through programs leading to a bachelor of fine arts degree.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) An Evening at the Avant Garde—Annual student scholarship fundraiser. 2) Annual Dream Makers Fund-raising Breakfast.
Date: 1) March 25, 2006. 2) Dec. 1, 2005.
Location: 1) Ringling School of Art and Design campus. 2) Hyatt Sarasota.
Ticket Price: 1) TBA 2) Free.
Event Chairs: 1) Dottie Baer Garner, Elaine Keating, Bettina von Walhof. 2) Joan Goldstein.
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 359-7589. 2) (941) 309-5455.
Ringling School Library Association
Supports the Verman Kimbrough Library at the Ringling School of Art and Design.
President: Debbi Benedict
Address: P.O. Box 4071, Sarasota, FL 34230
E-mail: [email protected]
Mission Statement: Dedicated to the ongoing development of Verman Kimbrough Memorial Library and acts as a catalyst for the educational growth of students, faculty and community.
Volunteer Opportunities: None
Main Fund-raising Event: Town Hall—lecture series.
Date: January–March 2006
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Ticket Price: $150–$500
Event Chair: Elizabeth Wery
Contact Telephone: (941) 925-1343
St. Stephen’s Episcopal School
An independent, co-educational, college preparatory day school for students of all faiths, pre-K through grade 12.
Head of School: Janet S. Pullen
Address: 315 41st St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
Web site: www.saintstephens.org
Mission Statement: To provide a superior academic program which prepares each student for a college or university compatible with the individual’s academic ability, interest, and needs; to instill in each student a love of learning, an active respect for all members of the school community, and a fundamental sense of integrity; and to provide a nurturing environment which values independence and self-worth, physical health, spiritual awareness, and responsible citizenship.
Volunteer Opportunities: Tutoring, classroom assistance, school fund-raising, business partnerships.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Athletic Booster Bonanza Weekend—To benefit the athletic programs of the school. 2) Parents’ Association Signature Event.
Date: 1) Oct. 21–22, 2005. 2) April 8, 2006.
Location: 1) Golf and Tennis Tournament, El Conquistador Country Club; Falcon Fitness 5k run/walk, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School. 2) TBA
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Theresa Rawe (golf), Lyn Suriol (tennis), Lorraine Jackman (5k). 2) Karen Thompson.
Contact Telephone: (941) 746-2121 ext. 121
Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC)
Executive Director: Stephanie Woods
Address: 2139 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.sparcc.net
Mission Statement: Provide free services to victims of domestic violence and rape.
Volunteer Opportunities: 24-hour hotline, advocacy in court system, Treasure Chest secondhand store.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) SPARCCLE On the Beach. 2) Second Hand Rose Fashion Show and Luncheon.
Date: 1) March 24, 2006. 2) Feb. 9, 2006. 3) May 4, 2006.
Location: 1) Ritz-Carlton Beach Club. 2) Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Ticket Price: 1) $140. 2) $55.
Event Chairs: 1) Michelle Witzer. 2) Mary Kenealy-Barbetta, Patti Potter. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 496-9366, Marion Huffmire
Salvation Army Sarasota Area Command
Provides food, shelter, counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, correctional services and financial assistance for those in need.
Executive Director: Major Bert Tanner
Address: 1400 10th St., Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.salvationarmysarasotacounty.net
Mission Statement: The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Volunteer Opportunities: Intake counselors, meal servers, Christmas volunteers, disaster volunteers, maintenance, painters, youth mentors, administrative assistants, youth community service and computer mentors.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) The Holiday Feast—Holiday cooking demonstration. 2) The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon “Glitz at the Ritz.”
Date: 1) Nov. 2, 2005. 2) April 2006.
Location: 1) Michael’s On East. 2) The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
Ticket Price: 1) Starting at $55. 2) Starting at $75.
Event Chairs: 1) TBA 2) Chris Pfahler, Teresa Saba.
Contact Telephone: (941) 928-7393
Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast
Faith- and community-based outpatient mental health counseling center that also provides services to low-income clients.
Executive Director: The Rev. Richard O. Howell
Address: 3224 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239
Mission Statement: Provide an array of spiritually sensitive, high-quality, cost-efficient behavioral health services to the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Board members, marketing, fund raising.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Women of Compassion Helping Women in Need”—The “Silent Samaritan” campaign gathers funds that are used to provide affordable faith-based counseling to women and children in need. The event culminates with a celebration luncheon in the spring.
Date: Spring 2006
Contact Telephone: (941) 926-2959
Sarasota Architectural Foundation
Provides educational tours, lectures, exhibits, travel and social events celebrating modern architecture and design.
Executive Directors: Martie Lieberman and Tom Luzier
Address: P.O. Box 3678, Sarasota, FL 34230-3678
Web site: www.safonline.org
Mission Statement: Celebrate and encourage architectural excellence, from the Sarasota School of Architecture to the best design for our time.
Volunteer Opportunities: Tour volunteers, data entry, Web site maintenance, mailings, party planners, publicity, fund raising and community representation.
Main Fund-raising Event: Architectural tours, trips, lectures, design conferences, exhibits, film screenings and social events—Educational tours and events for members and the public.
Date: Year-round
Location: Sarasota area
Ticket Price: Free–$75
Event Chairs: Martie Lieberman, Tom Luzier
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-4723
Sarasota Area Sports Authority
Membership-based nonprofit aimed at attracting amateur and professional sports events, races and competitions to the Sarasota area.
Sports Coordinator: Rashad West
Address: 655 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.sarasotasports.org
Mission Statement: Attract amateur and professional sports events, races and competitions to the Sarasota Area, and to offer housing authority to volunteer support and from media coverage to sponsorship opportunities to sporting event organizers.
Main Fund-raising Event: Diamonds on the Diamond Gala—Dinner benefiting Sarasota sports and the Sarasota Parks and Recreation Adopt-a-Camper program.
Date: Nov. 12, 2005
Location: Ed Smith Stadium
Ticket Price: $100; sponsorships available.
Event Chairs: Nicole Evans
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-0991 ext. 206, Rashad West.
Sarasota Audubon Society
President: Jeanne Dubi
Address: P.O. Box 15423, Sarasota, FL 34277
Web site: www.sarasotaaudubon.org
Mission Statement: Dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of birds, wildlife and the environment through an understanding of conservation.
