Meet the Tampa Army vet powering new startups

Army veteran Valerie Lavin is helping Tampa Bay’s veterans and first responders turn service into successful startups.

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Action Zone staff and volunteers connect with veterans, first responders and aspiring entrepreneurs across Tampa Bay.
Florida Humanities preserves the stories that shape our future

Preserving stories is as important today as it has ever been, says Nashid Madyun, executive director of Florida Humanities.  This allows young people, and adults, to learn about how the humanities shape everyday lives. More so, how they can be a catalyst for change and a more inclusive future.  What are humanities?  The term refers

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Kandy Windom’s journey from crisis to coaching leaders across the globe

Kandy Windom never knew she would become a leadership coach. She began her career in sales in her home country of Colombia. Unexpected life circumstances often lead to remarkable paths and Windom is a testament to that.   At a young age, Windom faced a surprising health challenge. She suffered a heart attack, which dramatically

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Fresh Coat Painters partners with The No More Foundation

When the Tampa Bay community comes together, meaningful change can happen. Jaime and Tami Kent, co-founders of The No More Foundation, see that firsthand. Their latest project, Harbor House, is a prime example. Designed to serve women who have survived human trafficking, the home will provide an initial safe space where survivors can be assessed

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Tampa honors five community leaders at NCAA Women’s Final Four

Tampa is one of the most prolific sports cities in the nation. From being home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Lightning to welcoming the New York Yankees every spring, sports bring our community together. Fittingly, the NCAA chose Tampa, for the fourth time, this year as the site for the Women’s Final

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Tony DiBenedetto, prominent Tampa community leader, to receive Horatio Alger Award

Tony DiBenedetto, chief executive officer of Appspace and founder of the nonprofit Think Big for Kids, will receive the prestigious Horatio Alger Award, in April. Born to young parents, DiBenedetto lived with his grandparents during his early years. They struggled, financially, to care for him. After his grandmother’s passing, he became independent, relying on friends

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Wheels of Success gives the gift of transportation freedom

Transportation is often taken for granted. Owning a car and getting to work on time is, for many, a luxury. The impact of such independence extends beyond the daily commute. With a vehicle, individuals can run errands, take children to school and enjoy family days at the beach. Not having access to a car can

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A Legacy of Care: Honoring the Contributions of ACS and David Pizzo

Cancer affects people of all ages and backgrounds. For the thousands battling the disease, in the Tampa Bay area, organizations like the American Cancer Society provide vital support and hope. A national nonprofit, ACS has been serving cancer patients and their families for more than 100 years. Its mission is to ensure everyone has an

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Tampa Bay nonprofit helps families recover and rebuild after dual hurricanes

  For many families, 2024 will be unforgettable. The Tampa Bay community was hit by two hurricanes, Helene and Milton, back-to-back, resulting in thousands of damaged or destroyed homes. For many, recovery will be a major challenge. While national agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency are providing relief, it’s often insufficient. Fortunately, local nonprofit

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FARA set to host 16th Energy Ball for Friedreich’s Ataxia 

Friedreich’s ataxia is a rare, genetic condition that affects approximately 5,000 people in the United States and 15,000 around the world. Debilitating and progressive, it is often diagnosed during childhood.  The Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) has been a consistent voice for those who suffer from FA. The organization is at the forefront of research

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Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures and the impact of equine therapy

Connections with animals are vital to the human spirit. Animals bring joy, happiness and comfort to people around the world. Horses, in particular, can have a special impact. Mary Rose Gullet, founder and president of Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures, knows this firsthand, and first-hoove.  After experiencing a traumatic event, during her adolescence, Gullet’s parents decided

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Living the five-star treatment: Pendry Tampa is coming in early 2027 (RENDERINGS)

Imagine enjoying five-star hotel treatment and amenities from the comfort of your own home. Pendry Hotels & Resorts has been able to cultivate such an experience for guests around the world. The Pendry portfolio includes locations in Chicago, San Diego, New York City and Newport Beach.    In early 2027, Pendry, in collaboration with Two

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