The Alliance gives back 2021

Volunteer sign-ups for The Alliance Gives Back! Volunteer Days 2021 are CLOSED.

This year's Alliance Gives Back is set for October 7th, 8th and 9th. It's your chance to give back to the community. The Alliance is encouraging all its member businesses and professionals to consider dedicating a few hours of their time on one or all of our Volunteer Days!

Not only are we strengthening our community by working together, but volunteering has been proven to foster strong connections between people because of the shared core values that bring them together in the first place.

Volunteer
sign-up
Now Open!

We are excited to help strengthen our community for the 4th year in a row by connecting LWRBA members with 25 plus non-profits.

Scroll down to review the available opportunities, then click the link to sign up through our Sign-Up Genius page.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

Traditional (In-Person)

• All Faiths Food Bank (FULL)
• American Cancer Society (FULL)
• Cat Depot
• Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County
• Easterseals Southwest Florida
• Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation
• Foundation for Dreams
• Harvest House
• Humane Society of Manatee County
• JFCS of the Suncoast Inc
• Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee
• Neuro Challenge for Parkinson's
• Resilient Retreat, Inc.
• Restore Global, Inc.
• Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, Inc.
• Suncoast Blood Centers
• The Circus Arts Conservatory Activity One (FULL)
• The Circus Arts Conservatory Activity Two
• The Florida Center for Early Childhood
• The Players Centre for Performing Arts
• The Twig Cares, Inc.
• Tidewell Hospice
• United Way Suncoast

Virtual

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Suncoast Activity One
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Suncoast Activity Two
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota & DeSoto Counties
• Children First, Inc
• Hope Family Services, Inc

All Faiths Food Bank (FULL)

Thursday, October 7
1:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Location: 8171 Blaikie Court, Sarasota, FL 34240
Number of Volunteers Needed: 15

Activity Description
There are two activities the volunteers could potentially participate in. The first involves packing boxes of canned/dried/non-perishable goods to be given out at our mobile food pantries throughout the community. The second involves packing "Backpacks" or bags of healthy snacks for children who benefit from the free and reduced meal program proved through the public school system to take home with them over the weekends.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Closed toed shoes are required. Comfortable clothing conducive to physical activity is recommended.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Moderate lifting and bending is involved in the activity and volunteers will be on their feet for the duration of the shift. But the warehouse is indoors and air conditioned and we allow volunteers access to a break room if they need to take occasional brief rests. We also provide water and snacks.

Health & Safety Information
If a volunteer has been full vaccinated and can provide proof of vaccination (physical card or photo of card), they will not be required to wear a mask. Any volunteer who has not been full vaccinated will be asked to wear a mask.

Additional Information
Volunteers who participate in our activity will need to be registered through our volunteer portal (link below). They will receive a Next Steps email indicating that they will need to attend a new volunteer orientation before they can sign up to participate. But if they respond to the email explaining that they are attending the LWRBA Gives Back Day, I will know to register them for the event.

https://allfaithsfoodbank.org/volunteer-application/

All Faiths Food Bank Contact(s):
Victoria Hasselbring
941-549-8156
vhasselbring@allfaithsfoodbank.org

About the Organization
All Faiths Food Bank is the only food bank and largest hunger relief organization in Sarasota and DeSoto counties. The Food Bank was founded in 1989 by a group of individuals who, through their respective organizations, were feeding the hungry. All Faiths has been a Certified Member of the Feeding America network since 1990.

We provide millions of meals each year through robust programs and partnerships with hundreds of charitable organizations throughout the community. In addition to food distribution, All Faiths operates a roster of innovative direct service programs that not only solve the immediate problem of hunger but also strive to end hunger by helping families and individuals to gain long-term food security, enjoy better health outcomes, and achieve self-sufficiency.

American Cancer Society (FULL)

Thursday, October 7 
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Location: TBD --
Number of Volunteers Needed: 10

Activity Description
We will be getting ready for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk at Nathan Benderson Park.  Activities needed will include preparing and packing up items for the walk and stuffing goody bags.

Suggested Equipment/Provision

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Volunteers may need to lift items that weigh over 15lbs.

Health & Safety Information
Face masks will be suggested for those who are unvaccinated.

