Exclusive: Think Big for Kids to expand to new metros in the U.S.

Think Big for Kids, a non-profit organization that helps underprivileged youth discover their untapped potential by providing opportunities for career exploration, mentorship and skills development, will expand into the Atlanta, Chicago and Dallas markets. The organization was developed, in 2016, by tech entrepreneur, and former Tribridge CEO, Tony DiBenedetto – after working with teens at … Read more

Mike Evans Family Foundation launches ’13 Pillars of Strength’ campaign

The Mike Evans Family Foundation has launched the “13 Pillars of Strength” campaign to 13 people, throughout the Tampa Bay area, who have overcome adversity and made a difference in their communities. Starting in September, the foundation will share a story about an individual who has made a difference spanning 13 weeks, meanwhile raising money … Read more

On the Scene: Children’s Dream Fund ribbon-cutting (Photos)

Children’s Dream Fund celebrated the ribbon-cutting of its new office, at 1600 23rd Ave. N., in St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and dream recipient Ryder Karppe were in attendance to cut the ribbon together. The Children’s Dream Fund is a wish-granting organization for children with life-threatening illnesses, living on Florida’s west coast. Through … Read more

One Liners Polk: Florida Southern College, Culver’s and more

► Randy K. Avent, president of Florida Polytechnic University, has been selected as a correspondent academician to the Royal European Academy of Doctors. (Pictured above)  ► Florida Southern College will move its graduate nursing program into the former campus of St. Joseph Academy, a private K-8 school that the Catholic Church’s Diocese of Orlando shuttered … Read more

Here to help: The Kind Mouse is on a mission to help families with food insecurity

Gina Wilkins knows sometimes small acts of kindness reap the biggest rewards. In 2012, Wilkins’ work as a self-employed, certified, architectural draftsman was hit hard by the recession. But it was nothing compared to the struggles faced by her friends in the business, the contractors and craftsmen she interacted with daily. As she explains, “A … Read more

MarineMax donated its fourth Habitat for Humanity home to a local family

For the fourth year in a row, MarineMax partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco County to present a deserving Tampa Bay area family a new home in Pinellas Park. On the morning of June 15, 2021, the family arrived at their new home. As an added surprise, Warrick Dunn Charities, Aaron’s … Read more

The Dental Boutique offers a sleek office, swanky amenities and a mission

Walk into the newly opened Dental Boutique in Westchase and get ready to experience the next level in dentistry. Andrew Vallo’s community-focused ethos brings dentistry into the 21st century of service with thoughtful amenities and detailed extras. As Vallo recently explained, “For years, and years, people looked at going to the dentist as awkward or … Read more

One Liners Sarasota: Southwest Airlines, Earth’s Ally and more

► The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods, an independent and assisted living community in Sarasota, completed a nearly $150,000 renovation of its independent living community. ► Construction on the Metropolitan, a 200-unit apartment community on the site of the former Manatee Inns, in Bradenton, by developer Pearl Homes, is expected to begin in the second … Read more

The road ahead for nonprofits, foundations and endowments

By Shelley Fisher, regional executive, east region and Brent Wright, head of institutional consulting Many nonprofits and foundations –including charitable and philanthropic organizations–have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic. While economic problems have caused demand for their services to increase, these same issues have created funding and operational issues for the organizations themselves. Many … Read more

Pet Pals Animal Shelter and a St. Pete Beach restaurant are partnering up for a ‘Doggie Date Night’

Boulevard Burgers & Tap House and Pet Pal Animal Shelter are throwing a “Doggie Date Night” event on June 17. The event will be held all day with a complimentary dog slider, or bacon strip, with any purchase. There will be raffles and prizes, including $100 restaurant gift cards. And the best part, lots of … Read more