Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation

As we roll into Fall, a few important reminders for all - Blues Bistro is just around the corner on Saturday, Oct. 5 and the VYCCF Donor Appreciation Event will be held on Thursday, Nov. 14, earlier than last year. Look for further details in the Currents this month and next!

We had a busy summer of giving thanks for the generosity of our many Club members who are a part of the VYCCF! Loveland Center in Venice, was founded in 1962 by parents wanting a safe and caring environment for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Today the Loveland “Dare To Dream” philosophy offers individuals the opportunity to discover untapped potential, build self-confidence and further develop life skills to allow for increased independence. Loveland currently serves over 350 individuals daily in our community. An additional 400, who are on a Medicaid funding wait list, also need these services. On July 9, Ambassador Jennifer Kessler and VYCCF member Joan Bowen presented a $5,000. grant which will assist with much needed scholarship funds to those on the waitlist. This initiative is wholly dependent on philanthropic dollars.

On July 10, Directors of the VYCCF gathered at the William H. Jervey Venice Public Library where they presented a $5,000 grant for educational programs and technology to promote children’s literacy. VYCCF Ambassador to the Friends of the Venice Public Library Kevin Collins and his wife, Helen, donated $10,000 to the same cause. Wow! Ambassador Sylvia Hollister and Friends Campaign Committee member Noni Lavelle helped facilitate the gift. The Friends wish to welcome all VYCCF members to the library. They look forward to giving tours.

The Child Protection Center (CPC) also received a $5,000 grant in July. It is the only non profit dedicated to the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse in Sarasota County. Yes, sadly, it exists here as it does everywhere else! CPC has four programs providing a comprehensive approach to educating children and adults regarding abuse. Prevention educates children and adults on preventive methods to avoid abuse. Intervention includes a team which assists law enforcement and DCF in abuse investigations. The Treatment portion provides specialized therapy for physical and/or sexual abuse victims. Supervised Visitation provides a safe, neutral place for children to visit with out-of-home parents. Police officers are always present at the visits to ensure safety for all parties involved. VYCCF’s grant will continue to assist CPC in providing police officers for the Supervised Visitation Program. Beth Piel, our Ambassador to CPC, has been heavily involved with this organization for many years. It was awarded “Non Profit of the Year” by the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations!

With sincere appreciation, Noni Lavelle With sincere appreciation, Noni Lavelle

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updated: October 2019 Currents