Additional Information

American Cancer Society Contact(s):
Bethany Lynch
941-713-8935
bethanyk.lynch@cancer.org

About the Organization
The mission of the American Cancer Society is to save lives, celebrate lives and lead the fight for a world without cancer.  At the American Cancer Society, we’re on a mission to free the world from cancer. Until we do, we’ll be funding and conducting research, sharing expert information, supporting patients, and spreading the word about prevention. All so you can live longer — and better. Our events bring together survivors and thrivers, supporters and caregivers to show everyone that we are in this together.  We create a community that is fighting cancer, from every angle.

Cat Depot

Saturday, October 9
9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Cat Depot, 2542 17th St, Sarasota, FL 34234
Number of Volunteers Needed: 5

Activity Description
Cat Depot is in need of creating a small, yet beautiful, space to serve as a "Memorial Garden" to be used by clients of our Cat Care Clinic. Engraved pavers currently leading to the front door of the shelter will be relocated to this new area along with Florida-native potted plants and a potential seating area. Physical activities will include but not be limited to relocating the engraved pavers, planting and placing new vegetation, as well as reorganizing the area leading to the front entrance. Supplies and light refreshments will be provided.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Volunteers are asked to wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. Protection from the sun is recommended.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Volunteers will need to bend and lift up to 20 lbs. as well as work outdoors in a typical Florida climate. Volunteers may come in contact with plants and other vegetation.

Health & Safety Information
The volunteer project will take place outdoors however face masks will be required. Social distancing guidelines will be adhered to when working in or traveling through any indoor spaces.

Additional Information

Cat Depot Contact(s):
Claudia Harden
941-366-2404
claudiah@catdepot.org

Eric Bodenrader
941-366-2404
volunteer@catdepot.org

About the Organization
Cat Depot, a non-profit, free-roaming adoption center and rescue, is recognized for its progressive design and commitment to helping homeless, abandoned and injured animals. Cat Depot’s mission is to save lives, find loving homes, and provide the resources and education needed to improve the destiny of homeless cats. Cat Depot supports more than 150 cats and kittens on any given day throughout Sarasota and the surrounding counties.

Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County

Saturday, October 9
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Early Learning Coalition 600 8th Avenue West, Palmetto, FL 34221
Number of Volunteers Needed: 10

Activity Description
We will be hosting our Feeding Tampa Bay food drive and placing stickers on our books that go out to Manatee County children. For the food drive we will be sorting, packing and distributing food to families in their cars. And for labeling of the books, we will be in our Annex putting the labels in books.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
If they wish to distribute food, they must have tennis shoes or closed toe shoes on. Everything else will be provided.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
If they wish to distribute food, some is very heavy. But we can find light jobs for them.

Health & Safety Information
If face masks are required we will supply them

Additional Information
We do the food drive the second Saturday of every month. So this is an event we are very proud of. Book labeling we do very often. We distributed books weekly.

All help will be very appreciated.

Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County Contact(s):
Kelly Stasurak
941-730-6446
kstasurak@elc-manatee.org

About the Organization
The mission of the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County is to provide and coordinate the services of school readiness programs, in an efficient manner, in order to help all children develop the skills needed to achieve future educational success, to support the role of parents as their child's first and most important teacher, and to continue to improve the quality of services available in the community.

Easterseals Southwest Florida

Friday, October 8
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 

Location: 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota, FL 34243
Number of Volunteers Needed: up to 10

Activity Description
1.  Cleaning and washing our buses and vans

2.  Weeding our plant and flower beds and laying mulch around the property.

3.  Power washing different assets such as Lily School outside toys, Lily School playground equipment, tables and chairs

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Need to be able to work outside. Capable of lifting bags of mulch, or at least spreading mulch (if they cannot lift). Bending.

Additional Information

Easterseals Southwest Florida Contact(s):
Carrie Rasmussen
941-355-7637
crasmussen@easterseals-swfl.org

Jeff Tarbell
941-355-7637
jtarbell@easterseals-swfl.org

About the Organization
Easterseals Southwest Florida has been part of our community for 75 years. We offer the highest quality of care and services to children, youth and adults with disabilities so that they can enjoy access, opportunities and increased life choices.

Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8
9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. 

Location: 5985 Silver Falls Run, Suite 210 Bradenton, FL 34211
Number of Volunteers Needed: 8

Activity Description
The Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation project is a hands-on activity to include putting together volunteer appreciation gifts to be distributed to over 250 volunteers statewide. Participants will work together to create individual “Thank You” gifts. Supplies will be provided by FCS Foundation.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
All supplies will be provided by FCS Foundation.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No special skills are required. Please note, this is an arts and craft activity. Therefore, cutting with scissors, taping, etc. will required for this project.

