Youth Haven has been selected as FC Naples' Nonprofit of the Game for its Aug. 5 match against Antelope Valley FC.
The recognition highlights Youth Haven's mission while introducing soccer fans to the organization's impact through special in-game recognition and community engagement during the 7:30 p.m. match at Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples. Youth Haven is an emergency and residential shelter in Collier County for abused, neglected and homeless children and teens ages 6 to 21,
"We are incredibly grateful to FC Naples for selecting Youth Haven as its nonprofit partner for this special match," said Linda Goldfield, CEO of Youth Haven. "Their commitment to strengthening our community and shining a light on the needs of vulnerable children and teens reflects the true power of hope, healing and opportunity. We are honored to continue growing this meaningful partnership."
Fans are encouraged to cheer on FC Naples while learning more about Youth Haven and its mission to provide safety, healing and hope for children and teens throughout Southwest Florida. Tickets and additional match information are available at tickets.fcnaples.com.
For more information on Youth Haven, visit youthhavenswfl.org or call 239-774-2904.
Those at Gulfstream Homes say community stewardship means showing up year after year for the students and schools that shape Southwest Florida.
Recently the firm highlighted its ongoing partnership with Manatee Middle School, celebrating a multi-year tradition of supporting student activities, milestones and educational experiences.
Gulfstream Homes provided a dedicated $1,000 contribution this year to help fund the school's annual 8th-grade trip to Great Wolf Lodge.
Following this year's trip, Manatee Middle School teacher Elizabeth Garcia and her students delivered a hand-signed commemorative frame and thank-you notes to the Gulfstream Homes team. The framed display — featuring a vibrant photo of the yellow school bus bound for the 8th-grade trip — overflows with personal signatures and notes of gratitude from students whose experience was made possible by the firm.
"As always, I am so thankful for your support these last four years," shared Elizabeth Garcia, a teacher at Manatee Middle School, in a message to the team. "You're a huge part of our celebration. Your generosity truly makes a difference, and that impact is felt by every student who gets to experience it."
Alongside Manatee Middle, the firm regularly contributes to local schools and programs throughout the region— including Aubrey Rogers High School, the Naples Bears, Palmetto Ridge and East Naples Middle School.
"Seeing the handwritten notes and signed cards from the students is the greatest reward we could ask for," said Michael Peel, co-founder of Gulfstream Homes. "We are honored to partner with incredible educators like Elizabeth Garcia and to help create lasting memories and milestones for the students of Manatee Middle School."
St. Matthew's House was the receipt of a $100,000 grant from the Naples Children Foundation, founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival.
Funds will support St. Matthew's House in providing shelter and wrap-around services to at-risk children in the organization's care as well as for the children of their Justin's Place Recovery Program participants and alumni.
"St. Matthew's House is grateful for the generous support of the Naples Children Foundation," said CEO Ben Bridges. "We expect to serve an estimated 130 children with these funds over the next year."
Saturday: Roald Dahl's 'Willy Wonka Kids' at Arts Center Theatre
Get ready for 75 minutes of laughter, smiles, and nonstop feline fun!
For the Love of Cats has partnered with Cat Video Fest for a fundraising screening at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Naples at noon, Saturday, Aug. 8.
Cat Video Fest is a one-of-a-kind big screen theatrical event featuring the internet's funniest, most heartwarming and most unforgettable cat videos. Every ticket purchased supports cats in need in Collier County.
A portion of every ticket sold benefits For the Love of Cats' lifesaving programs, including rescue, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), foster care, and emergency medical assistance for low-income families, giving vulnerable cats and kittens the second chances they deserve.
"Whether you're a devoted cat lover or simply looking for a fun afternoon with family or friends, every ticket helps a cat in need in our community," said Jan Rich, Founder of For the Love of Cats. "
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is located at 9118 Strada Place, Unit 8205, Naples. Tickets are available through the Alamo Drafthouse website
More: Now You Know: $1.2 million in to strengthen child hunger programs
And: Now You Know: Christmas in July? Purple martin reunited with colony
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This article originally appeared on Marco Eagle: Now You Know: Game supports Youth Haven; Manatee Middle says 'thank you'