Volunteer Opportunities: Trip leaders, speakers, road clean-ups, beach nests monitoring.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Trips—Nearly 20 day trips, one Florida overnight trip and one international trip for birding. 2) “A Night at the Ballet”—Evening at the ballet.
Date, Location, Ticket price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 364-9212
Sarasota Ballet of Florida, Inc.
A world-class professional ballet company performing classical and contemporary repertoire from October through April each year.
Executive Director: Ann Logan
Address: 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.sarasotaballet.org
Mission Statement: Present the highest quality classical and contemporary dance, encourage choreographic talent, expand educational programs and opportunities for community outreach and service and participate in joint ventures with other regional arts organizations and dance companies.
Volunteer Opportunities: Join the Sarasota Ballet Association; call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Lavish New Year’s Eve party with dancing and dining.
Date: Dec. 31, 2005
Location: Hyatt Sarasota
Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 359-0099 ext. 106
Sarasota Chorus of the Keys (Sarasota Florida Chapter SPEBSQSA)
Award-winning men’s show chorus.
Executive Director: Erd Dahl
Address: P.O. Box 51751, Sarasota, FL 34232-0314
Web site: www.chorusofthekeys.org
Mission Statement: Preserve and further develop the original American artform of four-part a cappella harmony while striving for musical excellence, contributing to the community’s cultural development, and providing charitable support to choral students and the culturally deprived.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 57th Annual Concert—100-man chorus and champion quartets in performance.
Date: March 4, 2006
Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Ticket Price: $18–$35
Event Chair: Fred Lathwood
Contact Telephone: (941) 751-2087
Sarasota Chorus Sweet Adelines International, Inc.
Four-part a cappella, barbershop-style and women’s chorus.
Executive Director: Amanda Rycyk
Address: 2114 Glenwood Drive, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.geocities.com/sarasotachorus
Mission Statement: Provide education and training for women in singing four-part a cappella harmony, barbershop style; promote the art form of barbershop harmony; and award grants and scholarships toward the pursuit of vocal music.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual Show
Date, Location: TBA
Ticket Price: $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Group rates available.
Sarasota Christian School
An independent K–12 grade school that focuses on academic success within a nurturing, Christian environment.
Superintendent: Eugene D. Miller
Address: 5415 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.sarasotachristian.org
Mission Statement: To honor God by providing academic excellence to its students while developing their Christian faith in partnership with the home, the church and the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office support, mailings, maintenance; call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 47th Annual Auction—A weekend event featuring class baskets, handmade quilts, pancake breakfast, children’s games, a live auction and much more.
Date: Feb. 17–18, 2006
Location: Gymnasium
Ticket Price: Free
Event Chair: Christine Purnell
Contact Telephone: (941) 371-6481 ext. 221
Sarasota Concert Association
In its 60th year, the Sarasota Concert Association presents a series of nationally and internationally known artists and ensembles performing classical music in a five-concert series.
Membership Coordinator: John W. Ames
Address: P.O. Box 1714, Sarasota, FL 34230
Mission Statement: To foster the development in the community of an appreciation for the musical arts by sponsoring professional presentations that are not otherwise available to the community, primarily through a not-for-profit, organized-audience plan; to present concerts featuring a variety of quality music; to set the fee for its performances as reasonably as possible, in order to make the concerts available to all individuals.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Munchtime Musicales—Musical performances throughout the year.
Location: Symphony Center
Ticket Price: Free
Event Chair: Martha Leiter
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-0040
Sarasota Concert Band, Inc.
Professional musicians keeping alive the American concert band tradition.
Music Director: Bill Barbanera
Address: 1345 Main St., Suite E, Sarasota, FL 34236
Mission Statement: Promote the love, enjoyment and appreciation of music in Sarasota for cultural and educational benefits.
Volunteer Opportunities: Ushers, ticket takers, sound system set-up, office assistance.
Contact Telephone: (941) 364-2263
Sarasota Conservation Foundation
Land trust.
Executive Director: Albert G. Joerger
Address: P.O. Box 902, Osprey, FL 34229
Web site: www.sarasotaconservation.org
Mission Statement: To protect the environment, character and biodiversity of Sarasota County’s bays, beaches and barrier islands by holding conservation easements and owning nature preserves, collaborating with individuals, organizations and communities and educating for responsible stewardship.
Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteers welcome.
Main Fund-raising Event: TBA
Date, Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 918-2100
Sarasota Council of Concern, Inc.
All-volunteer organization that operates Mustard Seed Thrift Shop to provide funds for second-grade swimming programs and layettes for needy new mothers.
Address: 1442 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34236
Mission Statement: Concentrate on the unmet needs of children in Sarasota County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Sales help in thrift store, price donations, helping to create a friendly, helpful atmosphere in the store.
Main Fund-raising Event: Sales at the Mustard Seed Thrift Shop.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-5999
Sarasota County Arts Council
A membership-based, private organization that serves the public, artists and arts organizations throughout the county.
Executive Director: Patricia Caswell
Address: 1226 N. Tamiami Trail, Suite 300, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.sarasota-arts.org
Mission Statement: Together we create an environment where the arts flourish.
Volunteer Opportunities: Arts Day, general office and committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: Arts Night—A unique event to expose young professionals to the arts.
Date: Jan. 13, 2006
Location: Downtown Sarasota
Ticket Price: $75. Open bar.
Event Chair: Amie Shay
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-5118 ext. 301
Sarasota Film Festival, Inc.
A year-round arts organization that culminates in an annual celebration of film each spring.
Executive Director: Jody Kielbasa
Address: 635 S. Orange Ave., Suite 10B, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.sarasotafilmfestival.com
Mission Statement: Present unique and quality cinema in a festival atmosphere to educate, stimulate and entertain audiences, and foster an environment that supports and encourages filmmakers by supplying essential networking opportunities and open dialogue with intelligent, creative and inquisitive consumers of film.
Volunteer Opportunities: Year-round operations and festival positions.
Main Fund-raising Event: Filmmakers Tribute Dinner—A spectacular formal dinner and celebration honoring the life and work of a legendary film talent. Also honors scholarship winners and film award recipients.