Health & Safety Information
Our current safety practices: We ask everyone to wear a mask while visiting the Foundation office.

Additional Information

Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation Contact(s):
Carley Paganelli
(616)498-1165
Carley.paganelli@flcancer.com

About the Organization
Providing non-medical, financial assistance to adults undergoing cancer treatment in Florida to allow them to focus on fighting cancer. A cancer diagnosis can change everything. For some, it may mean the added stress of financial hardship. The Florida Cancer Specialists (FCS) Foundation provides financial support to qualified adult cancer patients in the state of Florida for expenses such as rent or mortgage, car payments and car insurance, and utility bills. By giving patients peace of mind in knowing that their bills are being paid while they are undergoing treatment, the FCS Foundation allows them to concentrate on what really matters – fighting cancer.

Foundation for Dreams

Thursday, October 7
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: 16110 Dream Oaks Place  Bradenton, Fl 34212
Number of Volunteers Needed: 10+

Activity Description
The main activity needed on our campus is landscaping and campus clean up.  Activities such as cutting down palmetto bushes, weeding flower beds, power washing sidewalks, walkways and roof tops.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
power washers, chain saw, machetes to cut back growth, all landscaping tools, gloves, weed wacker

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
trimming landscaping, hauling brush to dumpster

Health & Safety Information

Additional Information

Foundation for Dreams Contact(s):
AnnaMaria Carleton
9417465659
acarleton@foundationfordreams.org

About the Organization
To celebrate the abilities and develop the comprehensive skill set of children with special needs and chronic illnesses ages 7-17 by collaborating with families to provide individualized result-based goals and family support in a camp environment.

Harvest House

Thursday, October 7
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: 2100 mango Ave, suite B, Sarasota, FL 34234
Number of Volunteers Needed: up to 10

Activity Description
Harvest House needs assistance with upkeep on our 7 Sarasota campuses. We need light landscaping, painting, and trash pickup on our campuses and in public streets surrounding them.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Please wear clothing appropriate for the weather and working outside, and closed-toes shoes.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Volunteers should be prepared to be outside and be physically able to perform landscaping type work.

Health & Safety Information
Distancing will be recommended.

Additional Information

Harvest House Contact(s):
Shaelina Holmes
7869161735
shaelina@harvesthousecenters.com

About the Organization
Our mission is to champion hope and transform lives by revitalizing neighborhoods and providing service-enriched housing programs. Our model is the standard for serving members of our community who are working to rebuild their lives. We believe that affordable and supportive housing programs improve economic status, revitalize neighborhoods, and stabilize lives for generations to come. We serve families, young adults, veterans, and adults recovering from substance abuse and with a history of incarceration.

Humane Society of Manatee County

Saturday, October 9
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Location: The Humane Society of Manatee County Animal Shelter  2515 14th Street West Bradenton Florida 34205
Number of Volunteers Needed: 8

Activity Description
We would like the volunteers to help us build a "sensory garden" as part of our dog behavioral enrichment program. 

What is a dog sensory garden? An area explicitly designed to provide stimulation and enrichment for dogs through plants, materials, textures, shapes, colors, scents and heights. A sensory garden aims to reduce stress, anxiety and encourage dogs to be more confident in the environment.

Sensory Gardens provide shelter for animals, particularly dogs, in desperate need of help, however, some of which find it hard to cope in kennels. By activating all of a dog's senses – touch, smell, sight, sound, and taste – the sensory garden is designed to reduce stress and help them relax in their new surroundings.

A sensory garden for dogs is a safe, outdoor space that encourages a dog to use all of his senses. Not only can a sensory garden provide so much mental stimulation for your pooch, but it is also confidence-building, stress-busting and highly enriching.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Sun Hat

Garden Gloves

Long Pants

Sunglasses

Personal Water Bottles

Shovels

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
.  Comfortable working in the heat.  Wheel Barrell use, shoveling dirt, lifting, setting and securing wood frame.  Gardening experience and building planter box experience would be very helpful.

Health & Safety Information
Since this is an outdoor project, social distancing would be the only consideration.

Additional Information
Items that we will need to build this garden include:

Plants -

1.             Chamomile
2.             Rosemarry
3.             Barley Grass
4.             Muhle grass
5.             Basil

Mulch - Florimulch is a nice mulch option, it’s not toxic and is an invasive tree species in Florida…so using it helps promote native Florida plants…I use all around my house and my dog loves to lay in it.

