Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation

IT’S BEEN A VERY GOOD YEAR

The VYCCF fiscal year ended on October 31. I am pleased to report that your VYCCF reached new heights this year with the FEED THE HUNGER – FEED THE MIND signature project and a very successful auction benefit. We surpassed the fiscal year 2016 goals. We raised more than $100,000 and received contributions from more than 25 first-time donors. We have helped many in our community who are at risk. Thank you very much to all who helped us achieve our goals.
The VYCCF Committee will meet in late November to award fall grants, which will likely top $40,000. This will bring our total grants since inception in November 2010 to over $325,000. It is an achievement in which all VYC members and staff should take pride.
We will continue supporting children at risk in our community with our 2017 Signature Project. In addition to childhood hunger and literacy, we will address the third critical element in helping these children reach their potential. It is not enough to have good nutrition and grade-level reading skills. Without the security of a permanent home, life is just a struggle.
Gulf Coast Community Foundation reports that about 1,000 Sarasota County students are identified as homeless each school year. Catholic Charities reports that 450 school age students in South County are homeless. And, about 80 students in Venice schools are homeless. These students do not have the advantage of completing their homework in a safe environment. Through no fault of their own, they are handicapped and their lives are uncertain. On average, they underperform in school and have a higher dropout rate. As they grow, they have poorer mental and physical health. They are more susceptible to substance abuse. In short, their course to a productive life, one that contributes to societal good, is just that much harder.
Of course, in addition to the 2017 Signature Project, we will continue to provide grants in the categories of (1) youth boating, (2) health and education, (3) veterans and active military, (4) the environment and (5) civic improvement. Our veterans and active military category will have a priority.
Please remember our Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation when you are planning your year-end charitable contributions. Donor cards are available at the front desk. We are looking for a tag-line for our 2017 Signature Project focused on childhood homelessness, hunger and literacy. A member has donated a nice bottle of wine to be awarded to the person who submits the phrase adopted by the Committee. Please send your suggestions to michaelnemser@gmail.com.

VYCCF Committee:
Michael Nemser, Chair,
Commodore Jim DeNiro, Joan Bowen, Kevin Collins, P/C Joe Dombrowski, P/C Merle Graser, Barbara Isaacson, Warren Major, Paul Nasipak, John O’Donnell, and P/C Melinda Short.