Date: Festival, March 31–April 9, 2006; Tribute Dinner, April 8, 2006.
Location: Festival, Regal Hollywood 20; Tribute Dinner, TBA.
Ticket Price: $8–$300
Event Chair: Mary Ann Robinson
Contact Telephone: (941) 364-9514 ext. 3#
Sarasota Film Society
Owns Burns Court Cinema, which screens more than 150 foreign and independent films each year.
Executive Director: Noel Hazard
Address: P.O. Box 3378, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.filmsociety.org
Mission Statement: Bring the best of foreign language and independent cinema to Sarasota year-round.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Cine-World Film Festival—Festival screening of more than 50 feature films from around the world.
Date: November 2005
Location: Burns Court Cinemas
Ticket Price: Members $5; non-member $7.50 per film.
Event Chairs: Amy Carnett, Robert Macadaeg
Contact Telephone: (941) 364-8662
Sarasota Garden Club, Inc.
President: Kathryn Johnson
Address: 1131 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236-4809
Web site: www.hometown.aol.com/sgcgarden
Mission Statement: Encourage skill in gardening and floral arts, foster civic beautification, support conservation and oppose actions that damage the environment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Youth gardening (ages three to 18), butterfly gardening, nursing home outreach.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Holiday Boutique—Holiday gift items and plants. 2) Founders Circle Gardener’s Fair.
Date: 1) Dec. 2–3, 2005. 2) Feb. 23, 2006.
Location: 1) Sarasota Garden Club. 2) Chelsea Center.
Ticket Price: 1)Free, items to purchase. 2) Free, items to purchase.
Event Chairs: 1) Kathryn Johnson, Marilyn Keyser. 2) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-0875
Sarasota K-9 Search and Rescue
Partnering with K-9 dogs to find the lost and serve the community.
President: Pat Abrams
Address: P.O. Box 51446, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.k-9sar.net
Mission Statement: Foster teamwork, integrity and a commitment to having the safest and most positive outcome for locating missing persons.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, K-9 handlers, search and rescue.
Main Fund-raising Event: Dinner
Date: Sept. 10, 2005
Location: Serendipity at the Country Club of Sarasota
Ticket Price: $200
Event Chairs: Pat Abrams, Joe Abrams, Penny Verde
Contact Telephone: (941) 377-7915
Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc.
Fund-raising organization that supports healthcare in Sarasota.
President and CEO: Alexandra Quarles, CFRE
Address: 1838 Waldemere St., Sarasota, FL 34239
Web site: www.smhf.org
Mission Statement: Improve the delivery of healthcare for the Sarasota area through the acquisition and utilization of philanthropic funds.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 30th Anniversary Corinthian Gala
Date: Feb. 25, 2006
Location: TheRitz-Carlton, Sarasota
Ticket Price, Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 917-1286
Sarasota Opera
Executive Director: Susan Danis
Address: 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.sarasotaopera.org
Mission Statement: Produce outstanding opera true to the vision of the composer, and entertain, enrich and educate the community and patrons from across the state and around the world.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Fall Dinner—Pre-concert affair featuring fall food favorites. 2) 5th Annual Opera Ball—Dance and dine in elegance in the Ritz-Carlton ballroom. 3) Opening Night Gala—Celebrate the opening of the 47th season and the opening production of La Bohème.
Date: 1) Nov. 19, 2005. 2) Dec. 2, 2005. 3) Feb. 4, 2006.
Location: 1) Sarasota University Club. 2) The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. 3) Opera House.
Ticket Price: 1) $75. 2) $275. 3) $150.
Event Chairs: 1) Joel D. and Ellen S. Fedder. 2) Jane Bavaria, Betsy Hinrichs, Patricia Hull. 3) Richard and Ann Cameron, Jack and Isabell Wright.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-8450 ext. 402
Sarasota Opera Guild
All-volunteer organization that works to foster, promote and increase the knowledge and appreciation of opera, in conjunction with the Sarasota Opera Association.
President: Juanita Connell
Address: 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.sarasotaopera.org/Development/SOG.html
Mission Statement: Financially support the Sarasota Opera and Youth Opera and provide scholarships and master classes to further the education of Sarasota Opera apprentice artists.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Poinsettia Luncheon.2) Sweetheart Luncheon—Honoring opera personalities, with entertainment by Sarasota Opera principal artists.
Date: 1) Dec. 13, 2005. 2) Feb. 16, 2006.
Location: 1–2) Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: 1) $35. 2) $50–$250.
Event Chair: 1) Marilyn Bezner. 2) Joan Suddarth.
Contact Telephone: (941) 966-2365
Sarasota Reading Festival
Promotes literacy and reading through author presentations and education outreach, and raises funds for area libraries.
Directors: Su Byron and Sonia Velasco
Address: P.O. Box 906, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.sarasotareadingfestival.com
Mission Statement: Promote the importance of literacy, the pleasure of reading and the power of the written word.
Volunteer Opportunities: Festival planning and day of event.
Main Fund-raising Event: A Novel Affair—Author reception where guests mingle with acclaimed authors. Lavish hors d’oeuvres and open bar.
Date: 1) A Novel Affair, Nov. 4, 2005. 2) Author presentations and street festival, Nov. 5, 2005.
Location: 1) Selby Public Library. 2) Five Points Park.
Ticket Price: 1) $50–$1,000. 2) Free.
Event Chairs: Renee Richardson Kling, Leslie Glass
Contact Telephone: (941) 906-1733
Sarasota Season of Sculpture
Invitational exhibition of 22 to 26 monumental works of art displayed along the Sarasota bayfront off Tamiami Trail. Half the artists are anticipated to hail from outside the United States.
Executive Director: Jill Kaplan
Address: 436 Burns Court, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.seasonofsculpture.com
Mission Statement: Bring large-scale public works of art created by world-class sculptors to Sarasota and promote public support of art.
Volunteer Opportunities: Administrative, docents, event helpers.
Main Fund-raising Event: Bayfront Gala/Brunch
Date: Nov. 13, 2005
Location: Downtown Bayfront Park, adjacent to Tamiami Trail.
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chairs: Myrna Band, Elaine Keating, Katherine Harris and event coordinator Janet Hunter.
