UPDATE- Giving Challenge 2026…Let’s Support Our Partners!!!

The thread through all of our programs is that we are looking to educate our community members and bring them together so they may take the actions that they want to see in their communities – to make their neighborhoods a better place to live. In doing this, we will be keeping our community clean, green, and beautiful.

KCB has been a partner with us for so many years now, I have lost count. They helped us start the garden, restart our clean-ups on Wintergarden, conducted gardening classes in the garden, and so much more! 

• ARAY- Link HERE 

• PEACE RIVER BOTANICAL AND SCULPTURE GARDENS- Link HERE

What is your Wellness Why?  
At Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, we hear several concepts regularly from our guests.  “This is a beautiful place.”  “I feel a sense of peace when I walk the grounds.”  “I am so grateful to visit, and I feel better after each trip to The Gardens.”
We are proud to hear that feedback, and more proud to build that experience into our guest experience each day.  The combination of inspirational, or whimsical world-class art, placed against a backdrop that only Mother Nature can build fosters that sense of calm, of well-being.
As we participate in the Giving Challenge, we’re asking our guests and donors to consider your “Wellness Why?”  Your thoughtful support helps us continue sharing this gift with the community.  

The botanical gardens became one of our places of partnership after the pottery sale. They sold pottery on our behalf and have become a place of peace for so many. Their gardens are gorgeous and offer a wonderful place to reconnect with nature. 

• VIRGINIA B. ANDES- Link–HERE

As we embark on a fresh year, there is much to be hopeful about.  Thanks to you, our organization is here to serve the uninsured and underserved, and we continue to seek ways to save lives, while promoting, encouraging, and supporting healthy lifestyles and self-care with all of our patients.  This year we are introducing our Mobile Medical Clinic.  This 33′ coach bus has been designed and built with 2 treatment rooms, and a small pharmacy.  We will travel the county to reach those that may not otherwise be able to reach us for the services they need.  You can count on VBA to be here for our community.  That is why during the 2026 Giving Challenge, we are asking for you to “BE THE ONE” and provide your help. This year – funds raised will be earmarked for our Mobile Medical Clinic – throughout Charlotte County 5 days a week meeting patients where they are.

The Mobile Clinic comes to the food pantry 2 times a month! Our neighbors receive assistance, and we are one of their busiest locations!

• HARRY CHAPIN FOOD BANK- Link– HERE

Harry Chapin Food Bank serves children, families, seniors, veterans, and others facing hunger across Southwest Florida. Children experiencing food insecurity often have difficulty focusing, engaging, learning, and growing. Poor nutrition can also have long-term effects on physical health, mental health, academic success, and future stability. Families facing hunger are often forced to make impossible choices between food and other essentials such as rent, utilities, transportation, health care, and child care. Older adults living on fixed incomes may face health challenges, transportation barriers, and social isolation that make it even harder to access nutritious food consistently.

• GULF COAST PARTNERSHIP- Link– HERE

When the Gulf Coast Partnership began, we were just two staff members, a group of amazing stakeholders and a dedicated Board of Directors, with a shared vision: to end homelessness and strengthen the systems that support Charlotte County’s most vulnerable residents.

Through relentless collaboration, innovation, and community trust, that vision took root — and grew. Within a few short years, we expanded to a team of more than 13 dedicated professionals, joined by the incredible teachers and staff of our newest initiative, Stars Academy. Together, we are building the next chapter of hope and stability for Charlotte County.

At the same time, Gulf Coast Partnership continues to lead Charlotte Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) — a vital network that brings local government, faith-based groups, nonprofits, and volunteers together to prepare for and respond to disasters before, during, and after they occur. Through COAD, we help our community prepare, respond, and recover.