Soils - Soils are fine

•Creating a garden that is free of pesticides is best…or treating plants with natural pesticides (dawn dishsoap, baking soda). I would not fertilize the area either.

•Plants in pots, which might be best and keep the plants healthy…this will also allow us to move the plants around as the sun and time of year changes

Planter Box watering system.

We will also need shovels, planting/potting tools, bricks or cedar chips for a walking path, and moveable planter boxes or handmade wood planter boxes.

Humane Society of Manatee County Contact(s):
Valerie Bliss
941-713-2321
valerie@humanesocietymanatee.org

Alana Ruszczyk, Shelter Manager
561-420-9865
sheltermanager@humanesocietymanatee.org

About the Organization
Humane Society of Manatee County is committed to leading Manatee County in fostering compassion and respect for animals through care, education and collaboration.

Our philosophy is that the treatment of animals is a reflection on our community and therefore, we actively endorse the humane treatment of animals and responsible animal stewardship.

This idea of responsible pet stewardship is reflected in the management practices implemented here, and are, in fact, responsible ones reflecting excellent animal care in terms of medical treatment, behavioral assessment and modification, sheltering and adoption programs. We are equally proud of our high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter clinic and its trained and professional staff. Every program and service we offer is to help the community save the lives of homeless animals through our efforts and by working collaboratively with others in our community.

JFCS of the Suncoast Inc

Thursday, October 7th
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: 2688 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34237
Number of Volunteers Needed: 10

Activity Description
Create Sensory Bottles for at-risk youth and design buckets of fun.  Bubbles, water bead stress balls, sidewalk chalk, healthy snacks, etc.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Dress comfortably.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Just show up in comfortable clothing and join the fun.

Health & Safety Information
We will practice social distancing and masks are optional.

Additional Information
We will be working together to create sensory bottles for at-risk youth and packing buckets of fun which will include items such as bubbles, sidewalk chalk, water bead stress balls, healthy snacks etc.  All supplies will be provided, unless you want to bring something to add to the buckets.  We will be making 20 buckets.

JFCS of the Suncoast Inc Contact(s):
Karen Pharo
941-366-2224
KPHARO@jfcs-cares.org

About the Organization
Celebrating its 35th year as one of the Florida Suncoast’s leading mental health and human services agencies, Jewish Family and Children’s Service offers programs that support youth, families, seniors and veterans. Inspired by the Jewish tradition of helping all people, services are delivered regardless of religious preference and with the goal of empowering individuals and families to self-sufficiency and stability.

Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee

Thursday, October 7th / Friday, October 8th
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: 811 23rd Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34208
Number of Volunteers Needed: 8-10

Activity Description:
Packing and sorting food at the Food Bank.

Delivering meals to homebounh,knld clients. (orientation and background screening necessary for this activity)

Suggested Equipment/Provision:
Closed toe shoes for Food Bank and dress comfortably

Own car and orientation/background screening for meal delivery (volunteers can pair up to do this activity)

Physical Requirements/Special Skills:
No for Food Bank

GPS for meal delivery

Health & Safety Information:
Face Masks for meal delivery

No Face Mask at Food Bank if vaccinated.

Additional Information:
We utilize software that volunteers will be required to sign up in.

Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee Contact(s):
Judi Bjork
941-749-0100 ext 2114
jbjork@mealsonwheelsplus.org

AnnaLuisa Huffman
941-747-4655 ext. 1230
ahuffman@mealsonwheelsplus.org

About the Organization:
Mission Statement:  To assist individuals to live independently by providing nutrition and caring, supportive services.

Our organization delivers nutritious meals to over 900 homebound clients each week.  We own and operate the largest Food Bank in Manatee County providing nutrition to babies, children and families.  We operate the only licensed Adult Day Care Center in Manatee County, providing skilled care for aging loved ones.

Neuro Challenge for Parkinson's

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

Location: 722 Apex Road, Suite A Sarasota, FL  34240
Number of Volunteers Needed: up to 4 per day.

Activity Description
In the morning, Volunteers will be assembling packets of information which will be stuffed into envelopes or bags.  This will take place at our air conditioned offices where we have all been vaccinated.  Then, in the afternoon, Volunteers will be asked to deliver these packages to office around the area in their own vehicles.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Volunteers will work in the conference room in our air conditioned office- a light layer might make them more comfortable.  Please wear comfortable clothing (with range of motion) and comfy shoes.  They will need their own transportation, driver's license

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Volunteers should have enough mobility to maneuver around a table and the flexibility to grab individual pieces of paper.  They will need their own transportation, driver's license, and proof of insurance to make deliveries.