Contact Telephone: (941) 953-4515
Sarasota Waldorf School
Offers early childhood programs, grade school, adult and parenting education and community festivals.
Executive Director: Lisa White
Address: 1900 Meadowood St., Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.sarasotawaldorf.org
Mission Statement: Support and promote affordable Waldorf education locally, and prepare graduates to become creative shapers of society through a time-tested education system.
Volunteer Opportunities: Festival fund raising and adult education classes.
Main Fund-raising Event: Great Garden Bash—Benefits the Rainbow Bridge Fund for tuition assistance.
Date: March 18, 2006
Location: TBA
Ticket Price: $65
Event Chair: Jennifer Castilow
Contact Telephone: (941) 927-3711
Sarasota/Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART)
A North American Riding for the Handicapped premier center that provides therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with special needs.
Executive Director: Gail Clifton
Address: P.O. Box 9566, Bradenton, FL 34206
Web site: www.smartriders.org
Mission Statement: Enhance the physical, emotional and cognitive growth of individuals with special needs through a quality educational and recreational therapeutic horseback-riding and carriage-driving program.
Volunteer Opportunities: Horse handlers, side walkers, administration, facility maintenance, marketing and fund-raising.
Main Fund-raising Event: SMART Chef’s Dinners, golf tournament, Pumpkin Festival, poker runs.
Date: Year-round
Location, Ticket Price: Varies
Contact Telephone: (941) 746-1493
Sarasota’s Good Samaritan Ministries, Inc.
Assist the needy with friendship, understanding, and reaching out a helping hand with practical realities.
Executive Director: Carolyn J. Cooley
Address: 3052 Alta Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34237
Mission Statement: Help the less fortunate with free clothing and referral services as well as quarterly outreaches of free clothing in West Virginia and New Mexico.
Volunteer Opportunities: Working in free clothing store at 3900 N. Washington Blvd. Monday–Friday, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Main Fund-raising Event: Yard sales
Date: Monthly
Location: Sarasota Good Samaritan store, 3900 N. Washington Blvd.
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-2052
Sarasota-Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Center of the Florida Holocaust Museum
A subsidiary of the Florida Holocaust Museum in St. Petersburg that provides educational support and teaching materials to public and private schools in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Executive Director: Estelle Crawford
Address: 578 S. McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.flholocaustmuseum.org
Mission Statement: Honor the memory of millions of innocent men, women and children who suffered or died in the Holocaust, and convey the inherent worth and dignity of human life to prevent future genocides.
Volunteer Opportunities: Clerical, computer and phone skills, outreach projects, special events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Annual luncheon. 2) Embracing Our Differences—Outdoor art exhibition of 39 billboard-size works of art, as well as events and workshops. 3) Tour of Kitchens.
Date: 1) Jan. 27, 2005. 2) April 2–30, 2006. 3) March 2006.
Location: Michael’s On East. 2) Island Park at the Bayfront. 3) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) $125. 2) Free. 3) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) TBA 2) Dennis and Graci McGillicuddy, Dr. Carroll and Carol Buchanan, Bob and Leslie Malkin. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 378-8837
Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation, Inc.
Raises and distributes funds for humanitarian and social services, both Jewish and non-Jewish, locally and overseas.
Executive Director: Rhea Hughes
Address: 580 S. McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.smjf.org
Mission Statement: For more than 25 years, the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation has worked to ensure the continuity of the Jewish people, enhance the quality of Jewish life and build a strong, secure and unified Jewish community in Sarasota, Manatee, Israel and throughout the world.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Triple Crown II—Dinner and live entertainment, honoring major contributors to the area’s Jewish, arts and social service community.
Date: Dec. 1, 2005
Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 371-4546
SCOPE (Sarasota County Openly Plans for Excellence)
Engages residents in learning and working together to create community change.
Executive Director: Tim Dutton
Address: 1226 N. Tamiami Trail, Suite 202, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.scopexcel.org
Mission Statement: Engage the community in planning for excellence through a process of open dialogue and impartial research, and establish priorities, propose solutions and monitor change to enhance the quality of life in Sarasota County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Community studies, communications committee, mailings and event planning.
Second Chance Last Opportunity
Targets services providing life management skills to individuals, families, and youth with no or low income, who are homeless or may become homeless, infected with HIV/AIDS or are at risk for substance abuse and dropping out of school.
Executive Director: April Glasco
Address: 1933 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.wcl.com/secondchance
Mission Statement: Provide life management skills to those who face multiple health, social and economic challenges.
Volunteer Opportunities: Business sponsors; distribution for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and back-to-school supplies. Distributing food baskets and clothing twice a week. Volunteering in the office Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Main Fund-raising Event: SCLO 10th Year Anniversary Celebration luncheon.
Date: Aug. 18, 2006
Location: Michael’s On East
Ticket Price: Call for information.
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 360-8660
Senior Friendship Centers
With two model multi-service campuses and several neighborhood sites, Senior Friendship Centers provides an opportunity for 50+ year-olds to engage in life-enriching programs and activities and make new friends.
President and CEO: Robert J. Carter
Address: 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.seniorfriendship.com
Mission Statement: Assist older adults to live independently with dignity and respect by providing services that encourage healthy aging, enhance quality of life and relieve isolation and loneliness.
Volunteer Opportunities: Medical and dental practitioners, clerical support, entertainers, instructors and home meal deliverers. Call 955-2122 for more information.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Fall Festival—A day of health and wellness. 2) Fashion show and luncheon. 3) Friendship Celebration—Mardi Gras time.
Date: 1) Nov. 12, 2005. 2) Feb. 24, 2006. 3) Feb. 28, 2006.
Location: 1) Senior Friendship Center—Sarasota. 2) Bird Key Yacht Club. 3) Senior Friendship Center—Sarasota.
Ticket Price: 1) Free and open to public. 2) $65. 3) $125.
Event Chairs: 1) Anne Swartz. 2) Rita August, Barbara Stich. 3) TBA
Contact Telephone: 1) (941) 955-2122. 2) (941) 556-3215. 3) (941) 955-2122.
