Venice Yacht Club Charitable Foundation

Dear Fellow Club Members:

A huge "Thank you" to all who generously - and actively - participated in the Club’s annual and much anticipated 7th Annual Ride or Walk for a Better Community on February 18.

This premier fund-raising event involves both the VYC membership and the greater Venice Community. At the time of publication, the Club had 200 registered riders and walkers, and we had raised more than $80,000 which will be used to help all the great local organizations our Foundation supports.

In mid-January, we had a very successful (and first ever) wine auction with 43 baskets (over 250 bottles!) auctioned off, bringing in almost $15,000 to our Foundation. Thanks to all who participated in this fun event, and special thanks to Lynne Colyer who generously donated the wine.

In 2024, the VYCCF begins our second year as a 501 (C) (3) non-profit organization, and while the change has involved a lot of work, we are fortunate to have many dedicated board and committee members who have helped bring about these important changes.

The 2024 grant giving budget is $150,000. The first grant cycle was completed in January, and the committee voted on 14 applications. Among these are: Our Mother’s House, Children First, Laurel Civic Association, Child Protection Center, and Family Promise. We also have two new environmental organizations, Sun Coast Reef Rovers and Oyster Boys Conservation.

We are looking ahead to our third year of Jazz Under the Stars on Thursday, April 18, 6-9 p.m., so mark your calendars now for this popular event featuring our very own Venice High School Jazz Band.

Appreciatively,
Barbi Richardson

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updated: March 2024 Currents