Education & Philanthropy

St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation has named Sam and Casey Ellison as co-chairs for the 2025 Heroes Ball, set for April 5, at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. The annual black-tie fundraiser, which attracts more than 600 attendees, supports the hospital’s pediatric services. This year’s event aims to raise $2 million to expand the

The University of South Florida has received a $2.2 million donation from Joey Redner, founder of Cigar City Brewing, and his wife, Jennifer. The gift will support the university’s on-campus stadium and its brewing arts program. The donation will be evenly divided, with $1.1 million going toward the new stadium and the other half benefiting

Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside broke ground on its first home in Hernando County. The nonprofit announced its expansion into Hernando County in 2024, and rebranded as Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside later in the year. Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside has served over 900 families since its founding nearly 40 years ago. The

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

The TD Charitable Foundation, the philanthropic arm of TD Bank, has announced $7.2 million in grants to assist nonprofit organizations addressing challenges in sustaining homeownership for low- and moderate-income families. The grants, distributed through the foundation’s 19th annual Housing for Everyone program, will provide 36 awards of $200,000 each. The 2025 program targets nonprofits offering

Raymond James has announced Ready for School, a $7.5 million initiative to support Tampa Bay nonprofits that enhance educational opportunities for students. Over three years, the program will distribute $2.5 million, annually, to 11 organizations focused on academic success, extracurricular engagement and basic needs. Beneficiaries include organizations like the Pinellas Education Foundation, Boys & Girls

Philanthropy is not simply about spontaneous generosity—it’s about creating lasting change. A change that reflects your personal values and makes a tangible difference. In 2024, our community demonstrated remarkable generosity, uniting to support those affected by devastating hurricanes. These challenges highlighted the importance of strategically planning philanthropic giving to address both immediate needs and unforeseen

Jesuit High School has named the Rev. Vincent Giacabazi, S.J., as its 22nd president. Fr. Giacabazi brings experience in Jesuit education. A graduate of Saint Louis University, with a degree in political science and international studies, he joined the Society of Jesus in 2005. His career includes roles as a teacher, campus minister, department head

In collaboration with the Belize Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and its research institute, broke ground on the Belize Marine Rescue and Educational Center. The facility will serve as a manatee rehabilitation center focusing on marine conservation efforts. The center is a response to increasing threats to Belize’s marine ecosystems including

The University of South Florida has named Levi Thompson dean of the College of Engineering. Thompson previously served as dean at the University of Delaware’s College of Engineering and as a faculty member at the University of Michigan. He will oversee faculty development, research and teaching programs, while advancing the college’s partnerships and strategic initiatives.

New College of Florida’s future baseball field will be named the Beruff Family Field of Dreams, following a $1 million gift from Carlos and Janelle Beruff. Located at the intersection of U.S. 41 and University Parkway, the field will be a permanent home for the Mighty Banyans baseball team, which currently plays at IMG Academy.

  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