The Smith Center for Therapeutic Riding
Hippotherapy program offered through Sarasota County schools and to private clients, serving over 150 children and adults, age two to 82, from Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties.
Executive Director: Donna L. Blem
Address: P.O. Box 365, Nokomis, FL 34274
Web site: www.smithcenter.org
Mission Statement: Provide therapeutic horseback riding to qualified children and adults with a broad range of physical, developmental and emotional disabilities.
Volunteer Opportunities: Hands-on work with riders and horses, barn duties, special events, office assistance.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Derby Day 2006. 2) Casino Night. 3) Absolute Aluminum Golf Tournament.
Date: 1) Night before Kentucky Derby. 2) October 2005. 3) November 2005.
Location: 1) Michael’s On East. 2) Chelsea Center. 3) Lake Venice Golf Club.
Ticket Price: 1) $125. 2) $65. 3) $65.
Event Chairs: 1) TBA 2) Brad Stewart. 3) D.J. Des Jardins.
Contact Telephone: (941) 412-9333
SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre
Brings poetry into the community through workshops, recordings and videos, helping over 3,500 at-risk children and adults through its innovative programs.
Executive Director: Scylla Liscombe
Address: P.O. Box 48955, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.soulspeak.org
Mission Statement: Increase public awareness of poetry and foster the practice of poetry throughout the community; promote the healing power of poetry; promote poetry in collaboration with other arts, both traditional and healing; foster poetry education programs; and preserve the artform.
Volunteer Opportunities: Word processing, data entry, research, Web site.
Main Fund-raising Event: SOULQUEST—Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry.
Date: Third Thursday of every month
Location: 535 Columbia Court
Event Chair: Scylla Liscombe
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-6468
South Florida Museum
Southwest Florida’s largest natural and cultural history museum.
Executive Director: John Howard
Address: 201 10th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34206
Web site: www.southfloridamuseum.org
Mission Statement: Inform and educate through innovative, eclectic and entertaining presentations that reflect and interpret the natural and cultural history of Southwest Florida.
Volunteer Opportunities: Docents, aquarium spotters, museum store, information desk.
Main Fund-raising Event: Snooty Gala—Elegant black-tie dinner to support Snooty the manatee and the museum’s educational programs.
Date: Nov. 5, 2005
Location: South Florida Museum
Ticket Price: $150
Event Chairs: Debbie Gigliotti, Carol Rice
Contact Telephone: (941) 746-4131 ext. 14
Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc.
Guide dog service.
Executive Director: Bob DeBusk
Address: 4210 77th St., E., Palmetto, FL 34221
Web site: www.guidedogs.org
Mission Statement: Offer free of charge a unique opportunity to achieve independent travel with safety and dignity to blind men and women through the use of a professionally and humanely trained dog.
Volunteer Opportunities: Puppy hugging, dog walking, special events, puppy raising, administrative support, driving assistance.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual Walk-a-thon—Volunteers gather pledges.
Date: March 4, 2006
Location: Manatee County Fairgrounds, IMC Arena
Ticket Price: Volunteers collect pledges to walk.
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 729-5665
Special Athlete Boosters, Inc.
Develops local resources that enable mentally retarded children and adults to participate in such activities as Special Olympics.
Executive Director: Robert Rankin
Address: P.O. Box 2112, Venice, FL 34284
Mission Statement: Develop local resources, both human and financial, that allow children and adults with mental retardation to train and compete in programs such as Special Olympics.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising and special events.
Main Fund-raising Event: Shark Tooth Festival—Festival with food, rides, crafts and exhibits.
Date: April 7–9, 2006
Location: Venice Pier
Ticket Price: $2
Event Chair: Robert Rankin
Contact Telephone: (941) 412-0402
Special Olympics Sarasota
County Coordinator: Robert Rankin
Address: P.O. Box 2112, Venice, FL 34284
Mission Statement: Year-round sports training and Olympic-type sports for persons with developmental disabilities.
Volunteer Opportunities: Event personnel, office, coaching, transportation and chaperoning athletes.
Main Fund-raising Event: Publix Torch Sales—Torches will be sold at all area Publix stores throughout January.
Ticket Price: $1–$5 each.
Contact Telephone: (941) 412-0402
St. Vincent de Paul Society, St. Martha’s Conference
Operates a soup kitchen for the needy and a thrift shop to raise funds.
Executive Director: Yve and Dave Comeau
Address: 512 S. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Mission Statement: Clothe and feed the less fortunate.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Contact Telephone: (941) 953-5477
Step House, Inc.
A very upscale, Christian-based program for the addicted male.
Executive Director: Dr. Regina Maxwell
Address: 394 Southland Road, Venice, FL 34293
Mission Statement: Restore the addicted to family and community by helping overcome addiction, improving self worth, self respect and self sufficiency.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, grant writing.
Main Fund-raising Event: Annual dinner—Buffet dinner prepared and served by clients.
Date, Location: TBA
Ticket Price: $50
Event Chair: Frankie Damiano
Contact Telephone: (941) 493-1608
Sun Coast Chamber Concerts, Inc.
Small chamber group of five strings that includes international soloists and presents an annual series of chamber concerts from St. Petersburg to Marco Island.
Executive Director: Joe Martinez
Address: 3528 Jaffa Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239
Mission Statement: Promote the growth of cultural development, with an emphasis on classical chamber music.
Volunteer Opportunities: Board of directors, concerts, committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: A variety of chamber concerts held throughout the season at private residences to build donor base.
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-6229
Suncoast Center for Independent Living, Inc.
Provides advocacy, peer counseling, information and referral, independent living skills training, medical and computer loan and home modification to persons with disabilities. Also provides American with Disabilities Act consultation.
Executive Director: Thomas H. Hemphill
Address: 1945 Northgate Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.scil4u.com
Mission Statement: Help people with disabilities achieve their full potential through independent living services and advocate the elimination of social and physical barriers to community integration.
Volunteer Opportunities: Construction of wheelchair ramps, repairing wheelchairs, refurbishing computers, and teaching computers and peer counseling.
Main Fund-raising Event: Golf tournament with banquet and silent auction.
Date: Early November 2005
Location, Ticket Price, Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 351-9545
Suncoast Communities Blood Bank
Medical Director/CEO: Mark Magenheim, M.D.