Health & Safety Information
If volunteers are unvaccinated, they should wear masks.

Additional Information
Every year, approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and about 10 million people live with the disease worldwide. The progressive movement disorder affects people’s daily lives by disrupting their motor function with tremors and causing cognitive decline and neurological and mental health issues. 

Due to the Covid shut down we were unable to host our grassroots outreach campaign where staff and volunteers share resources with physicians and health care organizations in the area.  The Alliance Volunteers will help us bridge this information gap.

Neuro Challenge for Parkinson's Contact(s):
Donita Pace
941-926-6413
office@neurochallenge.org

About the Organization
Neuro Challenge for Parkinson's has a mission to improve the quality of life of people with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers-TODAY.  We provide resources as well as educational, therapeutic, and support programs at no charge and work to empower them to be members of an inclusive, caring, supportive community where they can live their best lives with determination and hope.  Neuro Challenge serves more than 2,700 people annually. 

Resilient Retreat, Inc.

Friday, October 8 / Saturday, October 9
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Location: property address is 13010 Fruitville Road (our offices are in a different location - be sure to plug 13010 Fruitville Road)
Number of Volunteers Needed: 8-10 per day

Activity Description
We need help clearing and landscaping our beautiful meditation pond on our 84 acre conservation land on Fruitville Road before our retreat center opens for 3-5 retreats for people impacted by trauma. The Meditation Pond is a peaceful 700 square foot pond area for relaxation and reflection in a quiet space where people can meditate, exercise, and heal from trauma in the tranquility of nature.

Duties: Clearing overgrown brush, planting new plants, flowers and general gardening duties. We also need some basic repairs of the mediation pond deck (materials and instruction provided)

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Sunblock, bug spray and please wear comfortable shoes.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Ability to bend down and kneel

Health & Safety Information
Outside activity - masks not necessary outside

Additional Information

Resilient Retreat, Inc. Contact(s):
Jennifer Ourednik
941.343.0039
jourednik@resilientretreat.org

About the Organization
Resilient Retreat is a new and innovative approach to help those impacted by trauma and abuse. Free evidence-based services are provided to heal the mind, body, and spirit on 84 acres of conservation land in Sarasota, FL. Our mission is to empower survivors of trauma to thrive through self-care and community. We envision a world without trauma and abuse.

Restore Global, Inc.

Friday October 8
1:30 - 4:00 p.m.

Location: 3115 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Suite 108, Bradenton, FL 34211
Number of Volunteers Needed: 10

Activity Description
Teacher Crafting Goodie Bags. We will need 5 individuals to stuff bags full of crafting items (paints, stencils, brushes, rollers) to be given away to local teachers. This will be in an assembly line formation until all of the product is bagged. It will be in our warehouse so comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes are recommended.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Comfortable clothing (shorts and t-shirts) are recommended. Closed toe shoes are required (could be tennis shoes).

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Everyone will be on their feet walking in an assembly line.

Health & Safety Information
At this time no face masks required as located in a large warehouse

Additional Information

Restore Global, Inc. Contact(s):
Dee Danmeyer
4073186063
dee.danmeyer@restoreglobal.org

About the Organization
Restore Global is registered nonprofit that serves other nonprofit partners by reducing operating costs and providing supporting services. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of a tight budget and limited resources, allowing partners to focus on core programs and expand their reach in the community.

Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, Inc.

Friday, October 8 
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Location: 751 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, Florida 34345 - Nathan Benderson Park Playground
Number of Volunteers Needed: 6-10

Activity Description
For the past three years, the LWRBA's The Alliance Gives Back program volunteers have constructed the popular hay maze at Nathan Benderson Park's playground.  We would like to continue this project, expanding the scope to decorate the area for the fall season in addition to constructing the hay maze.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Comfortable cloths.  Long sleeve shirt and jeans if they are sensitive to hay.  Gloves.  We provide all materials and tools.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No specific skills.  Ability to lift and an eye for perfection.  Willingness to have fun!

Health & Safety Information
We will follow any Sarasota County health precautious put into place for outdoor gatherings of 10 or less people.

Additional Information

Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates, Inc. Contact(s):
Stephen Rodriguez
9417246113
stephen@sanca.us

Michael Washington
9417801697
michaelw@sanca.us

About the Organization
SANCA is the 501(C)3 not for profit that operates and maintains Nathan Benderson Park, a Sarasota County park situated on the Manatee-Sarasota border just minutes from Lakewood Ranch.

