Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation

Fellow members...

The Club’s 60th Anniversary Party was an evening to remember. Throughout the night, we sold chances for a beautiful diamond. The “Diamond Dig” raised over $2500 for the Charitable Foundation. As rewarding was the coverage in the “Our Town” section of the Venice Gondolier. There were many large photos detailing the historical significance of VYC, mention of the Club’s Charitable Foundation activities and, of course, a photo or two showing members having a good time. The Venice Yacht Club’s image in the community has certainly been elevated and our thanks to all who have helped in those efforts.

On Sunday, May 1, Commodore Mark Bills and Past Commodore Shaun Graser were joined by committee members of VYCCF and the VYBA kids to staff a refreshment station in the Club’s parking lot for the Livestrong Bike Ride in support of cancer research. We were pleased to participate in this annual event.

On Tuesday, May 3, at the Fleet Captains’ lunch, Fleet Captain and VYCCF committee member Michael Nemser presented Mary Ann Terry of Habitat for Humanity a grant check for their Venice “Women Build” project. Mary Ann made a short presentation about Habitat and the good work they do. We’re proud to support their efforts in Venice to provide affordable, safe and decent housing to those who would otherwise not be able to afford a home of their own.

On Saturday, May 7, we gathered at the Club for the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby and everyone had a great time. Cash betting percentage, silent auction and 50/50 raffles proceeds were donated to the Foundation and granted to the VYBA, continuing our strong support of this fine organization.

As you can see, we continue to make a positive impact on our community and our support has grown each month as evidenced by the list of contributors at left. Our charitable activities are generating positive feedback from our membership and the local community. Our Membership Committee tells me that prospective new members are very impressed when they hear about the Foundation.

It’s very easy to donate. The Foundation has a dedicated mailbox at the Club. Just write a check and put Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation on the envelope and send it to the Club or give it to the receptionist and it will find its way to us. In addition, we are in need of volunteers. We need ideas and committees to plan and run our 2011 fundraisers, build a website, design brochures, plan marketing and advertising campaigns, etc. The list is endless. Please contact me by phone at 486-8546 or email at azumbano@verizon.net if you would like to help.

As always, our thanks to those who have contributed to our mission and who understand that….we never stand taller than when we stoop down to help those who have fallen.

Anthony R Zumbano, Chairman Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation

Charting a course to a better community…