Address: 1760 Mound St., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.scbb.org
Mission Statement: Provide the community with a reliable supply of quality blood products and services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Customer service, office and clerical, donor recruitment, special events, education, courier, maintenance.
Main Fund-raising Event: Golf tournaments, raffles.
Date: Year-round
Location: All Suncoast Communities Blood Bank locations.
Ticket Price: Varies
Event Chair: Julie Platt
Contact Telephone: (941) 954-1600 ext 272
Suncoast Foundation for the Handicapped
Now 21 years old, the all-volunteer Suncoast Foundation builds facilities for handicapped Sarasota residents with proceeds raised by its annual Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival. In 2004, this race generated $165,000. Since the offshore races began in 1985, Suncoast has built $7 million worth of handicapped facilities.
President: John Stafford
Address: 4620 17th St., Sarasota, FL 34235
Web site: www.suncoastoffshore.org
Main Fund-raising Event: Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix
Date: June 24–July 2, 2006
Location: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 371-2827
Suncoast Humane Society
Open admission animal shelter serving portions of Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties.
Executive Director: Debra Parsons-Drake
Address: 6781 San Casa Drive, Englewood, FL 34224
Web site: www.humane.org
Mission Statement: Protect and provide for animals while creating an awareness of their value and importance in our lives through education and community programs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Tour guides, dog walkers, cat cuddlers, administrative, foster parents, handyman, groundskeeper and numerous other volunteer opportunities to work with and for the animals.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Paws in the Park—Annual off-site adoption and fund raiser with arts and crafts, pet contests, food vendors, entertainment and children’s activities. 2) Fur Ball.
Date: 1) March 2006. 2) Fall 2006.
Location: 1) Venice. 2) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) Free. 2) TBA
Event Chairs: 1) Barbara Jernigan. 2) TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 474-7884
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Florida Suncoast Affiliate
Foundation dedicated to the cure for breast cancer.
President: Frances Lambert
Address: P.O. Box 51616, Sarasota, FL 34232
Web site: www.komensuncoast.com
Mission Statement: To eradicate breast cancer through research, education, screening and treatment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Speakers bureau, educational programs, fund-raising.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Race for the Cure—Nationally sanctioned 5k race that draws participants from all over the region. 2) Circle of Hope—Day of shopping. 3) Luncheon.
Date: 1) Oct. 1, 2005. 2) Oct. 15, 2005. 3) March 2006.
Location: 1) Vinoy Park. 2) St. Armands Circle. 3) TBA
Ticket Price: 1) $20 prior to Sept. 1; $25 after. 2) Merchants donate from goods sold. 3) TBA
Event Chair: Harriet Maltz
Contact Telephone: (877) 506-6927
Take Stock in Children, Sarasota County
Awards four-year college scholarships to school students who agree to remain drug and crime-free, attend school regularly and maintain good grades.
Executive Director: Lisa Bechtold
Address: P.O. Box 48186, Sarasota, FL 34230-5186
Web site: www.takestockinchildren.com
Mission Statement: Provide scholarships, mentors and hope to deserving Sarasota County students.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mentoring and events, various committees.
Main Fund-raising Event: Fall luncheon/dinner—To raise scholarships and awareness.
Date: November 2005
Location, Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Shirley Garneski
Contact Telephone: (941) 373-7060
Tree Foundation
Tree research, education and exploration for both local and global audiences.
Executive Director: Dr. Meg Lowman
Address: P.O. Box 48839, Sarasota, FL 34230
Web site: www.treefoundation.org
Mission Statement: Tree research, education and exploration for both local and global audiences.
Volunteer Opportunities: Maintenance of Myakka canopy walkway, and school science outreach programs.
Contact Telephone: (941) 266-0817
United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee, Inc.
Provide programs, services and support to meet the needs of children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Executive Director: Wendy Mann Resnick
Address: 1090 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.ucpsarasota.org
Mission Statement: Provide people with disabilities the support necessary to enable them to live a full and productive life that includes a home, family, work and community participation.
Volunteer Opportunities: Reception, events.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) World’s Largest Office Party. 2) Chocolate Sundae & The Chocolate Festival—Chocolate-themed gourmet dinner and tasting. 3) 2006 Bachelor Ball & Auction.
Date: 1) Dec. 8, 2005. 2) March 10 and 12, 2006. 3) June 10, 2006.
Location: 1) Hyatt Sarasota ballroom. 2) Michael’s On East ballroom. 3) Michael’s On East ballroom.
Ticket Price: TBA
Event Chair: Wendy Mann Resnick
Contact Telephone: (941) 957-3599
United Way of Sarasota County, Inc.
Since 1948, United Way of Sarasota County has been a critical part of this community’s efforts to improve the quality of life for local children and families. Your local United Way continues to expand its impact within the community through partnerships with local foundations, local government, the school system, other local United Ways, and community investors.
Assets: $5,705,000
Total Services, Including Grants: $4,685,000
Number of Grants: 85
Range of Grants: $5,000 to $185,000
President: Alexander Young
Address: 1445 Second St., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.uwsrq.com
Mission Statement: To enhance the quality of life in our community through partnerships.
Volunteer Opportunities: Visit www.uwsrq.com/volunteer.htm.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-2686
University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee
Upper-level undergraduate and graduate-level programs and continuing professional education.
CEO: Dr. Laurey Stryker
Address: 5700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Web site: www.sar.usf.edu
Mission Statement: Provide the skills and knowledge base essential for regional growth and to serve the intellectual and economic needs of the region.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: Brunch on the Bay—Brunch held on the bayfront on campus to recognize companies and individuals who support campus initiatives.
Date: Nov. 6, 2005
Location: College Hall, USF Sarasota-Manatee campus
Ticket Price: $75/person; corporate sponsorships available, $1,500–$25,500.
Event Chair: Veronica Brady
Contact Telephone: (941) 359-4737, Anwar Pople
Van Wezel Foundation
A charitable organization dedicated to supporting the continuing excellence of the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.