SunCoast Blood Centers

Thursday, October 7
9:00 a.m. - 6:45 p.m.

Friday, October 8 
7:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Saturday, October 9
7:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Location: SunCoast Blood Centers 3025 Lakewood Ranch Blvd suite 111, Bradenton, FL 34211
Number of Volunteers Needed: No limit, the more the merrier.

Activity Description
Donate Blood, platelets or plasma. This is our greatest need serving the community. We are going to make a contest out of this and the business that has the greatest number of successful donors in that 3 day period will win a trophy to display at their place of business. This will be "The 1st Annual Alliance Gives Blood Drive" we will support all businesses that participate printed materials to promote the contest. The trophy will be presented at an Alliance event later in October.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
All volunteers need to come in feeling well and healthy, eating before donating and be hydrated.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
The volunteers need to weigh at least 110 lbs.

Health & Safety Information
With guidelines changing daily we would provide whatever would be required at the time of donation.

Additional Information
If it is a challenge to send employees to us, we would also include any business that would like to host a blood drive at their location that week of "The Alliance Gives Back". This could be arranged ahead of time on a first come first serve basis.

SunCoast Blood Centers Contact(s):
Joan Leonard
941-954-1600 ext 150
jleonard@suncoastblood.org

Joan Leonard
941-954-1600 ext 150
jleonard@suncoastblood.org

About the Organization
We are privileged to bring people together to save lives through innovative blood services and therapies. We are the local blood center serving 12 hospitals on the suncoast.

The Circus Arts Conservatory (FULL)
Activity One

Thursday, October 7
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: The Circus Arts Conservatory 2075 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota, 34239
Number of Volunteers Needed: 3-5

Activity Description
Volunteers will be assembling kits for students in 5th grade classrooms to use. These kits will facilitate the building of circus science machines similar to Rube Goldberg contraptions. The kits contain multiple items including dominoes, hot wheel type toy cars, paper ramps, ping pong balls and more.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No

Health & Safety Information
No

Additional Information

The Circus Arts Conservatory Contact(s):
Beth Graves
9415565349
Beth@CircusArts.org

Aaron Watkins
941.355.9335 ext. 305
Aaron@CircusArts.org

About the Organization
The Circus Arts Conservatory’s mission is to engage and educate students using unique and innovative learning programs; to measurably improve the quality of life for individuals in care facilities; and to advance the extraordinary legacy and heritage of the circus.

The Circus Arts Conservatory
Activity Two

Thursday, October 7
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Location: The Circus Arts Conservatory 2075 Bahia Vista St. Sarasota 34239
Number of Volunteers Needed: 3-5

Activity Description
We need small figurines cut out of paper by using a template. These figurines will be used but our education department in school classrooms

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No

Health & Safety Information
No

Additional Information
If people prefer to make this a virtual event by taking the paper and template home to cut out that would be ok.

The Circus Arts Conservatory Contact(s):
Beth Graves
9415565349
Beth@CircusArts.org

Aaron Watkins
941.355.9335 ext. 305
Aaron@CircusArts.org

About the Organization
The Circus Arts Conservatory’s mission is to engage and educate students using unique and innovative learning programs; to measurably improve the quality of life for individuals in care facilities; and to advance the extraordinary legacy and heritage of the circus.

The Florida Center for Early Childhood

Friday, October 8
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: The Florida Center for Early Childhood: 4620 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34235
Number of Volunteers Needed: 6-10

Activity Description
Volunteers are needed to assist with beautification of the campus, including light gardening/landscaping, painting and exterior window washing. Landscaping project may include creating a dual purpose outdoor space for both teachers and family meetings.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Gardening gloves if available

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
The volunteers will be working outdoors and experience with gardening/landscaping is a plus, but not necessary. They may be reaching and/or standing on stools for window washing.

Health & Safety Information
Face masks required indoors, but optional outdoors.

Additional Information

The Florida Center for Early Childhood Contact(s):
Kristen Theisen
9413718820
kristen.theisen@thefloridacenter.org

Kristen Theisen
941-371-8820 ext. 1165
kristen.theisen@thefloridacenter.org

About the Organization
The Florida Center for Early Childhood provides therapeutic services, early education, and healthy development support for children from birth through fifth grade. The agency operates multiple programs to assist vulnerable children and their families, so they can overcome their challenges and reach their full potential. With 1 in 6 young children having a behavioral, developmental or mental health disorder, the need for these programs is great.

