Season of Sharing Campaign Raises $4.2 Million for Families in Need

Plus, the YMCA of Southwest Florida raises more than $300,000 at its first signature fundraising event in almost 10 years, and more.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The Community Foundation of Sarasota County's 26th annual Season of Sharing campaign generated $4.2 million in donations, with 100% of the funds going to help individuals and families in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties pay for basic living expenses. The YMCA of Southwest Florida also raised over $300,000 at its first signature fundraising event in nearly 10 years, and Resilient Retreat received a $6,000 donation from Church of the Redeemer Episcopal Thrift House.

Why it matters

The Season of Sharing campaign is a critical initiative that provides direct financial assistance to families and individuals in need across four Florida counties, helping them cover essential costs like housing, utilities, childcare, and transportation. The YMCA fundraiser and donation to Resilient Retreat also highlight the broader philanthropic efforts in the Sarasota region to support community organizations and services.

The details

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County's 26th annual Season of Sharing campaign raised $4.2 million in donations, with 100% of the funds going directly to help local residents pay for basic living expenses. Since its inception, the campaign has raised a total of $53.9 million. Separately, the YMCA of Southwest Florida raised over $300,000 at its first signature fundraising event, Casino Royale, in nearly 10 years. The funds will benefit the Palmer Ranch YMCA and Sarasota City YMCA. Additionally, Resilient Retreat received a $6,000 donation from Church of the Redeemer Episcopal Thrift House to support its resiliency programs for people dealing with the aftermath of abuse and trauma.

  • The Season of Sharing campaign concluded on January 31, 2026.
  • The YMCA of Southwest Florida held its Casino Royale fundraising event recently.

The players

Community Foundation of Sarasota County

A nonprofit organization that manages charitable funds and initiatives to support the local community, including the annual Season of Sharing campaign.

YMCA of Southwest Florida

A nonprofit organization that provides community programs and services, including recently hosting a successful fundraising event.

Resilient Retreat

A nonprofit organization that provides resiliency programs for people dealing with the aftermath of abuse and trauma.

Church of the Redeemer Episcopal Thrift House

A thrift store operated by an Episcopal church that donated $6,000 to Resilient Retreat.

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The takeaway

The Season of Sharing campaign, YMCA fundraiser, and donation to Resilient Retreat demonstrate the strong philanthropic spirit and commitment to supporting community services and organizations in the Sarasota region. These efforts help provide critical assistance to families and individuals in need, as well as strengthen the overall social safety net and community resilience.