Executive Director: Deborah Rohaty
Address: P.O. Box 3434, Sarasota, FL 34230
Mission Statement: Provide the margin of excellence for the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall through fund raising to support community access and outreach, educational and cultural programming, beautification and unique equipment needs.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Itzhak Perlman Music Program Celebration. 2) Reaching for the Stars—Cocktails and dinner in the Grand Foyer, preferred performance seating and a dessert and champagne reception for gala patrons.
Date: 1) Dec. 29, 2005. 2) Jan. 17, 2006.
Location: 1–2) Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Ticket Price: 1) $1,000/pair. 2) $250/Gala Star; $500/Super Star Patron; $750/Show Stopper Patron.
Event Chairs: 1–2) Alyce Kalin, Bea Friedman, Carolyn Michel and Dottie Baer Garner.
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-5578
Venice Area Mobile Meals, Inc.
Mobile meal service.
President: Robert Nicholson
Address: 920 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285
Mission Statement: Supply warm, nutritious meals to the needy in the greater Venice area.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for specific opportunities.
Contact Telephone: (941) 488-1889
Venice Art Center
Begun in 1958, the largest community art center on the Culture Coast offers local and nationally recognized exhibitions of paintings, sculpture, glass, photography and more, as well as lectures, art classes for all ages in all mediums, fine art sales and a gift gallery.
Executive Director: Marilyn LaBallister
Address: 390 S. Nokomis Ave. S., Venice, FL 34285
Mission Statement: To provide cultural resources to the community and encourage the knowledge and appreciation of visual art in all its forms today and in the future.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, exhibition committee, receiving and hanging, opening receptions and reception desk.
Main Fund-raising Event: Plein Air Invitational & Paint Out.
Date: Summer 2006
Location, Event Chair: TBA
Ticket Price: Free
Contact Telephone: (941) 485-7136
Venice Little Theatre
Award-winning community theater.
Artistic/Managing Director: Murray Chase
Address: 140 W. Tampa Ave., Venice, FL 34285
Web site: www.venicestage.com
Mission Statement: Serve the Venice area as its primary arts entertainment and theater education center.
Volunteer Opportunities: Onstage, backstage, scenery construction and painting, costume construction, box office, ushering and mailing.
Main Fund-raising Event: Entertainment in two theater spaces, from concerts to cutting-edge theater.
Date: Ongoing. Call for information.
Location: Venice Little Theatre
Ticket Price: $10–$35
Contact Telephone: (941) 488-1115
The Venice Symphony
75-piece symphony orchestra that presents classical, pops, chamber music and a summer music camp.
Executive Director: Jean Peters
Address: P.O. Box 1561, Venice, FL 34284
Web site: www.thevenicesymphony.org
Mission Statement: Present symphonic concerts and promote an appreciation of musical arts in the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Usher, office assistance, fund raising.
Main Fund-raising Event: Eric Watters Show
Date: Nov. 20, 21, and 28, 2005.
Location: Venice Little Theatre
Ticket Price: $20
Contact Telephone: (941) 488-1010
WEDU Channel 3 Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting, Inc.
West Central Florida’s primary PBS station, serving 3.5 million viewers in 16 counties including Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota.
President and CEO: Richard Lobo
Address: 1300 North Blvd., Tampa, FL 33607
Web site: www.wedu.org
Mission Statement: Provide and produce superior quality education, information and entertainment services, creating a wide realm of experiences for a diverse audience.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising and community outreach events, membership drives, office support and special mailings.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) On-air pledge drives, as well as a number of special events throughout the year. 2) Speaking of Women’s Health—Annual daylong event focusing on women’s health issues.
Date: 1) Varied. 2) May 2006 (August in Tampa).
Location: 1) Varied. 2) Sarasota and Tampa.
Ticket Price: 1) Varied. 2) $50 ($35 in Tampa).
Event Chair: Laura Turner
Contact Telephone: (800) 354-9338
The Wellness Community—Southwest Florida
Non-medical support organization for cancer patients and family members.
Executive Director: Jay R. Lockaby
Address: 3900 Clark Road, Building P-3, Sarasota, FL 34233
Web site: www.wellness-swfl.org
Mission Statement: To help people affected by cancer enhance their health and well-being through participation in a professional program of emotional support, education and hope.
Volunteer Opportunities: Outreach, clerical, fund raising, event support.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Flight of Hope—Dinner/dance gala with live and silent auctions. 2) The Celebration of Hope—Dinner and presentation of the 2005 Stephen H. Goldman Keystone Award.
Date: 1) March 26, 2006. 2) Nov. 16, 2005.
Location: 1) Dolphin Aviation. 2) Michael’s on East.
Ticket Price: 1) $200. 2) $150.
Event Chairs: 1) Rich and Kristen Williams and TBA. 2) Anne Weintraub, Salvador Diaz-Verson Jr.
Contact Telephone: (941) 921-5539
West Coast Civic Ballet
Provides quality dance performances in classical ballet and contemporary dance for audiences of all ages.
Executive Director: Deborah Vinton
Address: 1611 Northgate Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234
Web site: www.westcoastcivicballet.org
Mission Statement: Provide quality training and performance opportunities for area artists in classical and contemporary dance to enhance community appreciation and participation in visual and performing arts.
Volunteer Opportunities: Production, costumes, sets, props, backstage, box office, ushering, office help.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Holiday performances. 2) Festival of Dance. 3) Scary Saturday Night Out.
Date: 1) Dec. 17–18, 2005. 2) March 11–12, 2006. 3) Oct. 22, 2005.
Location: 1) Booker High School. 2) Booker High School. 3) Manatee Civic Center.
Ticket Price: 1) $15–$20/adult; $10–$15/senior; $5–$10/student. 2) $15–$20/adult; $10–$15/senior; $5–$10/student. 3) $60 for dinner and performance, $20 for performance only.
Event Chairs: 1) Deborah Vinton. 2) Donna Riggs.
Contact Telephone: (941) 358-8349
Westcoast Center for Human Development
Center of schools and programs that aim to advance spiritual growth and enlightenment through music, prayer and healing.
Executive Directors: Bishop Henry L. Porter and Marvin Hendon, Ph.D.
Address: 403 N. Washington Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.westcoastcenter.org
Mission Statement: Serve as a multiracial, multicultural center for human development, helping people reach their maximum potential.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mentors, tutors, fund raisers, talent and folk show participants, musicians to work with children, public relations, marketing, ticket sales. Learning and interaction speakers for students.