The Players Centre for Performing Arts

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Location: "The Shop" of The Players Centre at 2169 10th Street, Sarasota, FL
Number of Volunteers Needed: 4 each day

Activity Description
Volunteers will assist in our costume area with straightening, labeling, and categorization thereby making inventory tracking and daily operations more effective and efficient going forward.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No.

Health & Safety Information
Face masks requested.

Additional Information

The Players Centre for Performing Arts Contact(s):
William F. Skaggs
941-365-2494
william.skaggs@theplayers.org

About the Organization
The mission of The Players Centre for Performing Arts is to entertain, educate, and engage the community through high-quality live theatre.  This occurs through the production of shows as well as through education and training that takes place through The Players Studio.

The Twig Cares, Inc.

Thursday, October 7
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.

Location: 9706 E Sr64 Bradenton, FL 34212
Number of Volunteers Needed: 7

Activity Description
We will be sorting donations to stock the boutique.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No

Health & Safety Information
No

Additional Information

The Twig Cares, Inc. Contact(s):
Nicole Britton
19412207958
nicoleb@thetwigcares.com

Nicole Britton
9412207958
nicoleb@thetwigcares.com

About the Organization
The Twig's mission is to encourage and inspire the lives of children in foster care by meeting their needs in practical ways. Our main program is our boutique which is only open to children in foster care where they can shop with dignity for clothing and shoes completely free of charge.

Tidewell Hospice

Friday, October 8
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Location: Ellenton Family Grief Center
Number of Volunteers Needed: 10

Activity Description
Volunteers will assist at the new Tidewell Ellenton Grief Center working alongside staff to prepare art supplies for support groups, create welcome bags for new families, and organize supplies in the art room.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
NO

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
NO

Health & Safety Information
Facemasks must be worn

Additional Information
Refreshments will be provided

Tidewell Hospice Contact(s):
Danielle Visone
941-402-6367
dvisone@tidewell.org

About the Organization
Tidewell Hospice is an independent, not-for-profit health provider offering a home-centered, comprehensive system of end of life and palliative care for people living with advanced illness and their families. Annually, Tidewell provides care for nearly 10,000 patients throughout its four-county service area of Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. Tidewell Hospice’s not-for-profit grief and bereavement services are 100 percent donor supported through contributions to the Tidewell Foundation and offered for free to members of our community, whether or not their loved one was a Tidewell patient

United Way Suncoast

Thursday,  October 7
1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Location: United Way Suncoast Manatee Office, 4215 Concept Court, Bradenton FL 34211
Number of Volunteers Needed: 5

Activity Description
Volunteers will engage with United Way Suncoast's mission by packaging hygiene kits for community members in need. Hygiene kits will include showering and bathing supplies, dental hygiene care, personal grooming supplies, and more. Volunteers will also make notes of encouragement to add to the packages. All supplies for the event will be provided.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No additional equipment or supplies needed.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
Volunteers may sit or stand during this event, but close-toed shoes are recommended. The volunteer activity will be held indoors. No special skills required.

Health & Safety Information
United Way Suncoast volunteers are required to follow the current CDC guidelines regarding face masks and social distancing. As of July 30th, face masks are required at all indoor activities regardless of vaccination status. Updated guidelines will be sen

Additional Information
None at this time.

United Way Suncoast Contact(s):
Bronwyn Beightol
(941) 748-1313
bbeightol@uwsuncoast.org

Jessica Maxon-Berrier
9419328259
jmaxon-berrier@uwsuncoast.org

About the Organization
United Way Suncoast's mission is to provide leadership that improves lives and creates lasting community change by mobilizing the caring people of our communities to give, advocate, and volunteer. United Way Suncoast fights for the education and financial stability of every person in the communities we serve.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Activity One

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Location: Virtual activity via Zoom
Number of Volunteers Needed: 5

Activity Description
We're looking for volunteers willing to be interviewed by one of our staff members concerning their career and professional pathway. The Zoom session will be recorded and shared at a later date with high school students participating in our Beyond School Walls program as they explore career options.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
Those volunteers who opt to read a book will need to furnish their own.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No

Health & Safety Information
No

Additional Information

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Contact(s):
Shelly Van Dusen
941-413-5221
svandusen@bbbssun.org

About the Organization
Big Brothers Big Sisters creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Our vision is to see all youth achieve their full potential.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Activity Two

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8
9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Location: Virtual activity via Zoom
Number of Volunteers Needed: 5 

Activity Description Volunteers needed to read their favorite children's book aloud which will be recorded via Zoom and used in conjunction with our children's reading program at a later date. 