Main Fund-raising Event: 1) Annual Benefit Banquet—Celebrates diversity achievements within the community, honoring heroes of human service. 2) Annual Anniversary Concert. 3) Founder’s Fund-Raising Luncheon.
Date: 1) March 2006. 2–3) TBA
Location: TBA
Ticket Price: 1)$250/person; $3,000/table; sponsorships $500–$30,000. 2) $18–$125. Private reception $500. 3) $42.
Event Chair: Janet Dodge
Contact Telephone: (941) 365-7543
William G. Selby and Marie Selby Foundation
Donates grants for capital projects to nonprofit organizations in Sarasota and surrounding counties.
As of May 31, 2004:
Assets: $69,250,661
Grants Paid: $2.6 million
Number of Grants: 36
Range of Grants: $10,000 to $500,000
Average Grant Size: $72,453
President: Debra Jacobs
Address: 1800 Second St., Suite 750, Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.selbyfdn.org
Mission Statement: A private charitable foundation focused on enhancing the quality of life in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties.
Contact Telephone: (941) 957-0442
The Woman’s Exchange
Established in 1962, a nonprofit, tax-exempt consignment store whose revenues provide direct grants to local arts organizations and to individual students pursuing an education in the arts.
Manager: Helen Maniscalco
Address: 539 S. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Web site: www.womansexchange.com
Mission Statement: Enrich and strengthen arts-related programs and encourage creativity in organizations and individuals throughout the community. Merchandise to be sold in the store is accepted either for donation or consignment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 1–4 p.m. Cashier, intake, pricing, sales, wrappers.
Contact Telephone: (941) 955-7859
Women’s American ORT (Organization for Educational Resources and Technological Training)
Raises funds for vocational and technical schools in the United States and all over the world.
President: Kim Sheintal
Address: 4370 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
Web site: www.waort.org
Mission Statement: Enable students to develop lifetime skills and become independent and contributing members of society; improve American public education, promote quality vocational/technical education.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, tutoring and mentoring in schools, gift wrap, Reading Festival.
Main Fund-raising Event: Gift wrap
Date: Nov. 25–Dec. 24, 2005
Location: Westfield Southgate, Westfield Sarasota
Ticket Price: By donation
Contact Telephone: (941) 927-6678
Women’s Resource Center of Manatee County
Provides programs and services to give women the tools they need to be successful.
Executive Director: Ashley Brown
Address: 1926 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205
Web site: www.wrcmanatee.org
Mission Statement: Support the emotional and financial independence of women through education and vocational success.
Volunteer Opportunities: Consignment shop, clerical, career closet; please call for specific opportunities.
Main Fund-raising Event: The Big Easy, a spicy Cajun night
Date: Sept. 24, 2005
Location: Bradenton City Centre
Ticket price: $75
Chair: Sydney Shaurette
Contact Telephone: (941) 747-6797
Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County
A network and referral service for women in transition.
Executive Director: Janice Zarro
Address: 340 S. Tuttle, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.thewomensresourcecenter.org
Mission Statement: Women helping women to be financially and emotionally independent, offering support, education, networking and referral services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Peer counseling, administrative support, Encore! & More consignment shop.
Main Fund-raising Event: Renaissance Luncheon
Date: March 20, 2006
Location: TheRitz-Carlton, Sarasota
Ticket Price: $75
Event Chair: Betty Morris
Contact Telephone: (941) 366-1700
World Dance Arts Foundation, Inc.
Funds and sponsors young children in performing arts, particularly social dancing. Currently teaches 3,000 children per week in Sarasota and Manatee public school programs.
Executive Director: Anna Christine Smart
Address: 3643 Cortez Road W., #300, Bradenton, FL 34210
Web site: www.worlddancearts.org
Mission Statement: To promote, educate and expand the art of ballroom dancing.
Volunteer Opportunities: Teacher’s aides in public school classrooms to assist qualified ballroom instructors.
Main Fund-raising Event: Accepts public donation; primarily funded by other arts and community chest foundations. Organizes various events throughout the year.
Ticket Price: Free
Contact Telephone: (941) 758-9129
WUSF Public Broadcasting
A public service media organization that celebrates educational, cultural and artistic excellence and is an authentic source of information for people of the greater Tampa Bay and Sarasota region.
General Manager: JoAnn Urofsky
Address: 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33620
Web site: www.wusf.org
Mission Statement: To provide the community with outstanding educational, cultural and public affairs radio and television programming, productions and community outreach services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mailings, telephones, membership drives, station tours and reading for the visually impaired.
Main Fund-raising Event: Membership drives—Regular pledge drives to increase membership base and maintain financial support.
Date: March, June, August and December.
Location: University of South Florida
Event Chair: Cathy Coccia
Contact Telephone: (813) 974-8624
YMCA Foundation of Sarasota, Inc.
Provides financial support for the Sarasota Family YMCA.
Executive Director: Karin E. Gustafson, CFRE
Address: One S. School Ave., 302, Sarasota, FL 34237
Web site: www.sarasota-ymca.org
Mission Statement: Support the mission of the Sarasota Family YMCA by raising financial support for programs, services and facilities.
Volunteer Opportunities: Board, estate sales, office, community coalition for children.
Main Fund-raising Event: “Going for the Gold”—Dinner and auction.
Date: May 6, 2006
Location: Berlin YMCA Branch
Ticket Price: $175
Event Chair: TBA
Contact Telephone: (941) 951-1336
Learning Theatre
Each summer, Learning Theatre sponsors the Encore! Ensemble Theatre Workshop in Valbonne, France—bringing together teen-agers from around the world for four weeks to study theater arts.
Executive Director: Susan Burke
Address: 4661 Sweetmeadow Circle, Sarasota, FL 34238
Web site: www.learntheatre.org
Mission Statement: Committed to educational theater, ensemble technique in theater and classrooms and global understanding.
Main Fund-raising Event: Encore! Ensemble Theatre Workshop—A four-week theatre arts study program for teens aged 15–18, melding acting music, dance and writing.
Date: July. 2006
Location: Valbonne, France
Ticket Price: $4,000
Contact Telephone: (941) 926-3244
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