 Suggested Equipment/Provision
Those volunteers who opt to read a book will need to furnish their own.

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No

Health & Safety Information
No

Additional Information

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Contact(s):
Shelly Van Dusen
941-413-5221
svandusen@bbbssun.org

About the Organization
Big Brothers Big Sisters creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Our vision is to see all youth achieve their full potential.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota & DeSoto Counties

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Location: Zoom
Number of Volunteers Needed: 1-6

Activity Description
For our Alliance Gives Back activity we would love to have a Zoom read a long session and allow the volunteers to choose their favorite children's book.

We'll have two groups of listeners between the ages 6 and 8, and another group between the ages of 9 and 12. We're looking for story read along books for the younger age group.

If volunteers have books to donate that the kids could read and take home, we would greatly appreciate it.

Having a Zoom session would allow all clubs to participate and listen to some amazing stories.

Depending on how many volunteers sign up, we can assign a volunteer to each club or double up clubs with one volunteer as needed.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
No, just a way to access Zoom and have their favorite children's book ready!

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
No

Health & Safety Information
No

Additional Information

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota & DeSoto Counties Contact(s):
Kat Carver
941-366-3911
kcarver@bgcsdc.org

About the Organization
The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties is to enable all young people, especially those who need is most to reach their full potential as productive, caring responsible citizens. During the pandemic we have implemented our Great Futures Academy that focuses of academic success. Each member sees a teacher for tutoring time to enhance their academics.

Children First, Inc

Thursday, October 7 / Friday, October 8 /
Saturday, October 9
12:01 - 11:59 p.m.

Location: Volunteer's choice.
Number of Volunteers Needed: 50 

Activity Description
Take a Preschooler to Work Day…Virtually! 

Do you work in a fun place for a preschooler to explore? How would you like to take preschoolers to work with you...Virtually that is!  We are looking for videos/pictures of what you and your business does!  Do you make food, run a warehouse, work in construction, care for animals or people, or work in a service industry? So many possibilities!  The presentation can show the clothes you wear, the tools you use, the people you meet, how to create, build or repair, and what it looks like when you are done!  The videos don't have to be long, and you can use your cell phone or other video equipment to film. The videos can be submitted through DropBox or another file share program.  We will post them on our Children First You Tube channel as a teachers’ resource and for the children and families to watch and learn.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
A cell phone will work for videoing

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
N/A

Health & Safety Information
N/A

Additional Information

Children First, Inc Contact(s):
Jean Ward
941-685-4373
jward@childrenfirst.net

About the Organization
The mission of Children First is to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health and well-being.

HOPE Family Services, Inc.

Thursday, October 7th
10:00 a.m. -  6:00 p.m.

Location: Confidential location in Manatee County. Will provide at a later date.
Number of Volunteers Needed: Any amount

Activity Description
HOPE Family Services offers an Emergency Safe Shelter for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Our shelter is open 24/7/365 and is free to victims and survivors. For many of the victims, survivors and their children that reside at HOPE's Emergency Safe Shelter, they have arrived in the middle of the night without any personal belongings other than the clothes on their back. HOPE provides everything from food, toiletry items, diapers, wipes, baby items, children's items, clothing, etc. to the families residing at our Emergency Safe Shelter. We would be honored if our community could assist survivors and their children by collecting or hosting a donation drive for items on our shelter's wish list. Due to the safety and confidentiality of the children and survivors we serve, a donation drive is the most effective way to help bring safety, strength and well-being to victims and survivors in community.

Suggested Equipment/Provision
N/A

Physical Requirements/Special Skills
We are happy to provide information and informational materials about the services we provide to survivors and their children.

Health & Safety Information
When delivering the items to our location, we do currently require face masks in all our facilities.

Additional Information
Please see attached.

HOPE Family Services, Inc. Contact(s):
Kayla Terrel
941-747-8499
kayla.terrel@hopefamilyservice.org

About the Organization
HOPE Family Services is the state certified domestic violence center in Manatee County. The mission of HOPE is to promote safety, strength and well-being for those affect by domestic violence in Manatee County. All of our services are free and confidential to victims and survivors.

Click here to view the shelter's wish list